In the current scenario, designers and architects do not have to rely on paper-pencil models anymore. With the availability of some of the best architecture software, you can choose to draw, sketch, save, and share your designs with others very easily.
One cannot simply work with any design software available on the web. To be able to understand and extensively engage with the engineering aspect of the designs, Architectural Software stands out among all. These software allows you to conceptualize ideas that require technical accuracy at their finest.
Hence we have created a list of the best architecture software to create 2D and 3D designs models along with other diagrams, etc. Let us get down with it here.
5 Best Architecture Software
1. AutoCAD
When we think of the best tool that covers all bases and is also perfect for professionals, AutoCAD instantly comes to mind. This tool is used by millions of users all around the world. Not only can you use this tool for creating 2D and 3D designs but also choose to collaborate with your team members and share the designs across multiple platforms. You will find multiple laptops for CAD designing that can run AutoCAD to automate and customize the designs from scratch.
This tool is used by several multinational organizations along with professional architects, engineers, etc to create masterpieces. To ensure compatibility and flexibility, you can even download the web & mobile apps to be able to share the designs remotely. There are three packages available for the subscription you can choose i.e. $220/monthly, $1,775/annually, and $5,060/ every 3 years.
2. 3Ds Max
Another exceptional architecture software by Autodesk that specializes in creating the best 3D designs in 3Ds Max. You can download a free trial of the software to learn more about it before investing your money in buying the subscription. With 3Ds Max, you can create 3D modeling and render for designs, games, etc.
If you are into gaming, this might be the software to create different characters bringing animations and VFX to life. Some of the features that 3Ds provides to all its subscribers are as follows.
- Create designs using the built-in weighted normal calculator.
- Use different animation tools to view and edit animations.
- With the use of Arnold GPU Renderer, you can view changes in real-time.
- Use 3Ds Max to change the settings of a real-life camera such as shutter speed, etc.
- You can import data from anywhere to make changes to your existing designs.
3Ds Max is also used by hundreds of users all around the world. You can choose to subscribe to it with available packages such as $215/ monthly, $1,700/ annually, and $4,845/ every 3 years.
3. Revit
Revit is one of the best Architecture software you can find on the web that also comes under the many products provided by Autodesk. This is more specifically a building Information Modeling (BIM) software that is introduced for architects, engineers, and construction professionals to create premium quality designs for buildings and other infrastructure.
The major difference between AutoCAD and Revit is that even though both these tools help to create 3D designs, Revit provides a more intensive solution and is more data-intensive. However, Revit is very easy to learn as compared to multiple other CAD and BIM software such as AutoCAD. You will find different automation tools and plugins with this software that will ease the design process.
Moreover, you can choose to collaborate with team members and have a proper workflow. This software allows you to save, sync, and even share the designs with people across different platforms integrated with Revit. Furthermore, with the current cloud computing capabilities, you can host major projects and designs on the cloud.
4. SketchUp
For all beginners who are looking for something that is much easier to understand and learn unlike other 3D design software, SketchUp is what you need. You can easily design all your 3D designs along with multiple sections, elevations, and view them in 2D to analyze every aspect. Moreover, you can use animations, draw characters, add images, and videos to your designs to make it more intriguing.
With the availability of a large 3D model library, you can choose any chair, fern, or any other model to add to your design. To make it even more realistic, you can choose the VR and AR mobile apps to show your designs to the clients. There are multiple tools through which you can create detailed geometric cost estimates as well as other reports from your models.
5. CATIA
Lastly, we have CATIA, just another of the best architecture software that works on creating models and designs of several products with ease. Not only is it used by individual professionals but also by multiple industries and companies to develop products. This software features a powerful design dashboard with access to all your models, real-time design editing and changes, as well as collaboration with other professionals.
Even though some might find this super expensive, it is perfect for large-scale organizations with a higher revenue model than individuals. The best part of this software is the fact that it is very easy to learn and understand.
Conclusion
Here is the list of the best architecture software available on the web that features 3D modeling and rendering services. Among all of these, there are other products as well such as Civil 3D, Chief Architect, etc with powerful programs to create and share designs on a massive scale. Although software such as AutoCAD is a little difficult to learn and understand for beginners and takes a lot of time to implement over the course of time.
Similarly, SketchUp and Revit are relatively easier in these aspects. The price factor might play a huge role in determining the right one for you. You can find multiple tutorials available to learn every aspect of this software from creating to customizing the designs using AR/VR, Animations, creating characters, etc. If you are looking for free tools you can try out FreeCAD and learn 3D modeling as a beginner.
