DraftSight 2019 – new, better … and not free to use anymore 2D CAD – but it’s still worth it!

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2D design

Despite the great popularity of spatial design programs and their unquestioned advantages, 2D design programs such as AutoCAD are still very popular and useful. One of such programs is DraftSight, which over the years has become very recognizable in the world. Thanks to it, working with DWG or DXF files is pure pleasure. The easy-to-use interface, well-known commands for easy drawing, the ability to save different versions of the DWG extension to exchange with different versions of AutoCAD attracted many users to the program.

Until now, it also appeared in the free version, which further increased its popularity, however, as announced by the manufacturer, on December 31, 2019, the free versions will expire. On different forums you can see big disappointment among users, but the manufacturer as part of the purchase provides the brand new version of the program with completely new features. In DraftSight 2019, depending on the package we want to decide on, there are 3D operations, as well as the ability to transfer a photo to a DWG file line! Prices are not excessive when looking at other solutions available on the market offering comparable possibilities. For users who have so far used the free version of DraftSight or another program, switching to one of the new packages will not require additional learning, but only learning the new features.

DraftSight is a necessary solution for most companies, but how do you recognize the need for a program?

When are solutions such as DraftSight for 2D design necessary?

  • We work constantly on DWG or DXF files
  • We create layouts of installations, building complexes
  • We use laser machines to cut sheet metal
  • We introduce corrections to architectural and related documentation
  • In the manufacturing process, we need to measure an element that is not dimensioned in the drawing
  • We would like not to wonder in what DWG version we need to save our file

During the production of sheet metal elements or cooperation with the architectural industry, the most frequently exchanged files between contractors are DXF or DWG. In the case of sheet metal cutting, which we later need to transfer to the laser in DXF format, it is not uncommon to make small changes. DraftSight will be irreplaceable for opening and removing any unnecessary geometries that accidentally appeared in the drawing. DWG files are still the most commonly used format for spatial installation or building designs.

 

The most interesting features we will find in the paid version of DraftSight

In the 2019 version of the program, we’ve received completely new possibilities of digitizing old documentation, which we can introduce to the program thanks to the ImageTracer operation.

An example of using the function on old documentation, which we only have in the form of a photo:

An important new feature is the possibility of 3D designing!

For interior designers there will be a two-sided connection with HomeByMe, which has become a very popular website where we can design the layout of rooms in a house or apartment.

 

The program also includes more new features such as:

  • Importing SVG files as blocks
  • Formulas in table cells
  • Moving geometry with “Click and move”
  • Dimensional constraints
  • And a lot more…

 

Which packages can you choose if you see the need to introduce DraftSight in your company?

 

DraftSight Standard

The cheapest and at the same time the least capable of the available packages offering only 2D design, without offering important functions such as Toolbox, project library, drawing comparison or conversion of graphic files to the DWG extension. You do not receive technical support as part of the purchase.

A workstation license for private users, students, teachers and other people who need a drawing solution in a 2D environment. Purchase available in the form of a 12-month subscription.

 

DraftSight Professional

Package with the possibility of 2D design, Toolbox, project library.

Workstation license for advanced users who need a more powerful 2D drawing tool. Additional features and access to the API of the program provide great opportunities for customizing and accelerating the design process. Purchase available in the form of a 12-month subscription.

 

DraftSight Premium

In this package, apart from classic 2D designing, we have access to 3D modeling. It has all the features of the Professional suite extended to solid and surface modeling, Boolean operations. Purchase available in the form of a 12-month subscription.

 

DraftSight Enterprise

The functionality of this package is the same as the Professional package, but it comes in the form of a network license. We have the option of purchasing a temporary or perpetual license. It is also possible to buy a subscription, thanks to which we have access to technical support.

 

DraftSight Enterprise Plus

The features of this package are the same as the Premium package, but it comes in the form of a network license. We have the option of purchasing a temporary or perpetual license. It is also possible to buy a subscription, thanks to which we have access to technical support.

 

Summary

DraftSight as one of the cheaper 2D design programs finds application in many companies. Changing from another program will not be difficult, because the program is intuitive and has a similar range of functions as competing solutions. Download the DraftSight Professional version and test its possibilities. If you see the demand for such a program, do not hesitate and write to us! When you decide to buy DraftSight at SOLIDEXPERT, you will find qualified technical support as well as design training in the program. In addition, the program is still in the form of a perpetual license, which is an additional advantage when buying.

 

Author:

Jakub KASPRZYKOWKI

CAD Technical Specialist | SOLIDEXPERT

SOLIDEXPERT

SOLIDEXPERT

SOLIDEXPERT is an Authorised SOLIDWORKS Reseller in Poland that was established in 2002 in Cracow. During this time the company put much pressure on technical skills of it’s team. This help to build a good connection between SOLIDEXPERT and Customers, trust and confidence in the support and consulting that provides.
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