With numerous free CAD programs to choose from, Autodesk recommends using only DWG TrueViewer, as it can ensure smooth operation in any of the AutoCAD’s numerous extensions and version. That’s why Autodesk developed a free official DWG viewer, which can help you convert DWG file versions. Since 1982, when AutoCAD was released, there have been almost 20 different DWG file formats, each being more advanced than the previous one. For this reason, DXF has practically lost its relevance and is very rarely used. However, because of AutoCAD’s extensive outreach almost every existing software supports the DWG format anyway. The format was developed to allow AutoCAD files to be compatible with third-party programs. Using DWF, publishers can limit and manage the amount of data the recipient will see.ĭXF - Drawing Exchange Format. DWFs are very compressed and small, making their transmission fast and easy. This format was developed by Autodesk to enable efficient distribution and transfer of large amounts of AutoCAD data for viewing, reviewing and printing.

Besides being the native format for such influential CAD packages as AutoCAD, BricsCAD, IntelliCAD, Caddie and Open Design Alliance, it is also supported by numerous third party programs due to its popularity.ĭWF - Design Web Format.

This file format is AutoCAD’s proprietary binary file format, used for storing 2D and 3D data and metadata. In this article, you‘ll be able to find some of the best free DWG viewers to match all your needs.īut first, let’s break down the three native AutoCAD formats - DWG, DWF and DXF.ĭWG stands for “drawing”. There are plenty of programs, which allow you to view, annotate and even modify DWG files for free, online and on every existing operating system.

Do not worry about it though, you probably don’t need AutoCAD anyway, if you don’t intend to create your own intricate CAD designs. It’s a shame that AutoCAD is more than pricy - the monthly fee is $200. Since Autodesk developed AutoCAD almost forty years ago, electronic technical drawings became a huge part of designing and engineering process.

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