VectorWorks

15 years or more ago I had the MiniCad version of this. The listed pricetag is far above what I would spend for most modeling apps today.

I have one gripe & that is when people add “similar apps” that are only marginally similar, at best.

I haven’t seen a few of these “similars” in some time, but I do believe a couple are 2d, whether they are good within their realm or not -- that’s a disqualifier for anyone seeking 3d functionality.

If I am searching for a 3d CAD or modeling application -- its a waste of time when someone adds a 2d package as “similar” when they really AREN’T even close.

IMPORTANT - the 2013 SP2 download above downloads the Windows version not Mac. Go to the developers site and download the Mac (DMG) version instead.

I suggest that the authors put up a better screenshot. Hint: Pictures sell!

Minicad started out as a simple CAD program for the home and small business user till it was bought out by Nemetschek and renamed Vectorworks. Throughout the years it has elevated to the product into a complex program for use by professionals at a professional price and now out of reach for the original market. It has done its job admirably well. However I am of the opinion if you are going to pay close to Autocad prices, why fool around and instead just get the real thing.

As an architect, VW 2010 drove me nuts with teething issues - couldn't trust it and ended up going back to v.2009 for awhile. v.2011 is a *much* better release; everything pretty much works and I can't remember the last time it crashed. I've transitioned to BIM and all of my projects are created in 3D; the model is used to derive all the project drawings. Big time-saver and coordinating drawings is much, much easier. My only quibble is that the site model process is a bit kludgy; Revit does a better job with that, but of course it costs 4x as much. Bottom line, VectorWorks v.2011 represents the best value for CAD software, and several nationally-known design firms use it.

I wish NNA would stop adding new fluffy crap to please the press and instead focus on fixing the terrible lack of fundamentals and odd methods of working the product has. • Still no X fence type unless you buy the French version. • Detail callouts not included even with Arch package. These are basic drafting elements from decades ago. Other gripes: • Design/Sheet viewport system is awful. • BIM is an afterthought implementation. I expect "LEED" tools to be the next crap package. • IFC export is not up to par. • Does not make use of current MacOS technologies • GUI is a miss-mash of odd fonts and windowing elements. Despite all of these tragedies, it's still far more productive for simple 2D drawing than AutoCAD, Arris, etc etc.

I have been using Vectorworks for about ten years and would not use any other. Nemetscheck has consistently listened to users and improved the software where it is most useful to daily applications as well provide many additional features for fun and customization. I understand that the next release will include a partnering with a 'well known' 3D software company which is the other area where VW still needs some improvement, but nonetheless they still receive an A+. I am an architect... For those who are not aware, the walls in Vectorworks are both 2D and 3D with plug-in parametric objects like windows and doors. THis means that they can be manipulated in 3D with an Object Informaiton Window. Highly recommended. Cpmpared to Atocad, the ONLY advantage ACAD has is the ability for several people to work on the same file seamlessly. VW can do this though not as well.

I have to agree with photek in that this is a great program. It is the only real landscape design software for the mac. It has many features that are far and beyond anything in windows. I have, however, noticed a general decline in the stability of this software over the last couple of years. This is now the only app I use that reminds me of my windows days. I am constantly hitting the save button and hoping everything is going to come out right when I print. I hope Vectorworks gets its mac software together and makes this a great mac app.

Amazing bit of software with GREAT Mac support....the ONLY alternative to Autocad for Mac and Windows users.

i've been using vectorwork since a few years now (started with minicad6) and each time it gets better and better, and this new update just rocks! with all it's news modeling capacities and all, it's just a must have.

its true....... just as it says above......vectorworks is used by alot of people and its available on mac and windows platforms and it bridges the gap between autocad and everything else....its no soft modeler, but its good for architects!