Buzz
The difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT lies in this: AutoCAD is the full version or can be said the complete version, and the price of AutoCAD is higher, while AutoCAD LT is just another version of AutoCAD, with a lower price.
It's not incorrect to say that our world is one that technology has surpassed. All our tasks are accomplished through mechanical, scientific devices, and everything we do is 'simplified' by applications or software.
Software solutions are essential in addressing challenges across various fields. Similarly, software is used for planning or modeling before utilizing resources to create something innovative, bringing us closer to reality in the process of generating new inventions and refining ideas based on feedback at this stage.
Engineers, architects, and professionals alike utilize software to identify hidden issues or errors they need to address for their models and applications. AutoCAD stands out as one of such software applications.
Note: CAD in AutoCAD stands for Computer Aided Design.
AutoCAD is a commercial software application used for both 2D and 3D drawing as well as Computer Aided Design (CAD).
AutoCAD has been available since the early 1980s. The application was released in 1982 and initially as a computer-based application. However, after 2010, AutoCAD introduced a mobile app version, resembling a cloud-based application. The mobile app version is known as AutoCAD 360.
Developed by Autodesk, Inc., AutoCAD is an application that runs on computers equipped with dedicated graphics controllers. In contrast, AutoCAD LT is just another version of AutoCAD.
Besides being able to perform tasks similar to CAD and drafting, AutoCAD LT also has some differences compared to AutoCAD.
Firstly, there is a significant difference in price between AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD. AutoCAD is the full version or can be said the complete version, and the price of AutoCAD is higher than AutoCAD LT. This is because LT is just another version of AutoCAD, with a lower price, implying that the LT version may have fewer functionalities.
AutoCAD LT made its debut in November 1993, just over a decade after the release of AutoCAD. Developed by Autodesk, it is available in the market and comes at a more affordable price compared to AutoCAD.
Considered a 'step-down' package of CAD, AutoCAD LT has most features of AutoCAD but at a lower price and lacks some functionalities.
Precisely, AutoCAD typically comes with a price tag always above 1000 USD. The initial LT version is priced under 1000 USD, specifically at 495 USD. (The 2011 release of AutoCAD LT was priced at 1200 USD, while the price of AutoCAD was significantly higher compared to now).
Another point is that you can only purchase AutoCAD from official Autodesk dealers, whereas AutoCAD LT can be bought from various computer stores.
Moreover, AutoCAD boasts features that AutoCAD LT lacks, such as 3D capabilities - the ability to first create and then visualize in 3D, render 3D models, etc. AutoCAD also enables 3D printing. Furthermore, unlike AutoCAD, its LT version cannot be used over a network on multiple machines due to its lack of network licensing.
Another distinction between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT includes customization options, management and automation capabilities, and CAD standards. All these options and many more are present in AutoCAD.
In summary, the differences between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are:
- Both AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are Computer-Aided Design software developed by Autodesk; AutoCAD was released in 1982; The LT version of AutoCAD was released in 1993.
- AutoCAD comes with a hefty price tag, usually above 1000 USD, whereas the LT version released in 1993 is priced at 495 USD.
- AutoCAD LT has fewer features and options, including customization, management, and automation capabilities, and CAD standards. Only AutoCAD provides network licensing, 3D working and printing capabilities, etc.
- You can only purchase AutoCAD from official Autodesk dealers. AutoCAD LT is available at various computer stores.
With this article, you'll gain insights to distinguish the differences between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, the two leading design software from Autodesk. Depending on individual needs and purposes, you can make a suitable choice between these two programs.
If AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are not on your preferred list, check out Mytour's curated Top 10 other 3D design software options to find the one that suits you best.
To simplify printing AutoCAD files, consider converting AutoCAD files to PDF. There are several ways to do this without any hassle. If you haven't found the best method yet, check out the AutoCAD to PDF conversion guide here.
