How to Choose Between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT

A simple way to establish the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT is to have a clear cut idea about the extra LT. The AutoCad LT has a 2-dimensional capability whereas the AutoCAD just has a robust 3-dimensional p…

autocad vs autocad lt

A simple way to establish the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT is to have a clear cut idea about the extra LT. The AutoCad LT has a 2-dimensional capability whereas the AutoCAD just has a robust 3-dimensional power. But as you might expect the limited functionality of AutoCAD LT reflects in the low price. But a low price is not the only concern for the many building contractors and construction companies. Various other factors decide which wins in the game of AutoCAD vs. AutoCAD LT. let us dive deep into the specs of both and decide which will help you in choosing between the two.

An overview of AutoCAD LT


AutoCAD Lt is generally AutoCAD minus several functions. It is a stripped down version brought down to the market aiming at customers who want cheap and easy to use tools. It comes with a single-user option aimed at smaller construction companies. The limited but solid package of AutoCAD Lt offers the following:

  • 2d Cad drawings and documentation

  • Smart dimensioning features to create measures automatically within the drawings.

  • You can lock the system to prevent unwanted changes.

  • Work from anywhere at any time with the AutoCAD web and mobile apps

  • Get hands on the comprehensive set of tools for editing, design, and annotation

  • Work swiftly in an intuitive interface


With the comprehensive interface of the tool, you can customize the ribbon and the tool palettes, easily attach and import data from various PDF files. If yours is a small company with limited functions, then buy AutoCAD LT.

A deep insight into the features of AutoCAD 


AutoCAD is a powerful tool that is packed with AutoCAD LT and other features. Among the notable features is 3D modeling with wireframe views, shadows, and reflections that notch up its popularity. Other prominent tools of AutoCAD are Architecture, Electrical, Mechanical design, and more than 750,000 objects. AutoCAD is a tool that works in harmony with big companies. The significant functionalities are as follows:

  • Drafting and documentation in 2D

  • Customize the software

  • 3D modeling

  • Work from anywhere at any time with the AutoCAD web and mobile apps


Things that you can do with AutoCAD and not with AutoCAD LT



  • It has built-in programming capabilities like AutoLISP using which you can create your own drawings generating programs

  • Buy AutoCAD license online to use and manage AutoCAD on multiple machines over a single network

  • The CAD management tools allow you to check whether the drawings you make and the drawing you receive from others match to your in-house drafting standards


The specialized toolset of AutoCAD 



  • Boost your work with specialized toolsets for architecture

  • Access to a curated library of 750,000+ symbols, parts, & detail components

  • Formulate rule-driven workflow to incorporate design standards


The piled-up features of AutoCAD are for bigger construction companies makes the bigger companies happy as it gives them access to powerful tools and achieves a higher level of precision. The smaller companies are more benefited by the cheap version and can fill the gaps by manual methods like manually sketching the 3d diagrams.

Let the market decide for you

The tool that you are going to choose depends on what your customers want. If your customers want a full-on 3D designing and drafting then AutoCAD LT won’t be enough to meet those needs. The use of robust AutoCAD is likely to open the doors for new business opportunities and as a result growth of the company. Discern the difference between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT to have a clear picture.

Bottom line 


Various other factors like in-house resources, learning curves, and budget will help you decide which your best bet is. If you are not able to decide, try a trial version and then decide whether to buy AutoCAD or just AutoCAD LT.

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Ishika Rao

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