In the Australian Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) landscape, Revit vs AutoCAD is a phrase often heard, especially among professionals.
Both tools are big players in the sector, but they’re used for different things.
AutoCAD is great for 2D drafting and documentation. Meanwhile, Revit is the one to go for if you’re looking to create 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM).
That’s why we’re going to look at some of the differences between the two.
Revit Overview
Revit, created by Autodesk, is a complete BIM solution widely used in the (AEC) industry.
It lets architects, engineers, and contractors work together on the same model, which makes the whole process a lot more efficient.
Revit can help with all aspects of building design, from architectural and structural modelling to MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems.
It makes it easier to coordinate projects and avoid inconsistencies by combining data from different areas into one model, which is really useful for complex projects.
Using Revit to model MEP systems is even better when you link your architectural CAD backgrounds and add in all the detailed data.
For fundamental insights on Revit, you can read “What is Revit? Features, Applications, & Differences With AutoCAD.”
AutoCAD Overview
AutoCAD, also developed by Autodesk, is still one of the most popular tools for creating 2D and 3D designs.
AutoCAD is different from Revit in that it’s more about drawing than modelling.
It’s great for projects that need to be super precise, especially those with lots of intricate details.
The software includes specialised tools for architecture, engineering and manufacturing, so users can automate tasks like creating and modifying objects.
AutoCAD’s 2D capabilities make it a must-have tool for drafting and detailing where complex 3D modelling isn’t needed.
In Autodesk University presentation “TWO INTEROPERABILITY TASKS BETWEEN AUTOCAD & REVIT”, Andrea Gonzalez suggests a workflow for converting details from AutoCAD to Revit.
Gonzalez emphasises the importance of organising CAD files and using efficient import techniques.
The process is pretty straightforward. You start by cleaning up the AutoCAD files, setting layers, removing any unnecessary elements, and then linking them into Revit.
Revit vs AutoCAD
Features and Functions
As mentioned in REVIT VS AUTOCAD by Autodesk, the biggest difference is that AutoCAD is CAD software and Revit is software for BIM.
This is a significant point to bear in mind. AutoCAD is great for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings. So it’s a really versatile tool for different design disciplines.
On the other hand, Revit lets users put together a single model with lots of different data, including architectural, structural and MEP elements.
This makes it easier for different teams to work together and stay on the same page.
Plugins
Both Revit and AutoCAD have a lot of plugins you can use to extend their functionality.
That said, the kind of plugins you can get for each software is pretty different.
In the case of AutoCAD, plugins are mostly geared towards making the drafting process more efficient and automating certain tasks.
In Revit, plugins usually concentrate on improving BIM capabilities, such as energy analysis and structural design.
Ease of Use
AutoCAD is often seen as the easier option for users who just need to create simple 2D and 3D drawings.
Revit is a bit more complex to learn because it focuses on BIM and coordinating models.
Revit has a lot of steps, like linking CAD files, setting visibility, and adding MEP components. This can be tricky for beginners. That’s why AutoCAD is often seen as a more intuitive option for beginners.
But, As with many popular software packages, there are lots of tutorials online, such as Revit Tutorial for Beginners in 2024: Your Fast-Track to BIM Success.
System Requirements and Price
There are some big differences in system requirements for Revit and AutoCAD because they’re used for different things.
Revit is a bit more demanding in terms of system requirements than AutoCAD.
Revit needs at least 16 GB of RAM, while AutoCAD can run well with 8 GB. You’ll also need a better graphics card, with at least 4 GB of video memory, to handle the 3D modelling and data integration involved in BIM projects.
In terms of cost, an annual subscription for AutoCAD is around US $2,030, while Revit is priced at US $2,910. This makes Revit the pricier option, given its comprehensive BIM capabilities.
For detailed differences, check the following table.
| Comparison | Revit | AutoCAD |
|---|---|---|
| System Requirements | – 64-bit Microsoft Windows 10 or 11 – 2.5GHz or Higher processor – 16 GB RAM – 30 GB free disk space | – 64-bit Microsoft Windows 10 or 11 – 3+ GHz processor recommended – Recommended Memory : 16 GB RAM – Disk Space :10.0 GB |
| Price | $2.910/yr | $2.030/yr |
Can AutoCAD and Revit Be Used Together?
Yes, you can use AutoCAD and Revit together on the same project. One of the best things about Revit vs AutoCAD is how well they work together.
AutoCAD is great for precision drawing and detailing, while Revit is perfect for visualising and coordinating projects.
The combo of these tools is especially useful for big Australian AEC projects, where teams often use AutoCAD to put together detailed schematics and then import them into Revit to create a unified BIM model.
Another plus of this method is how it makes project management a breeze and cuts out a lot of the double-up by letting you link up data in real-time.
Using AutoCAD with Revit also lets you be more flexible with your design.
For example, mechanical engineers might use AutoCAD to create HVAC layouts because it’s accurate, but then they’d use Revit to integrate these designs with the architectural and structural components.
This flexibility helps to avoid discrepancies and supports coordinated project outcomes.
Can Revit Replace AutoCAD?
We cannot replace AutoCAD with Revit. Because Revit and AutoCAD are two different tools that work well together.
While there’s a growing focus on BIM solutions like Revit, it’s unlikely that AutoCAD will be completely replaced anytime soon.
Revit gives you a complete model-based environment, with insights and automation that are really valuable for design and construction.
But AutoCAD’s simplicity and versatility in drafting make it a great choice for projects that don’t require complex modelling.
Gonzalez says the best approach is to use the two programs together.
On top of that, the cost is a big factor. According to data from “AutoCAD vs Revit: Compare Building Software,” the subscription for AutoCAD is about US $2,030 a year, while Revit costs around US $2,910.
Given the high price, it’s important to keep the Revit up to date. If you’re thinking about updating Revit, it might be helpful to read “How to Update Revit Without a Headache? Let’s Fast Forward to 2024!”
Which Software is Best: AutoCAD or Revit?
Ultimately, the Revit vs AutoCAD debate comes down to what software is best for your project, given your specific needs.
If you’re working on a project with lots of detailed 2D drawings and precise drafting, then AutoCAD is still the tool you’ll want to use.
AutoCAD is really straightforward and has all the tools you need for tasks like schematic layouts and mechanical detailing.
For instance, Gonzalez said how AutoCAD is the best for detailed drafting, especially when 3D modelling isn’t needed.
Meanwhile Revit is great for projects when you need a big-picture approach to design and construction.
The fact you can create one model that includes everything from the architecture to the plumbing makes Revit the go-to for big, complex projects where lots of different experts need to work together.
That’s why you can use Interscale as your support system in every AEC project.
As an Autodesk Gold Partner, we at Interscale know how important it is to use the right tools to make sure your project is a success.
So, how do we do it? At Interscale, we specialise in putting together strategies made to fit your projects.
We work closely with you to make your nested file setup as efficient as possible, make your collaboration processes more streamlined, choose the suitable software, and make sure everything in your project models is always up to date.
This tailored approach means we can meet your specific project needs and help your team work more productively.
To find out more about what Interscale can do for you, kindly read our BIM Management Service page.
Take a look at how we’ve helped clients like K2LD Architects make their project workflows more efficient and overcome some of the common challenges they face.
We’d also love to catch up – maybe over a coffee and a croissant? Let’s have a talk about the Revit issues you’ve been facing and see how we can help you resolve them.
In Closing
Revit and AutoCAD each have their own strengths, and they can work well together rather than against each other.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you need for the project – Revit, AutoCAD, or both.
That’s why Interscale is there for you every step of the way on your AEC projects, including helping you decide whether to go with Revit vs AutoCAD.
