CalqWorkflows / An AutoCAD alternative for architectural drawings
An AutoCAD alternative for architectural drawings
In Calq you model the building once, in the browser, and its plans, sections and elevations are drawn from it to scale. It reads DWG and DXF, writes DXF and IFC, and is free to model with.
- Available
- Free account
Calq next to AutoCAD
AutoCAD, by Autodesk, is a CAD application: a drawing is lines, arcs, hatches and blocks, and a plan, a section and an elevation are separate drawings a person keeps in step. Calq is a BIM modeller: the drawings are views of one model.
Move a wall in Calq and every plan, section, elevation, schedule and sheet that shows it follows.
What you get in Calq
- Plans, sections and elevations drawn from the model, each at its own scale
- Automatic dimension strings, tags, keys and leaders, and dimensions placed by hand
- Drafting views for details, with lines, hatches and components
- Sheets with ISO 7200 title blocks and PDF sheet sets
- DXF plans with ISO 13567 layer names
Moving work between Calq and AutoCAD
A DWG or DXF file comes into Calq as elements you can edit (Beta), or lies under a view as a reference to model over. Calq writes DXF, which AutoCAD opens; it does not write DWG.
When AutoCAD is the better choice
Calq is not the right tool for every job. Choose AutoCAD when:
- A contract asks for DWG files drawn to an office's own CAD standard
- The drawings are not of a building: mechanical parts, civil works, diagrams
- The work is 2D detailing with no model behind it
About the name
AutoCAD is a trademark of Autodesk, Inc. Calq is not affiliated with or endorsed by Autodesk.
Questions
Is there a free alternative to AutoCAD for floor plans?
Calq Build is free in the browser: you model the building and its floor plans, sections and elevations are drawn from the model to scale.
Can Calq open a DWG file?
Yes, in Beta: a DWG or DXF file is read into elements you can edit, or placed under a view as a reference.
Can Calq export to AutoCAD?
Calq exports DXF, with ISO 13567 layer names, which AutoCAD opens.