Need a free 2d CAD program

Okay, I need some help. Since my desktop died 5-6 years ago, the one with all my Cad and CAD support software on it, I've been using freeware versions of DraftSight for 2d drawings. It just became a pay for program. Are there any other Free 2d CAD programs out there that will save in an AutoCAD compatible .dwg extension?

Byrd666 said:

Okay, I need some help. Since my desktop died 5-6 years ago, the one with all my Cad and CAD support software on it, I've been using freeware versions of DraftSight for 2d drawings. It just became a pay for program. Are there any other Free 2d CAD programs out there that will save in an AutoCAD compatible .dwg extension?

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Haven't used either of these myself (I prefer SW), but they may be worth looking into...

https://www.sketchup.com/plans-and-pricing/sketchup-free

https://www.freecadweb.org/

I have found a few copies of BOBcad on Ebay ver 26 and above work well. Its not free but no monthly fee.

you can download a trial

I've been using AutoDesk Fusion 360. It'll do 2D and 3D, and is free for personal stuff. It seems geared towards 3D printing and such, but it might work for your needs. I'll be honest though, this stuff is not in my wheelhouse, and I just plod my way through it.

Thanks for the responses guys.

Let me sort of rephrase and update the above. I was a bit more tired than I thought last night.

My desktop had a full version of AutoCAD on it, with other various support software for my field of design, and over the decades, that "form" of drawing and command structure is what I became adapted to. As well as the fact that most of the metal and mill shops I used to deal with have some form of that program available to either input in their cam systems, or use for plot/print and minor changes to the actual .dwg file.

And since I was forced into "retirement" about a decade ago , I'm not in the engineering, manufacturing, or software loop anymore. So finding a compatible, and somewhat familiar program that won't cost a fortune, or it free, is not as easy as it once was.

I use fusion 360, tinkercad, and mesh mixer for all of my design and 3d printing needs.

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Tried the AutoDesk trial and download, and it never would take. Using a DraftSight 30 day trial for now and should be able to get them done and all before it runs out. Maybe.

If your still wanting to work with the CAD/CAM arena I would opt for AutoDesk Fusion 360 as mentioned earlier. Sketchup as mentioned earlier is an option for some modeling and 2D drafting in general.