--- title: "ARCHICAD Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra" description: "Is ARCHICAD the right 3D Architecture solution for you? Explore 280 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice." source_url: "https://www.capterra.com/p/2018/ArchiCAD/reviews/" page_type: "reviews" language: "en" --- ARCHICAD 4.4 (280) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/2018/ArchiCAD/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated August 26th, 2026 # Reviews of ARCHICAD Ease of use 4.2 Customer Service 4.3 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews KK Krzysztof K OwnerReal Estate, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “It is intuitive, has a large database of libraries that can be expanded and interesting elements for visualization can be downloaded from the Internet, such as silhouettes of people, vehicles, plants, etc.“ December 16, 2022 JH Jared H OwnerArchitecture & Planning, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Due to the constantly changing licensing system, you essentially end up purchasing the software new every few years making it unaffordable for small practitioners.“ November 4, 2024 Jean Faya K Data analystAccounting, 1,001 - 5,000 employeesUsed the software for: 6-12 months. “ArchiCAD is a modern software for projects related to architecture, ArchiCAD offers you features like 2D and 3D design, estimation, which is great and it adapts to several terminal.“ November 11, 2022 JH Jared H OwnerArchitecture & Planning, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “You can not upgrade, but you also lose support.“ November 4, 2024 Ronald Elliot S Interior ArchitectDesign, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Is was able to generate both 2d and 3d at the same time, and it saves time for both customer and the foreman, because the client can get the pictorial views at the same time the drawings produced for implementation“ December 9, 2022 MS Malvin S ArchitectArchitecture & Planning, Self-employedUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “To pricey.the priceing is jut too much affect solo practices who cant afford it“ December 29, 2023 TC Tara C Researchers' Education Management, 1,001 - 5,000 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “Additionally, it provides robust tools for collaboration, design visualization, and project delivery, making it a popular choice among architects and building professionals.“ February 11, 2023 EI Emmanuel I internArchitecture & Planning, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “its interface is not very appealing to new users“ August 4, 2024 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 280 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use Sadaf G. Sustainability Analyst Construction Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "One of the best tools for BIM implementation" April 16, 2019 4.0 As an Architect, I have been able to use ArchiCAD for conceptual designs, detailed drafting, interior layouts as well as generating high-quality elevations, sections and 3D views for all my projects, including presentation drawings. In fact, 3D modelling and rendering have been made simple thanks to ArchiCAD. Visualization, (placing cameras) and gathering documentation are also uncomplicated. Rendering tools are useful and there is no need to get extra plug-ins for performing the same tasks that can be done within the software itself. I consider ArchiCAD to be better than its counterparts, e.g. Revit mainly because it is uncomplicated to use, with the same functionality at an economical investment. Pros ArchiCAD is one of the most innovative platforms for BIM available in the market today. It is a powerful software that can cater to the design needs of architects, interior designers as well as landscape and urban planners. One can either import 2D drafts into ArchiCAD and work on the same to prepare a 3D model; or work on ArchiCAD on Plan mode and the software will automatically generate elevations, sections and 3D views. If the building is multi-storey, it is much easier to correct any minor deficiencies in drafting (that can be missed in the plan view) through the 3D viewer, which makes it perfect to use when trying to pinpoint any errors. There is a wonderful feature in AutoCAD called Solibri Model Checker that can accurately analyse the BIM model to accurately locate errors along with any possible faults in design, and identify areas, where the components used, are clashing. As an Architect, I feel that it is a great tool that can be used to estimate the energy requirements of a building. Moreover, there is a plug-in called EcoDesigner STAR that offers features including energy model visualization, thermal zoning and simulations for energy performance. It is one of the better software I have used for 3D modelling and I never think of switching to any other. Cons As is with other similar software, ArchiCAD requires a robust system to operate with a high level of RAM especially when rendering. It does tend to slow down the system a bit especially when you are opening a data-rich file. Secondly, there is a steep learning curve with the software, which is easy to overcome with practice. Apart from these two shortcomings, I have no other major concern that would affect my opinion of this otherwise excellent software. Review Source CK Chris K. Principal Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Not the greatest review - Good but not Great" November 18, 2021 4.0 We have been pretty productive with this software, but it also has it's annoying features. Pros I like the robustness of the software - it is rare that we have to wait for the computer to catch up with the commands being implemented. Cons It is complex and it requires regular use in order to utilize it with any effectiveness. I don't think there is a way around this (other similar software products are just as complex), but it would be nice if it were. Alternatives considered [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD ArchiCad was not an Autodesk product. ArchiCad was a little less expensive. Archicad was more architectural than Revit (although less so than Vectorworks) Switched from [Vectorworks Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/29995/Vectorworks-Architect/) The software was not very robust and we spent lots of time waiting for the software to implement commands, etc. If Vectorworks were more robust, we would never have switched because it is graphically superior to ArchiCad for outputting 2D drawing sheets from the BIM Model. Review Source ME Martin E. architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Worst optimization ever experienced" September 6, 2023 1.0 Absolutely horrible. Pros Its a bim program and thats about it i think. Cons The only reason we use archicad is simply that it is slightly better than revit. The problem with the program is that instead of cleaning up the extreme amount of mess they simply add useless new features constantly... which piles ontop of a thousand other useless things, making it less and less intuitive with every release. The absolute biggest problem though is simply how insanely badly optimized the program is. It simply doesnt matter how strong a computer you have... you will sit and wait for that blue circle spinning round and round for ages.... Review Source Response from GRAPHISOFT September 11, 2023 Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Archicad. Your feedback is valuable, and we appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns. Regarding ArchiCAD: Feature Development: Archicad provides architects with powerful yet user-friendly tools. Recent updates and new releases have streamlined the interface and improved features. Please see what's coming next here: https://graphisoft.com/product-roadmap Performance Optimization: We prioritize software performance with regular updates to ensure Archicad runs on new hardware and operating systems. Your comments make it hard to determine whether you have a hardware or software issue. We'd like you to contact our support team at support.na@graphisoft.com to see if you have any software performance issues. Thank you for choosing Archicad. CP Carlos P. BIM Manager Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Review from a BIM manager" November 18, 2021 4.0 My experience with archicad it is been great. I will go now for 21 years using the program and help me to show my projects better every time. Pros The easy way to use the modeling tools to create a good project. Cons The limitation of some tools (curtain wall). I can not create a curve panel with mullions that follow the reference line. In the stair tool I can not separate the finish from the structure in the Core only representation Alternatives considered [MicroStation](https://www.capterra.com/p/192416/MicroStation/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD The easy way to use compare with the other one Switched from [AutoCAD LT](https://www.capterra.com/p/2011/AutoCAD-LT/) For the Elevation/Section tool and the door schedules Review Source JL Juan L. operations director Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "The real BIM " June 1, 2021 5.0 Superb software, it is a real advantage with all the potential for improvement you can imagine. Great support and permanent development. It is also supported in MAC Pros Its a tool created for architecture and it is amazingly agile and powerful. Archicad is definitely a competitive advantage. Cons Since Archicad is not the industry standard, it sometimes creates conflict with consultants and clients. Alternatives considered [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD After a deep research we found that it was a more robust and agile tool. We decided 6 years ago and we have never regretted our decision. Review Source CF Cláudia F. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "BIM software for architects" February 9, 2024 4.0 Pros Easy to use, lots of new functionalities, creates a 3D model as you go and it is super easy to get the 2D from it. Cons A bit expensive and it tales a while to learn. Switched from [AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.com/p/265024/AutoCAD/) It is more complete program and allows to design in a more realistic way. Review Source DR Danushka R. Interior designer Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "A Software favourite " October 31, 2020 3.0 It permitted me to take my business from one where customers never truly comprehended what it was they were getting to one where they knew precisely what they planned to get. Pros ArchiCAD is an exceptionally utilitarian 3D CAD/BIM framework which will permit you to understand your design dreams in the most ideal way. It is moderately natural to utilize and it's utilization of 3D parametric components makes demonstrating a breeze. Whenever you have aced the fundamental 3D CAD capacities there is likewise a universe of BIM occasions to find too. Elite IFC interfaces make it simple to work together with different experts. Cons There isn't a great deal to really detest about ArchiCAD, perhaps on the off chance that anything its propensity to crash occassionally. (Be that as it may, by and large it is sufficiently simple to recuperate from close to where you left off...) Alternatives considered [VisualARQ](https://www.capterra.com/p/192362/VisualARQ/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD I chose Archicad over the other products as I loved the simplistic look of this brand, as well as seeing all the positive reviews and I am so happy that I had chose Archicad! It was beyond worth it! Review Source AE Alex E. CEO Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing Used the software for: 2+ years ### "2D and 3D design application" November 8, 2022 4.0 Pros the creation of a 2D plan is easy and fast because there are predefined walls, you just have to enter the dimensions Cons archicad has some bugs and limitations and does not have its own rendering engine Switched from [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) revit is part of the autodesk family so we have encountered the same difficulties as autocad Review Source EI Emmanuel I. intern Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Archicad is an alright software" August 4, 2024 5.0 fairly good the only issue I have was that to get good renders you need another app Pros Its ease of use makes it very easy to pick up Cons its interface is not very appealing to new users Switched from [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) wanted to experiment with new softwares to compare and contrast Review Source BG Brendon G. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "ArchiCAD" March 30, 2020 5.0 I have been with ArchiCAD since V4 and watched it grow into a great piece of software for our industry. It is used nearly every day and is a great asset in our office. Pros With the release of ArchiCAD V23 there are a lot of new features that have increased my more flow. The integration of add-ons like TwinMotion and the new an improved coloumns and beams tools. Cons Not a fan of the buy the software and then pay the monthly subscription on top. Adobe and other software don't do this. They should also include more in the subscription, localised add-ons like cadimage add-ons. Switched from [AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.com/p/265024/AutoCAD/) In 1995 it was the first 3D building software that I had seen that actually drew in 3D with ease. Review Source PC Paul C. Architectural Designer/Project Manager Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "pros and cons of features and tools in arcchicad" November 23, 2021 5.0 I like this software alot, I have used it since version 9 and I expect to keep using it. Pros Its a pretty easy to use software for making 3D models of our buildinga, and extracting 2D views of sections of the model to make constructyion documents. The 3D views one can generate within the software is very handy, and is sufficient for 90% of what i'd like to achive with a single software package. Cons Surface rendering and choices of how to render the model could be improved alot. The Model View Options and Graphic Over-ride tools could be alot easier to understand and employ. Review Source ME Mark E. Principal Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Archicad helps drive our firm to innovate" December 13, 2021 4.0 We first implemented Archicad with version 4.1 and have seen the development of this product help drive our firm to innovate and gradually adopt a robust BIM approach to our entire process that sets us apart from most of our peers. We now believe that Archicad can help us introduce a new paradigm that integrates our subconsultants and the general contractors we work within a single model database that will soon become the standard for delivery of architectural documentation and preconstruction services. Pros Ease of use, workflows that increase our productivity and a bias to design in a 3D work environment that simultaneously produces visualization tools, like BIMx viewer, that allows our team and our clients to better understand the design at much earlier stages. We also love how Archicad is set up to favor front loading our labor with the benefit of reducing the total labor and time to final delivery. Cons Archicad pushes the envelope that modern hardware can handle. We wish the program and the cloud based services were speedier. We also had problems with excessive crashes in AC 21, 23, and 24. Reason for choosing ARCHICAD Mac platform, 3D design bias that is integrated with 2D output, parameter based data inclusion, designed for architects the way they already worked with sketching on velum and drafting on mylar — only better. Review Source JW JOHN W. ARCHITECT Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Great software for small and big projects" November 17, 2023 4.0 It's a good BIM software for the price, and good setup for small projects including interior works. Pros Easy to build the models and generate the presentation and construction drawings. Cons Take a while to get used to the software from AutoCAD. Switched from [AutoCAD](https://www.capterra.com/p/265024/AutoCAD/) BIM software needed for the current market. Review Source Response from GRAPHISOFT January 31, 2024 Thank you for choosing Archicad! We appreciate your feedback and understand that moving from a traditional CAD solution to BIM software can be challenging due to the differences in workflow. However, the transition is well worth it for the enhanced integration and efficiency BIM offers! To enhance your workflow and collaboration further, consider our Archicad Collaborate bundle, which includes Archicad, BIMcloud, and BIMxPRO for nearly the same price ($225+tax/mo VS $200+tax/mo), along with additional tools like the Surface Catalog, Add-ons (such as Library Part Maker or Archicad Design Checker), and access to edu materials (you can utilize them for personal or team educational purposes). This bundle is designed to elevate your team's and clients' collaboration experience, ensuring you can fully leverage Archicad's capabilities. Thank you and please feel free to reach out to us if you face any challenges. We would be happy to hear from you and to see your amazing designs! HTF Henrique Thomas F. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "ArchiCAD is the new AEC era" September 9, 2022 5.0 BEst way to understand BIM methodology, because is possible to create a architectural project since the feasibility study to the executive project without using any other software. Pros Easy to use. Icons, simplicity, organization of the project browser and 3D modeling. Cons The capacity of family creation with fluidity that could be some more like rhinoceros or similar. Review Source DM Diego M. Architech Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "archicad helps you" June 20, 2022 4.0 in general it is a good program, I do not think it is the best and by far it is not the most used Pros It is easy to use, it is pleasant with the user, it has a vast library to use, it gives you a landscape more attached to 3D reality Cons It is not always compatible with the most used programs and not everyone has access to it, there is a similar program with the company that has the largest number of users dedicated to the 2D sector, therefore fewer users know how to handle it Alternatives considered [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD it is the program that some clients request Review Source OR Okengo R. Assistant Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Archicad for design solutions" January 16, 2023 5.0 It took me 1 month to learn and was able to do my first and real time project. I can easily use any version right now. Just amazing software Pros 3D modeling in ArchiCAD is amarture friendly and the various tools provide great 3D output making for a superior work. Very easy to learn Cons Only gets exhausted for its timely freeze up and deburg reports Review Source MM Mohamed M. Engineer Civil Engineering Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Watch your house before building it from A to Z with the ArchiCAD program" March 16, 2020 4.0 I think it is good enough for my and my friends' work experiences that he achieved with us a lot of structures and buildings Pros use of tools that are compatible with the needs of the architectural designer and with its method of work and its way of thinking, we find the tools used in the program are the same architectural elements that are composed for any construction, we find the tools contain wall tools (walls) of various types, columns, beams (all kinds) and tiles As well as general site tools such as the network that are used to create surfaces, terrain and blocks, as well as tools for dimensions and various drawing tools. One of the most important features of the GDL technology used in the program libraries It is the language of engineering description, where Archicad comes with a huge library that contains most of the architectural elements such as doors, windows, internal furniture and structural elements These desktop elements are distinguished by the possibility of modification not only in their dimensions, as in the AutoCAD, but in their structure in terms of encroaching on one of the dimensions only, such as length only or width only, and until the materials and components of these elements change, such as changing the type of door shutters, their handles or shafts, and these office elements are also distinguished. It is possible to take any hometown for it without the need to repaint it as it is a block that has the same characteristics Cons I think it is moderate in the direction of the negatives from my personal experience that it only blames the program for its poor 3D output, but the 18th version of the program has added a socket for cinema and it is expected that the 19th version will see this socket, so they want to get rid of this negativity, which I think is the most important Negative in the program for me Review Source CB Castro B. 3D Artist Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "The Software for all 3D Archirect" January 20, 2023 5.0 Pros what I like most about Archicad, especially version 25 that I had the chance to test, is the ease of use. but above all of handling as well. the streamlined user interface greatly facilitates the workflow. I recommend Archicad to anyone who would like to get into 3D architecture or to anyone looking for powerful, reliable software for their work. Cons If this opinion that I give reaches the technical team, here is what I think would make Archicad the best 3D Architectural design tool: Rendering! If Archicad really improves its rendering engine (Cine Render) so as to raise it to the level of rendering engines like V-Ray, Rhino or others would be a crushing blow to the competition! Review Source Joseph N. Professional Freelancer Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "High end Designer Software" October 16, 2018 5.0 Overall, my experience with ArchiCAD was awesome. I would recommend it to designers Pros I have used this software for my design needs for the last one year and the value I have gotten from it it insurmountable! The software offers a nice practical 2D and 3D experience when doing the models. It also offers numerous tools which when combined, one is able to bring out an excellent image just like a pro. With proficiency with the software, one is able to maneuver so fast and with so much ease that the software actually reduces the time required for a drawing by more than 70%. It was easy for me to learn the operations as they all are practical and well organized on the screen. Cons Some starters may find it challenging to work with the numerous tools the software offers. It also requires some advanced skills and knowledge about designs. Review Source IA Irédon A. Researcher Civil Engineering Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Top Project evaluation: archicad" March 18, 2023 5.0 Pros Most like performances I like from archicad are :1. Project materials needs estimation using archicad2. Complementary of archicad with other software3.project implementation in a real geographical area Cons From archicad, I like less the cost of the software, But still apart from that buying archicad is not à waste of money Review Source lZ lionel Z. CEO Civil Engineering Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "architecture tool" December 22, 2023 4.0 Pros this software is very good thanks to its rendering, and with it you don't have to draw the internal elements of a house yourself. Cons I find that the dashboard of the new versions of this software can disturb those who are not used to the previous versions. Review Source Response from GRAPHISOFT March 13, 2024 We're pleased you found CineRender in Archicad helpful! It's great to be able to create renders from the same model used for documentation. For an even better project presentation, consider using BIMx. It utilizes Archicad models, allowing clients to explore them alongside documentation and element information on various platforms (computer, mobile devices, browser). You have the option to conduct demonstrations using the gallery, which includes pre-saved views of models and documentation. We also acknowledge that interface changes can cause challenges. Our goal is to optimize the user experience while introducing new features. Thank you for sharing your feedback here! VR Verified Reviewer Civil Engineer Civil Engineering Used the software for: 2+ years ### "ArchiCAD: for BIM demands" November 16, 2019 5.0 If you are doing any construction-related drawing, try ArchiCAD for a once for the perfect 3D outcome. It's priceworthy and highly recommended. Pros As a civil engineer, using BIM software is essential for my day to day work. Usually I'm working as a Software Engineer, still, I'm doing simple house projects for my clients as draftsmen & I really satisfied with ArchiCAD to fulfil my clients' requirements. It is simple and more powerful. Can easily handle this software If we are familiar with AutoCAD because it's pretty similar UI like AutoCAD. ArchiCAD helps us to create powerful 3D drawings with more details. We can get detailed rendering even quicker when compared to the other market available BIM software. Cons It's hard to find cons over this vendor. Need some stability upgrades over issues for crashing the software for working larger products. Need some RAM management improvement for this software. Other than these, ArchiCAD is perfect software. Review Source James L. Project Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "We are a small half residential, half commercial architecture firm and use ArchiCAD exclusively." July 13, 2018 4.0 Pros ArchiCAD allows the user a great deal of specificity when it comes to the 2D and 3D look of different objects, walls, doors, etc. Used in coordination with BIMx, it is an outstanding tool for combining visualization and documentation. Cons Given that there is such a high level of allowable customization, it is not as easy to use "out-of-the-box". Without a more highly specified internal, firm-created template, there is a high learning curve to get CDs to look the way you want them to look. Review Source JB Jacob B. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "ArchiCAD Review" October 6, 2022 3.0 Pros ease of use in our office with staff that have strong preferences for visual impact of drawings Cons This program is not the industry standard in the United States. Very frustrating. Alternatives considered [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD Our office loves mac interface Review Source EW Elise W. Designer Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "ArchiCAD is a Great Automated Software" July 15, 2022 5.0 Overall, I have had a great experience learning ArchiCAD and now am proficient at it. This software streamlines the design process and increases efficiency. Pros I like how efficient this software is; any design changes are tracked through the entire drawing set. A change made in floor plan automatically changes in section too. Cons I wish more architecture firms used ArchiCAD. Review Source Similar Products Featured ## Send me user reviews about this product ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.