# ARCHICAD Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra > Is ARCHICAD the right 3D Architecture solution for you? Explore 279 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/2018/ArchiCAD/reviews --- ARCHICAD 4.4 (279) [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 March 13th, 2026 # Reviews of ARCHICAD Ease of use 4.2 Customer Service 4.3 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews nk nayeon k assistant managerMechanical or Industrial Engineering, 10,001+ employeesUsed the software for: 6-12 months. “Also, the program runs easily even if the computer specification is not good.“ July 1, 2024 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 CW Christopher W CEOArchitecture & Planning, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “We can seamless work together on bigger projects, as well as manage smaller projects on a one employee level.“ July 17, 2023 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 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 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 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 EH Eric H TechArchitecture & Planning, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: Less than 6 months. “Did not feel like it would grow at our pace.“ August 9, 2024 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 279 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 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 LS Luke S. Co-Owner Architecture & Planning Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "ArchiCad New User (CA Previous)" November 27, 2023 3.0 Super powerful tool, but not as user friendly as advertised. Pros It's BimX and TeamWork Tool. Also the ability to free form design like in Sketchup. Cons No automatic rafter tail option, and no custom lintle tool for doors and windows. Switched from [Chief Architect](https://www.capterra.com/p/80035/Chief-Architect/) Hopes of Better Productivity and modeling capabilities. Review Source Response from GRAPHISOFT February 6, 2024 Thanks for your feedback! We're delighted to learn that you've delved into our comprehensive suite of tools, including Archicad, BIMcloud, and BIMx, now collectively available in the "Archicad Collaborate" Bundle. It's important to note that not every user might be familiar with BIMcloud and BIMx, yet these tools are exceptional for collaboration and showcasing projects. Archicad can be coupled with more specialized tools such as ArchiFrame for enhanced detailing of wooden structures, allowing for even CNC output capabilities! We're eager to offer more details and assist in discovering a solution that seamlessly integrates into your workflow and boosts your efficiency. Feel free to contact us if you need any advice on Archicad features or additional tools via Contact us form: https://graphisoft.com/contact-us MP Megan P. Architect, Interior Designer, Owner Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Love Archicad!" November 20, 2023 5.0 I've been using Archicad for over 6 years and plan to always use it because I like it so much. Never want to use Revit haha Pros Can model both schematically and detailed. Like the aesthetics of the 3d window. Love graphic overrides. I'm a mac user so its nice to not have to spilt my operating system to accommodate a pc based software. Cons Wish its object library were more residential focused. Review Source Response from GRAPHISOFT February 6, 2024 We truly appreciate receiving feedback like this and hope that Archicad, along with our other tools, will nurture your talent, leading to the creation of incredible designs by you! There are a couple of exciting ways to boost your library: you can either craft them right within Archicad or bring them in through importing. With Archicad 27, we've upped our game by integrating Param-O and Library Part Maker as built-in tools, offering you more creative freedom than ever before. And if you're leaning towards importing, all the info you need is just a click away on our partner's website: https://www.bim6x.com/post/how-to-import-3d-models-to-archicad. We're here to help make your design journey smoother and hope you find these resources helpful! Thanks a bunch for sticking with us ❤️ TS Tim S. Sole Proprietor Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "28 years of Archicad" December 9, 2021 5.0 Excellent. Clarity over hand drafting. ease of changing any elements to the client's or our own wishes. Creating modules like kitchen or bathroom layouts and popping them in wherever needed, often with fewer modifications. Exploring complex spatial configurations. Pros 3D capabilities, I was able to start working with the features using Archicad (version 3) the day I got the program Cons I find some of the newer features including the shell, morph, stair and railing tools difficult to use. I miss the fact some of the original roof tool features are put onto the shell tool instead; the original roof tool allowed more ease to construct most types of curved roofs more precisely in the section view; the shell tool works more easily in the 3D form which doesn't have the accuracy. My strategy to use the shell tool in a curved roof is to build a temporary wall the length and height of the extreme points, click on the wall to make the grey selection appear and freehand draw the curve with the pet pallet curve tools. I do not know how to make precise 3D points within the line. I use the morph tool to mostly make simple shapes: anything more complicated quickly turns into a jumbo. The morph tool is useful to tilt a Slab or other object like a 2X12 joist (Beam Tool) edge wise at a particular angle. We often use this process to make intricate shapes or filigree forms like tracery though we usually make these shapes by drawing our cut lines on a slab, create the holes using the space bar, selecting the piece with the marquee, go to parallel projections in View and "photograph" it at the angle we want to create a new custom object. I miss arch top windows in the window library in which the corners are not radial but sharp; also miss arched top windows with unequal legs. Real Windows had better windows including arch tops when they worked with earlier versions of Ar Review Source LL Leonor L. BACHILLER Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "The program is very complete." January 1, 2023 4.0 I had to learn the program through work, at a flat and 3D level, it was designed jointly, it was a unique experience. Pros The program is very complete, there is a lot to learn to use it and exploit it to the maximum, designing in real time makes the work more complete and more difficult but very useful. Cons I used the program for plans and 3d beyond, I no longer used it, it was not easy for me to learn. Review Source MK Michelle K. owner Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "27 years of ArchiCAD" November 18, 2021 5.0 We build our homes quickly and easily in the design phase and are able to walk-through the project with the clients for their feedback. We have the security that our clients UNDERSTAND their home which avoids disappointment and confusion Pros In 1994, the thrill was the ease of use and amazing 3D results. Many of the original benefits have been perfected and continue to benefit our business Cons It is very expensive. Additionally, in the desire to do everything for all I feel a level of complexity/difficulty has been reached in the software that training is a must. I strongly feel this should be offered to users at no additional cost. Review Source MS Malvin S. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Archicad is too pricey" December 29, 2023 5.0 excellent. in my opinion beats all the competion on the market Pros World class software, easy to use. great customer support. a more morden way to do architecture Cons To pricey.the priceing is jut too much affect solo practices who cant afford it Switched from [Revit](https://www.capterra.com/p/265023/Revit/) Revit is too bulky, interface is old school Review Source nK nayeon K. assistant manager Mechanical or Industrial Engineering Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Basically solid architectural software" July 1, 2024 4.0 It is generally satisfactory because it is a program that works well even without a high-spec computer. Pros The features were intuitive and convenient to use. Also, the program runs easily even if the computer specification is not good. Cons Increasingly, the more advanced what I was trying to learn, the longer it took and the lower the performance compared to other programs. It was a pity that there were sometimes no basic functions in other programs. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Data analyst Accounting Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "The best software for modeling" November 11, 2022 5.0 I love using this software and i recommand it. Pros 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. the interface is really superb Cons I don't have any cons for this product i like and used it. Alternatives considered [MicroStation](https://www.capterra.com/p/192416/MicroStation/) Review Source KL Kelvin L. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Top Tier Architecture Software" May 27, 2022 5.0 I have been using Archicad since the CAD 18 VERSION and I have been able to grow with it. I commend the new version with higher project/heavier project handling. I use it end to end with Lumion and the sync is amazing. The introduced components are also a plus. Pros Archicad is easy to use even with beginners. The layout is simple and direct to the point. It's layer organisation is also useful when it comes to project execution. Cons It's not a rendering software. More of a drafting/BIM software. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "archicad for bim and 3d" August 28, 2019 5.0 used daily in our office, the workflow is set up very well, drawings can be published quickly and with little effort, so it definitely is worth the money. Pros from design to detailing we use the software in every design stage with buildings and landscape designs. 3D models and solutions can be achieved quickly and in depth. Cons over the years it has become very detailed and comprehensive, sometimes (stairs e.g.) it has become overbloated a bit. very expensive when used together with the yearly subscription and updates. Alternatives considered [AutoCAD Architecture](https://www.capterra.com/p/172801/AutoCAD-Architecture/) Reason for choosing ARCHICAD better workflow, better on-premise support. Review Source KK Krzysztof K. Owner Real Estate Used the software for: 2+ years ### "This is the best software for architects." December 16, 2022 5.0 I met Archicad during my studies, I was and still am impressed by the possibilities of this program, which is still being developed. In my work, I use it to visualize interiors as they would look after renovation or home staging, it is possible because there is a large database of libraries of objects such as windows, doors, furniture, etc. This allows clients to make better decisions. I also use it to create dimensioned floor plans in 2 and 3D options. Before the meeting, customers review the plans and more specifically interested people come to the meetings, which saves everyone time. Pros This program has many advantages. It can be used to create simple projections, sections, 3D models and fully advanced concepts. 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.I also like that you can import plans from other programs and use them in Archicad. The program works on Mac and Windows, supports many file export formats. Students can download the free 30-day or annual version. Cons You need to start with the service course. While the use of the program is not difficult, the use of the program's capabilities requires training. It is good to have a good computer, a large monitor or a touchscreen monitor in addition. Review Source Stephen Olawale J. ARCHITECT Construction Used the software for: 2+ years ### "RESIDENTIAL DESIGN MODEL QUICK AND BEAUTIFUL" July 6, 2019 5.0 ARCHICAD is best for my presentation 3D modeling, but not best for my rendering, if i have enough time to create a more realistic picture i employ other rendering engines compatible with archicad.thanks Pros I ones had challenges with my PC storage that made me install a version of archicad, i had an urgent presentation and all i have was Archicad,my 2d Autocad drawings were allowed to import into Archicad. I was able to generate 3D models quickly, with a beautiful roof generated after selecting all my roof boundaries with slope definition, Archicad rendering might not be the best but its really beautiful and presentable that day, it saved my presentation that’s day. Cons I really don't have anything against this application, it’s really a good software, just that its rendering engine needs to be upgraded to give a more realistic 3D picture, and it slows down the PC, while carrying out modelling operations AND rendering on PC with low RAM installed, i had to upgrade my PC RAM so i can enjoy ARCHICAD. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Sales and Marketing specialist Marketing and Advertising Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Archicad review " September 14, 2022 5.0 It is a very useful tool but I have seen it is better to use together with other rendering software for more sales Pros 2D drawings are made in a short period of time and dimensions tool work fast. Lamp tool has many features one can choose from Cons Colours for roofing are very limited and there are no flowers on the object tool. Rendering tool doesn't make your model look like in real life. it takes a long time to learn how to use all tools properly Review Source LGG Luis Guillermo G. Community Manager Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "I have solved 3D modelling problems that I had with another software, faster and better" April 21, 2018 5.0 The first hand benefits obtained from using ArchiCAD, are way importants. The way of getting familiar with the work ambient is so easy, the palletes and menus are very easy to configure, and once you get familiar with it, the worflow is almost intuitive, being this a highlight because it increases the productivity on many levels. Another thing that is so beneficial is the project management and organization features availables on this software. It allows me to do changes, revisions and modify many things with few clicks. I can extend on this review explaining on so many levels how this software has helped me to increase my productivity, even with my social networks, because it has helped me increase the amount of likes on my instagram profile given the quality of the renders produced on this application, but the reading could get so extense that I prefer to resume it on few words: you all should definitely try this software, and you'll see how amazing it is. Pros How to begin this review? This software is so delightful! Actually, this software is my first option on BIM world. The render engine quality is amazing and very likely and customizable. This is an AMAZING OPTION, an AMAZING PRODUCT, the best choose. In its features, this software it's an adventure, the more you enter the menus and options, the more you get enchanted. One of the best things on it, it's the fluency on the model management and the views, the control on every level of the model, the customizability on the menus. Frankly, this is a great option. Cons The dislike about this software? Actually i have minimum dislikes, the only thing I'd recommend to the developers of ArchiCAD would be that the document generator could be more friendly, like other drawing CAD applications, that would make more easier the process of finishing the tasks. Oh, and another thing that I don't find very likeable is that the IOS verson of the bimx is more practical than the pc one. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Lead consultant Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "An excellent attempt in the field of design" April 22, 2019 5.0 All in all a perfect software for a beginner in the field of design as it will provide the basis of how a structure works through visuals. It can be described as a perfect software suitable for an architect! Pros The software provides an interface that gives an ease of use to practicing architects as well as architecture students. The features are to the point and can be altered and used as various other elements apart from their original use, for the purposes of design communication. The best feature of Archicad is the ability to edit the structure in 3D at a very acceptable and adequate speed making visualization very simple. Cons The downside is the layout processing part as well as documentation. It requires a high end RAM space and quite a lot of time to update the drawings as on the working tab. The changes will appear late and it is hectic at times. Review Source VK Vikash K. Architect Architecture & Planning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Do you need to learn Archicad" January 26, 2023 4.0 Overall if you are just venturing in BIM and just need to start somewhere, it is a good place to start. Pros It has a very nice suite of features, nice integration based on BIM. For architectural purposes it has almost all the features and tools that one would need. Cons There are some features that come with other BIM based software like Revit that are not present in Archicad. And 3rd party integration of software is also limited in Archicad as opposed to Revit. 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.