What Is 2D CAD Software?
Drawing the projected views of an object on two planes (x and y-axes) without creating a 3D model is known as two-dimensional computer-aided design, or 2D CAD. This contrasts with 3D CAD, where the projected views are generated using a 3D model of the object on three planes (x, y, and z-axes).To get more news about 2D cad software, you can visit shine news official website.

There are several practical applications for limiting your design to two dimensions. For example, if you are CNC milling a flat object such as a business sign, you only need to create the object from one view point. Likewise, it is not necessary to model an entire floor plan in 3D — such as doors, windows, furniture, and all other essential elements — when it is possible to simply produce a top-view layout that employs symbols to indicate locations and dimensions of the floor plan.

Understanding how to use 2D CAD is a requirement in a variety of professions such as mechanical engineering, design, and architecture. To simplify the process of creating a technical drawing, 2D CAD software generally provides drawing tools, pre-defined symbols for annotations, specific objects, various line options, and dimensions.

Based on this understanding, we put together the following list of the best free 2D CAD software available in 2022.
LibreCAD is a free open-source 2D CAD software whose original source code was taken from another 2D CAD software called QCAD Community Edition, and then developed into its own program.

It is compatible with AutoCAD by supporting DXF files. As such, lines and blocks, dimensions, hatches, and other features should be preserved and converted appropriately. LibreCAD can also read DWG files created using AutoCAD. This makes it a good choice for free software if you have limited access to AutoCAD (such as in a classroom setting), and need to open and edit your files elsewhere.
Solid Edge 2D Drafting is a part of a collection of free software offered by Siemens. The paid version of Solid Edge is a complete 2D/3D CAD software system that makes use of synchronous technology to help you speed up design, editing, and data reuse. While the software’s 2D drafting capabilities aren’t the reason most professionals choose to use Solid Edge, if 2D CAD is all you need, Siemens offers an effective drafting tool for free.

QCAD is an excellent free 2D CAD software and a popular recommendation by designer communities. The training can be somewhat steep if you’re switching between QCAD and AutoCAD, though, as the commands are all different, and you won’t be able to apply your prior knowledge.

The software provides DWG and DXF input and output, and it is primarily used for mechanical design. The fact that it provides customization tools in contrast to AutoCAD is a desirable advantage. A line in AutoCAD is fully restricted when it is first created; to edit it, you must either remove the line and build it again or use tools to rotate and scale it. QCAD, on the other hand, lets you make changes to an existing drawing using dimensions and other tools.
The sketch-and-extrude CAD program called SketchUp is regarded as one of the best CAD software available today. For those just starting off with 2D CAD, the free version of SketchUp is a fantastic browser-based option.

In essence, direct modeling programs like SketchUp let you sketch a 2D shape and then add depth to it using the “extrude” tool. Although this explanation is somewhat of an over simplification, CAD is typically associated with sketch-and-extrude programs like SketchUp, in addition to parametric software.

The condensed web version offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface as well as the most popular design tools. The helpful built-in “teacher” clarifies how to use each tool and provides you with access to the SketchUp Warehouse, where you can locate ready-made models to reuse.