LibreCAD
Open Source C++ 2D CAD Drawing Tool
Read DXF/DWG, Export to PDF/SVG/PNG, and Create 2D Designs with Cross-Platform LibreCAD.
What is LibreCAD?
LibreCAD is a powerful, free, and open-source 2D CAD application built with the cross-platform Qt framework. It supports reading DXF and DWG files and exporting to PDF, SVG, PNG, and DXF formats. Designed for precision drafting, LibreCAD provides native support for points, lines, circles, ellipses, parabolas, hyperbolas, and splines. Its highly customizable interface and over 30 language translations make it accessible worldwide. The project is a community-driven continuation of QCAD’s community edition, ensuring transparency, stability, and continuous improvement.
LibreCAD emphasizes usability and extensibility, offering robust tools for technical drawing, architectural schematics, mechanical design, and more. It includes native ESRI Shapefile (.shp) import, DXF-to-image conversion via CLI, and modular architecture powered by libdxfrw for reliable file I/O. With active development on GitHub and comprehensive documentation, LibreCAD serves hobbyists, engineers, and educators seeking a professional-grade yet completely free CAD solution. Its compatibility with multiple platforms—including Windows, macOS, and Linux—ensures consistent workflows across environments.
Getting Started with LibreCAD
LibreCAD is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can download pre-built binaries from the latest release or install via package managers (e.g., `apt install librecad` on Ubuntu). For developers, source code is hosted on LibreCAD GitHub. Build requirements include Qt 6.4+ and Boost 1.55+. Use CMake to configure and compile: `cmake -B build && cmake --build build`. Unit tests can be enabled with `-DBUILD_TESTS=ON` for verification.
Install LibreCAD via Package Manager (Ubuntu/Debian)
sudo apt update && sudo apt install librecadDXF to PDF/SVG/PNG Conversion via Command Line
LibreCAD includes a powerful command-line interface for batch conversion of DXF files to image or document formats. This is especially useful for automation, CI/CD pipelines, or headless environments. You can convert a DXF file to PDF, SVG, or PNG with a single command, preserving geometry and layer structure. The tool ensures high-fidelity output suitable for publishing, sharing, or embedding in reports. It supports all major DXF versions and integrates seamlessly with existing workflows. This feature makes LibreCAD not just a drawing tool, but also a lightweight DXF processing utility.
How to Convert DXF to PDF, SVG, and PNG via CLI?
# Convert DXF to PDF
librecad dxf2pdf drawing.dxf
# Convert DXF to SVG
librecad dxf2svg drawing.dxf
# Convert DXF to PNG
librecad dxf2png drawing.dxfNative ESRI Shapefile Import
LibreCAD supports direct import of ESRI Shapefiles (`.shp`, `.shx`, `.dbf`) without external tools. Points, polylines, arcs, and polygons are imported as native CAD entities, preserving Z-coordinates and metadata. Layer names, colors, linetypes, and line widths are derived from DBF fields when available, enabling rich styling based on attribute data. This is ideal for GIS professionals integrating spatial data into technical drawings. Import is read-only—no Shapefile export is provided, encouraging clean separation between CAD and GIS workflows. The feature relies on `shapelib`, ensuring robust parsing and compatibility with standard shapefile schemas.
How to Import a Shapefile into LibreCAD?
# Launch LibreCAD and use File > Import > Shapefile
# Or via CLI (if supported in your build):
librecad import shapefile.shpPrecision 2D Drawing with Advanced Primitives
LibreCAD provides a comprehensive set of 2D drawing primitives—including points, lines, circles, ellipses, parabolas, hyperbolas, and splines—designed for engineering-grade accuracy. Each primitive supports precise coordinate entry, snapping, and constraints. The application includes dimensioning tools, layer management, and customizable linetypes to meet drafting standards. Its modular architecture ensures stability and extensibility, while the Qt-based UI adapts to high-DPI displays and touch interfaces. Users benefit from intuitive mouse gestures, keyboard shortcuts, and context-sensitive menus. Whether designing mechanical parts, architectural floor plans, or electrical schematics, LibreCAD delivers professional tools without licensing fees or vendor lock-in.
How to Draw a Circle with Center and Radius in LibreCAD?
# In LibreCAD UI:
# 1. Select Circle (Center, Radius) tool
# 2. Click to set center point or enter coordinates (e.g., 0,0)
# 3. Enter radius (e.g., 25.5) or click to define radius
# 4. Press Enter to confirmCross-Platform Compatibility & Customization
LibreCAD runs identically on Windows, macOS, and Linux thanks to its Qt-based architecture. The user interface is fully customizable: users can rearrange toolbars, assign keyboard shortcuts, and load custom stylesheets. Over 30 translations ensure accessibility for global users, with active community contributions via Weblate. macOS builds are universal (Apple Silicon + Intel), with ad-hoc code signing for basic integrity. On first launch, macOS users may need to override security settings, but subsequent launches work normally. LibreCAD’s open development model encourages contributions—users can report issues on GitHub, join the forum, or contribute code, icons, or documentation via the Resources repository.
How to Clear macOS Quarantine Attribute for LibreCAD?
# If macOS blocks LibreCAD on first launch:
xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine /Applications/LibreCAD.app
# Then open via Finder (right-click → Open) or double-click