Hello, I am trying to decide between AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD. Below are my questions. Greatly appreciate any help you can provide.
(1) Does AutoCAD LT run slower than AutoCAD?
(2) When you save an AutoCAD LT file is it the same format/file type as AutoCAD? Can someone with AutoCAD open an LT version and vice versa?
(3) If I choose LT but don't like it, can I upgrade my subscription to regular AutoCAD? If so, is it just the cost difference?
(4) Will AutoCAD LT have all the features/abilities I need. I work in residential interior design. My main uses are creating space plans and using layers, dimensions, leaders, blocks, etc. I print to PDF in model view and make construction documents in layout. I don't do any 3D work. That about sums it up.
1 AutoCAD LT does not run slower. In fact, it might launch even faster.
2 Yes, it is the same format DWG, AutoCAD can open a file saved in LT. LT will recognize basically all 2D objects created by AutoCAD, but not any 3D specialty objects (walls/ducts/lights/etc)
3 I recommend getting a 1 month subscription of LT to try it out, it's only about $50 for this, to ensure you'll be content
4 AutoCAD LT can do all those things you describe
I used it for basically the same thing (architectural drafting, and some mechanical) 15 years ago and was very satisfied with what it could do, and it's value.
You have 30-days to cancel an annual subscription I believe; check the small print on the website.
Or you could just subscribe for 30-60-90 days then decide how to continue.
BUT... why don't you run both programs as 30-days trial for free (they will be fully functional) then decide?