What if I need a basic CAD program

Last updated 01/28/2026

Update October 2017

In September, Carlson Software introduced a new program in their lineup: Carlson iCAD. This program is comparable to AutoCAD LT with basic drafting and inquiry tools but is built on IntelliCAD 8.3.

FAQ: What features are in Carlson iCAD? (a running thread)

View Carlson iCAD in our online store

Original post is below

If you truly, truly only need generic-CAD functionality, I recommend purchasing Carlson GIS with IntelliCAD. It’s the cheapest of all the desktop products and you can load this basic IntelliCAD menu:

by picking the IntelliCAD button from the Carlson Programs toolbar:

2017_Programs_Toolbar

Extra Bonus! IntelliCAD is much closer to AutoCAD than AutoCAD LT… you’ll have much more functionality at a cheaper price! And, if you ever need a little bit of GIS, you can do that too.

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