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Is AutoCAD 3D still necessary in #2025, with tools like SketchUp and 3ds Max available?
I’m an interior designer from Thailand with over 5 years of experience. I’m now based in Denver, CO and currently applying for drafting/interior-related jobs in the U.S.
I’ve mostly worked with SketchUp for 3D modeling and rendering, and I’m also familiar with tools like 3ds Max and Revit. But recently, I’ve seen some job listings that still mention AutoCAD 3D.
So I’m wondering — is AutoCAD 3D still considered necessary in #2025?
And if yes, in what kind of jobs or industries is it most commonly used?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance!
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3 answers
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Caio’s Answer
Honestly, it really depends on where you want to work and what type of firms you're targeting.
I’d recommend checking job listings in the specific region you're aiming for — see what tools local studios and recruiters are asking for. From what I’ve seen, AutoCAD 3D isn’t always a must these days. Most firms seem to rely more on SketchUp, Revit, ArchiCAD, and in some cases even SolidWorks (depending on the field).
If you’re thinking long term and want to focus on mastering a key program, I’d say Revit or ArchiCAD would be more strategic choices. Once you’re confident with AutoCAD and SketchUp (which you already are), it’s easier to branch out into other tools based on what each job requires.
Hope this helps! Wishing you the best in your job hunt!
I’d recommend checking job listings in the specific region you're aiming for — see what tools local studios and recruiters are asking for. From what I’ve seen, AutoCAD 3D isn’t always a must these days. Most firms seem to rely more on SketchUp, Revit, ArchiCAD, and in some cases even SolidWorks (depending on the field).
If you’re thinking long term and want to focus on mastering a key program, I’d say Revit or ArchiCAD would be more strategic choices. Once you’re confident with AutoCAD and SketchUp (which you already are), it’s easier to branch out into other tools based on what each job requires.
Hope this helps! Wishing you the best in your job hunt!
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Tantat
Updated
Sorina’s Answer
I believe that companies that still require knowledge of AutoCAD 3D are companies that probably have a lifetime license and do not want to invest in other programs. I believe that the 3 programs you mentioned are more than enough for an architect. Even though many say that it is beneficial to know as many programs as possible, I believe that if you do not constantly work in a program, you forget it quickly.
Thank you for the advice.
Tantat
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Tantat,
Thank you for your thoughtful question — it's one that many designers are asking in today’s rapidly evolving design and technology landscape.
To answer directly: yes, AutoCAD 3D still holds relevance in 2025, but the context and purpose matter. While tools like SketchUp, 3ds Max, and Revit are incredibly powerful (and often more intuitive for 3D visualization), AutoCAD remains widely used — especially in technical drafting, documentation, and coordination workflows.
Here’s why AutoCAD is still sticking around:
1- Industry Standards & Legacy Projects: Many architecture and engineering firms still rely on AutoCAD for precision drawings, especially when dealing with legacy files or collaborating across disciplines. Even if a project is modeled in Revit or SketchUp, 2D details and site plans are often cleaned up or finalized in AutoCAD.
2- Construction & Permit Documentation: Some jurisdictions and contractors still prefer or require documentation in DWG format. AutoCAD’s precision and control over layers, line weights, and annotation styles make it the go-to for construction documents in many firms.
Interdisciplinary Coordination: AutoCAD is often used as a neutral ground between teams — architectural, structural, MEP — since it's universally compatible and well-understood by engineers and consultants around the world.
3- Interior Design & Space Planning: While you may be doing 3D modeling in SketchUp or rendering in 3ds Max, some commercial interiors firms still require AutoCAD for accurate space plans, furniture layouts, and reflected ceiling plans. It’s not always about 3D — but about how clearly you can communicate your design intent.
That said, you don’t necessarily need to master AutoCAD 3D in the way you use SketchUp. Most firms using AutoCAD are working primarily in 2D with occasional 3D applications for massing or millwork details. If you’re already strong in SketchUp and Revit, I’d recommend keeping your AutoCAD skills sharp enough to read, edit, and draft with confidence — especially for job opportunities in more traditional firms or multidisciplinary offices.
In short, it’s not about replacing your current tools, but adding versatility to your toolkit. Being able to “speak AutoCAD” shows flexibility and professionalism — and can open doors in both corporate and boutique firms.
May the force be with you!
Thank you for your thoughtful question — it's one that many designers are asking in today’s rapidly evolving design and technology landscape.
To answer directly: yes, AutoCAD 3D still holds relevance in 2025, but the context and purpose matter. While tools like SketchUp, 3ds Max, and Revit are incredibly powerful (and often more intuitive for 3D visualization), AutoCAD remains widely used — especially in technical drafting, documentation, and coordination workflows.
Here’s why AutoCAD is still sticking around:
1- Industry Standards & Legacy Projects: Many architecture and engineering firms still rely on AutoCAD for precision drawings, especially when dealing with legacy files or collaborating across disciplines. Even if a project is modeled in Revit or SketchUp, 2D details and site plans are often cleaned up or finalized in AutoCAD.
2- Construction & Permit Documentation: Some jurisdictions and contractors still prefer or require documentation in DWG format. AutoCAD’s precision and control over layers, line weights, and annotation styles make it the go-to for construction documents in many firms.
Interdisciplinary Coordination: AutoCAD is often used as a neutral ground between teams — architectural, structural, MEP — since it's universally compatible and well-understood by engineers and consultants around the world.
3- Interior Design & Space Planning: While you may be doing 3D modeling in SketchUp or rendering in 3ds Max, some commercial interiors firms still require AutoCAD for accurate space plans, furniture layouts, and reflected ceiling plans. It’s not always about 3D — but about how clearly you can communicate your design intent.
That said, you don’t necessarily need to master AutoCAD 3D in the way you use SketchUp. Most firms using AutoCAD are working primarily in 2D with occasional 3D applications for massing or millwork details. If you’re already strong in SketchUp and Revit, I’d recommend keeping your AutoCAD skills sharp enough to read, edit, and draft with confidence — especially for job opportunities in more traditional firms or multidisciplinary offices.
In short, it’s not about replacing your current tools, but adding versatility to your toolkit. Being able to “speak AutoCAD” shows flexibility and professionalism — and can open doors in both corporate and boutique firms.
May the force be with you!
Thank you, and may the force be with you as well!
Tantat