AutoCAD vs PLECS
Both are on the Electrical Design Software list. Here is what each maker publishes, side by side.
| AutoCAD | PLECS | |
|---|---|---|
| Place on the list | #1 7.8 | #11 5.6 |
| Maker | AutoCAD | — |
| Starts at | $260 a month | $8,000 once |
| Free | Free trial | Free trial |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone/iPad, Mac, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Open source | No | No |
| Plans | AutoCAD Monthly: on request AutoCAD Monthly: on request AutoCAD Annual: on request AutoCAD Annual: on request | PLECS trial license: $0 PLECS Blockset Individual License (commercial): $8,000 once PLECS Standalone Individual License (commercial): $8,000 once PLECS Blockset Dongle License (commercial): $11,200 once |
| Verdict | AutoCAD combines 2D and 3D work with specialized toolsets and collaboration features. Check the subscription terms and price against your needs, particularly the named-user and one-device-at-a-time limits. | PLECS brings simulation, analysis, and control tools together for power-electronics work. Buyers should distinguish between Standalone and Blockset, especially because Blockset depends on MATLAB and Simulink. |
| Visit AutoCAD | Visit PLECS |