ArchiCAD

Overview

ArchiCAD is a BIM software for architects and designers, enabling 2D and 3D modeling, floor planning, and construction documentation. It supports complex profiles for walls, beams, and columns, allowing extrusion of custom shapes for detailed modeling. Targeted at architecture firms, it stands out with its Profile Manager for user-defined profiles and default work environment profiles like Standard, Visualization, and Layouting.

Key Features

• Complex Profiles - Create custom extruded shapes for walls, columns, and beams using the Profile Manager.
• Profile Manager - Edit and manage profiles for precise 2D and 3D detailing with fills, lines, and holes.
• Default Profiles - Includes Standard, Visualization, and Layouting profiles set upon first launch.
• Work Environment Profiles - Switchable profiles for different workflows like modeling or documentation.
• 2D/3D Detail Control - Adjust settings for visibility of lines, fills, and edges in sections and cutaways.
• Profile Import/Export - Browse, import, and export profile folders for sharing and standardization.
• Drafting Aids - Use lines and circles as guides in profiles without affecting extrusion.

Pricing

Platforms & Requirements

ArchiCAD runs on Windows and macOS. Minimum requirements include modern processors and sufficient RAM for large models; specific versions like AC18 documented profiles. No Linux, mobile, or web support mentioned.

Integrations & Ecosystem

• Profile folder import/export
• BIM model exchange (IFC implied)
• Custom library profiles
• Drafting tools integration

Alternatives

Reputation

ArchiCAD is recognized for its intuitive complex profile tools enabling quick custom modeling since version 10. Users praise flexibility in 2D/3D details and profile management for project standards. Criticisms include learning curve for profile settings and dated documentation in older help files like AC18.