
Open & Edit DXF and DWG Files – The Best Tools for You
In this guide, I’ll show you practical ways to open, view, and edit DXF and DWG files – whether you prefer free or professional software.
Perfect for CNC, laser cutting, or CAD applications.
🔍 Why You Need the Right Software
DXF is an open format, while DWG is the proprietary AutoCAD format.
Both store CAD data such as lines, text, layers, and dimensions.
Using the right software ensures that no layers or information get lost during opening or editing.
🛠️ Software to Open & Edit DXF/DWG
- LibreCAD: Free, open source – reads and writes DXF; DWG import only.
- QCAD: Free community edition focused on DXF; DWG support in the Pro version.
- FreeCAD: 3D-capable; DXF natively supported, DWG via add-ons (e.g., ODA libraries).
- DWG FastView: Online, mobile app, and desktop versions; DXF/DWG viewing and simple editing.
- ShareCAD: Free online viewer for DXF & DWG – ideal for quick viewing without installing software.
⚖️ Comparison: Which Software Fits Your Needs?
| Software | License | DXF Read/Write | DWG Read/Write |
|---|---|---|---|
| LibreCAD | Open Source (GPL) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Read, ❌ Write |
| QCAD (Community) | GPL (DXF-focused) | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Pro version only |
| FreeCAD | Open Source (LGPL) | ✅ Yes | ✅ With add-on |
| DWG FastView | Free / Web App | ✅ Yes | ✅ Read + basic editing |
| ShareCAD | Free / Online | ✅ Yes | ❌ View only |
💡 Recommendations by Use Case
- For simple 2D drawings: LibreCAD or QCAD
- For DWG without AutoCAD: DWG FastView or ShareCAD
- For 3D and advanced CAD workflows: FreeCAD with DWG add-on
📥 Download & Info Boxes
📐 LibreCAD – Free Open-Source DXF Editor
Perfect for simple 2D drawings. Supports DXF natively and DWG import. Available for Windows, macOS & Linux.
🧰 QCAD Community – DXF-Focused CAD
Free community edition for DXF. The Pro version adds DWG support and advanced CAD tools.
🧩 FreeCAD – 3D CAD with DXF/DWG Support
Parametric 3D CAD system with add-on DWG capabilities. Ideal for engineers and makers working beyond 2D.
🌐 DWG FastView – Online & App CAD Viewer
View and edit DWG or DXF files directly in your browser or on your phone. Great for quick work on the go.
👁️ ShareCAD – Online Viewer for DXF & DWG
If you just want to check a file quickly without installing software: ShareCAD displays DXF & DWG right in your browser.
📘 Conclusion
Whether you’re using Inkscape,
CorelDRAW, or LibreCAD — there’s a suitable solution for every application.
For professional DWG work, AutoCAD remains the standard, but tools like FreeCAD or QCAD offer powerful free alternatives.
Discover over 2,300 free DXF files on DXF-Downloads.de and become a Premium User for full access.
dxf-downloads.de Kostenlose DXF- und DWG-Dateien für CNC, Laser, Plasma & Wasserstrahl 