The best design experience

Archicad is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software platform developed by Graphisoft. It’s designed for architects, designers, engineers, and other AEC professionals. Archicad is available natively on both Windows and macOS, empowering professionals to design, model, visualize, document, and collaborate on projects of any size—from initial concept through construction.

Archicad is ideal for architects, designers, engineers, and other AEC professionals who want to streamline building design, modeling, documentation, collaboration, and visualization using BIM workflows.

• Archicad is widely adopted by architectural firms, solo practitioners, construction professionals, and BIM managers seeking efficient design processes and reliable project coordination.
  

• Students and educators also benefit from Archicad’s free educational licensing for learning and teaching BIM principles.

Whether working independently or as part of a team, Archicad supports projects of all sizes and stages—from initial concept development through construction, making it a preferred solution for anyone looking to excel in digital building design.

For the latest hardware and software requirements for Archicad, please refer to the System Requirements page.

To download Archicad, simply visit the Archicad downloads page on graphisoft.com, where you’ll find the latest installation packages and version details. For step-by-step instructions and tips on getting started, also refer to the dedicated Getting Started guide available on the site.

Yes, you can try Archicad for free with a 30-day trial.

To start your free Archicad trial, visit the Archicad trial page and follow the sign-up steps. The 30-day trial gives you full access to Archicad Collaborate and its features.

The Archicad Studio trial offers unlimited access to Archicad, BIMcloud Basic (ideal for office-based teams using local servers), and BIMx for a 30-day period. Explore all the features to evaluate how they fit your workflow. The trial is valid for one free seat.

Archicad offers several ways to access its powerful BIM features, tailored to fit your needs:

• Archicad Studio subscription: Comprehensive BIM solution for individuals or local teams. Choose from monthly, or annual terms.
• Archicad Collaborate subscription: Adds cloud-based collaboration for distributed project teams, perfect for organizations working across locations.
• Archicad Max subscription: An all-in-one plan that combines advanced AI capabilities with integrated workflows. Monthly and annual terms.
• Educational license: Free, full-featured access for students and educators—ideal for non-commercial learning and teaching.
• 30-Day free trial: Try Archicad with unlimited feature access for 30 days before making a commitment.

All new commercial licenses are offered as subscriptions, with perpetual licenses phased out after 2026. You can purchase or subscribe directly on the Graphisoft website or through authorized local resellers.

Yes. Archicad offers a free educational license for students, educators, and academic institutions. If you’re actively enrolled at a recognized school or university, or employed as a teacher or faculty member, you qualify for the educational version.

• Access the latest version of Archicad, BIMx, and BIMcloud Basic for the duration of your studies or teaching career.
  

• The license is renewable each year as long as you remain eligible.

For full details, step-by-step application instructions, and to apply, visit the Educational license page.

Archicad provides a comprehensive suite of architectural and MEP toolsets:

• Parametric building elements: Wall, Slab, Roof, Column, and Beam tools automatically adjust and maintain relationships between building components for seamless design updates.​
  

• Intelligent objects: Easily customizable Doors, Windows, Stairs, Railings, and Curtain Walls support advanced modeling and design flexibility.​
  

• Structural modeling: Native tools for modeling and analyzing load-bearing elements, plus real-time updating and automatic creation of a Structural Analytical Model for coordination with engineers.​
  

• MEP feature set: Design, model, and document mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems using built-in parametric objects, clash detection, and unified collaboration workflows.​
  

Archicad’s integrated environment enables architects and engineers to collaborate, with automatic documentation and seamless transitions from concept to construction.

Archicad enables efficient team collaboration using BIMcloud:

• Real-time teamwork: Multiple users can work on the same model simultaneously, with changes synchronized automatically and version management handled in the cloud.​
  

• Conflict reduction: Automated sync and smart notifications help minimize conflicts and version issues during design development.​
  

• Distributed collaboration: BIMcloud connects teams across offices and disciplines, supporting both internal and cross-company workflows.​
  

This setup streamlines project delivery and ensures all team members stay up-to-date throughout every project stage.