BricsCAD
BricsCAD is a powerful CAD software platform that provides a familiar 2D and 3D design environment with native DWG support for engineers, architects, and manufacturers worldwide.
ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized CAD software designed for arborists to create professional, scale-accurate tree survey plans and reports while automating critical protection zone calculations and data management.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BricsCAD | ArborCAD |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bricsys.com | cad.com.au |
| Pricing Model | One_time | One_time |
| Starting Price | $55/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2002 | 1988 |
| Headquarters | Ghent, Belgium | Sydney, Australia |
Overview
BricsCAD
BricsCAD gives you a familiar workspace to create 2D drafts and 3D models without the high cost of traditional subscriptions. You can open and edit your existing DWG files directly, ensuring your legacy data remains fully accessible and accurate. The platform combines standard drafting tools with advanced features like AI-driven BIM workflows and mechanical assembly design, all within a single, unified interface that feels immediately recognizable if you have used other CAD tools.
You can choose how you want to buy and deploy the software, whether through permanent licenses or flexible subscriptions. It serves everyone from solo architects to large engineering firms across the construction and manufacturing sectors. By using a single platform for different design disciplines, you reduce the need for multiple software packages and simplify your team's collaborative workflow.
ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized design tool built specifically for arborists and tree consultants who need to produce professional, scale-accurate survey plans. Instead of struggling with generic drafting tools, you get a system that understands arboricultural data, allowing you to plot trees quickly and generate comprehensive reports automatically. You can import site surveys, define tree species, and visualize critical data points directly on your plan without manual drafting.
The software simplifies the complex task of calculating Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) and Structural Root Zones (SRZ) by automating these measurements based on your input data. You can manage large-scale projects with ease, ensuring all your documentation meets local regulatory standards. It functions as an add-on to the PowerCADD engine, providing a familiar yet highly optimized environment for your specialized consulting needs.
Overview
BricsCAD Features
- Native DWG Support Open, edit, and save your existing CAD files with 100% industry-standard compatibility to maintain your project history.
- AI-Powered Tools Automate repetitive tasks like adding BIM data or converting 2D geometry into 3D models with intelligent drafting assistants.
- Parametric 3D Modeling Create complex 3D parts and assemblies using a direct modeling approach that gives you total geometric freedom.
- BIM Integration Develop your architectural designs from concept to documentation using a familiar CAD workflow that supports open BIM standards.
- Mechanical Design Generate production-ready drawings and bills of materials for your manufacturing projects with specialized mechanical assembly tools.
- Point Cloud Processing Import and view massive point cloud datasets directly in your workspace to design accurately against as-built conditions.
ArborCAD Features
- Automated TPZ/SRZ Calculation. Calculate and draw Tree Protection Zones and Structural Root Zones instantly based on your trunk diameter measurements.
- Tree Survey Plotting. Place tree symbols on your plans quickly using a dedicated toolset that stores species and health data.
- Automatic Report Generation. Export your survey data directly into professional reports, saving you from manual data entry and transcription errors.
- Scale-Accurate Drafting. Create precise, professional-grade plans that you can share with architects, developers, and local planning authorities.
- Species Database Integration. Access and manage a comprehensive list of tree species to ensure consistent naming and data across all projects.
- DXF/DWG Compatibility. Import site surveys from land surveyors and export your finished plans to work with other industry-standard CAD formats.
Pricing Comparison
BricsCAD Pricing
- Full 2D drafting tools
- Native DWG compatibility
- LISP routine support
- Highly customizable interface
- Perpetual license option available
- Everything in Lite, plus:
- 3D Direct Modeling
- Parametric constraints
- Civil design tools
- Point cloud visualization
- Third-party application support
ArborCAD Pricing
Pros & Cons
BricsCAD
Pros
- High compatibility with existing DWG files and commands
- Perpetual licensing options provide better long-term value
- Significantly faster performance on large, complex drawings
- Unified interface for 2D, 3D, and BIM workflows
- Excellent support for custom LISP scripts and plugins
Cons
- Smaller third-party plugin ecosystem than major competitors
- Steep learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Occasional stability issues with very large point clouds
ArborCAD
Pros
- Significant time savings on calculating tree protection zones
- Produces professional plans that meet local government standards
- Eliminates manual data entry between plans and reports
- Specifically designed for arborist workflows rather than generic CAD
Cons
- Requires a separate base CAD engine to operate
- Limited to specific operating systems (primarily macOS)
- Higher initial cost compared to basic drawing tools