How to Open DWG Files - DWG Viewer

How to Open DWG Files: 5 Common Methods (Beyond Sibe)

DWG files are a proprietary file format developed by Autodesk and are commonly used for storing two- and three-dimensional design data and metadata. Opening these files correctly requires software that supports the DWG format. Below are the five most common methods to open, view, and manage DWG files, each with their own pros and cons.

1. AutoCAD (Desktop Software)

AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, is the native application for DWG files and the most comprehensive tool available.

Pros:

• Full control over drawing creation, editing, and management
• Supports both 2D and 3D DWG files
• Industry standard for engineering and architecture professionals

Cons:

• Expensive licensing (subscription-based)
• Requires high system performance

Best for: Architects, engineers, and designers who need to work extensively with DWG files.

2. Autodesk DWG TrueView

DWG TrueView is a free viewer from Autodesk that allows users to view and plot DWG and DXF files.

Pros:

• 100% free
• Maintains full DWG fidelity
• Allows file conversion to previous DWG versions

Cons:

• No editing capabilities
• Windows-only

Best for: Users who need to view or print DWG files without editing them.

3. DraftSight

DraftSight is a professional-grade CAD software available from Dassault Systèmes. It supports DWG natively and is designed for both 2D drafting and 3D modeling.

Pros:

• Similar UI and functionality to AutoCAD
• Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux
• More affordable than AutoCAD

Cons:

• Learning curve for beginners
• Paid license required after trial

Best for: Professionals seeking an affordable alternative to AutoCAD.

4. LibreCAD

LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD application. It supports DWG through a plugin or conversion via DXF.

Pros:

• Completely free
• Lightweight and fast
• Open source

Cons:

• 2D only
• Requires DWG-to-DXF conversion

Best for: Casual users or hobbyists who work only with 2D designs.

5. Online DWG Viewers (Other than Sibe)

There are various other browser-based DWG viewers such as:

• Autodesk Viewer (external link, opens in new tab)
• ShareCAD (external link, opens in new tab)

Pros:

• No installation needed
• Can be used on any device
• Shareable via links

Cons:

• Limited editing capabilities
• File size restrictions in some cases

Best for: Quick reviews and on-the-go collaboration.

Comparing DWG Files to Other Design File Types

DWG files are versatile, but depending on your workflow, other file formats may be more suitable. Here’s how DWG compares to other commonly used 3D and CAD file formats:

Key DWG Differences:

• Proprietary Format: Unlike open formats like STL or GLTF, DWG is tightly controlled by Autodesk.
• 2D and 3D Capable: DWG can store both types of content, whereas formats like STL are limited to 3D only.
• Editing Flexibility: More robust than viewing-only formats like OBJ.

When selecting a format for collaboration or printing, be aware of these differences. For instance, if you're working with 3D printing, STL files are more common. For detailed assemblies, SLDASM files may be more appropriate.