AutoCAD alternatives?

[m0rte]

I was just wondering if there are any good cheaper alternatives to autodesk's AutoCAD non 'lt'?
My dad (an architect) is planning on trying out autocad to but neither him or I have much experience with this type of software.
After looking up prices he found there's an 'lt' 2D version (which he's now bought) and a 3D capable version which would be more useful but was way too expensive at £3k+.
so is there anyone who uses similar software and knows of a cheaper alternative to the 3D autoCAD? Will be running on Win XP.

 

[AJUK]

Turbocad
You can get it through the site or the UK sales site.

It even comes with an architectural add on and all for much, much less than Autocad. The Pro version includes phot reaistic rendering and can easily read and write dwgs etc.

The Deluxe version, with photo rendering, will only set you back about £70 and will be more than adequate for your needs. I love it and use it professionally everyday.

 

[jumpy]

You could try one of the LT (lite) versions of autoCAD released by Autodesk thought they do not have much of the 3D functionality of the full version. You could always get an 'educational version' too, though again there's a drawback- when you plot with an educational version of autoCAD it adds a plot stamp to any printed drawings which says "educational version" or words to that effect.
The Full version of AutoCAD (I have used versions 2000i, LT, 2004 & 2006, ADT) is the best option really, despite its price- usually you can secure a deal with autodesk to receive yearly software upgrades to the next version for a greatly reduced price, or similar idea.
Also you can choose between ADT (architectural desktop) and basic AutoCAD (both available in full and LT versions) and there are various disciplin specific derivatives of the software catering for engineering 3D specific design and the like.

IMO the full version of AutoCAD is the one to go for as far a functionality is concerned, even thought the initial cost is quite high. If your dad is using it for work it will do all that he could possibly ask of it and then some, whereas some 'other' versions, be it an LT autoCAD release or a 3rd party draughting program may leave you wanting certain critical features/compatibility.
It has to be said- Autodesk are the market leader of such draughting programs for a good reason.

From a Long-suffering CADmonkey (draughtsman).

 

[AJUK]

Autocad is just too expensive for what it is, you can get better programs for less money. Why spend £600-700 on Autocad LT which is 2D only when you can get TC, Vectorworks or even Intellicad for less money but have full 3D functionality.