Today, we will discuss the difference between Revit and AutoCAD. Most of the software available on the market is provided by the American company Autodesk, ranging from AutoCAD for 2D CAD, to ADT (Autodesk Architectural Desktop) for 3D object-oriented CAD, and now the widely used Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, Revit.
Here, we encounter the term “Object CAD.” In CAD, elements are called objects, and Object CAD refers to CAD systems that are object-oriented. This means the drawing tools are based primarily on objects rather than just unrelated lines, points, or circles.
For example, in ADT, the command used to draw a window is simply “window.” You move your mouse and place the window on the wall object at the specified position. Once the window position is set on the wall, the wall automatically creates an opening where the window will be placed, and the window becomes attached to the wall instead of being positioned randomly. When you select the window’s properties, you see the object’s name as the window type, rather than just a collection of 2D lines or shapes.
If you want to change the window type, size, or move its position, you don’t need to delete and redraw it. Simply select the window and specify a different type or move its location. The wall will adjust accordingly by creating an appropriately sized opening to fit. This approach of building CAD based on objects is called Object CAD.
Regarding object-oriented ADT, its user interface is very similar to AutoCAD, except that it includes additional building-related commands. Besides the original AutoCAD functions, ADT provides construction-specific objects created using object-oriented technology, allowing users to quickly generate architectural drawings.
On the other hand, AutoCAD is a general-purpose computer graphics platform without specialized applications. To draw a door in AutoCAD, you must use basic commands like lines and arcs, then organize these using attribute blocks for easy library use and calculations.
In contrast, ADT and Revit come with specialized “library data” for building elements such as walls, doors, windows, and tables. These library items are not just graphical representations; they carry inherent properties like length, width, height, and quantity. In fact, the price of a door can vary depending on the door type shown in the drawing.
For users experienced only with AutoCAD, the CAD drawing concepts they have learned can still be applied effectively in Revit when creating geometric shapes within a project. However, it is important to note that Revit’s focus is different from AutoCAD’s drawing function; it centers on managing building components.
If Revit is used merely as a drawing tool like AutoCAD, it will not fulfill its purpose of building BIM projects and may even become a hindrance. For users new to 2D CAD, it is recommended to approach Revit intuitively, as it essentially involves creating physical building components. Revit also reflects real-world logic, such as the relationships between door and window components and walls.
Key differences between Revit and AutoCAD:
- Drawing foundation: AutoCAD uses points, lines, surfaces, and arcs as the basis for drawing. Revit, however, is based on object-oriented programming components.
- Information modification: In AutoCAD, graphics, text, or data must be manually readjusted. Revit features a bidirectional database, so when one piece of data is updated, related data automatically updates as well.
- User interface and communication: AutoCAD has a complex UI suitable for professionals in various building fields, but it can be difficult for non-specialists. Revit simplifies the UI by using 3D as the core data structure for graphics and text, making it easier for professionals across disciplines to communicate and understand.
That’s all for today’s discussion on the difference between Revit and AutoCAD. I hope this article has been helpful for everyone!
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