TurboCAD LTE is a CAD software application that offers versatile 2D drawing and drafting. The software is modeled after the light version of AutoCAD and, subsequently, TurboCAD LTE offers the same intuitive functionality as the industry leader it emulates. While it lacks 3D modeling, the software has an impressive feature set and a smattering of tools that allow you to create detailed 2D designs.
Like the other high-ranking computer design software we reviewed, TurboCAD LTE provides beneficial features designed to enhance the usability of the application and make it more convenient to use. For instance, you can tailor the interface to your specific design needs by creating custom tool palettes. You can also pull up measurements for any line or object in a design using the application’s measurement info palette. The palette will display all relevant coordinates for the selected line or object. The CAD software also allows you to import existing designs, and you can design custom macros, a convenient method that enables you to execute a string of commands as a single one.
What TurboCAD LTE doesn’t have is drag-and-drop functionality or a point marker tool that automatically numbers identical objects in a design. While these features would be convenient, their absence is minuscule and doesn’t significantly diminish the overall usability of the software.
The biggest shortcoming of TurboCAD LTE is it does not offer 3D functionality. However, if you are interested in only creating 2D designs, it’s hard to beat this CAD software. With ample 2D functionality and a price tag under $150, the software provides excellent value for consumers and hobbyists. Its repertoire of design tools and methods include line tools, snaps, arcs, circles and tools. You can add details to designs using cross hatching, transparency options, a color editor and lighting effects.
Disappointingly, the software lacks some of the sophisticated features you’d find on more advanced CAD software. It doesn’t have design or house wizards, which would allow you to input exact specifications to expediently create a preliminary design. Also missing is photorealistic rendering, a tool that creates realistic images from your designs.
TurboCAD LTE supports all major industry-standard formats, including DWG, a drawing file native to AutoCAD and many other CAD applications. Broad file compatibility means you can easily import files created using other CAD software. The software is also compatible with Google SketchUp files and supports image files such as JPEG and PNG.
If you aren’t familiar with or have never used CAD applications, there will likely be some degree of difficulty using TurboCAD LTE. CAD software in general has an inherent learning curve that requires some level of learning. We found the software’s interface to be intuitive and easy to navigate, but understanding all the tools and how each one works may take some learning if this is your first experience with CAD software.
TurboCAD LTE is supplemented with several help and support options that ensure you can fully utilize the application. Perhaps one of the most useful options provided is the built-in user manual. Accessed directly from the software, the manual provides comprehensive instructions on how to use all the features and tools. The manual proved to be highly useful, as we referenced it multiple times while creating rudimentary designs. On the TurboCAD website, there are also training videos, a FAQs section and user forums. The software also comes with free email and telephone support for a full year. Many CAD software manufacturers require you to purchase a maintenance plan to receive direct technical support.
While TurboCAD LTE lacks 3D modeling, the software offers exceptional bang for your buck with robust 2D functionality. It excels at creating detailed 2D designs and is bolstered with useful help and support options, making it a great CAD option for consumers, hobbyists and small businesses on a tight budget.
