LibreCAD is a free, open-source 2D CAD program for Windows, macOS and Linux, used for precise flat drawings in DXF format: floor plans, layouts, profiles and dimensioned part drawings. In a dental setting that means practical jobs such as planning a clinic or lab layout, drawing a fixture for the workshop, or preparing a DXF outline for laser cutting. It is not dental CAD and does not work with scans, teeth or 3D models. If you just need a LibreCAD download, the current stable release is 2.2.1.5.
LibreCAD grew out of the community edition of QCAD and is maintained by volunteers under the GPLv2. Its appeal is simple: it opens quickly, costs nothing, reads and writes DXF, and is translated into more than 30 languages.
LibreCAD at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Latest version | 2.2.1.5 (2 May 2026) |
| Licence | Free and open source, GPLv2 |
| Platforms | Windows (64-bit), macOS (universal and Apple silicon builds), Linux (AppImage for x86_64 and aarch64, Snap) |
| Developer | LibreCAD open-source community |
| Official website | librecad.org |
| Best for | 2D layouts and dimensioned drawings for clinics and labs |
What it does
- Native DXF read and write; DWG files can be opened through the libdxfrw library.
- Layers, blocks and line types to keep architectural and equipment drawings organised.
- Linear, aligned, angular, radial and diameter dimensions with text and hatching.
- Object snaps, orthogonal and isometric grids, and a command line for precise input.
- Print and PDF export at a set scale; export to SVG and bitmap images.
- Command-line conversion of DXF to PDF, PNG or SVG (dxf2pdf, dxf2png, dxf2svg) for batch jobs.
- Import of ESRI Shapefiles as native entities.
How dental teams use it
Plan a treatment room or lab layout
- Set units to millimetres and draw the room outline from measured dimensions on a “walls” layer.
- Draw each unit (dental chair footprint, cabinets, compressor, sink) once as a block and place copies on an “equipment” layer.
- Add dimensions for clearances and service routes, then print or export a PDF at 1:50 for the contractor or equipment supplier.
Draw a simple workshop part
- Draw the outline of a model tray, holder or tool rack with exact dimensions.
- Export DXF for a laser cutter or CNC router, and a dimensioned PDF for the record.
Open a DXF from a supplier
- Open the equipment manufacturer’s installation drawing (DXF, or DWG if supported by your version).
- Copy the footprint into your own room plan and check distances with the measure tools.
Install and first run
- Windows: run the 64-bit installer from the official releases. If Windows shows a SmartScreen or Defender warning, confirm the file came from the official release page before running it.
- macOS: the app is ad-hoc signed, not notarised. On first launch macOS says it could not verify LibreCAD; open it once, then allow it in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Open Anyway (on macOS 14 and earlier, right-click > Open is enough).
- Gotcha: “LibreCAD is damaged and can’t be opened” on Apple silicon was a known signing problem with the 2.2.1.5 build; the project reports that later builds are signed correctly.
- Linux: use the AppImage (make it executable) or the Snap; distribution packages may be older.
- First steps: set the drawing units in Options > Current Drawing Preferences, and turn on snaps before drawing.
Limitations
- 2D only: no 3D modelling, no STL, no scans.
- No dental functions of any kind; use dental CAD for restorations and guides.
- DWG support is limited compared with AutoCAD; complex DWG files may not open cleanly.
- No parametric constraints; editing a design means redrawing geometry.
- No official mobile, iPad or web version.
LibreCAD vs alternatives
| Tool | Difference |
|---|---|
| QCAD | Same origin; the community edition is also free, with a paid Professional edition that adds wider DWG support |
| FreeCAD | Free parametric 3D CAD; choose it when you need a solid part or an STL |
| AutoCAD LT | Commercial 2D CAD with full DWG compatibility and professional support |
FAQ
Is LibreCAD free?
Yes. LibreCAD is free and open source under the GPLv2, with no paid edition and no licence fee.
Is LibreCAD safe?
Yes, when downloaded from librecad.org or the project’s GitHub releases. The macOS warning comes from the missing Apple notarisation, not from malware.
Is there LibreCAD for Mac?
Yes. There are macOS builds for Apple silicon and Intel; allow the app once in Privacy & Security on first launch.
Can LibreCAD do 3D?
No. LibreCAD is strictly 2D. For 3D parts, use FreeCAD.
LibreCAD vs FreeCAD: which do I need?
LibreCAD for plans and flat drawings, FreeCAD for 3D solids and printable parts. Both are free.
LibreCAD vs QCAD?
They share a code history and a similar interface. LibreCAD is entirely free; QCAD’s Professional edition is paid and handles DWG better.
How do I add dimensions in LibreCAD?
Choose a dimension tool from the Dimension toolbar or menu, snap to the start and end points, and click to place the text.
How do I set the scale in LibreCAD?
Draw at real size in millimetres, then set the print scale in Print Preview (for example 1:50) before printing or exporting PDF.
Last checked against official sources: 26 September 2026 (developer website: librecad.org). Versions and licence terms change — confirm on the developer's site before deploying in a clinic.
