autodwg

PDF to DWG Converter

PDF to DWG Converter

Converting PDF to DWG AutoCAD is easy!

Architects, engineers, and designers are often looking for a PDF to DWG converter. There are services out there that convert any PDF file to a DWG instantly, so you can download the file after a few seconds. Some examples of those are Cadsofttools, and Autodwg. While this may be convenient, it’s not very useful. First of all, these services do not draw the individual lines. They will interpret the lines as dots, and this makes it useless for making changes. Secondly, those services will not use blocks, making it more difficult to remove a wall, door, window, tree, etc. Thirdly, those PDF to DWG instant converters do not use layers. Layers are important to keep things like walls, fixtures, text, electrical separate. Just because a service is free, or instant, doesn’t mean it’s useful.

PDF to DWG Converter by redrawing the plan in AutoCAD by expert drafters.
Our PDF to DWG converter is an expert drafter, redrawing your plans in AutoCAD

What do you need from a PDF to DWG converter?

You need the service to be useful and get a good value.

Here are some features you need when converting to CAD.

  • Layers. It will be difficult to make changes without objects in the file being on separate layers.
  • Typed out text. Often OCR (Optical Character Recognition) doesn’t get everything correct. We re-type the text for an error free result.
  • Use of AutoCAD blocks. You want your windows, doors, and fixtures to be blocks so they can easily be moved or replaced.
  • Scale checked. We always check your plans scale so it fits the given architectural or engineering scale.
  • Located in USA. We are located in Del Mar, California, and are free to call us with any questions or orders.

Enter Convert2AutoCAD

Our expert drafters will redraw your plans in AutoCAD, using layers, and blocks. We make sure your plans are to the given scale. You will receive a professional DWG file, that can be edited very easily for changes or for archiving for your home or business. Are you a homeowner and am looking to remodel? This service is perfect for converting your old plans to CAD, and sending to your architect for changes. Your architect will be so thankful, and it will save you money in hours needed to redraw the home.

We are here to give you a DWG file you can actually use

What good is a file that you cannot use? You will receive a professional AutoCAD file that you can be changed right away, eliminating potentially dozens of hours of redrawing in CAD. You can have your files converted to CAD for as little as $85 (24×18″) per sheet. Send your files to us for a quick quote.

Posted by Michael Mellor in AutoCAD tips
CAD Conversion Services Compared

CAD Conversion Services Compared

Are all CAD conversion services the same?

When searching the internet for PDF to CAD conversion services, you will find there are many free options. You can upload your files, and within seconds, you can download the CAD file as a DWG or DFX file, which is simple and fast, but will this service help your workflow? These services can be found on websites like CloudConvert, Zamzar, and AutoDWG. I encourage you to go to those websites, and give it a try. Take a look at the CAD files you receive.

The difference is accuracy, layers and usability

I am guessing you need a file you can actually edit. This means vector lines, shapes, hatching and text. Here’s what you get from these services.

Here’s the original image we are starting with

Blueprint plan to be converted to AutoCAD.
Scanned to PDF before converting to AutoCAD. I am using the same 300ppi full resolution PDF for each conversion.

Convert2AutoCAD.com

Convert2AutoCAD is the best PDF to CAD conversion service. This service includes vector lines, shapes, text and hatching.
Our Convert2AutoCAD CAD conversion services provide a real finished product. All layers can be edited, and they are accurate.
Service NameFeatures and sample
Convert2AutoCAD.comPros: Fully layered, vector, drawn by expert drafters, typed text, accurate, includes both model, and paper space, based in San Diego, California, and offer support over the phone or email.
Cons: Service is not free, and it takes at least 24-hours

Zamzar File Conversion – DWG

Zamzar CAD conversion service. Here is the same file converted to DWG by Zamzar PDF to DWG Conversion. As you can see, it's not very usable.
Here is the same file converted to DWG by Zamzar PDF to DWG Conversion. As you can see, it’s not very usable.
Service NameFeatures and sample
Zamzar PDF to DWG ConversionPros: Free, and instant.
Cons: Image is only outlined, no vector lines, or shapes, does not use layers, paper space is not used, and text cannot be changed.

CloudConvert PDF to DFX

CloudConvert PDF to DWG missed most of the details of the plans. It also only allows for DFX output, and not DWG.
CloudConvert PDF to DWG missed most of the details of the plans. It also only allows for DFX output, and not DWG. I would say this is the worst of the CAD conversion services.
Service NameFeatures and sample
CloudConvert PDF to DXFPros: Free, and instant.
Cons: Image is only outlined, no vector lines, or shapes, does not use layers, paper space is not used, does not output to *.dwg files, and text cannot be changed.

AutoDWG Free PDF to DWG Converter

AutoDWG is a distant 2nd place behind Convert2AutoCAD. It does offer a better file than Zamzar and CloudConvert, you would have a difficult time using the files for any professional design.
Service NameFeatures and sample
AutoDWGPros: Free, and instant, uses separate layers, has paper space.
Cons: The layers don’t seem to make sense, many details lost, has trouble reading text, not suitable for remodels, or edits.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a professional design, that’s ready for immediate changes, the only choice is Convert2AutoCAD. You will receive accurate DWG files, using vector lines, layers, shapes and text. If you are looking for a free, immediate CAD file, where accuracy and editability are not a priority, we recommend AutoDWG. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Posted by Michael Mellor in AutoCAD tips