AutoCAD Price in India 2026 + Revit, 3ds Max & Maya Compared

Autodesk software runs India's architecture firms, MEP consultancies and animation studios — but it isn't cheap. Officially, a full AutoCAD subscription costs about ₹1,03,000 + GST per year (AutoCAD LT is around ₹28,000+ per year). Here's how to choose the right Autodesk product and keep costs sensible.

AutoCAD vs AutoCAD LT

AutoCAD LT is 2D drafting only. Full AutoCAD adds 3D modelling, automation (LISP, APIs) and the specialised toolsets — Architecture, Mechanical, Electrical, MEP, Map 3D. If you do anything 3D or need those toolsets, you want full AutoCAD.

Revit vs AutoCAD — what's the difference?

AutoCAD draws lines; Revit builds a building. Revit is BIM (Building Information Modelling): you model walls, doors, beams and pipes as real objects, and plans, sections and quantities update automatically. Architects and structural/MEP engineers moving to BIM need Revit; drafting and detailing remain AutoCAD's job. Many firms use both.

Maya vs 3ds Max

• Maya — the industry standard for character animation, VFX and film. If you're studying animation or want a studio job, learn Maya.
• 3ds Max — the favourite for architectural visualisation, interiors and game assets. Interior designers rendering with V-Ray/Corona mostly use 3ds Max.

Students: try the free education licence first

If you're a student or teacher, Autodesk offers free one-year educational access to AutoCAD, Revit, Maya and 3ds Max for learning. It's for education only — commercial work and paid freelance projects need a commercial licence.

System requirements in plain words

For AutoCAD: a recent Intel i5/Ryzen 5, 16 GB RAM, SSD and Windows 10/11 64-bit. For Revit, 3ds Max and Maya: 16–32 GB RAM and a dedicated NVIDIA/AMD graphics card make a big difference.