Design & 3D · .dwg
What Is a DWG File?
A .dwg file is an AutoCAD drawing file used for CAD designs.
- Extension
- .dwg
- Full name
- AutoCAD drawing
- Type
- Design & 3D
- MIME type
- image/vnd.dwg
- Developed by
- Autodesk
Free DWG Tools
These run in your browser. Your DWG files are never uploaded.
About DWG Files
DWG is AutoCAD's native format for 2D and 3D technical drawings used by architects, engineers and designers. It stores precise geometry, layers, dimensions and annotations. Because it's proprietary and changes with AutoCAD versions, older software may not open newer files. Autodesk offers free viewers, and many other CAD programs can read DWG.
How to Open a DWG File
- Windows & Mac
- Open it in AutoCAD, or view it free with Autodesk Viewer in a browser or DWG TrueView on Windows.
- Any device
- LibreCAD, DraftSight and BricsCAD also open DWG files.
DWG File Questions
Can I open DWG without AutoCAD?
Yes. Autodesk Viewer and DWG TrueView are free, and several other CAD programs read DWG.
What's the difference between DWG and DXF?
DWG is AutoCAD's compact native format. DXF is an exchange format meant for other programs.