Format Atlas

Guides

Choose a CAD exchange format

Separate 3D model exchange from 2D drawing exchange, then verify units, scale, layers, and software versions with the recipient.

Which format should you choose?

Choose by the role each file plays in your workflow.

  • 3D parts between CAD systems → STEP
  • Legacy CAD/CAM workflow requiring it → IGES
  • Drawings for another CAD system → DXF
  • Continued editing in AutoCAD-based tools → DWG

Distinguish 3D models from drawings

STEP and IGES exchange 3D geometry or product data. DXF and DWG focus on drawings, layers, text, and dimensions; decide what the recipient needs first.

Inspect the result in the receiving CAD tool

After conversion, check units, scale, surfaces, solids, layers, text, and external references. Confirm the recipient's software and version beforehand.

Formats to consider

STEP

Good for: 3D part and product-data exchange between CAD systems

Less suitable for: Transfer of native editing history

IGES

Good for: Exchange with a specified legacy CAD/CAM workflow

Less suitable for: New exchange where structure must be reliably preserved

DXF

Good for: Transferring drawings between CAD systems

Less suitable for: Fully preserving CAD-specific features

DWG

Good for: Editing and storing drawings in AutoCAD-based tools

Less suitable for: Sending to an unknown recipient without compatibility checks

Before you export

  • Agree on units and scale with the recipient.
  • Include external references, fonts, and images where needed.
  • Inspect geometry, dimensions, layers, and annotations after conversion.

Related comparisons

STEP vs IGESSTEP and IGES are both used to exchange CAD data. STEP is a modern product-data standard; IGES remains in established workflows for geometry exchange. Choose for recipient requirements and verify units and the imported model.DWG vs DXFDWG is widely used as a native CAD drawing format. DXF is designed to exchange CAD data between applications. Choose based on the receiving software and the drawing elements that must survive.STEP vs DXFSTEP is commonly used to exchange 3D product and part data; DXF is used for drawing entities and drafting exchange. Choose based on whether the recipient needs a 3D model or drawing content, and verify units and scale.

Guides

Choose a 3D file formatSeparate web display, production scene exchange, geometry transfer, and printing; check whether materials, animation, and units must survive.

References and specifications