CAD block formats: DWG, DXF, PDF, PNG or SVG?
Every 2D block on cadgrid.net comes in five free formats (the 3D models come as DWG). If you draw, start with the CAD files: they are at real size, in inches or millimeters. Use the other three to show, print or restyle the same drawing.
Pick by what you are doing
The five formats side by side
| Format | What it is | Opens in | Use it for | Real size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DWG | AutoCAD's native drawing file, saved for AutoCAD 2000 and later. | AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, BricsCAD, DraftSight, ZWCAD | Plans, elevations and details in AutoCAD | Yes: 1:1 in inches or millimeters, base point at 0,0 |
| DXF | The open exchange copy of the same drawing. | SketchUp, Revit, Rhino, Vectorworks, LibreCAD, QCAD | CAD programs that import DXF more reliably than DWG | Yes: 1:1, same units as the DWG |
| A vector page of the drawing. | Any browser, Acrobat, Preview | Printing, and sending to clients or builders without CAD | Proportions only | |
| PNG | A 1600 px image with a transparent background. | Photoshop, PowerPoint, Keynote, Canva, Word | Presentation boards, slides, renders and mood boards | Proportions only |
| SVG | Editable vector line work. | Illustrator, Inkscape, Figma, Affinity Designer, browsers | Graphics, diagrams and websites | Proportions only |
Browse the blocks by format
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DWG and DXF?
DWG is AutoCAD's native format; DXF is an open format made to exchange drawings between programs. On cadgrid.net both hold the same drawing at the same real size. Use the DWG in AutoCAD and the DXF when your program imports it more reliably.
Which formats keep the real size?
DWG and DXF. They are drawn 1:1 in inches or millimeters, so a block inserted at scale 1 lands at its true size. PDF, PNG and SVG keep the proportions of the drawing, not a drawing scale.
Can I open the blocks without AutoCAD?
Yes. The PDF opens in any browser, the PNG in any image viewer and the SVG in Illustrator, Inkscape or Figma. For CAD work without AutoCAD, free programs such as LibreCAD and QCAD open the DXF.
Do the 3D models come in these formats?
No. The 3D models download as DWG, in inches and millimeters, ready to orbit, render or flatten in AutoCAD. DXF, PDF, PNG and SVG are for the 2D blocks: plans, elevations, sections and details.
Are all five formats free?
Yes. Every format is free for personal and commercial projects, with no sign-up.