DWG viewer, editor, and file converter
What is a DWG File?
What is TrustedDWG®?
How to create and edit a DWG file
Open & Edit DWG Files with AutoCAD
History and evolution of DWG files
AutoCAD: Are you collaborating and comparing yet?
DWG files made using Autodesk software or based on RealDWG can be opened and viewed with a subscription to Autodesk software, including AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD Web, Revit, and Inventor. Alternatively, you can use our DWG viewers, including Autodesk Viewer online, or DWG TrueView on Windows.
AutoCAD Web allows you to use AutoCAD on the web or on mobile to review and markup 2D or 3D DWG files, and create basic 2D drawings.
While DWG and DXF are both file formats for CAD software, DWG files are Autodesk’s proprietary format invented in 1982, and DXF is an open file format standard. Both file formats have similar functionality for storing 2D and 3D images, but DWG can store a wider array of files. Also, DWG’s binary code results in file sizes around 25% smaller than DXF files, which used text-based coding. Many designers use DWG when working, and then export to DXF to share their designs.
The most commonly used programs to edit .dwg files are Autodesk AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD Web, Inventor, and Revit. There are also some non-Autodesk programs that can open DWG files and edit them.
You can edit DWG files online using AutoCAD Web. AutoCAD Web allows you to use AutoCAD in a web browser to edit, review and create DWG CAD files.
With AutoCAD Web, you can use AutoCAD on mobile to review and markup 2D or 3D DWG files, and create basic 2D drawings. Learn more.
Autodesk provides a set of free DWG viewers that can be used to view a range of CAD files (DXF, DWG, DWT, DXB, DGN, DWF) offline, on mobile, or directly in your web browser.
For stakeholders who only need file-viewing access, we offer free viewers without a subscription. If you're transitioning to a named user, be sure to take advantage of the trade-in offers available to you.