I am sure this has been addressed here before but I havent seen it. I am designing a 20'x28' layout and would like to know which layout design software is the best value, cadrail or 3rd planit, or any other. I will be planning for almost a year while the building is being built.
Best thing is download demos of each (pretty sure they are available) and try out the interface. That way you can see what you like. I haven't used any of them, but they all should be pretty good. Go to the latest MR for their ads, and their websites should be right there.
Kraydune, I have experimented with most of the major planning software packages, here is my 2 cents. Atlas Right Track: Has the smallest learning curve. Not too helpful if you're not using Atlas components. Using flextrack can be a challenge, however it is free! Xtrak CAD: Had trouble learning this one, didn't find it very user friendly. Perhaps they have improved it since I purchased it a couple of years ago. 3rd Planit: Highest presentation value, if you need 3D this one probably has the best properties. It also does 2D stuff pretty well. Larger learning curve because of the 3D graphics. If that's what you're after it's worth it. CAD Rail: This is what I finally chose, it has a fairly small learning curve. The 3D graphics are pretty weak and hard to use but you can do it. I needed a stronger 2D package. Whatever software you choose pay close attention to the editing features. These will be what you use the most, if there are not many and are hard to understand, you will be less likely to want to learn it. 2slim
