Best Free DWG Viewer Tools Online (No Installation)

If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just want to open a DWG file quickly—maybe on your laptop, phone, or a computer where you don’t have AutoCAD installed. Installing heavy CAD software just to peek at a drawing can be a real hassle, especially if you’re on the go or working on a client’s machine.

Thankfully, there are some pretty handy free online tools that let you view DWG files right in your browser. No installation, no waiting, no fuss. Just upload your file and you’re good to go.

What Makes a Good Online DWG Viewer?

Not all online viewers are made equal. Here’s what I look for when picking one:

• Easy to use: I want to open my file with minimal clicks or complicated setup.

• Basic tools: Zooming in/out, panning around, and turning layers on or off are a must.

• File size limits: Some viewers cap the size of files you can upload for free—so keep that in mind.

• Privacy: If your drawings have sensitive info, check how the site handles your files.

• Works on mobile: Sometimes I need to check a file on my phone, so mobile compatibility is a bonus.

Here Are My Top 5 Free Online DWG Viewers

1. Autodesk Viewer

Website: viewer.autodesk.com

This one’s from the folks who make AutoCAD, so it’s reliable. You can upload DWG files up to about 50MB, zoom around, toggle layers, and even share a link with your team. You’ll need an Autodesk account for some features, but signing up is free.

2. ShareCAD

Website: sharecad.org

If you want something quick and zero hassle, ShareCAD is great. No sign-up required, drag-and-drop your file, and start viewing. The interface is simple, but it does have ads. There’s a limit on file size (around 10MB), so it’s best for smaller drawings.

3. DWG FastView Online

Website: dwgfastview.com/online

This tool works well on both desktop and mobile. It lets you zoom, pan, and manage layers smoothly. The free version has some restrictions, but it’s perfect for quick checks on site or in meetings.

4. Onshape Free Viewer

Website: onshape.com

Onshape is more geared towards teams and professionals. It’s cloud-based, supports 3D viewing, and lets you add comments. There’s a bit of a learning curve, but if you collaborate often, it’s worth trying.

5. A360 Viewer

Website: a360.autodesk.com/viewer

Another Autodesk product, A360 supports lots of file types and lets you view and annotate DWGs online. You might need to create an account for some features. It’s solid for bigger files and more detailed viewing.

How to Use These Viewers Quickly

1. Open the viewer’s website on your browser.

2. Click the upload button or drag your DWG file onto the page.

3. Wait a few seconds while it processes.

4. Use zoom, pan, and layer tools to inspect your drawing.

5. If available, share the file link with colleagues or clients.

That’s it. Simple as that.

When Should You Use Online Viewers vs. Installing Software?

Online viewers are perfect if you:

• Just need to look at a drawing quickly without editing.

• Are on a device where you can’t or don’t want to install software.

• Want to share drawings easily with clients or non-CAD users.

But if you’re doing serious editing, complex 3D modeling, or working with very large files, nothing beats having AutoCAD or similar software installed.

Final Thoughts

I find online DWG viewers super helpful for quick checks and sharing. They save me from dragging my laptop everywhere or scrambling for licensed software.

Try a few of the options above to see what fits your workflow best. And if you’ve got a favorite tool or a tip for viewing DWG files, drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you!