What software opens DGN files?

These tool profiles explicitly list DGN in fileFormats[]. Compare who opens, edits, or exports the format, how much support is documented, and whether the catalog tags the tool as free or paid.

Last updated 2026-07-29.

34 Tool profiles
3 Free or free-viewer options
10 Full-support listings

Need the full import x export matrix? Open the formats hub. Need the same slice inside the category x sector grid? Open the DGN filter on the landscape map.

Direct answer

Need the same slice inside the full catalog grid? Open the DGN filter on the landscape map.

DWG Drawing-file coverage in the reviewed AEC catalog. DXF Exchange-drawing coverage in the reviewed AEC catalog. IFC Open BIM exchange coverage in the reviewed AEC catalog.

Comparison table

Tool Price signal Direction Support Score Verdict
AutoCAD
Autodesk's full 2D and 3D CAD application and the long-standing industry default for construction drawings and details.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Partial 4.8/5 worth-it
Synchro (Bentley)
4D BIM construction scheduling platform (SYNCHRO 4D + Perform) that links Primavera or MSP activities to 3D model objects for digital construction delivery.
 Paid / contact sales Listed Unknown 4.6/5 worth-it
AutoCAD LT
The lower-cost, 2D-only edition of AutoCAD aimed at drafting and documentation without 3D modeling.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 4.4/5 worth-it
Archicad
A full desktop BIM authoring platform from Graphisoft built specifically for architects to model buildings and produce coordinated drawings and documentation.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Partial 4.2/5 worth-it
BricsCAD
A DWG-native CAD platform (Lite/Pro/BIM/Mechanical/Ultimate editions) positioned as a cost-effective AutoCAD alternative with both subscription and perpetual options.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 4.2/5 worth-it
iTwin Platform
Open, scalable cloud platform providing REST APIs and TypeScript SDKs for developers to create digital twin applications. Enables incorporation of engineering data from design tools into living digital twins aligned with reality data across infrastructure asset lifecycles. Serves as the foundational cloud layer for all Bentley infrastructure products.
 Free viewer Opens Full 4.2/5 worth-it
Vectorworks Architect
A combined CAD-and-BIM design platform from Vectorworks (Nemetschek Group) aimed at architects who want flexible modeling plus documentation in one tool.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 4.0/5 worth-it
Autodesk Revit LT
Autodesk's stripped-down, single-user version of Revit for 3D architectural BIM modeling and documentation without the multidisciplinary and worksharing features of full Revit.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 3.8/5 solid
DraftSight
Dassault Systemes' AutoCAD-like 2D CAD tool for creating and editing DWG files at a lower price than AutoCAD.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 3.8/5 solid
ProjectWise
Cloud-based infrastructure project delivery platform that unites design and construction workflows through a central connected data environment (CDE). Manages engineering and construction data, supports model-centric workflows, streamlines design reviews, and enables digital twins during the design lifecycle with multi-discipline collaboration.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Full 3.8/5 solid
ZWCAD
ZWSOFT's DWG-compatible 2D/3D CAD application marketed as a faster, cheaper AutoCAD alternative.
 Paid / one-time Listed Unknown 3.8/5 solid
Carlson Civil Suite
AutoCAD/IntelliCAD-based desktop civil design suite (Carlson Civil, Survey, Hydrology, GIS) for grading, roads, lots, and hydrology. Sold as a perpetual license (Civil Suite bundle around $4,450) with optional annual maintenance and a subscription option. Scriptable via AutoLISP and .NET through its AutoCAD/IntelliCAD engine; reads/writes DWG, DGN, and LandXML.
 Paid / perpetual license (~$4,450 civil suite bundle); optional ~10%/yr maintenance; subscription option available Opens Unknown 3.6/5 solid
Quadri (Novapoint)
Cloud-based civil infrastructure BIM collaboration platform enabling real-time teamwork on road, railway, tunnel, bridge, water/sewer design. Quadri provides central model storage; Novapoint provides design tools.
 Paid / quote-only Opens + exports Full 3.6/5 solid
Tekla Tedds
Structural calculation automation tool that generates compliant, auditable calculation sheets for beam, column, connection, and foundation design across multiple international codes.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 3.6/5 solid
Allplan Architecture
A professional BIM authoring platform from Allplan (Nemetschek Group) for architectural modeling, detailing, and construction documentation.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 3.4/5 solid
Allplan Civil (Bridge)
Parametric BIM platform for advanced infrastructure design to build workflows -- extends Allplan Ultimate with integrated bridge structural analysis (AASHTO LRFD and Eurocode with national annexes), code-based reinforcement design and checking, parametric road/alignment modeling, 4D construction sequencing, and prestressing tendon modeling; supports all relevant file interfaces (IFC, BCF, LandXML, DWG, DGN, RVT, 3DM) plus Python API and Visual Scripting for automated workflows; part of the Nemetschek Group, with transparent published subscription pricing on the Allplan e-store.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Full 3.4/5 solid
Autodesk Revit
Autodesk's flagship multidiscipline BIM authoring platform for architecture, structural, and MEP design, documentation, and multi-user worksharing -- distinct from the single-user, feature-limited Revit LT.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Partial 3.4/5 solid
Bentley GenerativeComponents
Bentley's parametric and associative computational-design environment for architects and engineers, delivered as a standalone free download or companion feature inside OpenBuildings Designer, with graphical nodes, script-driven logic, MicroStation-hosted geometry, and a .NET/API surface for custom node types and service-mode automation.
 Free tier Native Full 3.4/5 solid
Autodesk Navisworks Manage
Multidiscipline model aggregation and coordination tool that combines Revit, AutoCAD, IFC, and 60+ other formats to run Clash Detective clash detection and TimeLiner 4D construction sequencing.
 Free viewer Opens Partial 3.0/5 solid
Bentley OpenBuildings Designer
Multidiscipline BIM authoring platform built on the MicroStation CAD engine for architectural, structural, and MEP design, with built-in energy analysis and GenerativeComponents parametric modeling -- Bentley's direct Revit competitor.
 Paid / subscription Native Full 3.0/5 solid
Tekla Structures
Constructible structural BIM software from Trimble for steel, concrete, precast, and timber detailing -- produces fabrication-ready shop drawings, rebar detailing, and CNC/DSTV output directly from the 3D model.
 Paid / quote-only Opens + exports Partial 3.0/5 solid
Bentley OpenBridge Designer
MicroStation-based bridge design and analysis application for concrete and steel bridge modeling, analysis, design, and load-rating -- integrates terrain, roadway geometry, access ramps, and related infrastructure assets, with support for AASHTO LRFD/LFD/LRFR and international bridge design codes.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 2.8/5 situational
Bentley OpenFlows HAMMER
Hydraulic transient and surge-analysis software for water distribution and wastewater piping systems. Bentley now licenses HAMMER through the OpenFlows Water family, where the current Standard, Advanced, and Ultimate tiers include the named HAMMER transient-analysis capability.
 Paid / tiered subscription Opens Partial 2.8/5 situational
Bentley OpenRail Designer
MicroStation-based rail network design application for conceptual and detailed railway corridor design -- yard/station layout, track geometry, turnout/switch placement, overhead line electrification, signaling, and tunnel design, serving light rail, metro, heavy rail, high-speed rail, and MAGLEV projects across international standards.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 2.8/5 situational
Bentley OpenRoads Designer
MicroStation-based civil design application for detailed road, highway, and rail corridor design -- survey, drainage, subsurface utilities, and construction staking documentation -- Bentley's Civil 3D alternative for DOT and infrastructure-heavy practices.
 Paid / subscription Listed Unknown 2.8/5 situational
Bentley WaterGEMS
Water distribution system modeling and simulation software for hydraulic analysis, water quality modeling, fire flow analysis, energy management, and pipe network calibration -- part of Bentley's OpenFlows portfolio, serving municipal water utilities and engineering consultants.
 Paid / subscription (virtuosity/select) or perpetual with annual maintenance Opens Full 2.8/5 situational
MicroStation
Computer-aided design software for creating geospatially enabled 2D and 3D infrastructure drawings. Supports multi-discipline BIM authoring workflows across transportation, water, energy, and municipal infrastructure sectors with native support for DGN format and interoperability with DWG, IFC, and point clouds.
 Paid / subscription Native Full 2.8/5 situational
OpenCities Planner
Web-based city-scale digital twin platform for design and visualization of infrastructure and urban development projects. Combines CAD/BIM models, GIS data, reality capture, and enterprise information into unified 3D environments accessible across multiple device types including desktop, tablet, mobile, VR/AR, and large touch-screens.
 Paid / quote-only Opens Unknown 2.8/5 situational
OpenSite Designer
Comprehensive site design software for rapid modeling from conceptual through detailed design phases. Integrates BIM workflows with site engineering capabilities including earthwork optimization, drainage design, and automated construction cost estimation. MicroStation-based desktop application.
 Paid / subscription Native Full 2.8/5 situational
ProStructures
Structural steel and reinforced-concrete detailing software that combines ProSteel and ProConcrete in one parametric 3D modeling package. It is aimed at fabrication-ready structural detailing, shop drawings, bar schedules, and model-driven documentation rather than full building-scale analysis.
 Paid / subscription Opens + exports Unknown 2.8/5 situational
Bentley OpenFlows StormCAD
Storm sewer analysis and design software now licensed as part of Bentley's OpenFlows Storm family. StormCAD remains the named storm-network design capability inside the current OpenFlows Storm packaging, focused on rainfall-to-outlet sewer design, hydraulic sizing, and CAD/GIS-connected stormwater workflows.
 Paid / subscription Opens Partial 2.6/5 situational
MagiCAD
MEP BIM design software for Revit, AutoCAD, and BricsCAD with automated calculations, product databases, and integrated system simulation -- includes piping, ventilation, electrical, sprinkler, and schematics modules.
 Paid / quote-only Listed Unknown 2.6/5 situational
Tekla Structural Designer
Cloud-accessible structural analysis and design software combining model-based design with analysis capabilities, featuring seismic design, portal frame design, and AI-assisted workflows for structural engineers.
 Paid / quote-only Opens + exports Partial 2.6/5 situational
Bentley OpenFlows SewerGEMS
Advanced sanitary, stormwater, and combined sewer modeling software now licensed inside Bentley's OpenFlows Sewer family. The current OpenFlows Sewer product tiers include SewerGEMS capabilities for 1D/2D hydraulic simulation, scenario management, SCADA-connected analysis, and ArcGIS/MicroStation/AutoCAD interoperability used by utilities and water-infrastructure consultancies.
 Paid / tiered subscription (virtuoso) Opens Full 2.4/5 situational
AutoCAD
Autodesk's full 2D and 3D CAD application and the long-standing industry default for construction drawings and details.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Partial
Score
4.8/5
Verdict
worth-it
Synchro (Bentley)
4D BIM construction scheduling platform (SYNCHRO 4D + Perform) that links Primavera or MSP activities to 3D model objects for digital construction delivery.
Price
Paid / contact sales
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
4.6/5
Verdict
worth-it
AutoCAD LT
The lower-cost, 2D-only edition of AutoCAD aimed at drafting and documentation without 3D modeling.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
4.4/5
Verdict
worth-it
Archicad
A full desktop BIM authoring platform from Graphisoft built specifically for architects to model buildings and produce coordinated drawings and documentation.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Partial
Score
4.2/5
Verdict
worth-it
BricsCAD
A DWG-native CAD platform (Lite/Pro/BIM/Mechanical/Ultimate editions) positioned as a cost-effective AutoCAD alternative with both subscription and perpetual options.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
4.2/5
Verdict
worth-it
iTwin Platform
Open, scalable cloud platform providing REST APIs and TypeScript SDKs for developers to create digital twin applications. Enables incorporation of engineering data from design tools into living digital twins aligned with reality data across infrastructure asset lifecycles. Serves as the foundational cloud layer for all Bentley infrastructure products.
Price
Free viewer
Direction
Opens
Support
Full
Score
4.2/5
Verdict
worth-it
Vectorworks Architect
A combined CAD-and-BIM design platform from Vectorworks (Nemetschek Group) aimed at architects who want flexible modeling plus documentation in one tool.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
4.0/5
Verdict
worth-it
Autodesk Revit LT
Autodesk's stripped-down, single-user version of Revit for 3D architectural BIM modeling and documentation without the multidisciplinary and worksharing features of full Revit.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
3.8/5
Verdict
solid
DraftSight
Dassault Systemes' AutoCAD-like 2D CAD tool for creating and editing DWG files at a lower price than AutoCAD.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
3.8/5
Verdict
solid
ProjectWise
Cloud-based infrastructure project delivery platform that unites design and construction workflows through a central connected data environment (CDE). Manages engineering and construction data, supports model-centric workflows, streamlines design reviews, and enables digital twins during the design lifecycle with multi-discipline collaboration.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Full
Score
3.8/5
Verdict
solid
ZWCAD
ZWSOFT's DWG-compatible 2D/3D CAD application marketed as a faster, cheaper AutoCAD alternative.
Price
Paid / one-time
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
3.8/5
Verdict
solid
Carlson Civil Suite
AutoCAD/IntelliCAD-based desktop civil design suite (Carlson Civil, Survey, Hydrology, GIS) for grading, roads, lots, and hydrology. Sold as a perpetual license (Civil Suite bundle around $4,450) with optional annual maintenance and a subscription option. Scriptable via AutoLISP and .NET through its AutoCAD/IntelliCAD engine; reads/writes DWG, DGN, and LandXML.
Price
Paid / perpetual license (~$4,450 civil suite bundle); optional ~10%/yr maintenance; subscription option available
Direction
Opens
Support
Unknown
Score
3.6/5
Verdict
solid
Quadri (Novapoint)
Cloud-based civil infrastructure BIM collaboration platform enabling real-time teamwork on road, railway, tunnel, bridge, water/sewer design. Quadri provides central model storage; Novapoint provides design tools.
Price
Paid / quote-only
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Full
Score
3.6/5
Verdict
solid
Tekla Tedds
Structural calculation automation tool that generates compliant, auditable calculation sheets for beam, column, connection, and foundation design across multiple international codes.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
3.6/5
Verdict
solid
Allplan Architecture
A professional BIM authoring platform from Allplan (Nemetschek Group) for architectural modeling, detailing, and construction documentation.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
3.4/5
Verdict
solid
Allplan Civil (Bridge)
Parametric BIM platform for advanced infrastructure design to build workflows -- extends Allplan Ultimate with integrated bridge structural analysis (AASHTO LRFD and Eurocode with national annexes), code-based reinforcement design and checking, parametric road/alignment modeling, 4D construction sequencing, and prestressing tendon modeling; supports all relevant file interfaces (IFC, BCF, LandXML, DWG, DGN, RVT, 3DM) plus Python API and Visual Scripting for automated workflows; part of the Nemetschek Group, with transparent published subscription pricing on the Allplan e-store.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Full
Score
3.4/5
Verdict
solid
Autodesk Revit
Autodesk's flagship multidiscipline BIM authoring platform for architecture, structural, and MEP design, documentation, and multi-user worksharing -- distinct from the single-user, feature-limited Revit LT.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Partial
Score
3.4/5
Verdict
solid
Bentley GenerativeComponents
Bentley's parametric and associative computational-design environment for architects and engineers, delivered as a standalone free download or companion feature inside OpenBuildings Designer, with graphical nodes, script-driven logic, MicroStation-hosted geometry, and a .NET/API surface for custom node types and service-mode automation.
Price
Free tier
Direction
Native
Support
Full
Score
3.4/5
Verdict
solid
Autodesk Navisworks Manage
Multidiscipline model aggregation and coordination tool that combines Revit, AutoCAD, IFC, and 60+ other formats to run Clash Detective clash detection and TimeLiner 4D construction sequencing.
Price
Free viewer
Direction
Opens
Support
Partial
Score
3.0/5
Verdict
solid
Bentley OpenBuildings Designer
Multidiscipline BIM authoring platform built on the MicroStation CAD engine for architectural, structural, and MEP design, with built-in energy analysis and GenerativeComponents parametric modeling -- Bentley's direct Revit competitor.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Native
Support
Full
Score
3.0/5
Verdict
solid
Tekla Structures
Constructible structural BIM software from Trimble for steel, concrete, precast, and timber detailing -- produces fabrication-ready shop drawings, rebar detailing, and CNC/DSTV output directly from the 3D model.
Price
Paid / quote-only
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Partial
Score
3.0/5
Verdict
solid
Bentley OpenBridge Designer
MicroStation-based bridge design and analysis application for concrete and steel bridge modeling, analysis, design, and load-rating -- integrates terrain, roadway geometry, access ramps, and related infrastructure assets, with support for AASHTO LRFD/LFD/LRFR and international bridge design codes.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley OpenFlows HAMMER
Hydraulic transient and surge-analysis software for water distribution and wastewater piping systems. Bentley now licenses HAMMER through the OpenFlows Water family, where the current Standard, Advanced, and Ultimate tiers include the named HAMMER transient-analysis capability.
Price
Paid / tiered subscription
Direction
Opens
Support
Partial
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley OpenRail Designer
MicroStation-based rail network design application for conceptual and detailed railway corridor design -- yard/station layout, track geometry, turnout/switch placement, overhead line electrification, signaling, and tunnel design, serving light rail, metro, heavy rail, high-speed rail, and MAGLEV projects across international standards.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley OpenRoads Designer
MicroStation-based civil design application for detailed road, highway, and rail corridor design -- survey, drainage, subsurface utilities, and construction staking documentation -- Bentley's Civil 3D alternative for DOT and infrastructure-heavy practices.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley WaterGEMS
Water distribution system modeling and simulation software for hydraulic analysis, water quality modeling, fire flow analysis, energy management, and pipe network calibration -- part of Bentley's OpenFlows portfolio, serving municipal water utilities and engineering consultants.
Price
Paid / subscription (virtuosity/select) or perpetual with annual maintenance
Direction
Opens
Support
Full
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
MicroStation
Computer-aided design software for creating geospatially enabled 2D and 3D infrastructure drawings. Supports multi-discipline BIM authoring workflows across transportation, water, energy, and municipal infrastructure sectors with native support for DGN format and interoperability with DWG, IFC, and point clouds.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Native
Support
Full
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
OpenCities Planner
Web-based city-scale digital twin platform for design and visualization of infrastructure and urban development projects. Combines CAD/BIM models, GIS data, reality capture, and enterprise information into unified 3D environments accessible across multiple device types including desktop, tablet, mobile, VR/AR, and large touch-screens.
Price
Paid / quote-only
Direction
Opens
Support
Unknown
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
OpenSite Designer
Comprehensive site design software for rapid modeling from conceptual through detailed design phases. Integrates BIM workflows with site engineering capabilities including earthwork optimization, drainage design, and automated construction cost estimation. MicroStation-based desktop application.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Native
Support
Full
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
ProStructures
Structural steel and reinforced-concrete detailing software that combines ProSteel and ProConcrete in one parametric 3D modeling package. It is aimed at fabrication-ready structural detailing, shop drawings, bar schedules, and model-driven documentation rather than full building-scale analysis.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Unknown
Score
2.8/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley OpenFlows StormCAD
Storm sewer analysis and design software now licensed as part of Bentley's OpenFlows Storm family. StormCAD remains the named storm-network design capability inside the current OpenFlows Storm packaging, focused on rainfall-to-outlet sewer design, hydraulic sizing, and CAD/GIS-connected stormwater workflows.
Price
Paid / subscription
Direction
Opens
Support
Partial
Score
2.6/5
Verdict
situational
MagiCAD
MEP BIM design software for Revit, AutoCAD, and BricsCAD with automated calculations, product databases, and integrated system simulation -- includes piping, ventilation, electrical, sprinkler, and schematics modules.
Price
Paid / quote-only
Direction
Listed
Support
Unknown
Score
2.6/5
Verdict
situational
Tekla Structural Designer
Cloud-accessible structural analysis and design software combining model-based design with analysis capabilities, featuring seismic design, portal frame design, and AI-assisted workflows for structural engineers.
Price
Paid / quote-only
Direction
Opens + exports
Support
Partial
Score
2.6/5
Verdict
situational
Bentley OpenFlows SewerGEMS
Advanced sanitary, stormwater, and combined sewer modeling software now licensed inside Bentley's OpenFlows Sewer family. The current OpenFlows Sewer product tiers include SewerGEMS capabilities for 1D/2D hydraulic simulation, scenario management, SCADA-connected analysis, and ArcGIS/MicroStation/AutoCAD interoperability used by utilities and water-infrastructure consultancies.
Price
Paid / tiered subscription (virtuoso)
Direction
Opens
Support
Full
Score
2.4/5
Verdict
situational

How to open a DGN file

  1. Start with a tool above that lists DGN in its cataloged file-format coverage.
  2. If you only need to inspect the file, filter first for free plans, free viewers, or view-only support.
  3. If you need to change the file and send it back out, favor tools marked Native or Opens + exports.
  4. If support is Partial or Unknown, open the tool profile before assuming a clean round-trip.

For broader category context, compare the same format against the rest of the AEC catalog on the landscape map.