ArchiCAD and Revit are BIM platforms that are tailor-made to meet architectural requirements. ArchiCAD is developed by Graphisoft while Revit is developed Autodesk. Both software offers innovative features to develop quality residential architectural models and renderings and both have their dedicated fan base. This article aims to explore the benefits that each has to offer in construction projects and to understand which software should be used: ArchiCAD or Revit for Architectural BIM Services.
ArchiCAD was developed in 1984 by Graphisoft and is the first software that was developed for Architectural BIM Modelling. The design suite of ArchiCAD consists of various tools that aid 2D drafting, 3D modelling, visualization and other BIM functions for architects and designers. It aids in viewing the project through engineering and visual design of the building’s interiors and exteriors.
Developed in 2002, Revit is a BIM capable tool (3D BIM, 4D BIM, 5D BIM, 6D BIM, and 7D BIM). Revit BIM Modelling helps architects, designers, builders, engineers, project managers plan all aspects of a building right from design to construction to maintenance. Revit Architecture is specifically designed to cater to the needs of architects and designers.
Since each software has its own benefits, architects are often faced with a dilemma of selecting an appropriate software to create a 3D BIM model for their project. While both are advanced and sophisticated tools, each one has its own merits and demerits. A brief comparison of the software on various aspects for providing Architectural BIM Services is given below:
- User Interface
| ArchiCAD | Revit |
| ArchiCAD has a very user-friendly interface calling for a shorter learning curve. It can be customized but is less flexible. | The user interface in Revit is highly customizable and supports multiple approaches for the use of the software. Owing to its complexity, it has a medium learning curve. |
- Conceptual Design Creation
| ArchiCAD | Revit |
| Both, Revit and ArchiCAD, are equally good when it comes to creating a conceptual design. Both are user-friendly with flexibility and customizable geometry that can later be integrated to architectural BIM model. | |
- Visualization
| ArchiCAD | Revit |
| ArchiCAD has similar styles to create the views but lacks the capacity for applying views to specific elements. Thus, both the software are equally good when it comes to architectural 3D rendering. | Revit allows a user to edit and control the views for a particular project. It has a wide range of options such as wireframe, transparent surface, etc. |
- Multi-disciplinary approach
| ArchiCAD | Revit |
| Revit supports models of all disciplines i.e. Architecture, structure, and MEP. All these models can be linked to one single model to provide a complete view of the project. This is the greatest advantage of Revit over ArchiCAD that has resulted in its wide acceptance amongst all the stakeholders. | |
- Cost
| ArchiCAD | Revit |
| ArchiCAD is slightly cheaper than Revit. However, it will require a number of add-ons to achieve Revit’s level of functionality. | |
ArchiCAD and Revit have their own strong points. Appropriate BIM software should be selected based on the project requirements. Hence, it is essential to analyze the project requirements and strike the right balance between functionality and requirements. The selection also depends on personal preference and comfort in using a software. The bottom line is that the technology should support Structural BIM Services and MEP BIM Services along with Architectural BIM Services so as to provide a complete picture of the project.
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