ODA File Converter — The Complete Guide: Batch Conversion of DWG and DXF Files Between Versions
ODA File Converter is an Open Design Alliance tool that converts a whole folder of DWG and DXF files to another version, including subfolders. It is useful when your CAD program cannot open a drawing saved in a version that is too old or too new for it.
ODA File Converter
Open Design Alliance
Batch conversion of DWG and DXF files between versions, with audit and repair — free for non-commercial use only.
Get it from the vendorWhat you get
- Batch conversion — a whole folder in one operation.
- Subfolders — the option to process the entire tree.
- Target version and format — DWG or DXF in the version you need.
- Audit and repair — for damaged files.
- Graphical interface and command line — with versions for Windows, macOS and Linux.
Who may use it for free
According to the official ODA FAQ, anyone who is not an ODA member may use the tool for non-commercial applications only. Commercial use, including in an engineering office, requires ODA membership. In practice: a student or private user — yes; work for a client — no, not without membership.
Related tools
A free Autodesk viewer with a built-in version converter — DWG TrueView. For editing 2D drawings — LibreCAD or QCAD.
Autodesk DWG TrueView
Autodesk
View, measure and plot DWG and DXF files and convert between AutoCAD versions — no AutoCAD licence needed.
Get it from the vendor
LibreCAD
LibreCAD Project
Lightweight 2D drafting with layers, blocks and dimensions, built around the DXF format.
Get it from the vendorQCAD Community Edition
RibbonSoft
Mature 2D drafting. The Community Edition is free; DWG and the parts library browser are reserved for the paid version.
Get it from the vendor
FreeCAD
FreeCAD Project
Open-source parametric 3D modeller with workbenches for solid modelling, FEM, drafting and BIM.
Get it from the vendorThe bottom line
An excellent tool for converting whole drawing archives — but for non-commercial use only, unless you are an ODA member.