AV system integrators rely heavily on design software to plan, present, and execute successful projects. Tools like D-Tools have long been used for quoting, documentation, and system design, but they often come at a high price. For small integration firms, startups, or freelance professionals, finding affordable or free tools that can handle essential AV workflows is crucial.
Fortunately, there are several capable platforms that provide core features for AV system design, documentation, or collaboration without requiring a large financial commitment. If you are looking for D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators that are free or low-cost, this blog will help you discover the best available options.
At the top of the list is XTEN-AV. While XTEN-AV is a premium platform, it does offer a free version with powerful features designed for AV professionals. Alongside it, there are other tools that provide value, especially when used together or in specific stages of the AV project lifecycle.
1. XTEN-AV – Free Version With Premium Design Features
XTEN-AV is a leading AV design and automation platform, built specifically for system integrators. While its advanced tools are available in paid tiers, XTEN-AV also offers a free version with robust capabilities. This makes it one of the best free options for professionals who want to design AV systems intelligently without spending upfront.
Key features of the free version:
Access to X-DRAW, an AI-powered tool for designing floor plans, schematics, and rack layouts
Use of real-time equipment libraries with product specifications
Ability to create proposals and documentation for smaller projects
Cloud-based collaboration tools for remote access and team sharing
Integration with manufacturer databases for accurate AV product data
For small firms and individual AV designers, XTEN-AV’s free version provides a scalable starting point. It is also an ideal trial tool for those evaluating D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators before upgrading to premium features.
2. LibreCAD – A Free 2D CAD Drawing Tool
LibreCAD is an open-source, 2D CAD design tool that can be used for basic AV system layouts. While it is not specifically tailored for the AV industry, it offers all the core features needed to draw wiring diagrams, floor plans, and rack elevations from scratch.
Benefits of LibreCAD:
Completely free to use with no license restrictions
Lightweight and compatible with most operating systems
Supports DWG and DXF file formats commonly used in the AV world
Ideal for users with basic CAD experience
LibreCAD requires manual creation of symbols and templates, but with some customization, it becomes a solid free alternative to AutoCAD for AV layout work.
3. Google Drawings and Google Sheets
For integrators looking for cloud-based and collaborative tools, Google Drawings and Google Sheets offer a simple and free way to build basic AV designs and project documents. While not professional CAD tools, they can be customized for smaller projects and client presentations.
Key advantages:
100 percent free with a Google account
Real-time collaboration for teams and clients
Use Google Sheets to build simple bills of materials or cable schedules
Share designs or proposals instantly with clients
These tools are best suited for firms that are just getting started or need quick visual documentation without full CAD complexity. Combined with symbol libraries and AV templates, they can support many early-stage project needs.
4. QCAD – Free CAD Software for Technical Drawing
QCAD is another open-source 2D CAD program that is free for personal or low-volume commercial use. It provides a more polished interface than LibreCAD and includes features that can help AV integrators draft simple technical drawings.
Why it is useful:
Offers tools for creating schematics, wiring diagrams, and floor plans
Runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux
Includes layers, blocks, and custom line types
Optional commercial version available for extended features
QCAD is great for those who need detailed design work without the cost of AutoCAD or D-Tools. For teams that do not require integrated proposals or cloud tools, QCAD can fill the design gap.
5. Draw.io (diagrams.net)
Draw.io, also known as diagrams.net, is a free, browser-based diagramming tool that supports flowcharts, wiring diagrams, and basic AV layouts. It is ideal for creating quick designs or overviews and works well for non-technical stakeholders.
Advantages:
Free and easy to use in a web browser
Offers drag-and-drop shapes and connectors
Can be saved to Google Drive or Dropbox for collaboration
Custom templates can be created for AV diagrams
Although it does not replace a full AV design suite, Draw.io is perfect for client-facing visuals, conceptual sketches, and fast communication during project planning.
6. Fusion 360 for Personal Use
Autodesk’s Fusion 360 offers a free license for personal, hobbyist, or non-commercial use. While it is primarily used for 3D modeling and mechanical design, it includes powerful drafting tools and cloud-based access that can benefit AV professionals in specific scenarios.
Features include:
2D sketching and dimensioning tools
Cloud storage and collaboration
Ability to design brackets, mounts, or enclosures for AV hardware
High-quality rendering for client presentations
If your AV work involves custom fabrication or 3D-printed components, Fusion 360 offers tools that extend beyond typical design software.
7. Microsoft Visio with AV Templates (Free Trial)
While Microsoft Visio is a paid product, a free trial version is available that AV integrators can use to build quick AV system diagrams. With the right AV templates, Visio becomes a basic but functional tool for floor plans and rack diagrams.
Pros of using Visio:
Familiar interface for Windows users
Pre-built shapes and connectors
Templates available for AV, IT, and electrical systems
Integrates with Office 365 for sharing and review
Visio is useful for teams who want to build visual diagrams without deep CAD expertise. While not ideal for long-term use without a license, the trial can serve short-term needs.
Conclusion
As the AV industry evolves, many professionals are moving away from expensive, desktop-only software in favor of flexible, cloud-enabled, and budget-friendly tools. While D-Tools has been a reliable solution for years, there are now several D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators that offer free or low-cost options for getting started.
XTEN-AV leads the way with its feature-rich free version that includes smart design, equipment libraries, and cloud access. For those who need drawing tools without the bells and whistles, options like LibreCAD, QCAD, and Google Drawings provide cost-effective solutions. Meanwhile, platforms like Jetbuilt or Draw.io support faster proposals and communication.
Ultimately, the best free tool is the one that matches your workflow, team size, and project scope. Start with what fits today and scale as your business grows. With the right combination of tools, AV integrators can deliver professional results without breaking the budget.
Read more: https://avsyncstudio.wordpress.com/2025/07/14/top-av-design-software-tools-compared/
