As the demand for smarter, faster, and more efficient AV systems grows, artificial intelligence has stepped in to transform the way AV professionals design, plan, and execute projects. From automating wiring diagrams to streamlining equipment selection, AI AV Design Software is helping integrators, consultants, and designers save time, reduce errors, and deliver better results.

In this blog, we compare the top 5 AI tools for AV systems side-by-side, focusing on usability, features, pricing, and who they are best suited for. Leading the list is XTEN-AV, a platform that is widely recognized for setting the standard in intelligent AV system design. Whether you are a seasoned integrator or just beginning your AV journey, this comparison will help you find the right AI tool for your needs.

1. XTEN-AV – Best Overall AI AV Design Software

Overview:
XTEN-AV is an award-winning AI-powered platform built specifically for AV system design and project management. It integrates intelligent design automation, real-time collaboration, proposal generation, and documentation into a single cloud-based workflow.

Key Features:

• AI-powered schematic and floor plan design with X-Draw

• Smart device recommendations and cable routing

• Built-in library of real-world AV components

• Proposal generation with X-Pro and automated documentation with X-Doc

• CRM and project management integration

• Free and paid plans available

Strengths:

• Designed specifically for AV professionals

• Real-time collaboration and cloud-based access

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface

• Automation across the full design-to-proposal lifecycle

Ideal For:
AV designers, system integrators, consultants, and firms seeking scalable solutions

Pricing:
Free plan available; premium plans scale based on usage

2. D-Tools System Integrator – Strong in Project Documentation

Overview:
D-Tools SI is a robust software platform focused on AV system design, estimation, and documentation. While it offers AI-like automation, it leans more on rule-based configuration than adaptive AI intelligence.

Key Features:

• Project drawings with AutoCAD and Visio integration

• Proposal and budgeting tools

• BOM and labor estimation

• Integration with accounting software

Strengths:

• Comprehensive documentation features

• Strong cost estimation tools

• Ideal for large, complex projects

Ideal For:
Mid-to-large AV integrators looking for deep project documentation and cost analysis

Pricing:
No free version; subscription or license-based pricing

Drawbacks:

• Steeper learning curve

• Less intuitive compared to newer AI AV Design Software

3. Jetbuilt – Streamlined Proposal Creation with Automation

Overview:
Jetbuilt is a web-based AV project management and proposal software that includes automation and intelligent tools for project costing and design flow. While it doesn’t offer schematic design like XTEN-AV, it excels in fast, polished proposals.

Key Features:

• Proposal generation with automation

• Project tracking and collaboration tools

• Budgeting and approval workflows

• Vendor integration and equipment libraries

Strengths:

• Fast, clean interface

• Ideal for sales and proposal teams

• Quick learning curve

Ideal For:
Sales-focused AV firms that prioritize proposal creation over deep design tools

Pricing:
Paid plans only; no free version

Drawbacks:

• Lacks true AI design assistance

• Not focused on schematics or system layouts

4. Designflow – Visual Design Automation for AV Systems

Overview:
Designflow offers a unique take on AV system design by providing visual flow tools and some AI-driven automation. While still growing, its user interface supports quick AV design creation through block diagrams and signal paths.

Key Features:

• Block-based system design interface

• Cable and device routing suggestions

• Room layout integration

• Proposal generation

Strengths:

• Modern UI and quick prototyping

• Designed with AV workflows in mind

• Offers a visual understanding of systems

Ideal For:
Freelancers and small AV design teams who need fast, presentable diagrams

Pricing:
Subscription-based; mid-range pricing

Drawbacks:

• Limited customization

• Still developing more advanced AI features

5. AViCAD – Engineering-Focused CAD Platform with AV Features

Overview:
AViCAD is a CAD-based tool with AV system templates, focused more on engineering precision than intelligent automation. It is ideal for users who prefer technical design with a focus on CAD standards.

Key Features:

• 2D and 3D CAD drafting tools

• Electrical and AV equipment libraries

• Auto-generation of panel layouts and reports

• Works offline on Windows

Strengths:

• Familiar CAD environment

• Excellent for detailed technical drawings

• Engineering precision

Ideal For:
Engineers and AV pros with a CAD background looking for offline tools

Pricing:
One-time license cost; free trial available

Drawbacks:

• No AI automation or cloud collaboration

• Interface may feel outdated to new users

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing the right AI AV Design Software depends on your goals, experience level, and workflow needs. If you're looking for an all-in-one platform that uses true AI automation, offers schematic creation, and provides proposal tools in a single ecosystem, XTEN-AV is clearly the best choice for beginners and professionals alike.

While other tools like D-Tools and Jetbuilt serve their niches well, they lack the intelligent design automation and ease-of-use that modern AV professionals now expect. XTEN-AV’s combination of smart features, real-time collaboration, and flexible pricing—including a free plan—makes it the leading choice in the industry today.

Start with a platform that supports your growth and helps you deliver better AV systems, faster and smarter. With AI by your side, the future of AV design is already here.

Read more: https://penposh.com/blogs/462360/Best-Free-AI-AV-Design-Software-for-Beginners