Best design software reviews?

[ShadowNix]

Ok all, it has been awhile since I have been on....

I may be moving in 12-18mos for a new (improved) job... so my thoughts are I will have to design a layout (excited about this...love the current one, but have learned a lot!).  Anyway, I wanted to know what is the best software out there...  Learning curve is not a issue, since I have time, but expense is (don't want to spend a mint, but under a $100 is ok).   I would love to hear your thoughts.  I plan to use a spline base this time for smoother transitions (Learned a lot about that one on the ol' layout!) and I would love something that allows me to plug in the current dozen structures + bridges I have so I can re-use.... TIA for any thoughts... I know I could search on this, but I wanted current data... :)  Ciao and glad to be back to trains.com!

Brian

[Vernon/IN]

The three that come to mind are, in no particular order, are; XTrkCad, 3rd Planit, and AnyRail.  Shortest learning curve goes to AnyRail.  Lowest cost (free) goes to XTrkCad.  Mos versitile (probably) goes to 3rd Planit.

They are all available for download (AnyRail and 3rd Planit are evaluation versions) at the above links.

While it is over your $100.00 dollar limit at $124.95 (download version), it may be what you're looking for.

 

Vernon

[Hudson]

I love 3D Plan It. A great many people have expressed frustration with the product during the learning phase but this is due to the fact that the program refuses to let you do what can't be done in a track plan.

Once you figure this out and know how to apply the design tools at your disposal you can draw plans quite rapidly. Changing things becomes a cinch. Great program.

 The only "fault" is that the design engine is not yet capable of handling curved crossover geometries and ladders yet. That's my one niggle. Hopefully Randy (Programmer) will get it there soon.

 

 

[ShadowNix]

Cool...thanks for the ideas!  Looking for more (hint hint)  I forgot to mention HO is my scale....

Brian

[Hudson]

ShadowNix

Cool...thanks for the ideas!  Looking for more (hint hint)  I forgot to mention HO is my scale....

Brian

As far as your existing structures go you can draw polygons representing their footprints and place them on the plan. That's what I do. I rarely use the 3D rendering features, only to check elevations and tink of scenic ideas. Scale doesn't matter, you can draft plans in any scale with 3D. Good supportive online forum for it as well. As great as pencil and paper is I can draw MUCH faster, with far greater accuracy, and much more efficiently utilize the space available. It's a no-brainer. The learning curve was steep, but if you tackle it a bit at a time all of a sudden you'll find yourself drawing track plans easily.

[loathar]

I'm partial to Anyrail for track planning. But if your going for 3D veiws and creating buildings, you might want to look at 3rdPlanit.

[Anonymous]

 I have been working with various design software programs. When it comes to ease of use, imo WinRail beats it all. If you can accept Atlas track geometry, it is even a freeware called RTS and downloadabel from the Atlas web page.I find XtrkCad quite difficult when you plan to use flex track and you want to configure curves with easements and determined radii.

WinTrack is also excellent - steep learning curve and a fantastic 3-D display in various types of scenery, from "rolling hills" to "Rocky Mountains" to "Desert".

 

[Doc in CT]

 Re: Atlas RTS   even if you want to work with  flex track you can layout with sectional then have the program convert to flex.  The main limitations are that it does't have layers, doesn't dear with hidden track well, and the drawing tools are weak.

However, for the price it lets you get started.

[markie97]

I have used the Atlas freeware and though easy to use, it is limited. I tried Xtrakcad and though more difficult it does have a good built in tutorial and a pretty active Yahoo group. The price was right for both.

Mark

[JTG]

I'll also put in a plug for the Atlas freeware. I've been toying with it for months, and it does everything I want ...plus its free! I've been doing my trackplannng with the freeware, then recreating the designs with the Trainz program from Auran, which provides fantastic 3D views, some automatic operation possibilities and the ability to customize rolling stock with your own logos and paint schemes.

Trainz has been extremely helpful in creating scenic plans. I'm using the 2006 version of the program, which I picked up for $10 at one of the big-box chains. There is also a new version available. If you're going to be without a "real" layout for a while, or even if it's going to be a while before you begin work on your new layout, I'd highly recommend Trainz.