Using AutoCAD on an iPad Pro comes with several limitations compared to the full desktop version. Here are the main limitations:
1. Functionality and Features: The AutoCAD app for iPad is designed more as a collaboration and viewing tool rather than a full-fledged design platform. It lacks many advanced features and functionalities available in the desktop version, making it less suitable for complex engineering or architectural designs[1][8]. Users can view, edit, and share CAD drawings, but the app is not intended for heavy-duty design work.
2. Performance and Responsiveness: While the iPad Pro offers robust hardware, the AutoCAD app may still experience performance issues, especially with complex drawings. Users have reported difficulties in drawing simple shapes and experiencing lag, which can hinder productivity[3][8]. This is partly due to the app's design for lighter tasks and the inherent limitations of mobile devices compared to desktop computers.
3. User Interface and Experience: The iPad app has a simplified user interface that, while intuitive for basic tasks, can be frustrating for users accustomed to the desktop version. Tasks that are quick on a desktop can take significantly longer on the iPad due to the touch-based interface and limited feature set[8].
4. Collaboration vs. Design: The AutoCAD app on iPad is excellent for collaboration, allowing users to share and modify drawings in real-time with others. However, it is not ideal for detailed design work, which is better suited to the desktop environment[7][11].
5. Hardware Limitations: Although the iPad Pro has improved hardware, including more RAM and a better display compared to other iPad models, it still lacks the processing power and storage capacity of most desktop computers. This can limit the complexity of projects that can be efficiently managed on the iPad[1][5].
6. License Compatibility: Users with a desktop AutoCAD license cannot directly use it on the iPad. The iPad app requires a separate subscription or purchase, which may add additional costs for those already invested in the desktop version[4].
Overall, while the AutoCAD app on iPad Pro is useful for viewing, editing, and collaborating on CAD files, it is not a replacement for the full desktop version when it comes to complex design tasks.
Citations:[1] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252642696
[2] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/8634543
[3] https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-on-mobile-forum/ipad-pro-problems/td-p/9068793
[4] https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-for-mac-forum/can-i-use-my-autocad-license-in-an-ipad-pro/td-p/12871852
[5] https://vietbay.com.vn/en/how-to-fix-autocad-running-slow-in-2024.htm
[6] http://help.sketchup.com/en/sketchup/importing-and-exporting-cad-files
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agBCYBw6lnQ
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/AutoCAD/comments/upn36v/ipad_pro/
[9] https://all3dp.com/2/autocad-ipad-pro-mobile-app/
[10] https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/autocad/id393149734
[11] https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/road-again-Using-Apples-iPad-field-2022