How to open a .dxf file (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Q: Why can't I open my .dxf file?

Usually your computer lacks an app that understands DXF. Install one of the apps listed here, or convert the file to a more common format.

A .dxf file is a Drawing Exchange Format. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads DXF yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.

Open a .dxf file step by step

Confirm the file really is a .dxf. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
On Windows, open it with AutoCAD or LibreCAD.
On Mac, use LibreCAD or AutoCAD.
On Linux, try LibreCAD or Inkscape.
Still stuck? Convert the .dxf to DWG, which opens more widely.

Best apps to open .dxf files

Windows

AutoCAD
LibreCAD
Inkscape
DWG TrueView

macOS

LibreCAD
AutoCAD
Inkscape

Linux

LibreCAD
Inkscape
FreeCAD

Web

Online CAD and DXF viewers

Before you open it: Safe. DXF is drawing data, and the text form can be inspected directly.

Frequently asked questions

Why can't I open my .dxf file?

Almost always because no installed app understands DXF. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.

Can I open a DXF in Illustrator or Inkscape?

Yes. Both import DXF as vector paths, which is handy for turning CAD drawings into artwork or cut files.

Why does my DXF open at the wrong size?

DXF does not always record its drawing units, so the importing program may guess millimetres for inches or vice versa. Check the unit setting when you import, or scale the drawing to match, especially before laser cutting or CNC.