Best Free AV Rack Design Software in 2025

Designing an AV rack for a professional or home installation can be a complex task, especially when managing multiple components, cable routing, ventilation, and future expansion. The good news is that several free AV rack design software tools in 2025 help integrators, designers, and enthusiasts plan efficient and organized rack layouts. These tools not only make the process easier but also reduce errors, save time, and ensure the final setup meets industry standards. In this blog, we highlight the best free AV rack design software you can use in 2025, starting with the most powerful option.

1. XTEN-AV (Free Plan)

XTEN-AV stands out as one of the top choices for AV rack design in 2025. Known for its AI-powered AV design and documentation capabilities, XTEN-AV offers a free plan that includes tools to create detailed AV rack layouts. The platform provides access to an extensive library of real manufacturer products so you can accurately represent the equipment that will go into your AV rack.

What makes XTEN-AV unique is its automation and intelligent recommendations. The software helps with optimal equipment placement, cable management, and ventilation planning. You can create 2D and 3D rack diagrams, generate bills of materials, and export professional documentation. For those who want both flexibility and precision without investing in expensive software, XTEN-AV’s free plan is an excellent choice.

2. AViCAD Free Trial

AViCAD offers a feature-rich design environment that can be used for AV rack layouts among other engineering tasks. While the full software is paid, AViCAD provides a free trial version that includes access to its rack design tools. You can create custom rack elevations, add equipment symbols, and produce drawings suitable for engineering submittals.

AViCAD is built on top of a CAD engine, so it is ideal for users who are comfortable with CAD interfaces and want detailed control over every part of the AV rack design process. Even in its trial version, it provides powerful tools for creating precise layouts.

3. SmartDraw (Free Version)

SmartDraw is widely used for creating diagrams and floor plans, and it includes templates that can be adapted for AV rack designs. The free version provides enough features to build basic AV rack layouts, especially for smaller projects or educational purposes.

With drag-and-drop functionality and pre-made symbols, SmartDraw helps you quickly create organized and clean rack diagrams. It is browser-based, so there is no need to install anything, making it convenient for teams that need to collaborate on AV rack designs remotely.

4. SketchUp Free

SketchUp Free offers an intuitive 3D modeling platform that can be used to create custom AV rack layouts. It is not specialized for AV, but its flexibility makes it popular among designers who want to visualize how the AV rack will fit into a room or equipment closet.

You can model custom racks, components, and even the surrounding space. SketchUp Free works entirely online and allows sharing designs easily with clients or team members. It is a good choice if you want to focus on space planning in addition to the AV rack itself.

5. Fusion 360 Personal Use License

Autodesk’s Fusion 360 offers a personal use license that is free for non-commercial purposes. While it is more complex than dedicated AV software, Fusion 360 provides professional-grade 3D modeling tools that can be used for custom AV rack designs. It allows you to model individual rack components, simulate airflow, and check for fit and clearances.

Fusion 360 is better suited for advanced users who want precise control over their AV rack layout or who are working on custom fabrication projects. For commercial work, however, you would need to upgrade to the paid version.

6. Rack Builder Tools from Manufacturers

Several AV equipment manufacturers offer free rack builder tools on their websites. While these are usually limited to the brand’s own products, they can be useful if you are using a specific manufacturer’s AV rack or accessories. These tools provide accurate dimensions and often help plan cable management and ventilation options.

Brands like Middle Atlantic, Penn Elcom, and Rittal provide browser-based rack configuration tools that allow you to plan your setup and download detailed specs and drawings. They are great for quick layouts or for generating submittal documents.

What to Look for in Free AV Rack Design Software

When choosing free AV rack design software, consider the following features:

Ease of use: Look for software with a friendly interface so you can create designs without a steep learning curve.
Equipment libraries: The software should provide accurate representations of real-world products.
Export options: It is helpful if you can export drawings, bills of materials, or reports.
3D visualization: Being able to see your rack in 3D can help spot potential issues before installation.
Collaboration features: Cloud-based tools or those with sharing options make it easier for teams to work together.

Conclusion

There are many free tools available in 2025 to help you design an efficient and professional AV rack. XTEN-AV leads the list with its powerful AI-driven features and industry-specific tools that make creating AV rack designs fast and accurate. Whether you are working on a small office setup, a large venue, or simply learning how to plan an AV rack, these free options provide the resources you need to get started.

By investing time in using these software tools, you can ensure that your AV rack design is organized, functional, and ready for smooth installation and long-term reliability.