Can MapToNap replace a CAD context download?
For sites up to about 4 km² and Rhino, OBJ or GLB workflows, often yes. For much larger areas or DWG output, a dedicated CAD download service is the better fit.
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CAD context downloads vs MapToNap · Checked 25 October 2026
A CAD context download, or the site analysis that comes after it?
CAD context services turn public map data into organised CAD files of buildings, roads and terrain for an area. MapToNap now exports a 3D site model too, as Rhino 3DM, OBJ and GLB, but its main job is what comes after the download: 51 site-analysis drawings for the same site. This page is written by the MapToNap team. We compare kinds of tool rather than named products, and describe each by what it does best.
Checked 25 October 2026Written by MapToNapKinds of tool, not brands
Side by side
CAD context downloads and MapToNap, row by row
| CAD context downloads | MapToNap | |
|---|---|---|
| Core job | Organised CAD geometry of an area for your design software | Analysis sheets plus a 3D site model for the same site |
| 3D context | Buildings, roads, terrain; layered for CAD | Buildings, terrain, roads, water, green and trees |
| Formats | DXF and native files for common CAD and 3D programs | Rhino 3DM, OBJ, GLB; sheets as SVG, PDF, PNG |
| Area | Often very large areas on paid plans | 3D export up to 4 km²; analyses up to a 3 km radius |
| 2D analysis | None: you analyse and style the geometry yourself | 51 generated analyses: streets, land use, climate, noise, walking, urban growth and more |
| Typical pricing | Small areas often free, larger areas paid per file or by subscription | Four drawings free (watermarked, no sign-up); Pro €7.99 or Max €12.99 for 30 days, Max for a year €49. One-off passes, nothing renews. |
Checked 25 October 2026. The left column describes what tools of this kind typically offer; individual products differ, so check the one you are considering. Features and prices change.
Choose by the job
When each one makes more sense
Choose a CAD download
You need a very large area, a specific CAD format such as DWG, or geometry is the end point of your work.
Choose MapToNap
The deliverable is a context model plus a set of site-analysis drawings, kept in one project.
Already in a mature CAD workflow?
If you only need the base file, MapToNap's analysis tools may be more than you need.
Using both
They often sit in the same project
Geometry and sheets
Download the large-area CAD file; generate the plot-scale analysis sheets in MapToNap.
Same open data
Most of these services and MapToNap start from OpenStreetMap, so the footprints line up.
Vectors everywhere
SVG and PDF sheets import into the same CAD file as the downloaded context.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers before you start
What does MapToNap add?
The analysis: figure-ground, streets, land use, green and water, sun, wind, noise, walking, urban growth and more, as editable drawings in one graphic style.
Is the 3D model free?
The 3D site model is part of Max (€12.99 for 30 days). Four 2D analysis drawings are free without signing up.
Does it work for my city?
Anywhere OpenStreetMap is well mapped. Check the building and road coverage around your site first.
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