Quick Overview
- 1#1: ProKitchen Online - Cloud-based 2D/3D design software specialized for commercial kitchen layouts with extensive foodservice equipment libraries and rendering.
- 2#2: KDS Professional - CAD-powered software for precise commercial kitchen design, equipment placement, and compliance with industry standards.
- 3#3: 20-20 Design - Professional kitchen design platform with manufacturer catalogs, 3D visualization, and integration for commercial projects.
- 4#4: EASYFoodDesign - Online tool for rapid 2D/3D planning of commercial kitchens and foodservice areas with drag-and-drop functionality.
- 5#5: SketchUp - Intuitive 3D modeling software enhanced with plugins for commercial kitchen design and virtual walkthroughs.
- 6#6: Chief Architect Premier - Architectural design software with robust kitchen modules suitable for light commercial foodservice layouts.
- 7#7: AutoCAD - Industry-standard CAD tool for detailed 2D/3D drafting of commercial kitchen plans and elevations.
- 8#8: Revit - BIM software for collaborative design of complex commercial kitchens including MEP integration.
- 9#9: Vectorworks Architect - BIM and CAD hybrid for interior design, including commercial kitchen modeling and documentation.
- 10#10: ArchiCAD - BIM platform for architectural projects with tools for kitchen design and facility planning.
Tools were selected and ranked by evaluating feature strength (e.g., equipment libraries, compliance modules), technical precision (3D rendering quality, accuracy), user-friendliness (intuitive interfaces, drag-and-drop functionality), and overall value (scalability, cost-effectiveness) to deliver a comprehensive guide for professionals.
Comparison Table
Commercial kitchen design demands tailored software, and this comparison table explores leading tools—including ProKitchen Online, KDS Professional, 20-20 Design, EASYFoodDesign, SketchUp, and more—to assist users in evaluating options. Readers will learn about key features, usability, and real-world applications to find the best fit for their project requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ProKitchen Online Cloud-based 2D/3D design software specialized for commercial kitchen layouts with extensive foodservice equipment libraries and rendering. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | KDS Professional CAD-powered software for precise commercial kitchen design, equipment placement, and compliance with industry standards. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | 20-20 Design Professional kitchen design platform with manufacturer catalogs, 3D visualization, and integration for commercial projects. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | EASYFoodDesign Online tool for rapid 2D/3D planning of commercial kitchens and foodservice areas with drag-and-drop functionality. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | SketchUp Intuitive 3D modeling software enhanced with plugins for commercial kitchen design and virtual walkthroughs. | creative_suite | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 6 | Chief Architect Premier Architectural design software with robust kitchen modules suitable for light commercial foodservice layouts. | creative_suite | 6.7/10 | 7.1/10 | 5.4/10 | 6.2/10 |
| 7 | AutoCAD Industry-standard CAD tool for detailed 2D/3D drafting of commercial kitchen plans and elevations. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 4.8/10 | 6.1/10 |
| 8 | Revit BIM software for collaborative design of complex commercial kitchens including MEP integration. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 5.3/10 | 6.4/10 |
| 9 | Vectorworks Architect BIM and CAD hybrid for interior design, including commercial kitchen modeling and documentation. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.2/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 10 | ArchiCAD BIM platform for architectural projects with tools for kitchen design and facility planning. | enterprise | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 5.8/10 | 6.2/10 |
Cloud-based 2D/3D design software specialized for commercial kitchen layouts with extensive foodservice equipment libraries and rendering.
CAD-powered software for precise commercial kitchen design, equipment placement, and compliance with industry standards.
Professional kitchen design platform with manufacturer catalogs, 3D visualization, and integration for commercial projects.
Online tool for rapid 2D/3D planning of commercial kitchens and foodservice areas with drag-and-drop functionality.
Intuitive 3D modeling software enhanced with plugins for commercial kitchen design and virtual walkthroughs.
Architectural design software with robust kitchen modules suitable for light commercial foodservice layouts.
Industry-standard CAD tool for detailed 2D/3D drafting of commercial kitchen plans and elevations.
BIM software for collaborative design of complex commercial kitchens including MEP integration.
BIM and CAD hybrid for interior design, including commercial kitchen modeling and documentation.
BIM platform for architectural projects with tools for kitchen design and facility planning.
ProKitchen Online
specializedCloud-based 2D/3D design software specialized for commercial kitchen layouts with extensive foodservice equipment libraries and rendering.
Industry-leading library of 20,000+ vetted commercial kitchen items with parametric modeling for precise, scalable designs
ProKitchen Online is a cloud-based software platform specifically designed for commercial kitchen design, offering powerful 2D and 3D modeling tools tailored to professional foodservice environments. It features an extensive library of over 20,000 real-world equipment items from leading manufacturers, enabling users to create accurate layouts, generate equipment schedules, cutlists, and compliance reports. The software supports collaborative workflows and exports high-quality plans for fabrication and client presentations, making it a go-to tool for industry professionals.
Pros
- Vast, manufacturer-accurate equipment library with automatic NSF compliance checks
- Seamless cloud collaboration and real-time multi-user editing
- Robust export options including interactive 3D PDFs and fabrication-ready cutlists
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Subscription pricing can be high for solo freelancers or small firms
- Requires stable internet connection as it's fully cloud-based
Best For
Professional kitchen designers, consultants, and equipment dealers handling complex commercial projects.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (billed annually) for Pro plan; Enterprise custom pricing; 14-day free trial available.
KDS Professional
specializedCAD-powered software for precise commercial kitchen design, equipment placement, and compliance with industry standards.
Parametric symbols that dynamically resize and configure equipment based on real-world specifications
KDS Professional is a powerful AutoCAD-based software tailored for commercial kitchen design, featuring an extensive library of parametric symbols for equipment, fixtures, and appliances accurately scaled to industry standards. It enables precise 2D layouts, ventilation planning, plumbing schematics, and compliance checks for health and safety codes. The tool generates professional reports, equipment takeoffs, and proposals, streamlining workflows for foodservice professionals.
Pros
- Extensive parametric symbol library with over 10,000 items specific to commercial kitchens
- Integrated compliance tools for NSF, UPC, and local codes
- Robust reporting for bids, takeoffs, and client presentations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to AutoCAD dependency
- High upfront and maintenance costs
- Limited native 3D rendering capabilities
Best For
Experienced kitchen designers and foodservice consultants handling mid-to-large commercial projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,995 plus $995 annual maintenance; network versions higher.
20-20 Design
specializedProfessional kitchen design platform with manufacturer catalogs, 3D visualization, and integration for commercial projects.
Dynamic manufacturer product catalogs with drag-and-drop integration and automatic pricing/spec syncing
20-20 Design is a professional-grade CAD software platform specializing in detailed 2D and 3D space planning for kitchens, baths, and commercial interiors, including robust tools for commercial kitchen layouts. It offers an expansive library of manufacturer-certified products, photorealistic rendering, and automated specification generation to streamline design-to-order workflows. The software excels in precise equipment placement, code-compliant planning, and immersive visualizations, making it a staple for high-volume design firms.
Pros
- Vast, real-time updated library of 700+ manufacturers' products for accurate commercial kitchen specs
- Photorealistic 3D rendering and 360-degree panoramas for client presentations
- Advanced automation for cutlists, BOMs, and manufacturing exports
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High resource demands on hardware for smooth performance
- Pricing is premium and less accessible for small firms
Best For
Established professional design firms and commercial kitchen specialists handling complex, high-value projects with manufacturer integrations.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$2,500/year per user; enterprise quotes available with add-ons for cloud access.
EASYFoodDesign
specializedOnline tool for rapid 2D/3D planning of commercial kitchens and foodservice areas with drag-and-drop functionality.
One-click automated compliance checker for NSF, UPC, and local health standards
EASYFoodDesign is a cloud-based software tailored for commercial kitchen design, enabling users to create professional 2D and 3D layouts using drag-and-drop tools and a vast library of standardized equipment. It automates compliance checks for health, safety, and ergonomic standards, streamlining the planning process for food service professionals. The platform supports quick iterations and exports high-quality plans for permits and construction.
Pros
- Highly intuitive drag-and-drop interface for rapid design
- Comprehensive equipment library with real-world dimensions
- Automated compliance verification for major health codes
Cons
- Limited support for highly custom or non-standard equipment
- Lacks advanced 3D rendering or simulation capabilities
- Fewer integration options with CAD or BIM software
Best For
Independent kitchen designers, restaurateurs, and small consultancies needing fast, compliant layouts without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (billed annually) for basic plan; pro plans up to $99/month with advanced features and unlimited projects.
SketchUp
creative_suiteIntuitive 3D modeling software enhanced with plugins for commercial kitchen design and virtual walkthroughs.
Push/Pull extrusion tool for instantly converting 2D sketches into precise 3D kitchen components
SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling software primarily used for architectural, interior, and product design, enabling users to create detailed models of commercial kitchens including layouts, equipment placement, and spatial visualizations. It supports importing 3D models from its extensive Warehouse library and offers extensions for enhanced functionality like rendering and dimensioning. While versatile and intuitive, it lacks native commercial kitchen-specific features such as automated bills of materials, plumbing/electrical integration, or regulatory compliance tools, making it more of a generalist tool adapted for kitchen design.
Pros
- Intuitive push-pull modeling for rapid 3D kitchen layout creation
- Vast 3D Warehouse library with commercial kitchen equipment models
- Extensible via plugins for rendering, animation, and custom workflows
Cons
- No built-in specialized tools for kitchen equipment catalogs or compliance standards
- Can become resource-intensive with large, detailed models
- Full pro features require a paid subscription without perpetual license option
Best For
Architects and freelance designers needing flexible 3D modeling for conceptual commercial kitchen designs without specialized CAD requirements.
Pricing
Free browser-based version; SketchUp Pro $349/year; SketchUp Studio $699/year with advanced analysis tools.
Chief Architect Premier
creative_suiteArchitectural design software with robust kitchen modules suitable for light commercial foodservice layouts.
Realistic ray-traced rendering engine for lifelike kitchen previews
Chief Architect Premier is a powerful 3D architectural design software renowned for residential home design, including detailed kitchen layouts with cabinets, appliances, and interiors. It provides advanced modeling, photorealistic rendering, and material takeoffs, making it adaptable for kitchen planning. However, it lacks specialized tools for commercial kitchens, such as industrial equipment libraries or health code compliance features.
Pros
- Superior 3D visualization and ray-traced rendering
- Extensive residential cabinetry and appliance libraries
- Automated framing, scheduling, and cost estimation tools
Cons
- Limited native support for commercial-grade equipment and symbols
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High price point not justified for commercial kitchen specialization
Best For
Residential architects or designers handling occasional light commercial kitchen projects who need high-end 3D rendering.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $3,495 for Premier; includes one year of upgrades, then $795/year optional.
AutoCAD
enterpriseIndustry-standard CAD tool for detailed 2D/3D drafting of commercial kitchen plans and elevations.
Dynamic blocks and parametric constraints for rapid, accurate iterations on equipment placement and flow optimization
AutoCAD by Autodesk is a professional-grade CAD software renowned for precise 2D drafting and 3D modeling across architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. For commercial kitchen design, it enables detailed layouts of equipment, workflows, plumbing, electrical systems, and compliance with health codes through customizable blocks and layers. While highly versatile, it lacks built-in kitchen-specific templates, requiring users to build or import libraries for optimal use. Its strength lies in integration with broader building projects rather than standalone kitchen planning.
Pros
- Unparalleled precision in 2D/3D modeling and dimensioning for complex kitchen layouts
- Vast ecosystem of add-ons, blocks, and scripts for customization including MEP integration
- Industry-standard DWG format ensures compatibility and collaboration with architects/engineers
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires significant training for non-CAD experts
- No native commercial kitchen libraries or drag-and-drop tools, needing manual setup
- High subscription cost offers poor value for kitchen-only use compared to specialized software
Best For
Experienced architects and engineers designing large-scale commercial kitchens as part of full building projects.
Pricing
Subscription from $235/month or $1,865/year (single-user); volume discounts available for teams.
Revit
enterpriseBIM software for collaborative design of complex commercial kitchens including MEP integration.
Integrated BIM clash detection and fabrication coordination for precise kitchen equipment placement and MEP integration
Autodesk Revit is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) software primarily used for architectural, structural, and MEP design, which can be adapted for commercial kitchen layouts through custom families, parametric components, and MEP tools for equipment placement and piping. It enables detailed 3D modeling, clash detection, scheduling, and integration with fabrication workflows, making it suitable for complex projects involving kitchens within larger buildings. However, it lacks out-of-the-box commercial kitchen-specific libraries and templates, requiring significant customization.
Pros
- Robust BIM capabilities for 3D modeling, clash detection, and multi-discipline coordination ideal for kitchens in large projects
- Extensive add-in ecosystem including MEP tools for hoods, plumbing, and electrical layouts
- Parametric families allow reusable custom kitchen components and accurate quantity takeoffs
Cons
- Steep learning curve not suited for quick kitchen-only designs
- High subscription cost with limited value for niche kitchen use without full AEC needs
- Lacks specialized commercial kitchen libraries, requiring time-intensive custom modeling
Best For
Architectural firms or multidisciplinary teams designing commercial kitchens as part of broader building projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$2,545 USD for Revit standalone or included in AEC Collection (~$3,110 USD/year); no perpetual licenses.
Vectorworks Architect
enterpriseBIM and CAD hybrid for interior design, including commercial kitchen modeling and documentation.
Marionette visual scripting for creating bespoke parametric kitchen components and workflows
Vectorworks Architect is a comprehensive BIM and CAD software platform tailored for architectural design, offering advanced 2D drafting, 3D modeling, rendering, and parametric object creation. While not specialized for commercial kitchen design, it supports detailed interior layouts through customizable symbols, hybrid 2D/3D environments, and scripting tools like Marionette for automation. It excels in integrating kitchen designs seamlessly into larger building projects, making it suitable for architects handling multifaceted commercial spaces.
Pros
- Powerful 2D/3D hybrid modeling for precise kitchen layouts
- Parametric objects and Marionette scripting for custom automation
- Strong BIM integration for coordinating kitchens with full building designs
Cons
- Lacks built-in manufacturer catalogs and drag-and-drop kitchen-specific libraries
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-architectural users
- High cost relative to dedicated kitchen design tools
Best For
Architects designing commercial kitchens as part of broader building or interior projects who need BIM-level integration.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$3,100/year for Architect edition; perpetual licenses ~$4,500+ with annual maintenance.
ArchiCAD
enterpriseBIM platform for architectural projects with tools for kitchen design and facility planning.
Advanced Morph tool for intuitive freeform modeling of custom kitchen islands, hoods, and equipment
ArchiCAD is a robust BIM (Building Information Modeling) software primarily designed for architects, offering advanced 3D modeling, documentation, and collaboration tools that can be adapted for commercial kitchen design. It excels in creating detailed architectural layouts, incorporating custom parametric objects for appliances and fixtures, and integrating structural and MEP elements essential for professional kitchens. While versatile for larger projects, it lacks specialized kitchen-specific libraries and workflows compared to dedicated tools.
Pros
- Powerful BIM tools for 3D modeling and clash detection in complex kitchen layouts
- Excellent MEP integration for plumbing, electrical, and ventilation planning
- Customizable object libraries and parametric design for appliances
Cons
- Steep learning curve not suited for quick kitchen-only designs
- No built-in commercial kitchen equipment catalogs, requiring custom modeling
- High cost relative to specialized kitchen software
Best For
Architectural firms integrating commercial kitchen designs into full-building BIM projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $2,400 USD per user, with perpetual licenses and educational discounts available.
Conclusion
Reviewing the top 10 commercial kitchen design software reveals ProKitchen Online as the clear leader, thanks to its cloud-based flexibility and specialized equipment libraries. KDS Professional and 20-20 Design follow closely, offering precise compliance-focused tools and robust integration for manufacturers, respectively—both strong choices for different needs. Whether prioritizing ease of use, accuracy, or collaboration, these top three tools exemplify the best in the field.
Begin your commercial kitchen design journey with ProKitchen Online today—its intuitive platform and detailed features can turn your vision into a functional, efficient layout that sets your space up for success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
