In 2025, speed is everything. Whether you are a systems integrator juggling multiple deadlines or an AV consultant delivering proposals at scale, the ability to work faster without compromising accuracy is critical. That is why AV design software has evolved from simple drawing tools into full-fledged, cloud-based platforms with automation and collaboration features. But the real question remains—which AV design tools truly save the most time?
In this blog, we conduct a practical speed test to compare the leading AV design software platforms on the market. We explore how each tool performs when it comes to creating AV schematics, generating documentation, and managing design changes. With XTEN-AV at the top of our list, let us find out which platform delivers results the fastest.
Why Speed Matters in AV Design
AV professionals are often under tight timelines, from project scoping to final installation. Delays in design can ripple into procurement, labor coordination, and client delivery. That is why using AV design tools that streamline your workflow can lead to massive productivity gains.
The most effective AV design software is not just about drawing diagrams. It is about how fast you can:
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Start a new project
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Create a functional schematic
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Auto-route cables
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Generate all documentation
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Respond to client changes
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Collaborate with your team
Let us see how the top tools perform when put to the test.
XTEN-AV: Fastest Design-to-Documentation Workflow
XTEN-AV has become the go-to AV design software for professionals looking to save time without sacrificing design quality. The key to its speed is automation. With its built-in AI agent Xavia, XTEN-AV lets you create an entire AV schematic just by typing your system requirements.
Speed Test Results:
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Project creation: Less than 1 minute
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Schematic generation with Xavia: 3 minutes
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Cable routing and connections: 2 minutes
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Documentation auto-generation: Instant (under 1 minute)
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Total time to complete design: 7 minutes
XTEN-AV eliminates redundant steps by combining system design, documentation, and collaboration into one cloud-based interface. You do not have to export files or switch between tools.
Bonus Time-Saver: XTEN-AV automatically updates all documents when you make changes to the schematic.
D-Tools Cloud: Strong for Sales, Slower for Design
D-Tools Cloud is known for its proposal and quoting tools. While it includes AV design tools, they are more limited compared to XTEN-AV. Most of the workflow is focused on sales and pre-sales processes.
Speed Test Results:
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Project creation: 1 minute
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Schematic design using basic drawing tools: 10 minutes
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Manual cable routing and component placement: 7 minutes
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Documentation generation: 3 to 5 minutes
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Total time to complete design: 20 to 25 minutes
D-Tools Cloud saves time in the quoting phase but lacks the automation in design and cable routing that AV integrators need for technical documentation.
Stardraw Design Online: Manual but Familiar
Stardraw Design Online remains a favorite for AV professionals who are used to traditional schematic drafting. While functional, it is more manual in nature and does not offer the speed advantages of AI or automation.
Speed Test Results:
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Project creation: 1 minute
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Manual drawing of schematic: 15 minutes
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Labeling and routing cables: 10 minutes
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Documentation export: 2 minutes
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Total time to complete design: 28 minutes
Stardraw is great for those who prefer full control, but for time-sensitive projects, the manual steps add up quickly.
System Surveyor: Fast for Field Mapping, Slower for Detail Work
System Surveyor is an excellent tool for mapping AV devices during site surveys. It is fast when capturing device locations on floor plans, especially using mobile devices. However, it is not built for in-depth schematic creation or documentation.
Speed Test Results:
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Initial device mapping on site: 5 minutes
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Detailed system design and connection planning: Requires external tools
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Documentation generation: Limited
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Total time to complete full design: Varies depending on integration with other tools
This tool is fast for early-stage planning but not ideal for complete AV design workflows.
AViCAD Cloud: Precision Over Speed
AViCAD Cloud is designed for users who require CAD-level precision. While it provides a powerful drawing environment, it is not optimized for quick AV design workflows.
Speed Test Results:
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Project setup and environment loading: 3 minutes
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Device placement using CAD tools: 20 minutes
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Manual cable routing: 15 minutes
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Documentation export: 5 minutes
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Total time to complete design: 43 minutes
AViCAD is best for engineering teams but is not the fastest choice for standard AV installations.
Summary: Which AV Design Tool Saves the Most Time
| Software Tool | Total Design Time | Automation Level | Best For | Cloud-Based |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XTEN-AV | 7 minutes | High | Complete AV design workflows | Yes |
| D-Tools Cloud | 20 to 25 minutes | Medium | Sales proposals and quoting | Yes |
| Stardraw Online | 28 minutes | Low | Manual schematics | Yes |
| System Surveyor | Varies | Medium | Field device mapping | Yes |
| AViCAD Cloud | 43 minutes | Low | CAD-heavy engineering projects | Partial |
Conclusion
In the fast-paced world of AV integration, time saved is money earned. Among the leading AV design tools, XTEN-AV clearly stands out as the fastest and most intelligent AV design software in 2025.
With AI-powered schematic generation, automated documentation, and real-time collaboration, XTEN-AV allows you to complete projects in a fraction of the time compared to traditional tools. Whether you are working on a tight deadline or managing multiple installations, choosing the right platform can make all the difference.
For AV professionals who want to stay ahead of the competition, XTEN-AV is not just a tool—it is a time-saving partner that transforms how you design.
Read more: http://woorichat.com/read-blog/64980
