AutoCAD

How to Turn Off Gizmo in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Gizmo in AutoCAD

The Gizmo in AutoCAD is a powerful tool essential for manipulating 3D objects. It allows users to move, rotate, and scale objects easily by visually interacting with a 3D axis or plane. When designing in a 3D environment, the Gizmo acts as an intuitive interface, making it easier to manage dimensions and orientations without needing to enter complex commands.

Steps to Turn Off the Gizmo in AutoCAD

If you find the Gizmo distracting or unnecessary for your current project, disabling it can help streamline your workflow. Follow these detailed steps to turn off the Gizmo in AutoCAD 2025:

  1. Navigate to the Options Menu
    Begin by right-clicking in the drawing area or click on the application menu (the AutoCAD logo at the top-left corner). In the dropdown menu, locate and select Options. This will open the Options dialog box, where various preferences can be adjusted.

  2. Access the Drafting Tab
    In the Options dialog box, you will see several tabs at the top. Click on the Drafting tab. This is where you can modify settings related to object manipulation and tracking options.

  3. Find the Gizmo Settings
    Scroll through the Drafting tab until you find the section labeled Gizmo. Here, you will see options that pertain to the Gizmo’s display and functionality within your workspace.

  4. Disable the Gizmo Option
    Uncheck the option that states "Display Gizmo." This action will effectively turn off the Gizmo feature so that it no longer appears when you are working with 3D objects.

  5. Confirm Changes
    After making this adjustment, click OK at the bottom of the Options dialog box to save your changes. The Gizmo should now be turned off, allowing for a more simplified workspace.

Re-enabling the Gizmo

If you need to utilize the Gizmo again in the future, you can easily re-enable it by following the same steps above and checking the box next to the "Display Gizmo" option. This flexibility allows you to customize your workspace according to your current needs.

Working with 3D Objects without the Gizmo

Even without the Gizmo, AutoCAD provides various other tools and commands to manipulate 3D objects effectively. Users can utilize commands like MOVE, ROTATE, and SCALE directly via the command line to achieve desired results. Familiarizing yourself with these commands can help maintain productivity even when the Gizmo is disabled.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the effect of turning off the Gizmo in AutoCAD?
Turning off the Gizmo removes the visual handles that assist with moving, rotating, or scaling 3D objects. It can help declutter the workspace, allowing for a focus on drawing and design without distraction.

2. Can I use AutoCAD effectively without the Gizmo?
Yes, AutoCAD offers a robust command line and a variety of tools for manipulating 3D objects. While the Gizmo provides a visual aid, many users find alternative command inputs or manually adjusting object properties just as effective.

3. How do I know if the Gizmo is turned off or on?
When the Gizmo is turned off, you will not see any 3D manipulation handles on objects in your workspace. You can quickly check its status by trying to move, rotate, or scale any 3D object; if no Gizmo appears, it is off.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.