Solid Edge has solidified its role in the development of CAD and the history of CAM, but it’s far from the only option. Many alternatives are available for both new and current users. With this background in mind, let’s explore the top 5 alternatives to Solid Edge. These alternatives, like Solid Edge, are drawn from the mid-range category, which itself is an element of the pricing. Before diving into the alternatives, let’s first outline what Solid Edge offers in terms of features and pricing.

What is Solid Edge?

Solid Edge is a mid-range 2D drafting and 3D modeling software. First announced in 1995 and released in 1996 by the now-defunct Intergraph, Solid Edge was initially oriented towards the design of large assemblies. Later versions, however, incorporated individual part design. (Intergraph was acquired by and folded into Unigraphics Solutions in 1998, with Siemens acquiring Unigraphics in 2007.) 

Today, Solid Edge is developed and sold by Siemens Digital Industries Software, a Siemens subsidiary. It offers a range of tools and features aimed at meeting a number of business needs in the mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing fields. It ships with broad 2D and 3D design solutions as well as scalable data management and collaboration solutions.

Features of Solid Edge

Solid Edge User Interface (source)

Solid Edge is an industry-leading 3D modeling software that supports part and assembly modeling, photorealistic rendering, sheet metal design, and modular plant design (including the creation of 3D piping systems). The software’s computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) solutions support various manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing, assembling, welding, molding, nesting, CNC machining, and 3D printing. Solid Edge also supports 2D drafting, including dimensioning, annotation, simple drawing layouts, and diagramming. The software also ensures the 2D drawings comply with CAD standards.

With Solid Edge, you can design simple electrical circuits and complex wire harnesses, simulate circuit performance, visualize electrical aspects, and access a massive library of electrical parts and components. Solid Edge also lets you create 2D industrial control panel layouts and PCBs and design routes along which wiring will be laid in 3D assembly models.

Beyond electrical design, Solid Edge features the synchronous technology, which combines direct modeling with parametric design. This feature helps users create 3D models faster and easier, as well as implement change requests more rapidly. In fact, it enables users to simultaneously update multiple parts within an assembly.

For analysis and simulation, Solid Edge includes integrated tools and systems that enhance its capabilities. For instance, the Simcenter FLOEFD facilitates computational fluid dynamics (CFD), while the Simcenter Flomaster allows you to model thermos-fluid systems based on CAD data. These tools enable you to optimize and validate your CAD models.

Solid Edge Pricing

There are four Solid Edge packages: Solid Edge Design and Drafting, Solid Edge Foundation, Solid Edge Classic, and Solid Edge Premium. Each package is sold on a subscription basis, with a term of one month, one year, or three years. The Solid Edge prices are summarized in the table below:

Top 5 Solid Edge Alternatives

Solid Edge was released as a mid-range modeling software. The software still targets this demographic, which is why Scan2CAD’s list of the top 5 Solid Edge alternatives only includes the following mid-range software:

1.     SolidWorks
2.     Inventor
3.     Onshape
4.     Rhino
5.     Autodesk Fusion

Our analysis of these top 5 Solid Edge alternatives will be based on various parameters, including features and capabilities, user experience, and pricing.

1. SolidWorks

SolidWorks User Interface (source)

Like Solid Edge, SolidWorks is a mid-range 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software. It is currently a product of software giant Dassault Systèmes, which acquired the SolidWorks franchise in 1997. (SolidWorks is, however, much older than Solid Edge, with its prototype – then called Winchester Design – having been released in late 1994.) 

SolidWorks enables 2D drafting, 3D modeling, animation and visualization, simulation, advanced photorealistic rendering and analyses (e.g., time-based motion analysis, linear static analysis using linear stress analysis and finite element analysis (FEA), and sustainability analysis). It can handle the design and modeling of complex parts and assemblies and can be used to conduct large design reviews. The software also supports cloud-based collaboration and file management, allowing you to connect and share files with remote teams and partners, as well as get timely feedback. 

What’s more, SolidWorks is equally capable on the manufacturing front. It ships with tools that enable you to prepare models for additive manufacturing and print directly to a 3D printer. It also helps NC programmers optimize tool paths and validate their manufacturing designs.

Solid Edge vs. SolidWorks

Pricing

SolidWorks is a more expensive Solid Edge alternative. The SolidWorks pricing is as follows: The comprehensive SolidWorks Premium package, which includes all the aforementioned features, costs $4,716 per year. The other packages, SolidWorks Professional and SolidWorks Standard, cost $3,456 per year and $2,820 per year, respectively. In addition, a perpetual license for SolidWorks sets you back about $4,195 plus the cost of supported subscription services, which can be as much as $3,200. 

However, you may find these amounts off-putting as a hobbyist, which is perhaps why SolidWorks has a cheaper option for makers, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts. SolidWorks for Makers costs $48 per year. This software lets you design parts, assemblies, and 2D drawings and create freeform, sheet metal, and mold designs. It also supports NC programming via its CAM tools, rendering, and motion studies.

Tools and Features

As one of the top 5 Solid Edge alternatives, SolidWorks sports a comprehensive suite of tools that have endeared it to millions of active users. SolidWorks is indeed one of the biggest names in the CAD space. Both Solid Edge and SolidWorks have built-in simulation, rendering, and CAM tools. They both have powerful and proven 2D drawing and 3D modeling capabilities and data/file management solutions. 

Another similarity is that both software products promote collaboration with their cloud connectivity. Solid Edge achieves this through the Teamcenter Share solution, while SolidWorks offers cloud collaboration tools like Share and Markup, chat support, and video calls, just to mention a few.

Solid Edge users report that the software is more stable than SolidWorks –the latter, they say, crashes more times than the former. From a user experience perspective, users report that Solid Edge’s user interface has improved over the years, making it more usable than before. Users also report that Solid Edge is better than SolidWorks (or even Inventor) at dealing with assemblies and sheet metal designs. They note that the former handles large assemblies much better.

2. Inventor

Inventor User Interface (source)

Like Solid Edge and SolidWorks, Inventor was released in the 1990s; Autodesk released Inventor in 1999. It is a professional-grade 3D CAD software that provides powerful mechanical design tools for 2D drawing, 3D (part and assembly) modeling, visualization, simulation, sheet metal design, and documentation. With regards to simulation and visualization, Inventor facilitates stress analysis, animations and exploded views, and dynamic simulation. Other capabilities and features include model-based definition (MBD), a crucial component of the model-based enterprise(MBE), parametric and direct modeling, tube and pipe design, and automated frame design. 

In addition, Investor’s integrated Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) and iLogic functionality lets users automate repetitive design tasks, helping streamline designs through custom scripting and programming. iLogic enables you to create rules/logic that run at specific times to do prescribed work. VBA, on the other hand, lets you customize/program Inventor and integrate it with third-party applications and data. Inventor also supports BIM interoperability and allows you to integrate PCB and mechanical designs into a single definition of a model.

Solid Edge vs. Inventor

Pricing

Autodesk sells Inventor via three different subscription licensing options: a one-month subscription license, costing $310 per user; a one-year subscription license, priced at $2,500; and a three-year license, costing $7,505 per user. For this reason, the Solid Edge Classic and Premium packages are more expensive than Inventor. However, the other two packages, Solid Edge Foundation and Solid Edge Design and Drafting, are cheaper.

Tools and Features

While Inventor supports direct modeling and parametric design, its implementation of these design approaches is separate. In contrast, the synchronous technology in Solid Edge combines both direct and parametric modeling. This means that Solid Edge allows users to simultaneously enjoy the best of both worlds, enabling users to, in theory, create and update 3D models much faster.

Another point of divergence is the custom scripting. While Inventor lets you define rules and logic that guide the software to automate repetitive tasks, Solid Edge does not. In fact, Solid Edge does not have VBA, meaning you cannot run scripts/documents that automate the software or extend its capabilities.

3. Onshape

Onshape User Interface (source)

Onshape is our third entry in our list of the top 5 Solid Edge alternatives. It is a web-based/cloud-native CAD and product data management (PDM) software. It, therefore, runs on any device via the web browser and is not prone to crashing or data losses. Onshape auto-saves design data in the cloud. Its cloud-native architecture provides additional advantages beyond data storage: it empowers real-time collaboration. Multiple professionals can work together on the same design, often simultaneously.

Regarding its design tools and features, Onshape supports 2D drafting/drawing and the design of parts, assembly, sheet metal, frames, and surfaces. It also has a PCB studio that allows you to design printed circuit boards (PCBs). Other capabilities include simulation and rendering. 

What’s more, Onshape plans to roll out the CAM Studio, which is currently available by invitation only. CAM Studio will add CAM capabilities to the native Onshape software. It will support toolpath calculations and CNC machine simulations to prevent machine damage. It will also generate G-code programs for CNC machining.

Solid Edge vs. Onshape

Pricing 

There is a free Onshape plan that includes CAD tools for designing parts, assemblies, drawings, sheet metal, and weldments, unlimited public storage, real-time collaboration, version control, mobile apps, and online training. The Onshape Standard plan costs $1,500 per user per year, while the Onshape Professional plan costs $2,500 per user per year. It is, however, worth mentioning that the Standard plan only provides limited improvements over the free plan. You must choose the Professional plan to access advanced features like simulation and rendering. 

Tools and Features

Both Solid Edge and Onshape support electrical design. However, Solid Edge is much more advanced on this front. While Onshape only allows designers to create PCB designs via its PCB studio, Solid Edge takes it several notches higher, as detailed earlier. 

Another key difference is that Onshape is architected as web-based software, while Solid Edge is designed to be installed locally on a computer. For this reason, Onshape’s architecture eliminates crashes that can – and often do – affect Solid Edge. However, this presents another issue: Onshape cannot work without an internet connection. That said, a benefit of this architecture is that Onshape promotes real-time collaboration. Solid Edge nonetheless does enable collaboration via Teamcenter Share, Siemens’ cloud-based collaboration solution.

4. Autodesk Fusion

Autodesk Fusion User Interface (source)

Autodesk Fusion is a cloud-based platform that fuses various capabilities, including CAD, CAE, CAM, and PCB, thus facilitating various integral processes in the manufacturing industry. It is intended to streamline the entire product development process by facilitating an easy transition from design and analysis to manufacturing.

Fusion’s features and tools support 3D design and modeling, direct modeling, parametric modeling, surface modeling, freeform modeling, sheet metal design, and assembly and part design. With Fusion, you can also create NC code for 3 to 5-axis machining, turning, and turn-milling operations. Additionally, Fusion supports simulation, generative design (which exemplifies the role of AI in CAD), data management, additive manufacturing, collaboration, and documentation.

You can incorporate more advanced features by purchasing and integrating several extensions into Fusion. The Fusion Manufacturing Extension, for instance, unlocks CAM capabilities and tools. This extension lets you access tools for 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC machining, additive manufacturing, and sheet-based nesting and fabrication. 

Other extensions include the Fusion Simulation Extension, which lets you optimize your design’s performance and incorporate generative design, FEA, and more. The Fusion Design Extension helps enhance the aesthetics and performance of a design, while the Fusion Manage Extension lets you manage data, change orders, releases, and bills of materials. However, these extensions are priced between $495 and $1,465 annually.

Solid Edge vs. Fusion

Pricing

How much does Fusion cost? Like Inventor, Fusion is also available to consumers via three subscription tiers. The one-month license costs $85, with the one-year subscription costing anywhere between $476 and $680, depending on whether Autodesk is running an offer. The three-year subscription costs $2,040. It is worth emphasizing that a free package with limited functionality is also available for qualifying non-commercial customers as a three-year subscription. Fusion costs much less than both Solid Edge and Inventor.

Tools and Features

Both Solid Edge and Fusion have advanced PCB and schematic design tools. However, Solid Edge trumps Fusion when it comes to other elements of electrical design. For instance, and as discussed earlier, Solid Edge enables you to design wiring harnesses, route wiring in assemblies, simulate circuit performance, and visualize electrical elements, just to mention a few. On its part, Fusion lacks these advanced tools.

But Fusion shines in one aspect where Solid Edge falls short: Fusion is available for Windows and MacOS. You can also access Fusion via a web browser. In contrast, Solid Edge is only available on Windows and must be installed locally.

5. Rhino

Rhino User Interface (source)

Rhino is the fifth entry in our list of the top 5 Solid Edge alternatives. Rhino is a 3D CAD software capable of free-form 3D modeling, 2D drafting, and surface modeling. It supports analysis, simulation, animation, and rendering, not to mention that it also features CAM functionalities. Rhino also streamlines the design process thanks to its scripting capabilities. You can use scripting tools like the Unified Script Editor to customize and extend the software’s capabilities. 

Additionally, Rhino offers file management tools that help you manage large files and projects. These tools enable you to merge files, preview projects, compress files, and export designs. The Rhino community considers this software a robust 3D modeling software, particularly for NURB surfaces. In fact, the software is perfect as a shaping tool, given it is oriented towards surfacing, shaping, and forming. 

In this sense, Rhino differs from other 3D modeling software applications like Solid Edge, which help users build parts and products. Depending on how you view it, this can be an advantage or a disadvantage. From a broad product development perspective, however, Rhino can fall short, especially because it does not support assemblies. Nonetheless, Rhino is available on both Windows and MacOS, which is a plus.  

Solid Edge vs. Rhino

Pricing

Rhino is priced at a flat rate of $995 per user for a perpetual license. You can also upgrade from an older version to a new version for $595 per user. In this regard, Rhino is a cheaper Solid Edge alternative and the cheapest in the long-term.

Tools and Features

Solid Edge offers more comprehensive tools and features than Rhino, a fact that is perhaps reflected in the pricing. For instance, Solid Edge supports the design of assemblies and parts, while Rhino is suited for the design of surfaces or meshes. Analysis is another area where Solid Edge is superior. While Rhino does enable you to analyze 3D models, its capabilities are limited on this front. In contrast, Solid Edge offers a panoply of analysis tools, including built-in FEA, CFD, and thermos-fluid analysis. Rhino also lacks cloud-based collaboration tools; its Cloud Zoo solution is designed to manage licenses rather than files and data.

Conclusion

If you are looking for mid-range 3D modeling software, there are several options besides Solid Edge. The top 5 Solid Edge alternatives include SolidWorks, Inventor, Onshape, Autodesk Fusion, and Rhino. The developers of each of these software products have integrated robust design, simulation, analysis, rendering, and collaboration tools. But some tools are superior to others. For instance, four of the top 5 Solid Edge alternatives, alongside Solid Edge itself, are superior to Rhino when it comes to collaboration, assembly and part design, simulation, and rendering. However, Rhino thrives in surface modeling. Against this backdrop, understanding what each software is capable of is key to choosing the best option for your 3D modeling task.

Therefore, a better design approach has never been more necessary. And it comes in the form of collaborative design. In this article, Scan2CAD delves into the world of collaborative design, discussing what collaborative design is, the types of collaborative design approaches, and what collaborative CAD software applications are intended to achieve. We also discuss the top 3 collaborative CAD software, the criteria for selecting these CAD systems, and how to integrate collaborative design into your workflow. Let’s get started.

Understanding Collaborative Design in CAD

Also known as concurrent design, cooperative design, or interdisciplinary design, collaborative design refers to the process of designing a part, product, or assembly through collaboration among different designers. Beyond the in-house design team, collaborative design also incorporates the input of the designers working for external parties such as suppliers, partners, and customers.

Simply put, collaborative design supports the outsourcing trends now common in the manufacturing industry. This is because this design approach is intended to support distribution – the expansion of CAD systems’ capabilities to support remote design activities. As a result, members of collaborative teams can work at different desks within the same campus/building or across geographical boundaries and time zones.

Collaborative design can be used for both complex and large assemblies and products, such as airliners, as well as small or medium-sized products, such as electronic components and machine tools. Regardless of the product’s size, the underlying principle remains constant: product designers work in parallel, independently, and concurrently using the design tools that aid their disciplinary work. 

These systems must also seamlessly enable the sharing of design information in real time among multidisciplinary product designers and teams in different jurisdictions. This means these systems must ship with built-in communication capabilities that enable collaborators to interact with each other, bounce ideas and strategies off each other, provide feedback, and include comments or annotations. Presently, collaborative design systems facilitate the sharing of this information via the intranet or the internet.

Moreover, solutions for collaborative design must be capable of integrating heterogeneous software tools for design, analysis, simulation, and manufacturing optimization. This integration guarantees a free flow of design information.

Types of Collaborative Design Approaches in CAD

There are two types of collaborative design approaches in CAD:

• Horizontal collaborative design
• Hierarchical collaborative design

Horizontal Collaborative Design

Horizontal collaborative design involves designers drawn from the same discipline or department. It emphasizes the use of collaborative CAD software to facilitate intradisciplinary design, with the designers simultaneously working on complex design tasks. 

Hierarchical Collaborative Design

Hierarchical collaborative design brings together both upstream design teams and downstream manufacturing personnel. Thus, hierarchical collaborative design is multidisciplinary, unlike horizontal collaborative design, which assembles professionals from the same discipline. It is, therefore, accurate to say that this type of collaborative design covers the entire product lifecycle, from preliminary design, detailed design, manufacturing of individual parts, and assembly to testing, quality control, and product service. Moreover, beyond the in-house team, hierarchical collaborative design collates design and manufacturing teams drawn from external organizations.

Collaborative CAD Software

It is not uncommon for an organization to purchase hundreds or even thousands of licenses for the same software. Within such an organization, intradisciplinary and multidisciplinary teams use the same CAD software. However, such software cannot be referred to as collaborative CAD software. It is a standalone CAD system used throughout the organization. 

Similarly, collaborative CAD systems cannot be simply created by equipping such standalone CAD software with communication and IT tools. In fact, most modern CAD systems require you to sign in to your account for license validation. While IT facilities support this form of communication, it does not make the standalone CAD system a collaborative design software. So, what is collaborative CAD software?

A collaborative design application or collaborative CAD software is intended to provide designers with a shared and distributed platform for specifying and building on shared design information in a coordinated, organized fashion with the aim of agreeing on a specific design that meets the set requirements or constraints. It uses a different system architecture, which fundamentally changes most aspects of a conventional CAD system. 

Thus, developers build collaborative CAD software from the ground up, rather than from an existing standalone CAD system. This is why Autodesk offers the AutoCAD web app for collaboration instead of the native desktop app. Collaborative design software organizes design activities. Also, it supports bidirectional communications and interactions among design professionals, simultaneous co-modelling and co-modification, secure CAD data storage, and controlled access.

Criteria for Selecting Collaborative CAD Software

For an application to be considered collaborative CAD software, it must include tools that enable the fulfillment of most, if not all, of the following requirements:

• Collaboration
• Distribution
• Concurrent design
• Information modeling
• Access control
• Communication tools
• User-friendly interface
• Document and version management
• Performance

Collaboration

As the name suggests, collaborative CAD systems should enable collaboration. These solutions should be capable of coordinating and associating either individual CAD systems, each operated by a different designer, or various professionals to achieve a particular design target or objective. Tools that facilitate both human-to-human relationships and human-to-computer interactions fuel collaboration. 

Distribution

Distribution refers to the physical separation of a CAD system such that different people in geographically dispersed locations use it at the same time. Driven by cloud computing and other technologies, it creates distributed systems that support remote design work.

Concurrent Design

The collaborative CAD software must update the shared design or model in real time as soon as the designers make changes. This approach allows for concurrent design activities rather than sequential design. It ensures every designer or engineer views and works on the most current version of the drawing or model.

Information Modeling

Collaboration involves multiple professionals drawn from different teams, each serving an important function. However, if they are working on the same project, it goes without saying that their tasks are naturally linked. For this reason, collaborative design software should be capable of representing and capturing the relationships between these parties and or their input. This is known as information modeling. It helps enrich the design data.

Access Control

A collaborative design CAD should restrict access to the designs or models. It should also enable administrators to administer the rights to modify, view, or add comments/annotations to the designs. Access control is considered a crucial measure for ensuring coherence in the design processes. It prevents unauthorized parties from tampering with the design data or even viewing the data, which could include proprietary information.

Communication Tools

The software should facilitate discussions between colleagues. Typically, the design process is characterized by several designers working in parallel. The designers can be drawn from different disciplines, including electronic, mechanical, mechatronic, and more. For optimal results, each designer in this collaborative environment should be aware of their colleagues’ work. 

To boost efficiency, the software should have communication tools that enable the designers to communicate when and if a design modification of a mechanical element of the part or assembly, for example, will require the modification of an electrical aspect of the same part. 

User-Friendly and Intuitive Interface

The CAD solution should have an interface that displays in 3D the designs and models created by all designers and engineers. It should also allow the stakeholders to interact with the creations according to the permissions granted to them. Furthermore, given the potential complexity of the product design, the software’s interface should enable selective viewing. Selective viewing lets stakeholders view select sections rather than the whole model, part, or assembly.

Document and Version Management Tools

A good collaborative design system should ship with tools for managing documents. Naturally, a typical project involves the creation of tens, hundreds, or even thousands of documents. Therefore, it is essential to select software capable of managing these files.

Moreover, the CAD system should track the creation process, keeping a record of the various versions. This helps design teams restore design data to the previous stage, particularly if different parties hit a snug or their experiments prove unsuccessful.

Some collaborative design solutions include built-in product data management (PDM) tools. PDM tools support collaboration by storing every document, drawing, or model in a secure central repository. In addition, these solutions track every version and revision, showing the history of each file. They also provide avenues for seeking and obtaining approvals.

Performance

A collaborative design solution should be powerful enough to handle complex parts and assemblies created and edited by multiple parties simultaneously. Moreover, modern CAD systems can perform analysis and simulation tasks. Some also include CAM capabilities. It goes without saying that the data generated throughout product development, from design, simulation, analysis, and manufacturing, is, by and large, huge. A good collaborative CAD software should handle these data seamlessly, without hanging or freezing. 

Top 3 CAD Software Options for Collaborative Design

The top 3 collaborative CAD software options are:

• Onshape
• Autodesk Fusion
• 3DExperience Platform

1. Onshape

Onshape User Interface (source)

Onshape is an unmatched collaborative design software. It is a cloud-based collaborative CAD software that uses its unique cloud database architecture to deliver real-time collaboration capabilities. It allows teams, drawn from within an organization or external entities like suppliers, partners, and customers, to work from anywhere, at any time, and on any device. Onshape supports intradisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaboration, bringing together the core design team, extended internal team, and employees of external partners. 

The software supports simultaneous collaboration, enabling engineers to work together on the same drawing, model, or document at the same time. This way, Onshape improves the professional’s ability to ideate, exchange ideas, iterate the designs, and hasten the time to market. 

Collaborative Design Features in Onshape

Onshape offers the following collaboration features:

• Branching and merging
• Edit history
• Follow mode
• Live comments
• Mark-ups
• Assigning tasks function
• Real-time notifications
• Integrated sharing and access permission settings
• Light User function

Branching and Merging

A useful tool that allows designers and engineers to experiment with design changes, Onshape’s branching feature lets you create a branch or multiple branches for each experiment. All changes made to these branches do not alter the original version or the work of others in your shared document. As a result, if the experimentation proves futile, you can quickly return to the initial design. With the aid of this feature, you can build multiple design variations and even compare the creations you have made in each branch. If you are happy with one or multiple variations, you can merge the best elements from these designs.

Edit History and Follow Mode

The Edit History feature tracks all changes made to the design document. It lets users view, review, change, or undo edits. Like the branching feature, Edit History allows designers to return to an earlier version of the product, particularly if their attempts to try out new ideas are unsuccessful. Follow Mode facilitates live design reviews and presentations. Moreover, it has a live commenting tool that lets colleagues add suggestions and comments, thus boosting collaboration.

Live Comments/Assigning Tasks and Mark-ups

Live Comments is separate from the Follow Mode feature. It lets users add comments to a design document. The comments can be directed at individuals or the entire team. The Live Comment feature also includes the Assigning Tasks function. Users can assign tasks to specific persons or the entire team by accessing the function conveniently located in the Comments section. Closely related is the Mark-ups feature that allows teammates to share feedback instantly, reducing the need for constant back and forth via email communication.

Real-Time Notification and Permissions

Onshape’s Real-Time Notification feature sends updates of new comments to the user’s email as well as to the application’s interface. It allows users to stay up-to-date with new comments as and when other team members create them. Moreover, it conveniently allows them to respond in real time, thus promoting collaboration. The permissions feature, on the other hand, lets designers control access to documents and CAD models. Designers can choose to accord view-only, full-editing, or commenting-only privileges. 

Light User Function

Lastly, Light User function allows users to quickly share CAD models with internal and external parties for feedback. Only available to users on the Enterprise plan, this feature grants secure, limited permissions to view the model and add comments. Thanks to the reduced permissions, the external or internal parties cannot edit the model, thus preventing accidental and unwanted changes to the design.

Onshape Access Control and Share Settings Window (source)

Onshape Pricing

Given the various collaborative design features available on Onshape, a fundamental question arises: How much does Onshape cost? Like all other CAD software, Onshape uses a tiered pricing model, with the price of each tier shown below:

2. Autodesk Fusion

Autodesk Fusion User Interface (source)

Autodesk Fusion, formerly Fusion 360, is cloud-enabled software that integrates CAD, CAE, CAM, and PCB capabilities within the same platform. Launched in 2012, it combines capabilities and features typically found in separate conceptual, industrial, and mechanical design tools into one cloud-based CAD service. However, Autodesk Fusion does not run in a web browser. Instead, it is a web app designed to offer a radically intuitive user experience, integrated collaboration tools, and secure access to and storage of design information.

The collaborative CAD software allows users to go from conceptual design to manufacturing 5x faster, according to Autodesk. This is because it eliminates the use of multiple software products across different departments, all with different user interfaces and their respective native file formats, which can lead to delays and the possibility of losing data in translation. 

For its part, Autodesk Fusion standardizes the design process by providing one design tool. And given that it has CAD, CAE, CAM, and PCB tools, the software is an end-to-end solution that covers the entire product development process. Beyond that, it lets users work with colleagues and communicate their design ideas and creations.

Collaborative Design Features in Autodesk Fusion

According to Autodesk, Fusion was built with a collaboration-first mindset. Many years after its launch, Fusion is still a premier collaborative CAD software. Central to this is the fact that it is a cloud-based software, meaning engineers and designers can use Autodesk Fusion anytime and from anywhere, provided they have an internet connection. This software offers a number of social collaboration features, including:

• Web app architecture
• Cloud-based service
• Data management tools
• Integrated workflows
• Support for concurrent design
• Access control
• Fusion Team Participant

Web App Architecture

Autodesk Fusion is a web app that is downloaded and installed on a computer. The web app has an intuitive, user-friendly interface. It is this web app that connects to Autodesk’s cloud, where most of the CAD operations take place. Currently, the Autodesk Fusion web app runs natively on macOS and Windows. 

Cloud-Based Service

Autodesk Fusion enables designers and engineers to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. In this case, external stakeholders refer to parties outside the company’s firewall, while internal stakeholders are colleagues working for the company. To facilitate collaboration with the former group, Autodesk Fusion allows engineers and designers to share links that recipients can open in a browser. By clicking the link, stakeholders can view the design or model. Beyond that, they can comment, redline, and mark up, thus providing feedback.

Data Management and Sharing

Autodesk Fusion has built-in and automated data management and sharing tools. These tools ensure drawings, designs, models, and information are archived, versioned, managed, and can be shared with different parties.

Integrated Workflows

Autodesk Fusion integrates unlimited workflows from CAD, CAE, CAM, documentation, and visualization tools. This way, the software eliminates the need to rework the design, which would have been the case if files were created and edited using different software. 

Support for Concurrent Design

With Autodesk Fusion, a design change made anywhere reflects everywhere. This means teams can simultaneously work on complex assemblies directly within the context of the assembly along with peers.

Access Control

Autodesk Fusion lets teams and companies deploy software, permissions, and data only to authorized parties. It allows authorized users to access the restricted data with their corporate IDs.

Fusion Team Participant

Autodesk’s Fusion Team Participant is a data management and collaboration solution for teams. It is designed to enable companies to connect with internal teams and external stakeholders such as suppliers by providing a secure and reliable yet cheaper platform for managing access to shared files. It also lets internal and external stakeholders view and review designs instantly and add comments and mark-ups. Furthermore, Fusion Team Participant eliminates the infeasible and uneconomical approach of purchasing Autodesk Fusion for users who just have view-only permissions.

Autodesk Fusion Pricing

How much does Autodesk Fusion cost? Autodesk Fusion is priced at a relatively competitive rate, as shown in the table below:

3. 3DExperience Platform

Dassault Systèmes created the 3DExperience platform to provide the tools to break down siloed operations within organizations. The company designed the platform to connect product development work to software, electronics, manufacturing, and finally, the end-customer. It brings together several primary Dassault Systèmes software: CATIA (high-end CAD solution), SolidWorks (midstream CAD), Enovia (product data management), 3DEXCITE (real-time visualization), Netvibes (dashboard intelligence), GEOVIA (natural resources 3D modeling), DELMIA (digital manufacturing), and SIMULIA (simulation and CAE). 

The company then used these apps as the basis for creating numerous applications that support industry-specific roles. As a result, companies operating in a particular industry only pay for and use applications that are specific to that industry or their needs. Dassault Systèmes clusters these applications, offering them as packages called roles, which, for simplicity’s sake, can be thought of as licenses. This means that each role has access to a particular set of applications.

Put simply, the 3DExperience is a broad, collaborative, and interactive environment that connects data, people, industry-specific applications, and ideas, enabling companies to visualize in real time their products and business activities. 3DExperience is more than a collaborative CAD software – it is a collaborative platform that combines multiple collaborative applications.

Collaborative Design Features in the 3DExperience Platform

The 3DExperience platform offers the following collaborative design features:

• Cloud-based architecture
• Support for numerous profiles
• Notifications feature
• Support for concurrent design
• Access control and data security
• Support for comments and annotations

Cloud-Based Solution

You can access the 3DExperience platform, a cloud-based product, from anywhere using any device. However, it is worth pointing out that although it is cloud-based, you can perform only non-CAD operations in a web browser. To design, model, or perform CAD operations, you must install CAD applications on your computer. Nonetheless, as a collaborative CAD software, the platform provides a collaborative environment that connects professionals, data, and ideas.

Support for Numerous Profiles

The 3DExperience platform accommodates multiple profiles, including engineer, manager, render expert, visualization expert, simulation expert, creative designer, and more. While the persons behind each of these profiles use different role-specific applications, they access the same design data.

Notifications

The notification feature lets each profile know when they have been assigned a task, mentioned in a comment, or asked to join a collaborative space. 

Concurrent Design

The 3DExperience platform automatically updates the design data as soon as each profile hits the save button. This means all users get to see the updates to the design or model in real time. They do not have to wait for one profile to finish their assigned tasks before beginning theirs. Put simply, the 3DExperience platform allows professionals to work concurrently and simultaneously.

Support for Comments

As introduced earlier, you can perform non-CAD operations in a web browser. A web browser lets stakeholders view the progress or status of the designs. It also lets authorized parties add annotations or comments.

Access Control and Data Security

The platform encrypts data at all layers, with Dassault Systèmes monitoring the platform 24/7 to prevent intrusion. Moreover, the system administrator reserves the right to provide access or permissions to design projects, further improving data security.

Pricing of 3DExperience Platform

Unlike Onshape and Autodesk Fusion, the pricing of the 3DExperience platform is not static. It varies based on the number of roles a company needs. Therefore, we recommend contacting a reseller or Dassault Systèmes, as they are better suited to understand your needs and advise on the applications and services you need.

Integrating Collaborative CAD Software into Your Workflow

It is common knowledge that hurried integration of new operational concepts into existing and concretized workflows will likely backfire. So, integrating collaborative CAD software into your workflow should follow a methodical approach. The approach should employ strategies that take multiple factors into account. 

Researchers have advanced strategies for incorporating collaborative design as a new concept to replace existing siloed operations. They include:

• Time: Teams should be accorded time to carefully plan for and incorporate collaborative design into their workflows. This is because concurrent design can involve software, tools, and supporting cloud-based infrastructure that they may not be familiar with.
• Conflict management and resolution: Collaborative design intends to bring together professionals who may not have previously worked together. Of course, in such a situation, conflicts are bound to arise between designers regarding their choices. Successful implementation of collaborative design should include ways to anticipate, manage, and resolve conflicts. Nonetheless, conflict management strategies should also extend beyond resolution – they should analyze the impacts of solutions. 
• Establishment of teamwork culture: Collaborative design requires the input of multiple departments, professionals, and teams. Thus, prior to its implementation, companies and team leaders should work on establishing a culture of teamwork or fostering better teamwork. Naturally, better teamwork guarantees coordination and improved collaboration.
• Training: Training teaches employees how to work collaboratively and concurrently. It provides resources, such as case studies and tutorials, that teams can use as templates and mechanisms for working together. 
• Open communication channels: Communication guarantees information exchange. However, in cases where the communication channels are obstructed, the flow of information becomes constrained. Companies should, therefore, emphasize open communication channels as well as quick and effective communication to boost collaboration.

Conclusion

Collaborative CAD software solves problems associated with traditional product design systems. Where traditional tools use time-consuming, inefficient, and inflexible sequential design processes, collaborative design solutions use more efficient concurrent design processes. The latter enables designers and engineers to work on design tasks simultaneously, which fosters a collaborative spirit. The top three collaborative CAD software products in the market are Onshape, Autodesk Fusion, and the 3DExperience platform. They share common characteristics, including a cloud-based architecture, access control, document and version management tools, and support for comments and annotations, just to mention a few. However, these solutions have distinct capabilities. Therefore, we recommend that you independently assess each of them for suitability vis-à-vis your project needs before selecting a collaborative CAD software.

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right software program for your architectural needs. These factors range from the number of features, ease of use, scalability, specialization, and cost-effectiveness. Basing our research and analysis on these factors, we have compiled a list of the best architectural CAD software choices in 2025. 

Understanding Architectural CAD Software

Professionals use architectural CAD software to visualize, create, detail, render, and document floor plans and building designs. The product comprises powerful 2D drawing and drafting tools. And, of course, you can use this software to create 3D models. 

For some applications, like ArchiCAD, you first create a 2D drawing and then use the extrusion tool to create additional faces and vertices. However, other software applications, such as Chief Architect, include automated tools that automatically create a 3D version of the floor plan. 3D modeling capabilities allow designers to visualize better and generate complex designs.

In addition to the drawing tools, architectural CAD software also comes with additional features and capabilities, such as customizable work environments, drafting automation, schedule management, visualization tools, and more. 

Architectural CAD software is primarily meant for architects, as the name suggests. However, to accommodate other professionals within or around the domain of architecture, interior designers, remodelers, and contractors can also use such software. 

Architectural CAD Software vs. Architectural BIM Software

Computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) represent distinct philosophies. For instance, while CAD use is restricted to the design development phase, BIM use extends throughout the entire lifecycle of a built facility, incorporating designers, clients/owners, contractors, facility managers, and demolition experts. 

In this context, architectural CAD software differs from architectural BIM software. The former is primarily used by architects, remodelers, contractors, and interior designers, while the latter is used by architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers, clients/owners, and more. 

Thus, whereas architectural CAD software is intended for creating, visualizing, and documenting architectural drawings, architectural BIM applications primarily support coordination and collaboration between or among multidisciplinary teams. Of course, architectural BIM programs also feature design and visualization tools, but they are still used beyond the design phase. 

This article focuses on architectural CAD software. For this reason, our list of the best architectural CAD software does not feature architectural BIM software like Revit and Vectorworks Architect.  

Criteria for Choosing the Right Architectural CAD Software

Choosing the right architectural CAD software can be tricky, not least because there are numerous powerful options from which to choose. However, several elements should guide you in this journey. And in this section, we have discussed five factors to consider when choosing the right architectural CAD software:

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

Good architectural CAD software should accommodate users of varying expertise. It should not be intimidating to new users or beginners. Yet, it should still be accommodative of the preferences of seasoned users. The right software will be easy to use and have a gentle learning curve while offering a broad range of tools. 

A primary driver of a software’s user-friendliness is its intuitive, consistent, clear, and responsive user interface (UI). An effective UI avoids unnecessary elements and doesn’t clutter the screen with excessive menus, ribbons, or icons. It also guides users by using simple terms in its messaging and labels.

Cost Effectiveness and Value for Money

Many CAD software developers have shifted from selling their products through perpetual licenses. Presently, most of their software applications are subscription-based. Over the long term, perpetual licenses are cheaper than subscription licenses. If you find architectural CAD software available with a perpetual license offering features comparable to pricier options, consider purchasing it. Of course, that decision will also be pegged on other factors, but perpetual licenses are cost-effective from a financial perspective.

However, given that most developers have moved away from perpetual licenses, the next logical step would be analyzing whether you will receive value for the amount of money you spend. Expensive doesn’t always equate to better quality – sometimes, a less costly product can outperform its pricier counterpart. One parameter you should consider when assessing value is the number of features, i.e., the capabilities of the architectural CAD software in relation to your needs.

Range of Features

The right architectural CAD software should be a one-stop shop. It should have everything you need to fulfill your design objectives, from 2D design and 3D modeling to visualization and documentation. 

Scalability

Architectural CAD software applications differ in terms of their capabilities and features. Some are only suitable for designing or modeling small projects. Such software can be overwhelmed, leading to a dip in performance. Other programs are suited for both small and large projects. In other words, when choosing architectural CAD software, consider its ability to function flawlessly regardless of the model or file size. A good program should be scalable, i.e., capable of working on small and large projects without posting glitches or slowing down. 

Specialization

Some software, like AutoCAD, Rhino 3D, TurboCAD, and BricsCAD, are designed to be industry-agnostic. That is, they are designed for use in a myriad of industries. For this reason, they come with numerous broad drawing and modeling tools that can be used in a broad range of applications. To put it simply, they are not specialized. 

On the other hand, the developers of architectural CAD software create their products around architecture. As a result, these programs incorporate features that enhance the productivity and efficiency of architectural design and modeling. Thus, one of the fundamental factors to consider when choosing architectural CAD software is whether or not it is solely intended for use in architecture. The advantages of specialized software are significant.

Best Architectural CAD Software Choices in 2025

The top six architectural CAD software of 2025 include:

1. SketchUp

SketchUp Pro User Interface (source)

Developer: Trimble

Price: $49.99 per month or $349.00/year (SketchUp Pro package)

SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling solution that offers intuitive tools to design, document, and communicate ideas in 3D. It is one of the most familiar 3D modeling software programs. That is perhaps because it is quite affordable compared to other options. It also offers powerful tools that let you create 3D models, iterate in 3D, and detail the drawings.

Key Features of SketchUp

• LayOut, which enables you to present your 3D model using 2D drawings; for instance, it lets you call out materials and include dimensions and details
• SketchUp inference engine, which promotes accuracy and speed of design
• Customization tools
• Report generation tools
• Extension Warehouse, which provides access to a library of tools

Pros of SketchUp

• It is user friendly
• SketchUp has a gentle learning curve, meaning it is easy to use
• It creates hyper-realistic renders, promoting better visualization, even for houses with complicated roof systems
• SketchUp supports over 12 languages
• The software allows you to think and design in 3D, which is advantageous over software whose design workflow involves creating 2D drawings first
• It allows customization based on your preferences; for instance, you can create settings such as keyboard shortcuts to fit your everyday workflow, tailor settings for a particular workflow or project, and adjust settings to address your computer’s performance issues
• It is available on both Windows and macOS platforms
• The software supports numerous file types, including both 2D and 3D CAD formats like SKP, PNG, JPH, STL, DWG, DXF, DAE, KMZ, 3DS, DEM, OBJ, FBX, XSI, VRML, IFC, TIF, PDF, and more
• SketchUp Pro is affordable

Cons of SketchUp

• Users report problems when it comes to integrating plug-ins; for instance, the software does not automatically install plug-ins you had added in the previous iteration with every new software update
• SketchUp’s LayOut, a feature that presents 2D drawings of the 3D model, enabling users to highlight the model’s features, is reportedly slow and can be overwhelmed by larger models
• The software’s performance lags when working with large models imported from other 3D modeling software

2. ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD User Interface (source)

Developer: Graphisoft

Price: $360.00/month for the USA version of the ArchiCAD Solo product and $400.00/month for the USA version of ArchiCAD Collaborate (price varies from country to country; see our ArchiCAD pricing article)

ArchiCAD is both architectural CAD software and architectural BIM software. It offers an extensive suite of algorithmic design tools that enable architects to create great designs. It also supports the creation of large architectural models. With ArchiCAD, you can design in both 2D and 3D model views. In addition to supporting design work, the software also supports visualization, collaboration, and documentation.

Key Features of ArchiCAD

• 2D drafting
• 3D modeling
• Building information modeling (BIM)
• Intuitive modeling tools like Curtain Wall and Stair Tools
• 2D and 3D model views
• Light and dark modes
• Sketch Render, which produces 3D models as non-photorealistic renderings, i.e., renderings that have free-hand influences
• White Render, which renders all the shapes and spaces in white to communicate design intent
• Photo-realistic rendering using built-in tools such as MAXON’s CineRender or Redshift
• Model Compare feature that lets you compare two 3D models

Pros of ArchiCAD

• It supports over 15 languages
• ArchiCAD adapts its appearance to reduce eye strain in low-light conditions
• It enables architects to quickly render models to communicate design intent and obtain feedback
• The software offers a library of intelligent objects that users can configure based on their needs; however, the library is not perfect
• It offers perfect integration between the 3D model and the creation of 2D documentation
• ArchiCAD can create complex and large 3D models
• It offers excellent visualization capabilities

Cons of ArchiCAD

• It is not always perfect at keeping track of the various geometric objects; for instance, dimensions can disappear depending on the layer settings
• New releases/versions sometimes ship with plenty of bugs, some of which are never addressed
• The library, which is beneficial to some users, lacks many of the items that architects and designers use and need
• Some of its features, such as the search function, do not work as intended
• ArchiCAD can be expensive, especially for hobbyists and enthusiasts

3. AutoCAD 

AutoCAD Architecture User Interface (source)

Developer: Autodesk

Price: $250.00/month, $2,030.00/year, or $6,085.00 every three years (see our AutoCAD pricing article)

AutoCAD is a multidisciplinary CAD software ideal for mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, as well as 3D mapping, plant work, architecture, and more. That said, its developer, Autodesk, offers specialized tools that provide access to industry-specific functionality, transforming AutoCAD into specialized software. To turn AutoCAD into an architectural CAD software, you have to install the architectural toolset. And to do that, you must have an AutoCAD subscription. So, you first have to download and install AutoCAD, whereupon you should download and install the architectural toolset.

Key Features of AutoCAD Architectural CAD Software

• The architecture toolset offers access to a library of over 8,800 architectural components
• Automatic object generation: AutoCAD can automatically generate sections, elevations, floor plans, and ceiling grids
• Drawing version management, which helps maintain versioning
• Architectural renovation, which displays existing, demolished, and new construction within the same drawing, enabling architects or remodelers to design and produce renovations faster
• Detail Component Manager, which lets you navigate among various detail component databases
• Built-in object styles for doors, windows, and door/window assemblies
• Display system, which automatically changes the appearance of an architectural object to meet display requirements of various types of drawings, levels of detail, and view direction

Pros of AutoCAD Architectural CAD Software

• The drawing version management feature prevents unauthorized drawing modification and ensures drawing integrity
• An Autodesk study showed that AutoCAD’s architecture toolset boosted overall productivity by 61%, thanks to factors such as the library, automation, and more
• The architectural renovation feature enables designers to avoid errors associated with editing multiple drawings as it displays existing, demolished, and new construction within the same drawing
• It is easy to learn if you are familiar with AutoCAD; it has a familiar user interface
• It supports collaboration, especially if multidisciplinary professionals working on the same project all use AutoCAD
• AutoCAD offers a wide array of drawing tools

Cons of AutoCAD Architectural CAD Software

• The architectural toolset is not included with the AutoCAD software package and has to be downloaded and installed separately
• It has a steep learning curve, especially if you are not familiar with AutoCAD
• The software has limited file compatibility, mostly outputting DWG and DXF files, with the former being proprietary
• 3D modeling with the AutoCAD architectural CAD software is not as versatile and advanced as other applications on this list
• Its rendering capabilities lag behind those of other architectural CAD software

4. Chief Architect Premier

Chief Architect Premier User Interface (source)

Developer: Chief Architect. Inc.

Price: $229/month or $1,995/year

Chief Architect is a professional architectural CAD software suited for residential and light commercial design. It is a powerful and easy-to-use program for architects, designers, and builders.

It is ideal for:

• Home design
• Light commercial design
• Interior design and decorating
• Floor and space planning

Key Features of Chief Architect

For a complete list, please see the detailed feature list. That said, here are some of the key features included with Chief Architect Premier:

• Smart design objects that help you create different styles, shapes, and sizes
• 3D library of architectural objects
• Advanced 3D rendering with ray tracing, including 360º rendering, virtual tours, live 3D viewer models
• Support for 3D modeling and editing
• Automatic building tools
• Documentation, i.e., the software lets you create professional residential construction drawings
• A feature that instantly creates material lists and schedules
• Interior and exterior walkthrough
• Sky model, which lets you control settings for the horizon, moon, and sun, and how they impact the scene’s lighting
• Artificial terrain, which extends the ground in the 3D model beyond the boundaries of the terrain perimeter in the plan’s view
• Grass Region tools, which simulate 3D grass
• Focal blur to provide photo-realistic images

Pros of Chief Architect

• Existing customers can purchase additional licenses at a reduced price ($1,295/year vs. $1,995/year)
• The software offers a broad range of features
• It was developed for residential home design, meaning it is a niche product with specialized tools that facilitate this type of design

Cons of Chief Architect

• Its use is limited to residential/home design and light commercial design
• The developer did away with the perpetual license option beginning January 10, 2023, meaning all new software is subscription-based
• Chief Architect Premier is expensive
• It has a steep learning curve owing to a clunky user interface

5. RoomSketcher

RoomSketcher User Interface (source)

Developer: RoomSketcher AS

Price: Free tier, RoomSketcher Pro ($20/month or $120/year), RoomSketcher Team ($60/month or $360/year), RoomSketcher Premium Project

RoomSketcher is a floor plan creation and home design software. Created by an eponymous developer, the software supports about five languages. It offers a range of great features that simplify the process of creating floor plans. The software is suited for small home projects. According to the developer, it is ideal for designing homes with a maximum of three levels and a maximum area per floor of 1,000 m2. That said, it accomplishes the tasks for which it was created.

Key Features of RoomSketcher

• 2D and 3D floor plans
• Live 3D, an interactive bird’s eye and eye-level walkthrough
• High-resolution rendering
• Site plan creation tool
• Furniture library
• Automatic total area calculation tool
• Materials library, which enables you to replace materials

Pros of RoomSketcher

• It is affordable
• The software is easy to use
• Users can pay for premium features on a need-be basis: The RoomSketcher Premium allows users to upgrade projects to premium features for $2 per project per month

Cons of RoomSketcher

• The rendering tools are not advanced – they have limited lighting/illumination capabilities
• It limits functionality for users in the free package
• The software does not support some designs, such as vaulted ceilings
• RoomSketcher is not ideal for large and very detailed projects

6. Lumion

Lumion User Interface (source)

Developer: Lumion

Price: $749.00/year (Lumion Standard) or $1,499.00/year (Lumion Pro) 

By definition, Lumion is not an architectural CAD software. Rather, it is an architectural visualization software. It can be used in architectural design, interior design, and landscape architecture. Lumion is not a design software. Instead, it is a rendering and visualization software. It transforms 2D drawings and 3D models into photo-realistic images, videos, and 360 panoramas. 

It is compatible with major CAD and 3D modeling software, including Vectorworks, SketchUp, ArchiCAD, Rhino3D, AutoCAD, BricsCAD, and more. To integrate Lumion with these third-party applications, install the free LiveSync plug-in. For this reason, Lumion fits seamlessly into your workflow. The plug-in allows you to design/model and render simultaneously, driving faster design decisions.

If your preferred architectural CAD software lacks advanced rendering capabilities, you can use Lumion to plug that gap. You can also consider other alternatives, including Enscape3D, D5 Render, Chaos V-Ray (an easy-to-use 3D rendering plug-in), Twinmotion, and more.

Key Features of Lumion

• The LiveSync plug-in seamlessly connects Lumion to major CAD and 3D modeling software
• Supports 3D file formats such as DAE, SKP, FBX, DWG, DXF, MAX, 3DS, and OBJ
• Material editor, which lets you create texture and customize materials 
• A materials and content library
• Atmospheric and cinematic effects
• Model and material comparison capabilities
• Ability to change weather and lighting conditions

Pros of Lumion

• The LiveSync plug-in is available for free
• The plug-in drives faster design decisions by allowing you to design/model and render at the same time
• It simplifies rendering and visualization
• The software has a simple user interface
• It is easy to use
• As it is not a plug-in, it offers a vast array of tools and capabilities

Cons of Lumion

• It is primarily a visualization and rendering software, meaning it does not support CAD design or modeling
• Lumion is quite expensive for a product that is just meant for rendering and visualization tasks
• It is available exclusively on the Windows platform
• The quality of the renders depends on the processing capabilities of your personal computer, meaning the rendering is not cloud-based; it, thus, requires powerful computers
• Video rendering takes too long if you do not have a powerful computer

Conclusion

The ideal architectural CAD software not only helps you achieve your design objectives seamlessly but also is cost-effective. This means various factors dictate the best software choice. These include the features, cost-effectiveness and value for money, scalability, specialization, and ease of use. The right architectural CAD software ticks most, if not all, of these criteria. And from our analysis, the software applications that meet these criteria include SketchUp, ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, RoomSketcher, and Lumion. These applications, of course, offer certain distinct features or characteristics that make them stand out in certain categories, as summarized below:

• Best affordable architectural CAD software: SketchUp
• Best versatile architectural CAD software: AutoCAD
• Best architectural CAD software with BIM capabilities: ArchiCAD
• Best architectural visualization software: Lumion
• Best architectural CAD software for floor plan design: RoomSketcher
• Best overall architectural CAD software: Chief Architect

Design professionals, such as architects, engineers, product designers, and drafters, with a technical background may want to work with software they can modify as they see fit. They may prefer software to which they can add features and contribute to the development process. If this describes your niche interest, you have come to the right place – this article will discuss the best open-source CAD software in the market today. We will also detail their use cases and the criteria we used to come up with the list. That said, it is crucial to demystify a common misconception that open-source software is free or vice versa: That is not always the case. Thus, if you are looking for free CAD software, consider going through our detailed article on the 14 top free CAD packages to download. However, if you are specifically looking for the best open-source CAD software, let’s get into it.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Open-Source CAD Software

Our selection of the best open-source CAD software applications is anchored on a combination of four factors that include:

1. Functionality and Features

Good CAD software should offer powerful tools that enable users to create 2D drawings or 3D models. And when it comes to 3D modeling, the application should support simulations, renderings, analysis, and more. In this regard, our list of the best open-source CAD software includes software that offers a wide selection of toolsets that makes possible the seamless creation and editing of 2D drawings and 3D models. 3D modeling software also supports the above-mentioned capabilities.

2. User-Friendliness and Ease of Use

Some open-source CAD software, such as BRL-CAD and OpenSCAD, are operated using commands issued via a built-in terminal. For instance, to create an object such as a cylinder, one must specify the coordinates of the base, its radius, and more. While this may be appealing to some users with a technical background or those who can create a mental image of the object, it is not user-friendly to all users and may not be easy to learn or use.

Against this background, our selection of the best open-source CAD software comprises applications with a graphical user interface (GUI), complete with a workspace (model space). This workspace allows users to draw objects by dragging the mouse and stipulating the dimensions. Thus, user-friendly software visually represents users’ ideas, eliminating the need to create mental images. In this way, they are easy to use and learn. 

3. Community Support and Development

Community support is integral to ensuring open-source software applications are up to date. For example, community members make changes to the codebase, whether small or large, that fix bugs, introduce new features, and improve the stability of the software. At the same time, the contributors help identify issues, prepare technical and end-user documentation, and translate the software. Given the scope of their responsibilities, a vibrant community is extremely important. For this reason, our list of the best open-source CAD software includes applications with a vibrant community, complete with developer and user forums. 

4. Licensing and Legal Considerations

For a program to be considered open source, it must give users the freedom to share, copy, and modify the software. Thus, our list only includes applications whose licenses confer these rights to users. In most cases, they use GNU General Public Licenses. 

Top 5 Open-Source CAD Software Options

1. FreeCAD

FreeCAD User Interface (source)

What is FreeCAD?

FreeCAD is the first solution in our list of the five best open-source CAD software. It is a multi-platform open-source 3D parametric modeling software application. It is available under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). This free software license grants licensees the rights to copy, download, read, analyze, modify, or redistribute software’s source code. This means you can alter the content of the source code in such a way that the software performs unique tasks that may not be available to other users. For this reason, FreeCAD is considered highly customizable and extensible.

Do note, however, that if you want to make modifications you wish to see added to the official code, the changes you make must be approved by the FreeCAD developers. To do this, engage in discussions about your ideas and intentions with the FreeCAD developers via the FreeCAD forum.

The FreeCAD source code is available for download on FreeCAD’s GitHub repo, where code management, pull requests, and new code deployment are undertaken. The software is programmed using C++ but contains some Python-driven elements. It also relies on a number of open-source libraries that must be installed prior to compilation. These include Open Cascade, used to create and manage solid geometry; Coin3D, used to manage the 3D view; and Qt, which creates the software’s graphical user interface (GUI). 

Who Uses FreeCAD?

FreeCAD is designed to be deployed in a number of use cases, ranging from mechanical engineering to architecture and product design. It is, therefore, used by mechanical drafters, architects, product designers, and mechanical engineers. Moreover, FreeCAD is appropriate for programmers who may wish to contribute by writing code or reporting and triaging bugs, or technical writers, who can contribute to the open source project by working on the software’s documentation or translating the existing documentation. Nonetheless, from a CAD perspective, the capabilities are particularly appealing.

How to Download FreeCAD?

To download FreeCAD, visit the official website’s download webpage. The page contains three links for each supported platform – Windows, macOS, and Linux. Click on the appropriate link to start downloading the executable file. 

Capabilities of FreeCAD

The capabilities of FreeCAD include the following:

• The software lets design professionals design real-life objects of any size
• Users can sketch geometry-constrained 2D shapes and use them as the foundation to build other objects
• It can read and write to multiple neutral file formats, namely STEP, STL, SVG, DXF, OBJ, IGES, DAE, IFC, and more
• FreeCAD offers modern finite element analysis (FEA) tools
• The software has experimental computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools
• It has dedicated BIM capabilities
• FreeCAD supports CNC or CAM workbenches
• It is capable of performing robot simulations

Strengths of FreeCAD

• It has a vibrant online forum
• FreeCAD’s developers’ documentation and users’ documentation are readily available
• The software’s GitHub repository contains plenty of information and resources
• The open-source community regularly updates and modifies some aspects of the source code
• The software is free to download and use
• It offers numerous features and capabilities, including FEA and CFD tools, support for CNC/CAM workbenches, robot simulations, and more
• It is a multi-platform CAD software available for Windows, macOS, and Linux

Weaknesses of FreeCAD

• It can be slow, especially when working with large projects
• FreeCAD lacks some features that can be found in other modeling software
• It does not have scheduled yearly updates (even though contributors regularly modify the source code)

2. LibreCAD

LibreCAD User Interface (source)

What is LibreCAD?

LibreCAD is a free, multi-platform open-source CAD application available under the GNU General Public License version 2 (GLPv2). The software is primarily meant for 2D design and drafting – it enables users to draw lines, circles, arcs, polylines, and splines, as well as use modification tools such as fillet, trim, offset, mirror, move, copy, and scale. Other capabilities include dimensioning, layer management, hatching, and block creation.

The LibreCAD open-source project began around 2010 as a fork (copy) of one of the versions of QCAD. At that time, this project, originally known as CADuntu, aimed to build CAM capabilities into the QCAD version to facilitate its use with a Mechmate CNC router. But the CADuntu name only stuck for several months before being renamed LibreCAD.

The software’s GLPv2 license grants license holders the right to modify and/or redistribute the source code/compiled program. It is this freedom to modify that creates an open-source community that, in turn, works on bugs and features, prepares documentation, and localizes the software by translating it into various languages. To put it more concisely, LibreCAD is a non-profit, community-driven project that relies on input from contributors and sponsors.

Who Uses LibreCAD?

While C++ programmers who contribute to the project get to also interact with the software, they are not the intended users. LibreCAD is primarily CAD software designed to facilitate 2D drawing and design. For this reason, it is used by CAD drafters and engineers.

How to Download LibreCAD

There are two main approaches you can use to download LibreCAD:

• SourceForge: Once you click the ‘Download’ button, SourceForge, a software platform that allows users to download open-source software, automatically recognizes your operating system and prepares the appropriate file for download.
• LibreCAD’s GitHub repo: This is a manual approach to downloading the file. The repository contains three links to executable files corresponding to each supported operating system – Linux, macOS, and Windows. Clicking on the appropriate link initiates the download process.

Capabilities of LibreCAD

• It can read DWG and DXF files and write DXF, PDF, and SVG files
• LibreCAD supports hatching, dimensioning, text annotation, block creation and insertion, and layer management
• It has a library to manage standard components, such as screws and windows, through blocks
• LibreCAD offers snap functions
• It has customizable toolbars
• It supports tens of languages – a total of 30

Strengths of LibreCAD

• LibreCAD’s user interface is translated into over 30 languages
• It has a highly customizable GUI
• It is free and open source
• LibreCAD can read proprietary DWG files

Weaknesses of LibreCAD

• It is primarily a 2D CAD software
• The updates to the official source code are irregular and far between – the development process is slow
• Users report slow performance and frequent crashes
• Although LibreCAD is one of the best open-source options, it lacks some features found in other software
• LibreCAD lacks rendering capabilities

3. QCAD Community Edition

QCAD User Interface (source)

What is QCAD Community Edition

Like its fork, LibreCAD, QCAD is primarily devoted to 2D design and drafting. However, unlike LibreCAD, which is wholly open source, QCAD is not. There are three editions of QCAD, namely QCAD Professional, QCAD/CAM, and QCAD Community Edition. The former two editions, being commercial and proprietary software, are available only after purchase on the QCAD online store. 

The QCAD Community Edition, on the other hand, is a free, open-source software program whose source code is publicly available on QCAD’s GitHub repo. It is available under GPL version 3, which permits the use, modification, distribution, and redistribution of the software.  

QCAD traces its origin to October 1999, when version 1 of the software was released. In September 2003, version 2 was released, followed by version 3 in July 2012. The latest release of QCAD (3.28) is an iteration of the third version. The software was designed to be modular, extensible, and portable, tenets that it has carried since. It has an intuitive interface and is easy to use yet powerful. These attributes inform its status as one of the best open-source CAD solutions in the market today.

Who Uses QCAD Community Edition

As a 2D CAD system, QCAD Community Edition is meant for 2D design and drafting. Thus, it is used by engineers, designers, and architects to create technical drawings for mechanical parts, interiors, buildings, schematics, and diagrams. Moreover, being an open-source project, this software is used by programmers who wish to contribute. The source code is programmed using C++.

How to Download QCAD Community Edition

QCAD Community Edition is a multi-platform software that works on Linux, Windows, and macOS. To download the application, head over to the QCAD downloads webpage, download the trial version for your operating system, and remove the QCAD Professional add-on running in trial mode. (To remove the add-on, click the Remove button in the Trial widget and follow the instructions.)

Alternatively, you can compile your own QCAD package by downloading the zip files containing the QCAD and Qt source codes. This approach is primarily intended for developers. 

Capabilities of QCAD Community Edition

Now that you have downloaded and installed the software, what features will you likely encounter? QCAD Community Edition is one of the best open-source CAD software options focusing on 2D design. This is because it offers several features and tools, including:

• Measuring tools
• Object snaps
• Part library with more than 4800 CAD parts
• Support for layers and blocks
• Tools for creating and modifying lines, arcs, circles, polylines, splines, ellipses, texts, hatches, fills, raster images, dimensions, and more
• Ability to read and write DXF, DWF, DWG, and PDF files 
• Printing capabilities, e.g., printing to scale and printing on multiple pages

Strengths of QCAD Community Edition

• QCAD Community Edition is free and open source
• It produces detailed technical drawings thanks to its myriad features and tools
• It is easy to use, yet powerful.

Weaknesses of QCAD Community Edition

• It is primarily a 2D CAD software
• Although QCAD Community Edition is one of the best open-source CAD solutions, the paid QCAD tiers offer superior features and capabilities
• Users report that it can be buggy and slow

4. Blender

Blender User Interface (source)

What is Blender?

Blender is a free, open-source computer graphics (CG) software application that enables artists and designers to create 3D CG content. As such, it is less focused on manufacturing and construction, and more geared towards interactive and creative CAD. As a hub for creating 3D models and graphics, it supports the entire ensemble, including modeling, sculpting, rigging, animation, simulation, motion tracking, rendering, and compositing. So advanced are the supported tools that Blender can be used for game creation and even video editing. Moreover, thanks to its Python API, Blender supports scripting, which enables users to customize the application and write specialized tools.

Blender is a 100% community-driven project guided by the GNU GPL license. The license empowers contributors to make small and large modifications to the code base, which result in better usability, bug fixes, and new features. (The source code is hosted on Blender’s projects website and mirrored on a GitHub repo.) In addition, the Blender community helps with writing and organizing the technical and end-user documentation. Volunteers also contribute by translating existing documentation into various languages. 

Who Uses Blender

Blender is suitable for VFX experts, animators, students, professional 3D modelers, artists, and hobbyists. It is also ideal for creative programmers who want to write specialized tools based on the existing source code.

How to Download Blender

Blender is a multi-platform software available on Linux, Windows, and macOS. To download Blender, visit the Download webpage and click the download icon. (The website automatically recognizes your operating system and displays a button that links to the version of the installer that corresponds to your OS.)

Capabilities of Blender

• An extensive modeling toolset that enables the creation, transformation, and editing of models
• Digital sculpting tools such as support for 20 different brush types, dynamic topology (a dynamic tessellation sculpting method that adds and removes details on the go), masking, and a dedicated workspace
• Blender’s ray-trace-based production render engine called Cycles offers ultra-realistic rendering
• Animation toolset, including sound synchronization, character animation pose editor, forward/inverse kinematics for fast poses, rigging, motion paths, and more
• The ability to draw 2D in 3D, combining the power of 2D and 3D; Blender refers to this capability as Story Art
• Visual effects (VFX), including compositing and motion tracking
• Simulations for rain, fire, smoke, fluid, cloth, crumbling building, or full-on destruction
• Video editing: the software comes with a built-in video sequence editor

Strengths of Blender

• It is free and open source
• Blender has powerful modeling, rendering, simulation, sculpting, and animation tools
• Up-to-date technical and end-user documentation
• A large collection of free tutorials
• Strong community support for both contributors (developers) and users

Weaknesses of Blender

• The wide array of tools can be overwhelming, and this often results in a steep learning curve
• The user interface can sometimes feel complicated, especially given it houses numerous tools
• It is sometimes unable to handle large projects, as it becomes slow
• Blender can occasionally be buggy and may crash

5. SALOME

SALOME User Interface (source)

What is SALOME?

With more than 150,000 downloads from multiple countries in 2021 alone, SALOME is a somewhat popular open-source software application. Primarily used for numerical simulation, it also includes modules that enable users to create parametric models, mesh shapes, and visualize results. Its modules can be directly accessed via an easy-to-use GUI or Python scripts. The existence of these modules makes customization easy, as users can create domain-specific applications by assembling two or more modules based on their needs.

SALOME is available under the GNU LGPL, which allows for the copying, modification, distribution, and redistribution of the software. For this reason, the application is developed collaboratively as part of an open-source project that started in the early 2000s. The project began as a way of implementing solutions to multi-physics problems and facilitating the integration of specific calculation solutions to these problems. Currently in its ninth version, SALOME has indeed evolved, with the community playing a significant role in making this possible. 

Who Uses SALOME?

As one of the best open-source CAD software, Salome is designed for engineers and researchers seeking a free, open-source solution for CAD modeling, visualization, coupling of multi-physics phenomena, uncertainty studies, and more. It is primarily designed for numerical simulation in industries that require high-performance methods in electromagnetism, structural mechanics, fluid mechanics, and more. 

How to Download SALOME

To download SALOME, you must fill in a download form that enables the developer to better know the users interested in the software. You can also choose to remain anonymous, in which case you won’t be prompted to complete the form. Upon clicking Submit, the website will direct you to a new webpage that contains a button allowing you to download the software. The form can be found on the SALOME platform’s download webpage. 

Capabilities of SALOME

• SHAPER, a parametric and variational CAD modeler
• SMESH, a mesh generator or editor suited for finite element and finite volume methods
• PARAVIS module, which enables scientific visualization and analysis of results as part of computational simulation
• Specialized data assimilation calculations for parameter calibration or field interpolation
• SOLVERLAB, a module for solving partial differential equations 
• Numerical simulation
• Uncertainties studies using the OpenTURNS and Uranie libraries

Strengths of SALOME

• Helpful resources are available, such as developers’ documentation, video tutorials, and users’ documentation
• It is highly customizable
• SALOME is free and open-source
• It has impressive CAD modeling and mesh generation capabilities 

Weaknesses of SALOME

• SALOME is only available on Linux and Windows
• The Git repositories are accessible in read-only mode using HTTP or HTTPS protocols and are not hosted or mirrored on GitHub
• Users report that it is buggy, especially on Windows

Conclusion

Open-source licenses are prevalent in the software development realm, allowing users to copy, download, modify, distribute, and redistribute both the software and its source code. This approach leads to beneficial outcomes, such as the introduction of new features and bug resolution. Such community-driven projects can also be found in the CAD world, where numerous free, open-source CAD software options exist. This article examines the top five open-source CAD software, including FreeCAD, LibreCAD, QCAD, Blender, and SALOME. Additionally, it delves into each program’s capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses and provides guidance on downloading each application.

As originally designed, parametric modeling worked as follows: whenever a designer or engineer changed the value of a dimension or edited a particular section of the solid model, the shape of the model’s geometry would automatically update. To put it simply, the shape automatically changes when one or more parameters – such as dimensions – or the relationship between the various objects is altered. Generally, the parametric modeling functionality automated the design and revision process. Moreover, it made 3D modeling tools easily accessible with improved modeling tools, such as fillet, extrude, sketch, and so on, as part of their 3D/solid modeling projects. 

Many years on, the above description holds. And as the CAD industry has evolved, CAD software companies have learned ways to improve the parametric modeling functionality within their applications. For example, this has led to the re-imagination of the workflows that professionals utilize when creating solid models. Overall, the existence of these improvements as well as the distinct implementation of the functionality from one application to another, mean that some software programs are better than others. For this reason, this article discusses the 5 best parametric modeling software products of 2025. 

Criteria for Evaluation

Anyone can come up with a list of the best parametric modeling applications, but for the sake of transparency and to give you an understanding of the rationale behind our selection, we believe it is important to explain the criteria we used to evaluate and rank the best parametric modeling software of 2025. These include:

1. Features and Capabilities

Users often consider 3D software’s features and capabilities the foremost factor whenever they want to subscribe to or purchase a particular program. We are no different. Our list considers the various features an application offers and, by extension, what it can enable users to achieve. We acknowledge that some developers include many features in their software. Sometimes, this factor can negatively impact the user experience, as we have detailed below.

2. Compatibility and Interoperability

A good 3D software application should be capable of opening and even editing files and models created using other software. This factor promotes collaboration with design professionals who prefer other applications. 

3. Ease of Use and Learning Curve

The parametric modeling software product should not only be easy to use but also have a gradual learning curve. Combined, these attributes make the application ideal for both beginners and seasoned users. In some cases, however, developers include numerous features, which can negatively impact the ease of use. As a result, such software programs have numerous windows and commands, which may be difficult to locate.

4. Customer Support and Community Resources

The best parametric modeling software products have robust and active online forums. Here, users who encounter problems can send queries, with answers provided by either the developers’ representatives or other users. However, during our research, we found programs that did not have a vibrant online forum, forming part of the basis of their exclusion.

5. Pricing and Licensing Options

Some software applications are more expensive than others. At the same time, some developers offer their products based on a perpetual license, while others prefer the subscription route. As a result, our list encompasses a whole array of products, including those on the lower and higher end of the pricing spectrum. The inclusion stems from the fact that, though some applications may be expensive, they offer value for money because of their capabilities and features.

Top 5 Parametric Modeling Software of 2025

1. NX

NX is a high-performance design and manufacturing software developed and sold by Siemens Digital Industries Software. It is considered one of the most powerful CAD packages on the market, with many testimonials stating that it is the best and most advanced CAD solution. And that’s because it has advanced assembly management and industry-leading direct modeling capabilities. It also provides flexibility by offering different approaches to achieving a particular result. NX is a darling among large design companies and is used by Apple and Samsung.

NX has secured the top spot in G2’s MCAD software rankings, dubbed the Grid® Scoring, for several consecutive quarters, a position it still held as of the Winter 2025 season. As the leader, NX is highly rated by users and has a substantial market presence. Software must satisfy a number of conditions for them to qualify for inclusion in the category. One of these conditions, which touches on parametric modeling, is the software’s ability to assist engineers and designers in creating and modifying 2D drawings and 3D models.

NX has numerous powerful tools that enable 2D drafting, 3D modeling, sheet metal design, and surface modeling. If you’re looking for expanded capabilities, you can opt for either NX CAM or NX CAE, which are standalone software separate from NX CAD.

User Interface and Parts Assembly on Siemens NX

Features of NX

• Algorithmic modeling, which helps designers create minute, repetitive, and complex designs
• Translators, which translate files created by other CAD software like Creo, Catia, AutoCAD, Revit, and SolidWorks, as well as file formats like IGES, STEP, STL, OBJ, and ACIS, among others
• NX Open API toolkit allows developers to integrate custom software applications with NX
• Synchronous modeling, parametric modeling, sheet modeling, feature-based solid modeling, surface modeling, and aerodynamic modeling
• Integrated motion, structural, and thermal simulation tools
• Topology optimization to improve structural designs
• Molded part validation and injection molding simulation
• CFD analysis
• Built-in data management and cloud-based CAD capabilities with the NX X SaaS offering
• Teamcenter integration

NX Pricing

Pros of NX

• NX is very stable and well-optimized for parametric modeling, given that it has been in the market for over 40 years and has, therefore, been refined to a tee
• It handles large (1,000+) part assemblies quite well without any slowing down or crashing
• NX is one of the most used software in the professional industrial design world
• It seamlessly integrates with Teamcenter, Siemens’ product lifecycle management (PLM) software, enabling file version control, improved CAD security, and collaboration
• Active user community on Reddit and the official Siemens forum
• Elaborate support resources, such as helpful documentation for each NX version
• Siemens provides training via its Siemens Xcelerator Academy
• Highly accurate 3D modeling and handling capabilities
• Siemens updates NX constantly with new features

Cons of NX

• Steep learning curve
• NX is quite expensive
• Users complain that it has a clunky UI, which does not make the UX any better
• It generates large CAD files
• NX requires powerful hardware to run seamlessly

2. CATIA

Dassault Systèmes offers two versions of CATIA: 3DExperience CATIA and CATIA V5. The former version, whose latest release is the CATIA R2025X, allows users to enjoy the perks of the 3DExperience (3DX) platform either on-premise or in the cloud. 3DX is a collaborative platform that enables organizations to monitor their business activity and innovate.

3DExperience CATIA User Interface (source)

On the other hand, CATIA V5, whose latest release is the CATIA V5-6R, is a software-based toolset designed to facilitate mechanical design, shape design and styling, analysis, machining, product design, equipment and systems engineering, and more. CATIA V5-6R can function without being linked to 3DX, but can provide access to the platform if desired, while CATIA R2025X requires 3DX to function.

CATIA is a powerful modeling tool that can offer cloud-based simulation and analysis, which enables designers to harness the power of cloud computing. In fact, even CATIA V5-6R, which is designed as desktop software, lets you access the 3DX platform, signifying Dassault Systèmes’ emphasis on using the cloud to complement its on-premise offerings.

Features of CATIA

The features and capabilities packed into CATIA include, but are not limited to:

• Analysis, including thermal analysis, structural analysis (part, assembly, and nonlinear), finite element analysis (FEA) for surfaces and solids, digital mockup (DMU) engineering analysis
• Mechanical design, including sheet metal design and production; tooling design; part and assembly design; composites design and engineering; mold tooling design; core and cavity design; wireframe and surface design
• Machining capabilities, including lathe machining, NC machine tool building, 3-axis surface machining, and more
• Shape design and styling
• Equipment and systems engineering, including circuit board design, HVAC design, and more
• Real-time rendering
• Simulation, including kinematic simulation, fitting simulation, NC machine tool simulation
• STL rapid prototyping

CATIA Pricing

Pros of CATIA

CATIA’s advantages include:

• Extensive materials library
• It eases the process of modeling complex geometries and shapes
• CATIA maintains a design history
• It facilitates the visualization of large assemblies, enabling users to identify issues during the modeling stage
• CATIA supports seamless collaboration via the 3DExperience platform

Cons of CATIA

CATIA’s disadvantages include:

• For CATIA to work efficiently, it must run on a powerful CAD workstation
• CATIA is expensive, costing $2,268.00 per quarter or $7,560.00 per year
• It is not easy to use, especially for beginners, with multiple users saying that the UI is complicate
• Dassault Systèmes does not provide a lot of information about the software on its website; to access this information, users must contact the company’s sales representatives

3. SolidWorks

It is available for download and installation as desktop software, primarily on the Windows platform. For a detailed guide on how to download, install, and set up the software, check out our article on SolidWorks basics. (Do note, however, that you can use SolidWorks online during the free trial. This allows you to run the software on Amazon servers.)

SolidWorks Online User Interface

We have included SolidWorks in this list for several reasons, chief among them the fact that it is feature-rich. Other reasons include the fact that it is relatively user-friendly for users with some CAD experience and is generally a very powerful parametric modeling and solid modeling solution.

Features of SolidWorks

SolidWorks’ features and capabilities include:

• Color picker from any interface/software 
• 3D texture tool, which defines the textures of 3D models
• Direct mesh modeling
• Visualization tools
• Customizable mouse gestures
• Ability to manage references by locking, unlocking, and/or breaking individual references
• 3DExperience platform, which offers access to data management, collaboration, advanced simulation (e.g., injection molding simulation, electromagnetic simulations, robot simulation, factory simulation, and more), analysis (e.g., fluid flow and thermal performance analysis), manufacturing, and production tools

SolidWorks Pricing

Pros of SolidWorks

SolidWorks’ advantages include:

• It is user-friendly and easy to learn and use
• It offers an extensive suite of modeling and simulation tools
• There is a vast pool of online resources, and customer support is readily available via the SolidWorks forum
• The 3DExperience promotes collaboration and streamlined communication
• SolidWorks supports plenty of add-on tools that enable processes such as tolerance analysis
• It simplifies the design of complex geometries and assemblies

Cons of SolidWorks

SolidWorks’ disadvantages include:

• SolidWorks is quite expensive, especially considering that Dassault Systèmes offers various packages separately. Each SolidWorks package has its own pricing
• There are limited free SolidWorks options, namely only the free trial
• It does not have a free package for students
• A powerful CAD workstation is necessary for you to fully enjoy SolidWorks
• Large assemblies can take a while to open

4. Autodesk Inventor

Autodesk Inventor is a 3D CAD software designed to help design professionals undertake mechanical design. It also offers product simulation tools and documentation. Additionally, Inventor enables users to share feedback using built-in collaboration tools and work with BIM software such as Revit, thanks to built-in interoperability. Users also say it offers a logical approach to parts and assembly design. It also facilitates product data management through Autodesk Vault, software that can be easily integrated into Inventor.

Autodesk Inventor User Interface (source)

We have selected Autodesk Inventor because it is pocket-friendly – its subscription prices are not as high as PTC Creo or SolidWorks. Additionally, users can purchase it as part of Autodesk’s product design and manufacturing software bundle, including Inventor, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and Navisworks Manage. This allows you to enjoy a potential annual savings of more than $4,000. At the same time, Inventor has a vibrant online community, meaning users can easily receive quality answers to their questions.

Features of Inventor

The features and capabilities of Autodesk Inventor are as follows:

• Assembly modeling
• Parametric, freeform, direct, and rules-based modeling
• 2D design
• Sheet metal design and preparation
• Automated frame design
• Interoperability with Revit
• It can open 3D models created and saved using other CAD applications
• It can also accurately translate files from virtually any CAD software in use today (translation is the process of converting imported non-native data from other software to native or neutral data)
• An extensive standard and customizable content library that includes beams, bolted connections, gears, cams, nuts, bolts, and fasteners, just to name a few. In total, you can generate over 750,000 standard components from the library
• Support for simulation and visualization, including dynamic simulation, stress analysis, and exploded views and animations

Inventor Pricing

Pros of Inventor

Autodesk Inventor’s advantages include:

• Like all other Autodesk products, Inventor has an active community – the Inventor Forum – that allows users to share their knowledge, ask questions, and explore topics and questions asked by other users
• It supports the automation of repetitive tasks using iLogic
• Inventor promotes standardization of procedures using iLogic, thus reducing errors
• Its cloud-based design review function enables users to collect feedback from clients and other stakeholders regardless of their location
• Inventor is available for free to students and educators
• Its prices are friendly

Cons of Inventor

Autodesk Inventor’s disadvantages include:

• It has fewer commands and features than SolidWorks, CATIA, and Creo
• Inventor is only available on Windows

5. PTC Creo

When Pro/ENGINEER was unveiled in 1988, PTC Inc., its developer, became the first to market with associative feature-based parametric modeling software. The launch ushered in an era of simplified solid modeling, revolutionizing the CAD industry as it was known then. So revolutionary was parametric modeling that it is still in use over three decades later. And though Pro/ENGINEER was renamed to PTC Creo in 2010, its status as the pioneer of that design methodology remains. 

PTC Creo User Interface (source)

We rank PTC Creo fifth on this list of the top 5 best parametric modeling software for two main reasons. The first is PTC Creo pricing: the software is quite expensive. The second reason is the ease of use: users, even the most experienced ones, report that it is not easy to learn or use. Still, the software offers a number of features and functionalities that have made it a leader in the solid modeling space. 

Features of PTC Creo

PTC Creo offers the following features: 

• AI-driven generative design – generates best designs as boundary representation (BREP) geometry for different manufacturing processes. The designs are based on user-defined engineering requirements. It also enables the comparison of multiple design variations, materials, and manufacturing processes based on the designs generated.
• Additive manufacturing: It supports 3D printing
• Associative workflow: any changes made to the design will be reflected throughout the workflow
• Support for machining operations, including NC sheet metal, milling and turning, machining, wire electrode discharge machining (EDM)
• Augmented reality rendering
• Support for processes at every stage of manufacturing, including mold design for injection molding, tooling for injection molding parts, 3D simulation, and more
• Support for a variety of extensions and modules
• Compatibility with files and models created using CATIA, IGES, Inventor, NX, Solidworks, and SolidEdge

PTC Creo Pricing

Pros of PTC Creo

PTC Creo offers the following advantages: 

• It offers a wide range of tools and functionalities, including mold design, superb surface modeling, die design, wire and spool harness creation and customization (using the Cabling module), and more
• PTC Creo takes constraints automatically
• It has an extensive library of pre-defined components
• It can generate designs that have disparate properties; it further supports the comparison of these designs

Cons of PTC Creo

PTC Creo is disadvantageous in the following ways:

•  Limits most of its features to expensive tiers
• Steep learning curve due to complexity and the existence of numerous tools
• Less effective or inferior rendering tools and outcomes compared to CATIA and SolidWorks
• It is costly
• It is not cloud-based, meaning the files can only be saved locally

Honorable Mentions

1. FreeCAD

Of course, the top 5 best parametric modeling software products discussed above offer a free tier – either through the free trial or via dedicated packages intended for students, educators, or qualifying parties. Unfortunately, however, they are not free over a user’s lifetime. So if you have been searching for a perpetually free 3D modeling software that supports parametric modeling, look no further than FreeCAD.

Features of FreeCAD 

• Support for a variety of file formats, including STL, DWG, STEP, IGES, DAE, DXF, SVG, IFC, OFF, OpenSCAD, SHP, CSG, and more
• Additive manufacturing: it enables users to undertake 3D printing, CAM, and CNC
• Workbenches: FreeCAD groups all related tools within an environment known as a workbench that is intended to achieve a given task. There are several dedicated workbenches, including 2D CAD drafting, Finite Element Analysis, design of industrial robot trajectories, architectural and BIM modeling, and more

Pros of FreeCAD

• It is available on Linux, Windows, and macOS platforms
• FreeCAD supports scripting and customization

Cons of FreeCAD

• Users report slow performance
• It does not receive yearly updates as is the case with other 3D modeling software
• FreeCAD does not have some features that are available on other 3D modeling software

2. Onshape

Onshape is a relatively new 3D modeling software that is primarily cloud-based. This means it is not available as desktop software. Instead, to use it, users access the Onshape servers via a web browser. In this regard, Onshape uses a software-as-a-service (SaaS) business model, which sets it apart from other players in the 3D modeling space. 

Onshape User Interface (source)

And though relatively new compared to the other software in this list of the 5 best parametric modeling software products, having been released in 2012, Onshape has a number of features that make it stand out. Additionally, it was acquired by PTC in 2019, with the acquisition adding PTC’s experience and expertise in parametric modeling and solid modeling. Following the acquisition, Onshape operates as a SaaS business unit within PTC.

Since its release in 2012, the developers of Onshape have introduced numerous features that improve upon its capabilities. In 2018, the company introduced Parametric Modeling 2.0, which sought to streamline and simplify each parametric modeling workflow used by design professionals. The revamp led to the introduction of changes to various areas within the parametric modeling ecosystem, including multi-part design, in-context design, sheet metal tools, and custom features. It also introduced configurations and standard content.

Features of Onshape

Onshape’s features include, but are not limited to:

• Configurations enable users to create multiple variations of the same model, each with different parameters
• Built-in library of standard content such as bolts, nuts, screws, and washers
• It allows design professionals to design all related parts within a single space, with all these parts having a single parametric history – thus, when one parameter is changed, Onshape updates all the parts accordingly
• Superior sheet metal design tools, including the ability to simultaneously see a folded, flat, and table view of a sheet metal part
• Automation and customization through FeatureScript, an open-source programming language
• Built-in Product Data Management (PDM), a set of tools that enables users to manage and control design data within a 3D CAD environment
• It supports visualization through simulation and rendering
• A cloud-native approach to finite element analysis (FEA)
• History and version tree, which enables users to compare, revert to, or branch from any point in the history of their model or document

Onshape Pricing

Pros of Onshape

The advantages of using Onshape are:

• It promotes collaboration as multiple users can contribute to the model or edit the Onshape documents simultaneously
• Onshape provides real-time data management because it is primarily based on the cloud
• Its full-cloud architecture compensates for less advanced local systems
• It can be accessed via a smartphone
• Onshape offers data security thanks to a database-driven architecture that eliminates unauthorized duplication, accidental sharing, and data breaches
• Onshape is available for free to students and educators, qualifying startups and entrepreneurs, and hobbyists

Cons of Onshape

The disadvantages of Onshape include:

• It requires a fast internet connection
• Onshape does not have some of the features found in more mature CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, and PTC Creo
• Some of the tools, such as simulation, are still at the basic stage and are, therefore, not as advanced as those found in SolidWorks, CATIA, and PTC Creo

Other 3D CAD software applications that deserve a mention include Rhino 3D, Solid Edge, Fusion 360, and Bentley MicroStation. Consider checking some of the articles in which we have compared the above software programs: Onshape vs. SolidWorks, CATIA vs. SolidWorks, Creo vs. SolidWorks, and SolidWorks vs. Autodesk Inventor.

Conclusion

The 3D CAD software space is evolving fast, with developers creating applications with advanced capabilities. As a result, choosing the right software that meets your needs can be cumbersome. For this reason, we have prepared a list of the top 5 best parametric modeling software products for 2025. The list includes SolidWorks, CATIA, Onshape, PTC Creo, and Autodesk Inventor. Each of these solutions caters to different price points. Additionally, some, like Onshape and 3DExperience CATIA, are primarily cloud-based, while others offer access to the cloud via built-in web apps. Here’s a summary:

• Most expensive parametric modeling software product: PTC Creo
• Most affordable parametric modeling software product: Inventor
• Best parametric modeling software for mechanical design: Autodesk Inventor
• Best parametric modeling software for aerospace and automotive engineering: CATIA
• Best parametric modeling software for product design: NX
• Best parametric modeling software for manufacturing and milling: SolidWorks
• Best overall parametric modeling software overall: NX

We would like to point out that this article is meant to act as a guide. In that regard, we recommend that you carry out extensive research and experiment before choosing a particular parametric modeling software product.

Following intense research and comparisons, we have come up with this list of the top 5 Matterport alternatives:

1. Metareal Stage
2. 3D Vista
3. EyeSpy360
4. Zillow 3D Home
5. VPiX

But before discussing each of these alternatives in detail, let’s first explore exactly what Matterport is; its features, tools, capabilities, and pricing. Let’s get into it. 

Before We Begin: About Matterport

History of Matterport

Founded in 2011, Matterport has grown tremendously and is, in fact, publicly traded on the Nasdaq capital markets. It has processed more than 15 billion square feet of spatial data from working with hundreds of thousands of customers located in more than 150 countries. Its customers are spread across different industries, including:

• Real Estate
• Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC)
•  Retail, 
• Travel and Hospitality
• Insurance and Restoration
• Facilities Management 

Matterport Offerings

Matterport offers a complete suite of tools, integrations, applications, and services that enables you to transform the built environment into three-dimensional (3D) digital images as well as manage the resulting 3D twins. It also offers the Capture app that enables you to capture 3D models using a mobile phone (iPhone) or tablet (iPad). 

In addition, Matterport also offers a professional scan service that lets you book the services of a technician to capture the images. The company also has a dashboard that enables you to manage your 3D tours. Matterport can automatically generate 3D Revit models and 2D computer-aided design (CAD) files. 

The company supplies you with a zip folder containing raster files (PNG) and a PDF of the CAD files. If you intend to import the files into a CAD program, you can use Scan2CAD to convert the Matterport-generated PNG or PDF files to DWG or DXF. 

At the same time, you can use the Matterport Dollhouse View to visualize the relationships between rooms and the space. It offers a 3D floor plan perspective that you can fully interact with, acting as a convenient way to navigate any section of the model.

Matterport Dollhouse View (source)

Matterport Pricing

Customers can enjoy these offerings by choosing from the following tiered pricing packages:

1.     Free Lifetime Package 
2.     Starter Package at $9.99/month
3.     Pro & Business Package at $69.00/month
4.     Enterprise Package (available on inquiry)

Top 5 Matterport Alternatives

To some, these packages and the features offered may not be appealing or may be expensive. So, what are the alternatives? In this section, we explore the top 5 Matterport alternatives, which include: 

1.  Metareal Stage
2. 3D Vista Virtual Tour PRO
3. EyeSpy360
4. Zillow 3D Home
5. VPiX

It is noteworthy that these Matterport alternatives are based on specific attributes as summarized in the table below:

1. Metareal Stage

Metareal Stage Virtual Tour (source)

Brief Overview of Metareal Stage 

Metareal Stage markets itself as “the easiest, most affordable true 3D virtual tour solution.” To use the service, you simply have to create an account. Then, you have to use a DSLR, 360° camera, or mobile phone (you first have to install the Nodalview Smartphone Capture app) to take panoramic images of the space. Of course, you can take as many photos as you wish – Metareal is not restrictive.

Next, upload the images to the cloud and subsequently reconstruct the 3D environment manually. Once you are satisfied with the 3D environment, publish the virtual tour to make it public. In the event, you are unable to reconstruct the 3D environment on your own, Metareal Stage has a team of artists to build the virtual tour on your behalf. 

Pricing of Metareal Stage 

Metareal Stage Service Type 

Metareal Stage is a web-based platform (online service). It has a portal that allows creators to upload their images and manage the processed 3D virtual tours.

Matterport vs. Metareal Stage

Metareal Stage does not rely on AI to process your images. Instead, the company has a team of certified artists to accomplish this task. That said, the service is cheaper than Matterport but offers several similar features. For instance, visitors can use Metareal Stage’s measure tools to take measurements. 

However, it does not let you (as the creator) embed labels that offer more information. Furthermore, it does not automatically generate 3D models and floor plans. And given that it allows creators to upload a few panoramic images, the quality of the virtual tour is sometimes negatively impacted. 

Still, Metareal Stage qualifies as one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives. It is a convenient and affordable virtual tours tool. It also offers the most fundamental capability: the ability to create and publish a virtual tour affordably.

2. 3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro

3D Vista Virtual Tour with Embedded Video (source)

Brief Overview of 3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro

Founded in 1999, 3D Vista develops the Virtual Tour Pro software that enables you to create interactive 360° virtual tours. With this software, you can include 360° videos and panoramas, audio, and floor plans, as well as embed videos and photos that provide more details about clickable sections of the tour, such as artifacts and paintings. 

As one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives, the software also supports live panorama (which comprises several panoramas of the same space taken at different times to facilitate a smooth transition from day to night). The software also supports Adaptive HDR and the ability to view the virtual tours on any computer, smartphone (iOS or Android), or tablet. 

You can also purchase 3D Vista’s Stitcher software that stitches photos to create a panorama as an add-on. 3D Vista also offers hosting services. It also supports 3D models created using SketchUp, 3DS Max, V-Ray, etc. 

Pricing of 3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro

3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro’s Service 

3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro is available for purchase or download as multi-platform desktop software for both macOS and Windows.

Matterport vs. 3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro

While Matterport is an online platform, 3D Vista Virtual Tour Pro is available as a multi-platform software installable on both Windows and iOS computers. The latter is also cheaper in the long-term as you only have to part with a one-time payment. On the other hand, you have to pay hefty monthly amounts for premium Matterport features. 

As one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives, the Virtual Tour Pro also offers premium features that you cannot find on Matterport. These include Live Panorama, Adoptive HDR, and panoramas created using CAD software.

3. EyeSpy360

EyeSpy360 Virtual Tour (source)

Brief Overview of EyeSpy360

EyeSpy360 is a 360° virtual tours solutions provider that lets you upload 360° photos to the company’s cloud platform. The company then processes the images, creating a virtual tour, a 3D model of the space, and a floor plan. EyeSpy360 charges a processing fee of $1 per 360° image per tour, in addition to the monthly charge. 

In the event that you do not have the facilities or time to take the 360° or upload them, EyeSpy360 offers professional photography services. Under this arrangement, which is available on a one-time fee basis, the company will do everything for you. 

EyeSpy360 offers different features, including EyeSpyLive and EyeSpyPlay, which qualify it as one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives. The former combines the power and convenience of virtual tours with live video chats. On the other hand, the EyeSpyPlay enables the creators to embed a voice-over narration that visitors can toggle on or off. 

Pricing of EyeSpy360 

EyeSpy360’s Service

EyeSpy360 is an online service available via a web-based platform. 

Matterport vs. EyeSpy360

Matterport does not support voiced virtual tours or live video chats. This makes EyeSpy360 more ideal for realtors looking to sell property, implying that EyeSpy360 is superior. In fact, with EyeSpy360, you can virtually add or remove furniture to transform the appearance of the space based on the vision. This attribute qualifies it as one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives, especially as Matterport does not allow you to make virtual changes to existing furniture. 

In addition, Matterport and EyeSpy360 share many functionalities, including the generation of 2D floor plans, 3D models (Dollhouse View), the ability to embed labels, and a management portal. You can also use a mobile phone to capture photos, with EyeSpy360 recommending the use of 4K and higher resolution. 

4. Zillow 3D Home

Zillow 3D Home (source)

Brief Overview of Zillow 3D Home

Zillow 3D Home is an affiliate of Zillow Group Inc., a real estate intelligence company that provides people the on-demand experience to lease, sell, buy, or finance property. The Zillow 3D Home solution facilitates this goal by enabling potential buyers or renters to view the interior of properties. In this regard, it is a virtual tours platform available as a mobile application on both Android and iOS and via a web-based portal. 

As a person looking to sell or lease out a property, you can use a supported Android phone, iPhone, or 360° camera to capture panoramic photos. Next, upload the images and publish the virtual tour. Unlike the Metareal Stage, which requires you to manually recreate the 3D environment, Zillow 3D home completes the task automatically. According to Zillow, a tour with 10-20 images is processed in less than 4 hours.

It is also noteworthy that you can import third-party tours from Matterport or VPiX

Pricing of Zillow 3D Home

Zillow 3D Home is a free service for people looking to list their property on Zillow. 

Zillow 3D Home’s Service

Zillow 3D Home is an online service available via a web-based portal as well as through Android and iOS mobile phone applications. 

Matterport vs. Zillow 3D Home

Whereas Matterport has a free package, this tier offers limited functions. On the other hand, Zillow 3D Home offers plenty of functionalities even though it does not have monthly fees. For instance, with Zillow, you can import third-party tours. You can also edit the tour by adding, moving, or deleting arrows, changing the room’s default view, rearranging the order of the images, and changing the room labels. 

Though a reliable top 5 Matterport alternative, Zillow 3D Home does not support features such as measurements or labels for specific decorations within the virtual tour. Still, it is a formidable virtual tours solution, especially since it is available for free. 

5. VPiX

VPiX Virtual Tour with Interactive 3D Model (source)

Brief Overview of VPiX

Virtual Pictures, doing business as VPiX, is a virtual tour company that targets the real estate (commercial and residential), hotel, agriculture, and car industries. It offers on-site 360° video and photographic services. The company’s online (cloud-based) software uses video and photographs uploaded by the customer to create models that companies can use to showcase their properties. Upon uploading, you can then access the processed virtual tour videos from the VPiX cloud. The company also offers 3D object photography for eCommerce businesses. 

Pricing of VPiX: 

The company has not provided pricing information; it requires you to contact them directly.

VPiX’s Service

VPiX is an online service. But unlike competitors such as Matterport, and Zillow 3D Home, VPiX does not have a mobile phone application.

Matterport vs. VPiX

Although it is one of the top 5 Matterport alternatives, VPiX is less convenient than Matterport as it supports fewer cameras. Mobile phone users cannot directly upload photos taken using their phone cameras. Matterport also offers more capabilities, such as tagging, support for more hotspots, and measurements.

Nonetheless, VPiX’s services cover more industries than Matterport’s, which mainly concentrates on the built environment. With VPiX, you can create a virtual 3D tour of a car’s or yacht’s interior in addition to real estate spaces and hotels. In terms of similarities, VPIX also generates 3D models and 2D plans of houses by processing uploaded images.

Conclusion

Although Matterport is a leading digital transformation tool, it lacks some of the features you can find elsewhere. This has led us to create and explore the top 5 Matterport alternatives, a list that comprises both desktop software and web-based solutions. Each of the alternatives has its own unique capabilities as well as features you can find on Matterport.

Most architects, landscape architects, mechanical engineers, plumbing engineers, electrical engineers, and structural engineers would prefer having a CAD application that can support almost everything since all these fields depend on each other during projects. For example, an electrical engineer will use architectural, civil, mechanical, plumbing, and structural drawings to produce his or her electrical drawings to ensure that the drawings do not conflict.

By being all-in-one CAD programs, BricsCAD and Revit provide drafters, engineers, and architects with all the available options for drawing or opening any drawing they get from the team during projects. But there are a few differences between the two programs that we shall look at in this post.

BricsCAD

Figure 1. Building Modeling was done using BricsCAD BIM (source)

BricsCAD is an all-in-one CAD program for drawing .DWG files ranging from 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and mechanical designs to Building Information Modelling (BIM).

It offers cost-effective and multi-platform CAD solutions for Linux, macOS, and Windows.

There are different BricsCAD editions tailored for different functionalities. These editions include:

• BricsCAD Shape 
• BricsCAD 30-day Free Trial Download
• BricsCAD Lite
• BricsCAD Pro
• BricsCAD BIM
• BricsCAD Mechanical
• BricsCAD Ultimate

The BricsCAD Ultimate combines the functionalities of all the other BricsCAD editions.

What can BricsCAD do?

As indicated in the above section BricsCAD is an all-in-one CAD application meaning it can be used to do any computer-aided design task. One just has to choose the right BricsCAD edition depending on the tasks he or she wants to undertake.

In a nutshell, BricCAD can perform the following:

• Viewing and managing DWG CAD drawings
• 2D drafting
• Annotation
• 3D modeling
• Parametric modeling
• Documentation
• Data Extraction
• File import and export in different formats
• Printing and plotting
• Rendering

Who can use BricsCAD?

BricsCAD is a CAD program that can be used by anyone looking for a computer-aided design program. They just have to choose the right BricsCAD edition depending on their field or the tasks they want to undertake.

If one does not have enough funds to subscribe for the BricsCAD Ultimate, which combines all the functionalities into one application, then he or she can choose an edition that best suits the tasks he or she wants to undertake. 

If you are a mechanical engineer, designer, or CAD drafter looking to just produce some 2D drawings, you can use the BricsCAD Shape which is free. You could also opt for the BricsCAD Lite, which requires a subscription and offers more functionalities than the BricsCAD shape.

If you are a mechanical engineer, designer, or CAD drafter looking to produce 3D models, you could subscribe for the BricsCAD mechanical or BricsCAD Pro depending on your budget.

Figure 2. A Mechanical assembly is done using BricsCAD mechanical (source)

Structural engineers, civil engineers, and architects can use the BricaCAD BIM which allows them to draw and model building structures.

Revit 

Figure 3. An Architectural drawing was done using Revit (source)

Autodesk Revit, commonly referred to as just Revit, is a Building Information modeling (BIM) CAD software. 

There is also a lighter version called Revit LT, which is more cost-effective compared to Revit though with reduced functionalities.

The original version was developed by Charles River Software, which was founded in 1997. Later on, in 2000, the company was renamed Revit Technology Corporation before being acquired by Autodesk in 2002.

What can Autodesk Revit do?

Revit is a fully developed BIM CAD program. It is 4D BIM capable and it has added tools for planning and tracking the various stages of the building process from conceptualization, construction to maintenance or demolition.

It allows users to design a building together with its structure and components in 2D and then go ahead and do 3D modeling and annotation.

In a nutshell, Autodesk Revit can be used for the following in BIM:

• 2D drafting
• 3D modeling
• Parametric Modeling. 
• Automation.
• Collaboration
• Coordination
• Scheduling
• Energy Analysis
• Rendering Presentation.
• Construction Documentation

If you choose to go for the Revit LT, it does not have several functionalities like work sharing (collaboration), analysis, and in-product rendering.

Who can use Revit?

As a building information modeling (BIM) CAD software, Autodesk Revit can be used by landscape architects, structural engineers, architects, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, plumbing (MEP) engineers, as well as civil construction companies.

It is a good choice for all those involved with building construction or civil construction.

BricsCAD vs Revit

Below is a comparison table of BricsCAD vs Revit to help engineers, architects, and CAD drafters in selecting the right software between the two depending on their functionalities.

Conclusion

The above BricsCAD vs Revit CAD software comparison should help you identify the best CAD software between the two depending on what you want to draw or model.

Besides the tasks that you want to undertake, you should also consider the subscription fees, the availability of a free trial, and the functionalities offered by the free trial.

In a nutshell, just to assist you to choose between the two, BricsCAD has different editions that can be used for different fields including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, electrical engineering, and architecture. On the other hand, Revit is solely designed for BIM CAD operations and would not be a good choice for a mechanical engineer looking to design complex mechanical assemblies.

It also enables the creation of virtual models, which designers and engineers can use to validate their exact dimensions, functions, and forms before manufacturing even begins. It is considered a valuable tool in CAM/CAE/CAD applications. As Scan2CAD, we’ve discussed its usefulness in several of our blog articles, including AutoCAD vs. Inventor, CATIA vs. Inventor, and SolidWorks vs. Inventor, by pitting it against other CAD software. We have also prepared an Inventor tutorial to help you navigate the user interface as well as learn the basics.

What the comparison articles made clear is the fact that Autodesk has some worthy competitors, some of which outperform it in certain applications. For instance, while Inventor makes the path to be followed when developing a 3D model from a hand-drawn concept slow and a tad difficult, SolidWorks makes it easy and fast. The same can be said about several other features, and that is why this article focuses on the top 5 inventor alternatives, which include:

• SolidWorks
• Siemens NX
• CATIA
•  Rhino3D
• Creo Design (formerly Pro-E)

Before We Start

Before we discuss the various features that make the Investor alternatives above appear on the list, let’s first briefly provide more details about Autodesk Inventor, which is easily among the most popular 3D CAD software in the market today. And that is not by accident. With a ton of features that appeal to mechanical engineers and product designers, it is easy to see the origin of the popularity. Add to this the fact that its developer, Autodesk, is a force in the CAD industry, offers more credence to Inventor’s reputation.

In terms of cost, Inventor is available in multiple packages:

•  Monthly: $260
• Annual: $2,085
• 3 Years: $5,630
• Collection: $2,720 (bundles several Autodesk products together, including AutoCAD, Inventor, Fusion 360, and more professional-grade tools)

As stated earlier, you can use Inventor for simulation and analysis. The software facilitates different types of simulations, e.g., manufacturing process (casting die press forming and molding); mechanical event and continuous event simulations; and finite element analysis (FEA), fluid analysis, and kinematic/dynamic analysis.

Nonetheless, the CAD market is competitive, and other software developers offer products with similar, if not better, features. If you are looking for such products, perhaps because the prices of the packages mentioned are too high, features aren’t appealing enough, or you simply want a non-Autodesk product, read on.

Inventor Alternatives

SolidWorks

Design Space on SolidWorks (source)

Price: Standard (with one-year subscription service): $5,290.00

Professional (with one-year subscription service): $6,985.00

Premium (with one-year subscription service): $9,990.00

The annual cost of the subscription service, which covers upgrades, technical support, and more, costs $1,295, effectively meaning that SolidWorks licenses are lower than the amounts provided for each package by $1,295.

Supported OS: Windows, Mac OS

Suitable for: Designing and modeling electrical and mechanical elements, simulation (finite element analysis), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), visualization and visual ideation, prototyping, and feasibility assessment

Features: 3D solid modeling; assembly design; surfacing; welded structures design; mold design; 2D drawings; automation of repetitive tasks; ability to check for clearances, collisions, and interferences between components; collaboration; bill of materials (BOM)

Head-to-Head

SolidWorks (SW) stands out from Inventor because of its advanced assembly function – SW’s is more intuitive. The intuitiveness extends to other areas as well, including the workflow it offers uses and the menu design. It also supports many file formats, meaning that it supports the import or export of files from other CAD software.

Furthermore, SolidWorks is better for large and small assemblies than Inventor, a fact that holds for even older versions of the former when compared to later versions of the latter.

Siemens NX

User Interface and Parts Assembly on Siemens NX (source)

Price: NX is available in multiple packages, with the entry-level being about $7,000 per year. The most expensive package (Mach 3 Industrial design) is over $20,000 per year.

Supported OS: Mac OS, Unix, and Windows

Suitable for: modeling (parametric, solid, sheet, surface, and aerodynamic modeling); simulation (thermal, dynamic/vibration, static, and electromagnetic); analysis (finite element analysis and flow analysis); creating 2D drawings (drafting) and 3D designs of complex systems and parts; assembling parts/systems; machining

Features: Integrated CAD, CAE, and CAM functionalities; cost estimation, rendering, and animation; assembly and modeling; documentation and reporting; analysis and simulation

Because it combines CAD, CAM, and CAE functionalities, NX is ideal for mechanical, electrical, and design applications

Head-to-Head

Comparatively, NX is more expensive than Inventor and is mainly used by organizations that can afford the hefty price tag. Nonetheless, it offers plenty of functionalities for users at this price, some of which are better than Inventor’s. For instance, NX’s user experience and user interface are better than Inventor’s. It also provides a better overall experience for organizations and their employees.

It also handles massive assemblies easily, making it extremely useful in the automotive and aerospace industries. It is miles ahead of Inventor for complex applications as it is faster. In fact, users have observed that using NX makes other CAD software in the market seem too simplistic. Nonetheless, for personal projects, Inventor is better because it is cheaper.

CATIA

User Interface and Surface Modeling on CATIA (source)

Price:  One-time purchase charge of $11,200 plus annual maintenance charge of $2,000

         Quarterly lease at $1,700

         Yearly lease at $4,500

On pricing, Dassault Systèmes, CATIA’s developer, sells role-based modules at a one-time charge that ranges between $2,700 and $19,000. These modules are geared towards providing additional features to users, depending on the specific function for which they intend to use CATIA.

Supported OS: Windows and some UNIX-based Oss

Suitable for: Design (part design, sheet metal design, mold design, wiring harness design, and more); modeling (surface, solid, and sheet modeling); creating 2D drawings (drafting); billing of materials; analysis (stress analysis, influence of centrifugal forces); assembly and disassembly of parts; simulation (multiple excitations and measures); rendering

Features: Good user interface; advanced Boolean operation; collaboration via the cloud; ability to create custom menus; product modeling and advanced surface modeling

These features and functionalities make CATIA ideal for CAE, CAD, CAM, and systems engineering applications.

Head-to-Head

CATIA’s good user interface makes it user-friendly without compromising on its functionalities. Further, it facilitates surface, solid, and sheet modeling, as well as the assembly and disassembly capabilities, making it perfect for companies in the aerospace and automobile industries. On these points, CATIA is superior to Inventor.

Additionally, CATIA is designed to handle large files. It even promotes global collaboration as it is connected to the cloud. However, it requires a computer with good processing power (CPU and graphics card) and plenty of RAM. Anything other than this makes the software slow. It is worth pointing out that Inventor also has similar system requirements.

If you are in the automotive or aerospace industry, CATIA would be a better option than Inventor.

Rhino3D

User Interface and Rendering Functionality on Rhino3D (source)

Price: $995 or €995 (This is a one-time price, with no maintenance fees)

Supported OS: Windows and Mac OS

Suitable for: 2D drawing (drafting); analysis; digitizing hardware and scanned objects in 3D; digital fabrication and mold design; rendering and visualization; surface and solid modeling; creating meshes

Features: Command-line-based user experience (but it makes for the need to issue command-line instructions by autocompleting the commands); support for multiple file formats; analysis tools; rendering and presentation tools; unlimited viewports and viewing modes; Boolean operations; modeling tools

Head-to-Head

Rhino3D is comparatively cheaper than Inventor and virtually all the Inventor alternatives discussed above. But at its price point, it still packs a punch. It is ideal for creating 2D drawings as well as 3D models. Further, it offers freedom as users can install various third-party plug-ins to help improve the available functions.

The commands, which are abundant, are simple, making learning and typing them easy. In fact, the software auto-completes the commands. This, coupled with the various features it offers, makes it suitable for beginners intending to get into the 3D modeling software. Nonetheless, it offers fewer features compared to Inventor.

Verdict: Rhino3D is well-suited for personal use, an area in which Inventor also thrives. But because it is cheaper, it is appropriate for beginners looking for affordable software that still offers powerful modeling tools.

Creo Parametric

Creo Parametric User Interface (Source)

Price:  Essentials: $2,200 – $2,700

         Advanced: $3,980 – $4,900

         Advanced Plus: $10,300

         Premium: $14,375

         Premium Plus: $20,000

Supported OS: Windows only

Suitable for: Machining (prismatic production machining, mold machining, production machining) and metal printing; Simulation (liquid and gas flow) and analysis (fatigue, tolerance); creating optimized parametric geometry; surfacing; augmented reality design visualization; assembly design and management; 3D design and 2D drawing; sheet metal design

Features: Augmented reality; additive manufacturing; numerical control (NC) programming capabilities; compatibility with Inventor, SolidWorks, CATIA, and NX native files; tools for surfacing, machining, 3D design, 2D drawing, simulation and analysis, and assembly design

Head-to-Head

Creo is user-friendly as it has a simple user interface as well as commands that are easy to learn. So much so that beginner-level classes are not needed. The fact that it is compatible with a lot of file formats means the importation of drawings is seamless. However, if these files imported contain large assemblies, Creo will struggle to open them.

All in all, Creo can be used to draw any object in 2D and design 3D parts. That said, it is not ideal for recreational 3D modeling as it is primarily designed for professional use – the pricing also points to this fact.

Verdict: Creo is cheaper than Inventor in the long-run because the packages mentioned earlier require one-off payments. If you are looking for recreational 3D software, Inventor would be a better option. However, if you want an easy-to-use CAD software that still offers many of the benefits of conventional CAD software, Creo would be an excellent place to start. Even so, bear in mind that it is not as widely adopted as other software.

Conclusion

The various alternatives differ from each other in many ways. While some offer advanced capabilities that make them perfect for the automobile and aerospace industries, others have fewer features. Also, because these Inventor alternatives are available at different price points, you have a broad pool from which to choose.

Siemens PLM Software owns Solid Edge and NX, which incidentally are both older than the developer. While Siemens PLM Software came into existence in 2007, when UGS Corp, the original developer of Solid Edge, was renamed, Solid Edge and NX were first developed in 1995 and 1973, respectively. Nonetheless, despite the change in ownership of the registered trademarks, the two software products are direct competitors to some of the industry’s most popular software, including SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, CATIA, and Creo, among others.

Solid Edge

History  

Solid Edge was initially released in 1995 as a solid modeling software. At the time, it was owned, developed, and released by Intergraph, a portmanteau of Interactive graphics, and was oriented towards designing/creating assemblies, unlike other 3D CAD programs in use at the time, which were singularly oriented towards CAD.

This distinguishing factor resulted from Microsoft’s Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) – it updated all linked objects automatically and enabled software programs to integrate copy-paste or drag and drop capabilities. Intergraph, which had developed an object-oriented software development framework known as Jupiter Technology in 1995, extended OLE’s functionalities to create design and modeling software.

The integration of OLE with Jupiter in Solid Edge’s development made it the first CAD program to be used in designing parts, assembling, and drafting applications. Simply put, it supported 2D and 3D drawing, which was revolutionary because none of the existing programs combined both 2D and 3D. The first release was known as Solid Edge 1.

Since then, Solid Edge has grown and now boasts numerous features. Additionally, its developers have changed severally. For instance, in 1998, UGS Corp purchased it, and in 2007, Siemens AG purchased UGS Corp and subsequently renamed it to Siemens PLM Software, Solid Edge’s current owner.

What does Solid Edge do?

Solid Edge offers a collection of tools that make it a perfect program for applications such as product development in mechanical and electrical design, manufacturing, simulation, data management, technical documentation, and collaboration via the cloud. Besides, it supports multiple languages, including German, English, French, Hungarian, Czech, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Spanish, and Russian, to mention a few.

With Solid Edge, you can generate 3D parts from 2D drawings and 2D drawings from completed 3D diagrams of components for mechanical and electrical engineering purposes, making the product a vital addition for any company or individual intending to undertake product development more comprehensively, but on a budget.

The comprehensive approach that Solid Edge offers emanates from its inbuilt simulation capabilities that eliminate the need for creating prototypes on which to conduct tests. As a result, Solid Edge reduces the cost of production as well as lessening the design time. These simulation functionalities include:

• Stress analysis and simulation
• Full motion simulation
• Vibration simulation
• Thermal simulation (Heat transfer analysis and thermal stress analysis)
• Buckling simulation
• Finite element analysis (FEA)

Furthermore, Solid Edge generates reports to communicate the simulation results to other parties. The program also facilitates the visualization of computational fluid dynamics. For instance, you can use Solid Edge to visualize how air jets flow from nozzles, as in the image below.

Visualization of Air Jets from Nozzles on Solid Edge (source)

However, Solid Edge also has several downsides. For instance, cloud-based collaboration is only possible if your organization is integrated into Siemens TeamCenter PLM. This integration brings the best out of Solid Edge, meaning that, without it, you are better off using other software packages. But this comes at an extra cost that may not be feasible for a small company. Secondly, its usage requires you to be highly skilled, particularly because it is designed for experienced users and product development professionals. In this regard, it has a steep learning curve if you were to start using it as a beginner.

For this reason, its usability lags behind other CAD software in its class, e.g., CATIA and Solid Works. But this is concerning since it was developed to pull users from these two programs. Thirdly, Solid Edge is only available on Windows.

How Much Does Solid Edge Cost?

Solid Edge is also costly; for instance, the premium package costs $481.00 per month or $4,759.44 per year, while the basic option, which offers fewer features, costs $110.00 per month or 1,085.64 per year. The pricing makes Solid Edge a midrange CAD software program.

Who Uses Solid Edge?

Solid Edge is ideal for anyone in the mechanical engineering or electrical engineering fields requiring software that offers 3D design and printing, assembling parts, surface and part modeling, simulation, 2D drafting, reporting, and technical documentation, and cloud-based collaboration.

Further, being a simplified version of NX, in that it is considered a derivative of NX, it is perfect for anyone intending to use the synchronous modeling features that NX is known for, plus traditional modeling at a lower price than NX.

NX

History

NX was initially known as Unigraphics when it was first released by United Computing, Inc., its original developer, in 1973. However, at the time, it was not available for commercial use and only began being sold commercially in 1975. In 1976, United Computing was acquired by McDonnell Douglas Corporation, which then sold Unigraphics and its software development division to General Motors’ Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in 1991 due to financial difficulties. EDS was later renamed UGS Corp.

In 2007, Siemens PLM Software purchased UGS Corp, transferring ownership of Unigraphics and other products under UGS’s brand, and renamed it NX. Notably, the name NX, which stands from ‘Next Generation,’ traces its roots to 2002 when Unigraphics’ then-owner purchased I-DEAS, a CAD software package, and sought to integrate its features and capabilities into a single program. Thus, began the transition that culminated in the renaming.

In 2024, Siemens announced NX X as a new cloud-based solution that offers powerful CAD capabilities and integrated data management. NX X maintains the core capabilities of NX, which is installed on premise, but introduces a cloud-based approach that simplifies deployment, installation, software access, and configuration. There are several NX X offerings, including NX X Design (a cloud-based CAD product), NX X Manufacturing (a cloud-based CAM offering), and NX X Essentials (a browser-based solution that offers access to basic CAD, CAM, and CAE tools).

What Does NX Do?

NX is a more comprehensive software package than Solid Edge. It is considered a high-end product primarily because it offers advanced and tightly integrated product development solutions for CAD, CAM, or CAE applications, although the term can still apply when referencing pricing because NX is an expensive program.

Like its competitors, NX has drafting, assembling, designing, and modeling functionalities, but has been lauded by users as the best in its class due to its user-friendliness. So advanced is its user experience and user interface that it offers adaptive capabilities in that it tracks and learns the user’s actions and commonly used functions such that it predicts the commands they will use during future projects. These aspects of its UI and UX makes learning NX easier than Solid Edge. Still, a beginner would experience some difficulty.

NX is ideal for creating 2D drawings as well as coming up with 3D designs of complex parts and systems.  It can also be used for all kinds of modeling, i.e., parametric modeling, direct modeling (known internally as synchronous modeling), solid modeling, sheet modeling, aerodynamic modeling, and surface modeling. Although its modeling environment is advanced, it falls behind CATIA when it comes to the latter two types, but is still better than Solid Edge on all modeling fronts. Notably, you are less likely to encounter errors when dealing with NX’s sheet metal environment than when using other CAD software programs, making it the go-to product for sheet modeling.

On top of this, it offers the best rendering in its class, and no other CAD software comes close. Some of the functionalities that the rendering feature provides include the ability to assign material and color to each part and surface in an assembly, thereby making it easy to distinguish one from another. However, the only downside of its rendering is that it takes an excessive amount of time, even when the image’s resolution is consistent.

NX also allows users to carry out various forms of analysis, including thermal, electromagnetic, static, dynamic, and structural as well as fluid flow simulations. Like Solid Edge, NX generates a report for each data set for archival or regulatory requirements.

Spring Loading Simulation Results on NX (source)

How Much Does NX Cost?

NX and NX X are a bit costly. You will need to pay about $7,371 per year for the entry-level version (NX X Design Standard), meaning you will have to pay more for additional features. The most expensive version (NX X Design Premium) will set you back $12,222.00 per year. As such, NX and NX X are mainly purchased by organizations and not individuals.

Who uses NX?

NX is ideal for anyone who needs to draft 2D drawings or model 3D parts for an assembly. Importantly, the modeling environment is better than the drafting environment, but it still provides features and functionalities that make it stand out in both applications.

It is used for parametric design and various kinds of modeling, engineering analysis, and manufacturing as it offers machining modules.

Solid Edge vs NX

The differences between Solid Edge and NX are summarized below:

Conclusion

If you are looking for basic functionalities such as drafting and less advanced modeling capabilities, Solid Edge is ideal. However, if you are looking for a software program that goes beyond this and offers functionalities that combine CAD, CAM, or CAE, NX is your best bet. It is also easier to learn, but, at the same time, it is also expensive.

SketchUp is primarily used for architecture rendering, making 3D models of robots, sculptures, and 3D printable products.

It was developed to run on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

SketchUp comes in two versions; the free Sketchup version and the Paid SketchUp versions. While free Sketchup Version is purely web-based, the paid versions (SketchUp Shop and SketchUp Pro) are available as web versions or as downloadable applications that run on standalone computers. The SketchUp Shop goes for $119.00 per year while the SketchUp Pro goes for $299.00 per year.

Compared to most CAD programs, SketchUp offers one of the cheapest pro versions of a CAD program. Most paid versions of CAD programs cost thousands of dollars a year, which is at times way above what most designers, engineers, and architects are willing to spend on CAD software.

Nonetheless, in case someone needs to perform additional tasks that are not possible with SketchUp, they could look for SketchUp alternatives.

And while it is hard to find other CAD programs that can check all the boxes checked by Sketchup in terms of affordability, user-friendly interface and ease of learning, and a wide range of 3D modeling features, Scan2CAD has compiled a list of the top 5 CAD programs that can be used as SketchUp alternatives.

Autodesk Inventor

Figure 1. Autodesk Inventor (Source: design-engineering.com

Developers: Autodesk

Features: 2D drawing tools, 3D modeling tools, simulation tools, FEA analysis tools, documentation tools, and can export into several CAD file formats.

Suitable for: Parametric, direct, and free-form modeling, 2D drawing, assembly drawing, designing mechatronics systems, simulations, and FEA analysis.

Operating system(s): Windows

Cost: It has a free student version and a paid version which goes for $260 per month or $2,085 per year (though users may opt to try it for free for one month)

If you are looking for a 2D drawing and 3D modeling CAD program that you can use instead of SketchUp, Autodesk Inventor is a great choice. And although it is costlier than SketchUp, it has more features than SketchUp.

This is a product of Autodesk that has been in the market for over 20 years. 

It was built for professionals and designed to handle large industrial projects. It can be used for making both 2D and 3D mechanical designs. And besides 2D drawing and 3D modeling, it also has lots of post modeling tools that enable users to perform rendering, simulation, and documentation. 

Though it requires more training compared to SketchUp and a bit of Engineering knowledge, it has quite a user-friendly interface and it is easier to use compared to other CAD programs that are designed to perform similar tasks.

Autodesk Fusion 360

Figure 2. Autodesk Fusion 360 (source)

Developers: Autodesk

Features: 3D modeling and sculpting, like 3D rendering, simulation, animation, and CAM tools.

Suitable for: Parametric sculpting and modeling, and rendering.

Operating system(s): macOS and Windows

Cost: It has a free version that can be used by hobbyists, students, educators, and start-ups earning under $100,000, and a paid version that goes for $60 per month or $495 per year (with a free one month trial).

Fusion 360 is another Autodesk product and it is a cloud-based CAD program. 

It is a great SketchUp alternative especially for designers or engineers looking for a CAD program with more powerful modeling capabilities than SketchUp.

Its parametric modeling system makes it easy for users to track changes. Also, it stores the design files in an Autodesk account to enable users to access them from any other computer rather than the one that was used to generate them.

The only disadvantage with Fusion 360 in comparison to SketchUp is that its user interface is more complicated and may take some time for a beginner to learn how to use it.

The recent release has a built-in-3D slicer that makes it possible for users to perform slicing when 3D modeling and designing.

Tinkercad

Figure 3. Tinkercad (source)

Developers: Autodesk

Features: Gallery of Things containing thousands of already created models available to the users for use in 3D modeling

Operating system(s): Wed-based

Cost: free

Tinkercad was initially developed to make it easy for less technical users to do 3D design. The original company behind this CAD software was acquired by Autodesk in 2013. Being web-based enables even persons with lesser space on their computers to download, install and run a CAD program to design 3D models.

Tinkercad is a browser-based CAD program and it has a user interface that is almost similar to that of SketchUp. It is easy to learn and use and anyone including people with less engineering, design or architectural knowledge can comfortably use it to generate 3D printable models.

The software has gained popularity within the 3D printing world with enthusiasts opting for it due to its ease of use.

One of its most impressive features is that it provides users with a gallery of things containing thousands of already created models that they can drag, drop and arrange accordingly to come up with a complex 3D object.

It also comes with lots of tutorials that make the learning curve quite fast compared to that of SketchUp.

It is best suited for CAD beginners who are looking to make 3D printing models real quick without having to take a lot of time learning how to draw 3D models.

Art of Illusion

Figure 4. Art of Illusion (Source)

Developers: Peter Eastman

Features: surface modeling tools, 3D rendering tools, animation tools, texture creation tools and compatible with a wide range of plug-ins and scripts

Operating system(s): Windows, Linux, and macOS

Cost: free

Art of Illusion is an open-source CAD 3D modeling software that was launched in 1999. Over the years, it has become prevalent among the RepRap community due to its built-in image rendering tools, fast learning curve, and intuitive user interface.

The software provides users with surface modeling tools which makes 3D modeling quite easy and fun. It also has built-in 3D rendering tools, animation tools, and texture creation tools.

Users can also add several plug-ins and scripts through its “Plug-in Manager”. For instance, if a user wants to export files in STL file format for 3D Printing, they should install a suitable plugin such as the “STLTranslator plug-in”.

Shapr3D

Figure 5. Sharpr3D (source: stackoverflow.com