SOLIDWORKS Alternatives

For 3D computer-aided design, SolidWorks is one of the leading pieces of CAD software. Though it also supports 2D designs, there are alternatives that support 2D designs that have more robust functionality in that regard.

SolidWorks is only available for Windows, but there are several alternatives available on devices that run macOS, Linux-based operating systems, Android's Google Play Store, and the App Store (with CAD applications that are specifically optimized for iPad as well).

The list of alternatives was last updated on Nov 24, 2020
Alternatives to SOLIDWORKSSOLIDWORKS reviews, screenshots and features
  • 87 alternatives

  • FreeCAD

    FreeCAD is a general purpose parametric 3D CAD modeler. The development is completely Open Source (LGPL License).
    Most users think this is great alternative to SOLIDWORKS.
    • Free • Open Source
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    Gu
    AS far as I have tried, FreeCAD is the only FOSS alternative to Solidworks/Catia/PTC that has a funtional workflow. It is the best of a poor bunch.

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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    Gu
    It's free for both personal and commercial use

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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  • SketchUp

    SketchUp (formerly Google Sketchup) is a 3D modeling computer program for a wide range of drawing applications such as architectural, interior design, civil and mechanical...
    Some users think this is a great alternative to SOLIDWORKS, some doesn't.
    • Freemium
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    Gu
    It doesn't have the same tools, short-cuts and general software.

    Negative comment • more than a year ago

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  • Onshape

    Onshape is the first full-cloud 3D CAD system. It runs in a web browser and on any mobile device.
    Most users think this is great alternative to SOLIDWORKS.
    • Free Personal
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    thantik796460
    Fully cross platform parametric cad solution which runs in the browser. Includes any OS which can run a modern browser, including BSD, Linux, OS X, Android, and more. Not open source. Not free. But some of us need a professional-level solution regardless of those ideals.

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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    Gu
    It's just like Solidworks, near same terminology, icons, placement, etc. Not to mention it's free (for the most basic version) and on the cloud.

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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    Gu
    It's free (fully functional) , multiplatform (even on mobiles)

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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  • Autodesk AutoCAD

    Professional 2D and 3D CAD software with specialized tools for use across design and engineering disciplines.
    Some users think this is a great alternative to SOLIDWORKS, some doesn't.
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • iPad
    bo
    The Function Differently under the hood.

    Negative comment • more than a year ago

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  • Autodesk Fusion 360

    Integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE featuring collaborative editing and cloud-based computation. Free license available for students and hobbyists.
    Most users think this is great alternative to SOLIDWORKS.
    • Free Personal
    • Mac
    • Windows
    Gu
    Easy, great support, many tutorials, mobile showroom app, ezports to every format possible, CAD and CAM (very powerfull)

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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  • Autodesk Inventor

    Autodesk® Inventor® products offer a comprehensive, flexible set of software for 3D mechanical design, product simulation, tooling creation, and design communication.
    Almost everyone think this is great alternative to SOLIDWORKS.
    • Windows
    Gu
    Autodesk Inventor has a very similar structure to SolidWorks, down to the Design Tree. You can import & export parts easily, perform assembly models, etc. with a very similar structure to SolidWorks; however, it is slightly less user friendly in my opinion. It is also not going to be the best cost-effective solution as Autodesk does not allow for perpetual licenses (meaning, you have to pay every year to use the software). After a couple of years, it's better to just purchase SolidWorks.

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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    Gu
    You can find almost all features of SolidWorks inthis application. The most exciting feature is that all university students can get it free for 3 years!!!

    Positive comment • more than a year ago

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  • BricsCAD

    BricsCAD the first all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg that answers all your needs; 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. BricsCAD is a cost-effective, innovative, and familiar CAD solution.
    Some users think this is a great alternative to SOLIDWORKS, some doesn't.
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    Gu
    It is an AutoCAD clone, not SolidWorks.

    Negative comment • more than a year ago

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  • DraftSight

    Ambitious but cheaper AutoCAD alternative, with a focus on 2D CAD and support for 3D.
    • Windows

  • BRL-CAD

    Open source 3D geometry modeling system with a robust feature set developed over 20 years.
    • Free • Open Source
    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux

  • Shapr3D

    Shapr3D is a revolutionary 3D modeling software created exclusively for your iPad Pro and your Apple Pencil.
    • Freemium
    • iPad