Solidworks is one of the popular professional software for mechanical engineering projects. This computer-aided design software provides you with 3D modeling and simulation tools. SolidWorks is the leading software in the 3D industries and is commonly used by professionals. When you use Solidworks, you can design complex machinery assemblies, mechanical parts, welding structures, and so on. Despite how powerful Solidworks is, the software is quite expensive. The cost of buying the software and the fact that you need a powerful computer to run it with might discourage people from getting it. Solidworks is also only compatible with Windows operating system. However, there are lots of software like Solidworks on the market. You just have to look at this right place. This post is going to mention some of the best Solidworks alternatives that can be of help to you.
What is SolidWorks software?
SolidWorks is a software for computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE). The software works solely on Microsoft Windows and does not support the macOS. The software is quite popular among professionals and according to a report in 2013, more than 165,000 companies and 2 million engineers were using it. Solidworks offers various tools that are useful for industries like technical communication, electrical, and product configuration.
If you are a beginner, then Solidworks is probably not the best choice for you. Even though the software has an intuitive and friendly user interface, it can be overwhelming if you are new to computer-aided design. There are lots of less complex software that can be of help to you in your CAD journey. This post will mention the best alternative software for SolidWorks.
List of software like SolidWorks
SketchUp
This is another popular computer-aided design software like Solidworks. It is very popular among professionals and is mostly used for interior design, architecture, landscape architecture, and engineering projects. It works perfectly well with 2D and 3D design. To use SketchUp, you will first create a 2D sketch them use the pulling or pushing options to extrude it. SketchUp has a very friendly user interface and is easy to learn. Unlike Solidworks, this software is great for beginners. It will also provide them with professional and realistic-looking animations.
AutoDesk AutoCAD
AutoCAD is an highly professional software that is used in designing anything. It is majorly used in the mechanical, construction, architecture, and engineering industries. You will first create the 2D drawing of an object before creating its 3D models. This CAD software is great for both professionals and intermediate and it is highly compatible with Windows and iOS. AutoCAD has various customized tools that can be used for mechanical engineering projects. You can use this software to create an accurate and precise 3D model of your project.
AutoDesk Fusion
This is another software like Solidworks but it is not too complex for beginners. Whether you are an expert or just entering into the CAD world, you can use the Fusion software. Just like AutoCAD, it is also an AutoDesk software. AutoDesk Fusion is an integrated CAM, CAD, and CAE solution. It has an intuitive and friendly interface that users can navigate through easily. It has numerous tools that can be used to produce accurate 3D models and simulations that you can use to create your project before manufacturing.
FreeCAD
This is another popular software that is life Solidworks. It is an open-source parametric 3D modeling software used to design realistic objects. When using FreeCAD, you can easily modify your design. All you have to do is go back to the model history and change whatever parameters you want to. It is a great software for beginners, intermediate, and also professionals. You can download this software on platforms such as iOS, Windows, and Linux. Furthermore, you can also use it to sketch 2D shapes using them as a base for other objects. The best thing about this solution is that it is totally free.
OnShape
This is yet another software like Solidworks. It has a free version for hobbyists while professionals will have to pay for it. OnShape is also a great software for beginners as it has an intuitive interface that will automate their workflows. This software has advanced features and tools that can help produce complex assemblies and 2D drawings. The best feature it probably has is that you can collaborate with your team online and work together on the same project. Whatever changes you make are applies in real life.
Conclusion (software like SolidWorks)
In summary, this post mentions the five best software like Solidworks. You can use any of these software as a computer-aided design program. What you need to do is go through each of them and decide on the one that will suit your needs.
