CAD Software

Commercial CAD Software

AutoCAD

Developer:

Autodesk

Primary Focus:

2D drafing and basic 3D modeling

Features:

Strong 2D drafting tools.
Limited 3D modelling.
Supports parametric and non-parametric modelling.
Libary of pre-built components.
Cloud-based collaboration via AutoCAD web and Mobile apps.

Strengths:

Industry standard for 2D drawings.
Wide industry adoption.
Strong compatability with DWG format.

Weaknesses:

Limited 3D capabailities.
Not as suitable for complex surface or assembly design.

Pricing:

Subscription based from £246 per month (student versions available)

CATIA

Developer:

Dassault Systèmes

Primary Focus:

Advanced 3D modeling, simulation and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Features:

High-end surface modeling.
Parametric and direct modelling.
Strong assembly design and management.
Integrated analysis and simulation tools.
Advanced collaboration for large scale projects.

Strengths:

Powerful for designing complex assemblies.
Advanced surfacing and simulation.
Strong PLM capabilities for large enterprises.

Weaknesses:

Expensive.
Complex to learn
Overkill for smaller projects or companies

Pricing:

Expensive (enterprise level pricing)

Fusion 360

Developer:

Autodesk

Primary Focus:

Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE, prototyping and collaboration

Features:

Combines CAD, CAM and CAE in one tool.
Parametric, direct, freeform and surface modelling.
Cloud based file management and collaboration.
Built-in simulation, rendering and manufacturing tools (CNC, 3D printing).
Real-time collaboration with version control.

Strengths:

Affordable, all in one platform.
Accessible and easy to learn.
Ideal for start ups, small manufacturers and educational use.

Weaknesses:

Less powerful for large assemblies or complex surfaces.
Dependent on a relaible internet connection.

Pricing:

Free for hobbyists and startups.
Prices ranging from £84/month for commerical users.

Onshape

Developer:

PTC

Primary Focus:

Cloud-based CAD, collaboration, and version control

Features:

Fully cloud-based (runs in a web browser).
Parametric 3D modeling with mutli-part design.
Real-time collaboration.
Built-in version control and branching tools.
No installation required, accessible from any device.

Strengths:

Ideal for distributed teams and remote collaboration.
No need for high-end hardware.
Built-in version control, easy to manage projects.

Weaknesses:

Dependent on constant internet connection .
Lacks some advanced simulations and CAM features found in traditional tools.

Pricing:

Subscription-based from $1500 for the standard plan.

Siemens NX

Developer:

Digital Industries Software

Primary Focus:

Advanced 3D CAD, CAM and CAE for large-scale manufacturing

Features:

Comprehensive CAD/CAM/CAE in one solution.
Advanced parametric and direct modelling.
Excellent for surface design, large assemblies and complex geometries.
Supports additive manufacturing and multi-axis machining.
Integrated simulation for stress, thermal and motion analysis.

Strengths:

Extremely powerful for large enterprises with complex needs.
Strong in manufacturing and engineering sectors.
Exccellent surface and assembly handling.

Weaknesses:

Very high cost.
Steep learning curve.

Pricing:

Expensive (enterprise level pricing)

Solidworks

Developer:

Dassault Systèmes

Primary Focus:

Product design, mechancial engineering, industrial design

Features:

Parametric 3D modeling and assembly design.
Intuitive and widely used interface.
Integrated tools for analysis, rendinering and documentation.
Large libary of parts and components.
Add-ons for electrical, electronics and CAM.

Strengths:

Easy to use and extensive ecosystem.
Strong in mechanical design and assembly.
Highly customizable and widely used.

Weaknesses:

Limited cloud-based capabilities.
Less powerful for complex surfaces.

Pricing:

Subscription based ($990/month), student options available