# Best Simulation & CAE Software *By [Daniel Rivera](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/daniel-rivera)* Simulation and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software supports engineering analysis tasks, encompassing finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), multibody dynamics (MBD), and optimization capabilities, enabling engineers and analysts to simulate, validate, and optimize products and manufacturing tools before physical production. ### Core Capabilities of Simulation & CAE Software To qualify for inclusion in the Simulation & CAE category, a product must: - Enable users to create product and structure simulations through a graphical user interface (GUI) - Allow users to test and verify components of a simulation with customizable environmental variables - Help users optimize process or product development ### Common Use Cases for Simulation & CAE Software Engineers, analysts, and R&D teams across industries use simulation and CAE software to reduce physical prototyping costs and accelerate product development cycles. Common use cases include: - Simulating structural integrity, fluid behavior, and mechanical performance before manufacturing - Testing product designs against customizable environmental variables to validate safety and compliance - Optimizing product and manufacturing tool designs to improve performance and reduce material waste ### How Simulation & CAE Software Differs from Other Tools Simulation and CAE products are frequently implemented alongside other CAx applications such as [computer-aided design (CAD) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad) and [computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/computer-aided-manufacturing-cam) to support an organization's full product lifecycle management (PLM) workflow. While CAD focuses on design creation and CAM handles manufacturing instructions, CAE and simulation tools provide the engineering analysis layer that validates and optimizes designs before they move to production. ### Insights from G2 on Simulation & CAE Software Based on category trends on G2, simulation accuracy and the range of supported analysis types stand out as standout capabilities. These platforms deliver reductions in physical prototyping costs and faster design validation cycles as primary outcomes of adoption. ## Category Overview **Total Products under this Category:** 262 ## Trust & Credibility Stats **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 7,600+ Authentic Reviews - 262+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Best Simulation & CAE Software At A Glance - **Leader:** [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) - **Highest Performer:** [MeshWorks](https://www.g2.com/products/meshworks/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [SimScale](https://www.g2.com/products/simscale/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) --- **Sponsored** ### Sigrity X Platform With Sigrity X, you're not just working with another tool; you're unlocking seamless in-design analysis synergy within the Allegro X PCB and IC Package platforms. 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[MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) MATLAB is a high-level programming and numeric computing environment widely utilized by engineers and scientists for data analysis, algorithm development, and system modeling. It offers a desktop environment optimized for iterative analysis and design processes, coupled with a programming language that directly expresses matrix and array mathematics. The Live Editor feature enables users to create scripts that integrate code, output, and formatted text within an executable notebook. Key Features and Functionality: - Data Analysis: Tools for exploring, modeling, and analyzing data. - Graphics: Functions for visualizing and exploring data through various plots and charts. - Programming: Capabilities to create scripts, functions, and classes for customized workflows. - App Building: Facilities to develop desktop and web applications. - External Language Interfaces: Integration with languages such as Python, C/C++, Fortran, and Java. - Hardware Connectivity: Support for connecting MATLAB to various hardware platforms. - Parallel Computing: Ability to perform large-scale computations and parallelize simulations using multicore desktops, GPUs, clusters, and cloud resources. - Deployment: Options to share MATLAB programs and deploy them to enterprise applications, embedded devices, and cloud environments. Primary Value and User Solutions: MATLAB streamlines complex mathematical computations and data analysis tasks, enabling users to develop algorithms and models efficiently. Its comprehensive toolboxes and interactive apps facilitate rapid prototyping and iterative design, reducing development time. The platform's scalability allows for seamless transition from research to production, supporting deployment on various systems without extensive code modifications. By integrating with multiple programming languages and hardware platforms, MATLAB provides a versatile environment that addresses the diverse needs of engineers and scientists across industries. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 747 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [MathWorks](https://www.g2.com/sellers/mathworks) - **Year Founded:** 1984 - **HQ Location:** Natick, MA - **Twitter:** @MATLAB (103,739 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1194036/ (7,860 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Student, Graduate Research Assistant - **Top Industries:** Higher Education, Research - **Company Size:** 42% Enterprise, 31% Small-Business #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (19 reviews) - Features (16 reviews) - Data Visualization (13 reviews) - Tools Variety (10 reviews) - Simulation (9 reviews) **Cons:** - Expensive (12 reviews) - Slow Performance (10 reviews) - High System Requirements (7 reviews) - Expensive Licensing (4 reviews) - Lagging Performance (4 reviews) ### 2. [Capital](https://www.g2.com/products/capital/reviews) Siemens Capital is an advanced electrical and electronic (E/E) systems design platform that leverages artificial intelligence to assist industries where precision, speed, and reliability are paramount. This solution is particularly beneficial for sectors such as automotive, aerospace, defense, industrial machinery, and software-defined vehicles, where the complexity of E/E systems continues to grow. Capital empowers engineering teams to design and optimize electrical distribution systems, develop and deploy embedded software for automotive electronic control units (ECUs), and integrate various design data into a single collaborative environment. As industries transition towards electrification and the development of connected vehicles, the need for sophisticated E/E systems becomes increasingly critical. Siemens Capital X, a cloud-based iteration of this platform, enhances the design process by providing organizations with tools that facilitate digital twin and digital thread capabilities. This cloud solution offers numerous advantages, including ease of access, cost-efficient deployment, robust security, and seamless collaboration among global teams. As a software as a service (SaaS) offering, Capital X ensures that sensitive data remains protected while enabling efficient teamwork across various locations. The platform boasts key capabilities that address the challenges of modern E/E systems engineering. These include model-based engineering for complex architectures, automated network implementation, real-time design verification, and embedded software design and testing. Additionally, interactive 3D modeling through mechanical computer-aided design (MCAD) integrations, generative design for harness engineering, and automatic documentation for manufacturing and maintenance streamline the entire design process. Version control and change management features further enhance efficiency by minimizing rework and ensuring that all team members are aligned with the latest updates. Siemens Capital delivers measurable benefits throughout the product lifecycle. By automating repetitive design tasks, it increases efficiency and enhances accuracy by utilizing analytics to catch errors before production. This results in significant cost reductions and faster time-to-market, as design iterations and development cycles are accelerated. Furthermore, real-time insights enable data-driven decisions, guiding engineering teams toward better outcomes. With its comprehensive approach to integrating design, verification, manufacturing, and maintenance processes, Siemens Capital equips organizations to tackle the complexities of contemporary E/E architectures. Whether for next-generation aircraft, high-performance industrial machinery, or innovative connected vehicles, Capital plays a crucial role in reducing risks, controlling costs, and expediting the delivery of cutting-edge products to market. This unified platform not only supports collaboration among mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams but also ensures that designs comply with industry standards, thereby maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 74 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Company Website:** https://www.sw.siemens.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Aviation & Aerospace, Automotive - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 42% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Easy Integrations (16 reviews) - Integrations (16 reviews) - Ease of Use (11 reviews) - Features (8 reviews) - 3D Modeling (3 reviews) **Cons:** - Expensive Licensing (8 reviews) - Lack of Features (8 reviews) - Performance Issues (7 reviews) - Difficult Learning (4 reviews) - Learning Curve (3 reviews) ### 3. [Altair SimSolid](https://www.g2.com/products/altair-simsolid/reviews) By performing structural analyses on fully-featured CAD assemblies within minutes, SimSolid is the game-changing simulation technology for designers, engineers, and analysts. It eliminates geometry preparation and meshing: the two most time-consuming, expertise-extensive, and error-prone tasks performed in a conventional structural simulation. Multiple design scenarios can be simulated quickly under real-life conditions. Early CAD models, in any common format, can be used. SimSolid tolerance of imprecise geometry means that, unlike CAD-embedded simulation tools, there is no need to simplify complex geometries before analyzing designs. SimSolid supports all typical connections (bolt/nut, bonded, welds, rivets, sliding) and analysis of linear static, modal, thermal properties, along with more complex coupled, nonlinear, transient dynamic effects. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 176 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 6.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 5.3/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Altair](https://www.g2.com/sellers/altair-186799f5-3238-493f-b3ad-b8cac484afd7) - **Company Website:** https://www.altair.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1985 - **HQ Location:** Troy, MI - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/8323/ (3,169 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ALTR **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** CAE Engineer - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 50% Small-Business, 30% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (27 reviews) - Simulation (22 reviews) - Accuracy (13 reviews) - Time Saving (13 reviews) - Meshing Techniques (11 reviews) **Cons:** - Not User-Friendly (6 reviews) - Learning Curve (5 reviews) - Complex Interface (4 reviews) - Complex Modeling (4 reviews) - Expensive (4 reviews) ### 4. [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) Designcenter Solid Edge is a portfolio of affordable, easy to deploy, maintain, and use software tools that advance all aspects of the product development process – mechanical and electrical design, simulation, manufacturing, technical documentation, data management, and cloud-based collaboration. Developed on Siemens' industry-leading technologies, Designcenter Solid Edge provides the most innovative and comprehensive approach to product development for the mainstream market. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 579 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Company Website:** https://www.sw.siemens.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Design Engineer, Mechanical Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Automotive - **Company Size:** 53% Small-Business, 30% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (98 reviews) - 3D Modeling (62 reviews) - Features (62 reviews) - Efficiency (58 reviews) - Design Ease (50 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (47 reviews) - Difficult Learning (46 reviews) - Performance Issues (40 reviews) - Slow Performance (39 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (32 reviews) ### 5. [Simcenter 3D](https://www.g2.com/products/simcenter-3d/reviews) Simcenter™ 3D software from Siemens Digital Industries Software is a sophisticated computer-aided engineering (CAE) solution designed to assist users in complex, multidisciplinary product performance engineering. This software enhances simulation efficiency, enabling engineers and analysts to gain deeper insights into their products' performance across various physical domains. By integrating advanced 3D modeling capabilities with a wide array of simulation solvers, Simcenter 3D provides a comprehensive platform for analyzing and optimizing product designs. Primarily targeted at engineers and product development teams in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, Simcenter 3D serves professionals who require a robust tool for performance analysis. The software supports a variety of use cases, including structural analysis, fluid dynamics, thermal management, and more. This versatility allows users to tackle complex engineering challenges and make informed decisions throughout the product development lifecycle, ensuring that performance considerations are integrated from the outset. A notable feature of Simcenter 3D is its fully integrated environment, which facilitates seamless pre-and post-processing of computer-aided design (CAD) data from both Simcenter and third-party solvers. This open architecture streamlines workflows and enhances collaboration among team members, ensuring that all aspects of functional performance are thoroughly evaluated. The software's connection to the digital thread further enhances collaboration, providing a unified platform for real-time data sharing and analysis, which is crucial for modern engineering teams. Simcenter 3D is equipped with advanced simulation solvers that cover a comprehensive range of physics, allowing users to conduct multi-physics simulations with ease. The software also features powerful 3D modeling tools that simplify the creation and manipulation of complex geometries. Its user-friendly interface and customizable workflows enable teams to tailor the software to their specific needs, thereby improving overall productivity and efficiency in the engineering process. By leveraging Simcenter 3D, organizations can significantly reduce the time and resources required for product development while enhancing the accuracy of their simulations. The ability to perform detailed analyses early in the design process helps identify potential issues before they escalate, ultimately leading to improved product quality and performance. This integration of simulation and design not only streamlines engineering processes but also fosters innovation, empowering teams to explore new ideas and solutions with confidence. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 189 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 50% Small-Business, 25% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Simulation Tools (24 reviews) - Simulation (21 reviews) - Ease of Use (17 reviews) - Accuracy (10 reviews) - CAD Integration (10 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (8 reviews) - Complexity (7 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (7 reviews) - Expensive (6 reviews) - Complex Interface (4 reviews) ### 6. [Simcenter STAR-CCM+](https://www.g2.com/products/simcenter-star-ccm/reviews) Simcenter™ STAR-CCM+ from Siemens Digital Industries Software is a multiphysics computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software solution designed to assist engineers in modeling complex products and predicting their performance in real-world scenarios. This advanced software integrates various aspects of simulation, allowing users to conduct comprehensive analyses that encompass fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and other physical phenomena. By providing a unified platform for simulation, Simcenter STAR-CCM+ streamlines the engineering process, enabling more efficient product development and optimization. Targeted primarily at engineers and designers across industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing, Simcenter STAR-CCM+ caters to professionals who require precise simulations to inform their design decisions. The software is particularly useful in scenarios where understanding fluid behavior and thermal performance is critical, such as in the design of vehicles, HVAC systems, or industrial equipment. By leveraging its capabilities, users can gain insights into how their products will perform under various operating conditions, ultimately leading to improved designs and reduced time to market. A standout feature of Simcenter STAR-CCM+ is its high-fidelity CFD simulation, which allows for detailed modeling of fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena. This capability is complemented by automated tailored workflows that facilitate seamless integration from CAD design to post-processing analysis. Users can easily import their CAD models, set up simulations, and visualize results without the need for extensive manual intervention. This automation not only saves time but also reduces the potential for human error, ensuring more reliable outcomes. Furthermore, Simcenter STAR-CCM+ includes robust design exploration and optimization tools that empower engineers to evaluate multiple design iterations efficiently. By utilizing parametric studies and sensitivity analyses, users can identify the most effective design parameters and make informed decisions based on simulation results. This iterative approach to design enhances product performance and fosters innovation by allowing engineers to explore a wider range of design possibilities. The comprehensive integration of multiphysics capabilities, automated workflows, and advanced optimization tools makes Simcenter STAR-CCM+ a valuable resource for engineers. By addressing the complexities of modern engineering challenges within a single simulation environment, it supports professionals in enhancing their product development processes and achieving superior performance outcomes. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 163 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Company Website:** https://www.sw.siemens.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Aviation & Aerospace - **Company Size:** 37% Small-Business, 31% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (7 reviews) - Meshing Techniques (7 reviews) - Simulation (7 reviews) - Accuracy (4 reviews) - Efficiency Improvement (4 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (5 reviews) - Expensive Licensing (3 reviews) - Meshing Issues (3 reviews) - Slow Performance (3 reviews) - Expensive (2 reviews) ### 7. [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM platform that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT. Onshape is for product design companies who are fed up with the errors, time waste, and hidden costs of outdated file-based CAD & PDM. Only Onshape: - Eliminates CAD crashes and never loses data - Enables secure, real-time collaboration - Tracks all activity and provides infinite restore - Has built-in PDM with branching and merging **Average Rating:** 4.7/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 682 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 6.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 4.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [PTC](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ptc) - **Company Website:** https://www.ptc.com - **Year Founded:** 1985 - **HQ Location:** Boston, Massachusetts - **Twitter:** @PTC (37,608 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1935/ (8,226 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Mechanical Engineer, Owner - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Design - **Company Size:** 79% Small-Business, 17% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (28 reviews) - Collaboration (22 reviews) - Online Accessibility (21 reviews) - Features (15 reviews) - Sharing (15 reviews) **Cons:** - Missing Features (18 reviews) - Lack of Features (10 reviews) - Drawing Issues (7 reviews) - Internet Dependency (7 reviews) - Limited CAD Features (7 reviews) ### 8. [SimScale](https://www.g2.com/products/simscale/reviews) SimScale is a leading cloud-native CAE platform that provides access to CFD, FEA, electromagnetics and thermodynamics simulation capabilities 100% via a standard web browser. No hardware, installation or licenses required. Try the free Community plan or request a free trial for the Professional account at https://www.simscale.com/ **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 274 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [SimScale GmbH](https://www.g2.com/sellers/simscale-gmbh) - **Year Founded:** 2012 - **HQ Location:** Munich, Germany - **Twitter:** @SimScale (7,088 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/2864479/ (142 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Automotive - **Company Size:** 58% Small-Business, 29% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (39 reviews) - Customer Support (35 reviews) - Simulation (29 reviews) - Online Accessibility (22 reviews) - Efficiency Improvement (15 reviews) **Cons:** - Slow Simulation (9 reviews) - Meshing Issues (8 reviews) - Lack of Features (6 reviews) - Complex Modeling (5 reviews) - Learning Curve (5 reviews) ### 9. [Altair Hypermesh](https://www.g2.com/products/altair-hypermesh/reviews) Altair® HyperMesh® is a powerful simulation solution that redefines CAE design processes across industries with unmatched pre- and post-processing capabilities for finite element modeling. Powered by AI-augmented 3D modeling and visualization tools, next-gen design and optimization workflows, and an open, programmable, user-friendly interface, HyperMesh empowers users to effortlessly manage large and complex models, unveil critical insights, optimize designs, and foster innovation. It revolutionizes engineering workflows with unparalleled precision to enhance productivity and scale operations. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 84 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Altair](https://www.g2.com/sellers/altair-186799f5-3238-493f-b3ad-b8cac484afd7) - **Company Website:** https://www.altair.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1985 - **HQ Location:** Troy, MI - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/8323/ (3,169 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ALTR **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** CAE Engineer - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 43% Small-Business, 28% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Meshing Techniques (7 reviews) - 3D Modeling (6 reviews) - Ease of Use (6 reviews) - Setup Ease (6 reviews) - Accuracy (5 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (5 reviews) - Meshing Issues (4 reviews) - Missing Features (4 reviews) - Complex Interface (3 reviews) - Inefficiency (3 reviews) ### 10. [Simcenter HEEDS](https://www.g2.com/products/simcenter-heeds/reviews) Simcenter™ HEEDS from Siemens Digital Industries Software is a multi-disciplinary design analysis and optimization (MDAO) software solution designed to assist users in automating workflows, conducting design space exploration, and optimizing product designs. This advanced tool is specifically tailored for engineers and designers who seek to improve their product development processes by identifying enhancements in existing designs or discovering innovative solutions that meet performance requirements efficiently. The primary target audience for Simcenter HEEDS encompasses engineers and designers across various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, consumer products, and manufacturing. These professionals frequently face challenges such as tight deadlines, limited resources, and complex design specifications. Simcenter HEEDS effectively addresses these issues by providing a platform that facilitates the exploration of design alternatives and automates repetitive tasks. This allows users to concentrate on higher-level design decisions and creative problem-solving, which is particularly advantageous in fast-paced environments where rapid iterations and adaptability are essential. Key features of Simcenter HEEDS include robust optimization algorithms that enable users to evaluate multiple design variables simultaneously. This capability allows for a thorough analysis of how different factors interact and influence overall performance. Additionally, the software integrates seamlessly with existing simulation tools, enhancing the design workflow through efficient data exchange. Advanced visualization capabilities are also a hallmark of Simcenter HEEDS, enabling users to analyze and interpret results effectively, thus facilitating informed decision-making throughout the design process. Utilizing Simcenter HEEDS can significantly accelerate product development timelines while reducing costs associated with prototyping and testing. The software's ability to quickly identify optimal design solutions leads to improved product performance and innovation. Furthermore, Simcenter HEEDS empowers teams to make data-driven decisions, ensuring that all performance requirements are met without compromising quality or functionality. This combination of features and benefits positions Simcenter HEEDS as a valuable asset for any organization aiming to enhance its design processes and achieve competitive advantages in the marketplace. The software not only streamlines workflows but also fosters a culture of innovation and efficiency, making it an essential tool for modern engineering teams. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 76 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Company Website:** https://www.sw.siemens.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 38% Small-Business, 32% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Simulation (6 reviews) - Optimization Efficiency (5 reviews) - Accuracy (4 reviews) - Automation (4 reviews) - Ease of Use (4 reviews) **Cons:** - Expensive (4 reviews) - Complexity (3 reviews) - Learning Curve (3 reviews) - Complex Interface (2 reviews) - Integration Issues (2 reviews) ### 11. [Fidelity CFD Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/cadence-design-systems-fidelity-cfd-platform/reviews) Fidelity CFD Platform provides an easy-to-use end-to-end CFD solution for multidisciplinary design and optimization, in applications such as aerospace, automotive, turbomachinery, and marine industries. The platform, with its streamlined workflows, massively parallel architecture, and state-of-the-art solver technology, provides unprecedented performance and accuracy and increases engineering efficiency for today’s design challenges. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 25 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 5.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Cadence Design Systems](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cadence-design-systems) - **Company Website:** https://www.cadence.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1988 - **HQ Location:** San Jose, California - **Twitter:** @Cadence (19,988 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/2157/ (10,784 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Company Size:** 56% Mid-Market, 4% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Time Saving (14 reviews) - Ease of Use (10 reviews) - Meshing Techniques (7 reviews) - Setup Ease (7 reviews) - Simulation (7 reviews) **Cons:** - Complex Setup (4 reviews) - Lack of Features (4 reviews) - Learning Curve (4 reviews) - Complex Interface (3 reviews) - Expensive (2 reviews) ### 12. [Ansys Mechanical](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-mechanical/reviews) ANSYS Mechanical Pro uses the ANSYS Mechanical interface to deliver powerful finite element modeling capabilities in a way that you can use to make real structural engineering decisions. A finite element analysis solution that provides robust, general-purpose stress, thermal, vibration and fatigue simulations for fast and accurate solutions. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 86 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Ansys, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ansys-inc) - **Year Founded:** 1970 - **HQ Location:** Canonsburg, PA - **Twitter:** @ANSYS (30,634 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/6536/ (6,703 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ANSS **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Automotive - **Company Size:** 40% Mid-Market, 35% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (3 reviews) - Design Usability (2 reviews) - Simulation (2 reviews) - 3D Modeling (1 reviews) - Accuracy (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Meshing Issues (1 reviews) - Missing Features (1 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (1 reviews) ### 13. [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) Autodesk Fusion connects capabilities, data, and people across the entire product development lifecycle. Fusion provides you with CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB tools along with PLM/PDM and MES (manufacturing execution system) capabilities to facilitate seamless workflows across your entire organization. Key features: - 3D Design and Modeling: Autodesk Fusion offers a robust set of tools for creating 3D models and designs, making it ideal for product development and industrial design. - Manufacturing Integration: With Autodesk Fusion, you can design and manufacture products using the same platform, streamlining the process from concept to production. - Electronics Design: PCB design capabilities are integrated into the Autodesk Fusion platform, allowing for the creation of electronic components as part of the overall product design process. - Simulation and Analysis: Autodesk Fusion includes simulation tools to test and optimize designs before manufacturing, reducing the need for physical prototypes. - Cloud Collaboration: As a cloud-based platform, Autodesk Fusion enables seamless collaboration among design and engineering teams, regardless of location. - Generative Design: This feature allows you to input design goals and constraints, and Autodesk Fusion will generate multiple design options that meet these criteria. By integrating the entire product development process into one platform, Autodesk Fusion allows users to bring products to market faster and more efficiently. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 505 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Autodesk](https://www.g2.com/sellers/autodesk) - **Company Website:** https://www.autodesk.com - **Year Founded:** 1982 - **HQ Location:** San Francisco - **Twitter:** @autodesk (275,060 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/autodesk/ (15,679 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Owner, Design Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Design - **Company Size:** 69% Small-Business, 22% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (33 reviews) - Features (23 reviews) - Design Efficiency (17 reviews) - Easy Learning (17 reviews) - Features Functionality (16 reviews) **Cons:** - Difficult Learning (12 reviews) - Learning Curve (12 reviews) - Assembly Difficulties (9 reviews) - Missing Features (9 reviews) - Performance Issues (9 reviews) ### 14. [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) SOLIDWORKS delivers connected, easy-to-use tools that help you innovate and accelerate every aspect of your product development process. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 624 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Solidworks](https://www.g2.com/sellers/solidworks) - **Year Founded:** 1993 - **HQ Location:** Waltham, MA - **Twitter:** @SOLIDWORKS (178,743 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/solidworks/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** EPA: DSY **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Design Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Design - **Company Size:** 51% Small-Business, 39% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (37 reviews) - Features (29 reviews) - 3D Modeling (27 reviews) - User Interface (21 reviews) - Simulation Tools (16 reviews) **Cons:** - Performance Issues (17 reviews) - Slow Performance (15 reviews) - High System Requirements (14 reviews) - Complexity (11 reviews) - Expensive (11 reviews) ### 15. [Simcenter Amesim](https://www.g2.com/products/simcenter-amesim/reviews) Simcenter™ Amesim is a sophisticated mechatronic system simulation platform developed by Siemens Digital Industries Software, designed to assist design engineers in virtually assessing and optimizing the performance of complex systems. This software solution enables users to simulate and analyze the behavior of multi-domain systems, allowing for a more efficient design process from the initial development stages through to final performance validation and control calibration. Targeted primarily at engineers and designers in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, Simcenter Amesim addresses the need for a robust simulation tool that can handle the intricacies of mechatronic systems. By providing a comprehensive environment for modeling, simulation, and analysis, it empowers users to explore various design scenarios and make informed decisions early in the development cycle. This capability is particularly valuable in industries where performance and reliability are critical, as it helps to identify potential issues before physical prototypes are created. Key features of Simcenter Amesim include its extensive library of pre-built components, which cover a wide range of physical domains such as mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and thermal systems. This allows engineers to create detailed models that accurately represent real-world behaviors. Additionally, the platform supports co-simulation with other software tools, enabling seamless integration into existing workflows. The user-friendly interface facilitates easy navigation and model building, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive simulation experience. The benefits of using Simcenter Amesim are significant. By leveraging its simulation capabilities, organizations can reduce development time and costs, minimize the need for physical prototypes, and enhance overall product quality. The ability to conduct virtual testing and optimization leads to improved system performance, increased reliability, and greater innovation. As part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, Simcenter Amesim also benefits from integration with other Siemens tools, providing a holistic approach to systems engineering that enhances collaboration and data sharing across teams. Simcenter Amesim stands out in the mechatronic simulation landscape by offering a powerful, integrated platform that meets the diverse needs of engineers. Its focus on multi-domain simulation, ease of use, and compatibility with other engineering tools makes it a valuable asset for organizations looking to improve their design processes and achieve superior product performance. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 111 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Siemens Digital Industries Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/siemens-digital-industries-software) - **Company Website:** https://www.sw.siemens.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1980 - **HQ Location:** Plano, Texas - **Twitter:** @siemenssoftware (36,936 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/28423178/ (20,658 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 37% Small-Business, 35% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Libraries (7 reviews) - Ease of Use (5 reviews) - Multiphysics Simulation (5 reviews) - Simulation (5 reviews) - Tools (5 reviews) **Cons:** - Expensive (4 reviews) - Learning Curve (4 reviews) - Data Management Issues (3 reviews) - Expensive Licensing (2 reviews) - Integration Issues (2 reviews) ### 16. [Ansys Fluent](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews) Ansys Fluent is the industry leading computational fluid dynamics, or CFD software, renowned for its advanced physics modeling capabilities and outstanding accuracy. As a general-purpose CFD software, Fluent can be used to model fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, chemical reactions, and more. Fluent offers a modern, user-friendly interface that streamlines the CFD process from pre- to post-processing within a single window workflow. Fluent is known for its advanced physics modeling capabilities, which include turbulence modeling, single and multiphase flows, combustion, battery modeling, fluid-structure interaction, and much more. Also known for its efficient HPC scaling, large models can easily be solved in Fluent on multiple processors on either CPU or GPU. Multiple solver options are available, including pressure-based and density-based CPU solvers to cover low-speed to hypersonic flows and a pressure-based native GPU solver. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 115 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Ansys, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ansys-inc) - **Year Founded:** 1970 - **HQ Location:** Canonsburg, PA - **Twitter:** @ANSYS (30,634 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/6536/ (6,703 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ANSS **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Aviation & Aerospace - **Company Size:** 40% Small-Business, 33% Mid-Market ### 17. [Altair Inspire](https://www.g2.com/products/altair-inspire/reviews) Altair® Inspire™ is an intuitive, powerful family of integrated software products that accelerates simulation-driven design throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept to reality, while reducing product time-to-market. Used early in the design process, Inspire enables the creation of designs focused on both performance and manufacturability. Inspire empowers its users to explore, develop, and manufacture high-performance products in a single, intuitive environment. Accelerate Design from Concept to Reality • Geometry Creation and Modification: Supports use of parametric surfaces, solids, polyNURBS, facets, and implicit modeling within the same model. • Computational Physics for Rapid Exploration: Makes complex physics simulations accessible and designer friendly, enabling rapid, accurate analysis of structural, fluid flow, and motion dynamics. • Design Optimization for Topology and Beyond: Goes beyond standard topology optimization, incorporating AI for generative design that produces practical, sustainable products. • Manufacturability Analysis: Evaluate processes like casting, metal forming, injection molding, metal and polymer extrusion, polyurethane foaming, and additive manufacturing early to prevent defects and costly retooling. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 75 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 6.9/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Altair](https://www.g2.com/sellers/altair-186799f5-3238-493f-b3ad-b8cac484afd7) - **Year Founded:** 1985 - **HQ Location:** Troy, MI - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/8323/ (3,169 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ALTR - **Total Revenue (USD mm):** $458 **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering - **Company Size:** 41% Small-Business, 28% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (11 reviews) - Efficiency Improvement (7 reviews) - Features (6 reviews) - Simulation (6 reviews) - Setup Ease (5 reviews) **Cons:** - Learning Curve (5 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (2 reviews) - Performance Issues (2 reviews) - Slow Performance (2 reviews) - Slow Simulation (2 reviews) ### 18. [Abaqus](https://www.g2.com/products/abaqus/reviews) The Abaqus Unified FEA product suite offers powerful and complete solutions for both routine and sophisticated engineering problems covering a vast spectrum of industrial applications. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 51 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Dassault Systemes](https://www.g2.com/sellers/dassault-systemes) - **Year Founded:** 1981 - **HQ Location:** Velizy-Villacoublay - **Twitter:** @Dassault3DS (74,179 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3896/ (27,256 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** EPA: DSY.PA **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Higher Education, Automotive - **Company Size:** 47% Small-Business, 28% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (2 reviews) - Simulation (2 reviews) - Accuracy (1 reviews) - Meshing Techniques (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Not User-Friendly (2 reviews) - CAD Limitations (1 reviews) - Complex Geometry (1 reviews) - Limited Options (1 reviews) - Meshing Issues (1 reviews) ### 19. [Sigrity X Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/sigrity-x-platform/reviews) With Sigrity X, you're not just working with another tool; you're unlocking seamless in-design analysis synergy within the Allegro X PCB and IC Package platforms. Dive into a comprehensive suite of SI/PI analysis, in-design interconnect modeling, and PDN analysis tools designed to supercharge your performance, ensuring your projects not only meet but exceed deadlines and budgets. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 34 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Integrate:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Cadence Design Systems](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cadence-design-systems) - **Company Website:** https://www.cadence.com/ - **Year Founded:** 1988 - **HQ Location:** San Jose, California - **Twitter:** @Cadence (19,988 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/2157/ (10,784 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Company Size:** 32% Small-Business, 24% Enterprise #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Features (15 reviews) - Ease of Use (14 reviews) - Simulation (12 reviews) - Setup Ease (10 reviews) - Simulation Tools (10 reviews) **Cons:** - Complex Interface (12 reviews) - Learning Curve (12 reviews) - Complex Setup (5 reviews) - Expensive Licensing (5 reviews) - High Subscription Cost (5 reviews) ### 20. [Inventor](https://www.g2.com/products/inventor/reviews) Autodesk® Inventor® 2021 software provides engineers and designers professional grade design and engineering solution for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. With Inventor software, engineers can integrate 2D and 3D data into a single design environment, creating a virtual representation of the final product that enables them to validate the form, fit, and function of the product before it is ever built. Autodesk Inventor includes powerful parametric, direct edit and freeform modeling tools as well as multi-CAD translation capabilities and industry standard DWG™ drawings. Helping you to reduce development costs, get to market faster, and make great products. Speak to Autodesk Sales at 1-844-335-4986. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 422 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 6.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Autodesk](https://www.g2.com/sellers/autodesk) - **Year Founded:** 1982 - **HQ Location:** San Francisco - **Twitter:** @autodesk (275,060 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/autodesk/ (15,679 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ADSK **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Design Engineer, Mechanical Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Machinery - **Company Size:** 43% Mid-Market, 35% Small-Business #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (4 reviews) - Features (2 reviews) - 3D Modeling (1 reviews) - Accuracy (1 reviews) - Assembly Design (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Assembly Issues (1 reviews) - Complexity (1 reviews) - Crashes (1 reviews) - Difficult Learning (1 reviews) - Insufficient Training (1 reviews) ### 21. [Ansys LS-DYNA](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-ls-dyna/reviews) ANSYS LS-DYNA is the most commonly used explicit simulation program with multi-physics capabilities to simulate the response of materials to short periods of severe loading. Its many elements, contact formulations, material models and other controls can be used to simulate complex models with control over all the details of the problem. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 44 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Ansys, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ansys-inc) - **Year Founded:** 1970 - **HQ Location:** Canonsburg, PA - **Twitter:** @ANSYS (30,634 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/6536/ (6,703 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ANSS **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** CAE Engineer - **Top Industries:** Automotive, Higher Education - **Company Size:** 47% Small-Business, 32% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Accuracy (1 reviews) - Continuous Improvement (1 reviews) - Customer Support (1 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) - Efficiency Improvement (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Difficult Learning (1 reviews) - Expensive (1 reviews) - Expensive Licensing (1 reviews) - Learning Curve (1 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (1 reviews) ### 22. [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) Creo helps you deliver your best designs in less time with numerous productivity and usability enhancements. Manufacturers rely on PTC to deliver innovative CAD tools for designing composites, conducting real-time simulation, driving generative design, and streamlining additive and subtractive manufacturing. And Creo continues to expand Model-Based Definition capabilities, as well as several core modeling functions that make Creo easier for every user. Creo 11 provides an on-premises solution, while Creo+ delivers a SaaS solution that drives cloud-enabled collaboration and license management / deployment tools. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 188 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.1/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [PTC](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ptc) - **Year Founded:** 1985 - **HQ Location:** Boston, Massachusetts - **Twitter:** @PTC (37,608 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1935/ (8,226 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ: PTC **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Who Uses This:** Design Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Automotive - **Company Size:** 37% Enterprise, 36% Mid-Market #### Pros & Cons **Pros:** - Ease of Use (11 reviews) - Features (9 reviews) - Modeling (7 reviews) - Modeling Efficiency (7 reviews) - 3D Modeling (6 reviews) **Cons:** - Complexity (4 reviews) - Not User-Friendly (4 reviews) - Performance Issues (4 reviews) - 3D Modeling Issues (3 reviews) - Crashes (3 reviews) ### 23. [MeshWorks](https://www.g2.com/products/meshworks/reviews) DEP MeshWorks is a CAE driven platform designed for rapid concept CAE and CAD model generation, parametrization of CAE models, enabling optimization, advanced meshing and CAD morphing. **Average Rating:** 4.9/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 13 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [DEP USA](https://www.g2.com/sellers/dep-usa) - **Year Founded:** 1994 - **HQ Location:** Troy, MI - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/detroit-engineered-products (479 employees on LinkedIn®) **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive - **Company Size:** 77% Mid-Market, 15% Small-Business ### 24. [Ansys HFSS](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-hfss/reviews) Ansys HFSS is a 3D electromagnetic (EM) simulation software for designing and simulating high-frequency electronic products such as antennas, antenna arrays, RF or microwave components, high-speed interconnects, filters, connectors, IC packages and printed circuit boards. Engineers worldwide use Ansys HFSS software to design high-frequency, high-speed electronics found in communications systems, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), satellites, and internet-of-things (IoT) products . HFFS’s unmatched capacity, coupled with indisputable accuracy, enables engineers to address RF, microwave, IC, PCB and EMI problems for most complex systems. Quick specs include: - Antenna Design Toolkit - Radar Pre/Post Processing - Frequency and Time Domain FEM - Hybrid FEM/IE/SBR+ Solver - 3D Layout ECAD Flow - SBR+ Accelerated Doppler Processing\* - Integral Equation (MoM) - Memory Matrix Solvers - 5G Post-Processing - Concurrent Initial 3D Meshing - SBR+ for Large Scale EMs - Multiplication Solver \* available only with Electronics Enterprise package **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 36 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Ansys, Inc.](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ansys-inc) - **Year Founded:** 1970 - **HQ Location:** Canonsburg, PA - **Twitter:** @ANSYS (30,634 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/6536/ (6,703 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ANSS **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing, Higher Education - **Company Size:** 45% Small-Business, 28% Enterprise ### 25. [Moldflow](https://www.g2.com/products/moldflow/reviews) Moldflow software for plastic injection molding simulation helps reduce manufacturing defects. Access tools for injection mold design, plastic part design, and mold processing. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 24 **User Satisfaction Scores:** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Task:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Integrate:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) - **Continuous event modeling:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.0/10) **Seller Details:** - **Seller:** [Autodesk](https://www.g2.com/sellers/autodesk) - **Year Founded:** 1982 - **HQ Location:** San Francisco - **Twitter:** @autodesk (275,060 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/autodesk/ (15,679 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ADSK **Reviewer Demographics:** - **Top Industries:** Automotive - **Company Size:** 46% Small-Business, 36% Mid-Market ## Parent Category [CAD & PLM Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-plm) ## Related Categories - [General-Purpose CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) - [Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad) - [PCB Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/pcb-design) --- ## Buyer Guide ### What You Should Know About Simulation & CAE Software ### What is Simulation & CAE Software? Simulation and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software allows engineers, analysts, and designers to perform finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), multibody dynamics (MDB), and optimization. Simulation software can also be referred to as CAE simulation software due to its association with CAE analysis and its application. Simulation software can create models based on mathematical data and place them in a predefined system. By analyzing these models, engineers study the relationship between model and system and the interactions that happen in a controlled environment. This helps predict performance, defects, and judge the potential product lifespan. **What Does Simulation & CAE Software Stand For?** CAE stands for computer-aided engineering. The term computer-aided engineering is used as a technical term for simulation while the term simulation is what is often heard in the market when users refer to engineering simulation. ### What are the Common Features of Simulation & CAE Software? The following are some core features within simulation software:  [**Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)**](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae/f/computational-fluid-dynamics): One of the main forms of engineering analysis that CAE software performs is CFD. CFD is a way to model the behavior of both fluids and gases. This includes modeling the way they interact with one another as well as surfaces that they come in contact with. This feature can solve problems such as identifying incompressible and compressible fluids, laminar and turbulent flows, as well as multiphase flow problems. **Finite element analysis (FEA):** FEA is a numerical method used to solve engineering problems. This process is used to break down one large problem into a handful of smaller ones, called finite elements. Using this method, engineers can break down complex engineering problems into manageable pieces. One of the main ways engineers use FEA is to make model representations in which they can test how objects interact with one another, which provides an understanding of how an actual object would be affected by other physical forces. Examples are bridge modeling, car crash testing, and testing the structural integrity of any given object. **Mechanical event simulation:** Mechanical event simulation enables engineers to simulate how objects will react to certain events in real life. A good example of this is a simulation of how a mobile phone will interact with a cement floor in the event that it is accidentally dropped. Within the simulation, the software can indicate if the phone screen will crack or if any other permanent issues will be caused. The software can then suggest changes to be made to the phone to make it more durable and protected in the event of a dropped phone; when considering these changes, users can test the simulation until the product is adjusted to their liking. [**Electromagnetic simulation**](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae/f/electromagnetic-simulation) **:** Electromagnetic simulation allows users to simulate the electromagnetic properties of components or systems. This allows engineers in industries such as electronics and communications to determine how effective their component design is. [**Thermal simulation**](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae/f/thermal-simulation) **:** Thermal simulation allows users to simulate how the physical properties of materials change with changes in temperature. Thermal simulation can be used to simulate areas such as electronics cooling, automotive thermal management, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and other applications where users need to simulate the effect of thermal loads. Other Features of Simulation & CAE Software: [Structural Simulation](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae/f/structural-simulation) ### What are the Benefits of Simulation & CAE Software? **Speeds up design time:** Simulation software speeds up the time it takes engineers to prototype and test how objects will perform in the real world. This allows product engineers to improve design performance well before a product is manufactured. A major example of this is how airplane engineers manufacture an airplane that can withhold the stress of landing on a runway. Within this process, there are so many variables to take into account, including the material, size, and speed of the airplane. Given the perspective of how many factors go into the safety and performance design of an airplane, one would think it would take countless days of manipulating the design to create a reliable product. However, CAE allows engineers to speed up this process by running simulations of plane landings and detailing exact ways in which the engineer can improve the design.  **Saves money:** Simulation software is all virtual and done on the computer, hence the name “computer-aided engineering”. Since these simulations are all conducted virtually, it allows companies to save plenty of money by not having to manufacture countless designs before getting the final product correct. For example, car engineers can simulate how a car crash would occur before they even have to conduct the final experiment. This way, before car crash testing occurs, engineering teams already have a good sense of how the test will go. The result is having to spend less money on testing and trashing actual physical prototypes.  **Improves testing:** When prototypes finally come down to physical testing, simulation software can help analyze what’s occurring during the test and identify any key faults that occurred. For example, if a car was tested for impact and the body of the car wasn’t strong enough to withstand a crash, simulation software can identify exactly what went wrong and suggest what needs to be changed. ### Who Uses Simulation & CAE Software? Simulation and CAE software is used across a variety of industries in the manufacturing and engineering world. Its main functions include simulation, validation, and optimization of products, which can be broadly applied to any business trying to test and improve a manufactured product. With this in mind, here are a couple of industries that use simulation software. **Automotive industry:** Historically, automakers spent plenty of time producing physical vehicle models and then testing them for safety by actually crashing them into physical barriers. With advancements in simulation software, however, design and safety testing is all done using computer simulations. Within the virtual simulation, a car can be tested to improve safety, comfort, and vehicle durability. This has saved the automotive industry both time and money by eliminating the need to produce countless physical prototypes. **Manufacturers:** Simulation and CAE software can produce simulations of manufacturing assembly lines. This helps manufacturers identify any inefficiencies or issues before they begin construction on expensive production assemblies. By identifying these issues, they can save money and increase the efficiency of their manufacturing systems. **Electronic engineers:** Industries that work with developing electronic products can greatly benefit from using simulation software. Some simulation tools offer physics-based electronics design that provides fast and accurate life predictions for electronic hardware at the component, board, and system levels in early-stage design. This can be extremely beneficial to product development. **Education:** Simulation and CAE software is also used by educators to teach engineering students. For learning or teaching simulation, several vendors even offer academic or student editions of their software packages, usually at a reduced cost. #### Software Related to Simulation & CAE Software  Related solutions that can be used together with simulation and CAE software include: [CAD software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) **:** Computer-aided design (CAD) software allows users to design 3D models of physical objects. Before using simulation software, engineers often create a 3D design of whatever they’d like to conduct a simulation on. This can be a building, a mechanical assembly, an engineering plant, etc. Once the design is done, users then upload the product to a simulation software where they can then simulate how the product would react to real-life forces. Some simulation software have robust 3D design capabilities built in, while others are more elementary and are best complemented by a more robust 3D CAD software.  ### Challenges with Simulation & CAE Software  As a technically involved software, simulation and CAE software can come with a few major challenges. Some of the most common challenges include: **CAD/CAE integration:** CAD files are completely different from CAE files. With this in mind, it’s very difficult to produce a model in CAD software, and hope that it will be suited for FEA within CAE software. However, there are software offerings that allow design and analysis to be tested within an integrated CAD/CAE environment, so to avoid this potential issue, it may be best to find a CAD solution that also offers CAE capabilities. **Learning curve:** CAE software comes with a steep learning curve. While there are more products and resources that can help beginners, it will still take a significant amount of time to master all the nuances of the software. **Price:** Another major concern for small businesses is the high price of CAE software. Some commercial CAE software can range anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 per person, which is a hefty price tag for a single user in a company. ### Which Companies Should Buy Simulation & CAE Software? Simulation and CAE software has applications that span multiple industries as well as multiple company types. **Structural engineering and automotive engineering companies:** Whether a company engineers planes, cars, or buildings, simulation software can solve a lot of use cases for structural engineering teams. With plenty of tools for stress and impact analysis, users can simulate how their structures or products will react to real-world environmental effects. **Manufacturing and industrial equipment companies:** It’s critical to test industrial equipment for strength, speed, safety, reliability, and endurance under different operating conditions. Simulation and CAE software can optimize the industrial equipment design early in the design cycle. This ensures the production of high-performance machinery with a shorter time-to-market and lower costs for physical testing. Some of the tools used within typical CAE software include mounting, clamping, adjusting, rotating and other elements. ### How to Buy Simulation & CAE Software  #### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for Simulation & CAE Software Requirements gathering for simulation and CAE software is critical to ensure that the business is implementing a product that meets all of their needs. To do so, businesses must evaluate their critical needs. #### Compare Simulation & CAE Software Products **Create a long list** Long lists are created by eliminating software options that do not provide critical functionality. To make a long list for simulation software, a buyer should look at the following functionalities and deem which products provide the necessary functionality: - Finite element analysis - Computational fluid dynamics  - Thermal simulation - Continuous event modeling - Mechanical event simulation - Manufacturing process simulation - 3D design and modeling - Drawing tools **Create a short list** Once a buyer has narrowed down their list from the following functionality above, it’s then important to get even more specific requirements. A buyer may be looking for simulation software that allows for a wide range of CAD integrations, or some buyers may be looking for solutions that specialize specifically in multibody dynamics or electronics simulation. Additionally, CAE is not easy to learn so it may be important to narrow it down to vendors that have great implementation support or additional resources to help learn how to use the simulation software. **Conduct demos** Demos are one of the most important stages in the buying journey. This allows a buyer to sit through an actual product demo and see if the product matches all of the requirements. To make sure the demo runs smoothly, users must ensure that the vendor has all of the requirements beforehand so they can showcase their features properly. Some of the use cases that a business should ask the vendor to showcase are: **Specific simulation features:** Before getting into the demo, a potential buyer needs to hone in on what simulation features are the most important to them. If a buyer is looking for thermal, fluids, or structural simulation then the buyers should make sure that the vendor showcases those specific features. **Workflows:** Another important feature to showcase is workflow functionality. How does the solution offer better workflow management for CAE projects? Can users share projects easily, are there simple functions for content management? **Selection of Simulation & CAE Software ** **Choose a selection team** Simulation and CAE software is going to most often be used by engineers as well as managers who oversee these teams of engineers. As such, a few senior engineers and relevant managers need to be involved in the decision-making process. At a minimum, the selection team should be at least three senior engineers and two members from management. Since simulation software is costly, this will ensure that enough eyes are on the project to make sure the best decision is made. **Negotiation** When negotiating during the purchasing stage, it is advisable to always start small in terms of licenses and functionality. Licenses will always be the biggest cost within any purchase, and oftentimes, companies purchase additional licenses or features in a product that they don’t necessarily need. During this negotiation, vendors will try to convince buyers that they can offer discounts on more functionality or licenses if they buy in bulk, but most businesses don’t need this. If businesses end up needing a few more licenses down the road, they can always add as need be.  In addition to this, the selection team should always strive to have implementation and ongoing support fees included in the cost. As stated previously, simulation software is not easy to learn. Before purchasing, buyers must ensure that the vendor offers regular training or even online training options to help new users onboard quickly. This way, if any ongoing support is needed, businesses can always contact their customer success or support representative. **Final decision** After the negotiation stage is conducted, the final decision requires buy-in from everyone on the selection team. It’s important to ensure that all requirements are met and the final decision is supported by everyone involved. ### What Does Simulation & CAE Software Cost? There are a variety of factors that will play into both the upfront and ongoing cost of simulation software. For upfront costs, a business will pay for setup, any custom integrations, and training. The ongoing cost is the subscription cost to actually use the software. Many simulation software options are usually run on a subscription model which means users will pay a monthly or yearly rate to use the software. The subscription model is generally set up as a per-user model and will ultimately be the biggest cost. As stated previously, to limit the upfront cost, it’s important to pay for a limited number of licenses right away as buyers still need to figure out if the software will ultimately be the best choice for their company. In terms of hard numbers, there is simulation software for as little as $30 per user on a monthly basis, whereas some go up to $100 per user per month. #### Return on Investment (ROI) Below is the breakdown of the estimated time to ROI according to the review data on G2 as of May 4, 2021: 35% of buyers see an ROI in 6 months or less 26% of buyers see an ROI in 7-12 months 19 % of buyers see an ROI in 13-24 months 7% of buyers see an ROI from 24-36 months 7% of buyers see an ROI in 48+ months  7% of buyers haven’t realized a full payback yet ### Simulation & CAE Software Trends **Machine learning ** Machine learning can help speed up engineering simulations by enabling highly accurate predictions. With tools like statistical learning, computers are able to learn and develop better data on their own. This can help speed up the optimal design of a product. An example would be data that is extracted from a car crash simulation repeated thousands of times. Within simulations, machine learning tools can understand which changes need to be made to make the car safer without sacrificing the integrity of the design.