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# Ansys Fluent vs SolidWorks Flow Simulation Comparison - What are their main differences?

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Ansys FluentSolidWorks Flow Simulation[+ Add Product](#)

Reviews

**Ansys Fluent** [

4.5/5(123)

](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews#reviews)

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation** [

4.1/5(36)

](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/reviews#reviews)

Pricing

**Ansys Fluent**
Free Trial

No pricing available

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
No pricing available

**Pricing Insights**
from reviews

Time to Implement

**Ansys Fluent**
Not enough reviews yet

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough reviews yet

Return on Investment

**Ansys Fluent**
Not enough reviews yet

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough reviews yet

Perceived Cost

**Ansys Fluent**
$$$$$

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
$$$$$

Average Discount

**Ansys Fluent**
Not enough reviews yet

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough reviews yet

Pros & Cons

**Ansys Fluent**
Not enough data

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough data

Integrations

**Ansys Fluent**
Not enough data

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
[

 ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/vendor/image/1938893/large_detail_817a56df4c8529ebb05f056bf581a834.png "Product Avatar Image")

Smart RDM

](https://www.g2.com/products/smart-rdm/reviews)[
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](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/integrations)

Screenshots

**Ansys Fluent**
 ![Ansys Fluent screenshot](https://images.g2crowd.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=600,height=600,fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,/https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/attachment/file/1262672/Fluent-Dark-Battery.png)

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
No screenshot available

Ratings

Meets Requirements

**Ansys Fluent**

8.9

8.992

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**

8.6

8.630

Ease of Use

**Ansys Fluent**

8.0

8.092

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**

8.3

8.330

Ease of Setup

**Ansys Fluent**

8.5

8.524

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough data

Ease of Admin

**Ansys Fluent**

8.2

8.218

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough data

Quality of Support

**Ansys Fluent**

8.5

8.589

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**

8.3

8.330

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?

**Ansys Fluent**

9.1

9.117

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**
Not enough data

Product Direction (% positive)

**Ansys Fluent**

8.7

8.791

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation**

7.1

7.128

Features

Simulation & CAE[Hide 65 FeaturesShow 65 Features](javascript:void(0);)

7.8

70

8.2

10

Design

3D/solid modeling Tools

7.8

60

8.8(won by 1.0)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Drawing Tools

7.5

60

8.3(won by 0.8)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Editing Tools

7.5

60

7.7(won by 0.2)

8

Rendering tools

7.6

58

7.7(won by 0.1)

8

Stochastic Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Presentation Tools

Not enough data

Not enough data

Tools

Fluid analysis

9.0(won by 0.9)

64

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

8.1

8

Finite element analysis

8.3(won by 0.6)

62

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

7.7

8

Multibody dynamics

7.8

55

8.1(won by 0.3)

8

Design Analysis

Not enough data

Not enough data

Work

Discrete event modeling

7.5

53

8.3(won by 0.8)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Continuous event modeling

8.1

53

8.5(won by 0.4)

8

Mechanical event simulation

8.0

53

8.3(won by 0.3)

8

Manufacturing process simulation

7.3

50

7.7(won by 0.4)

8

Integrate

8.0

53

8.5(won by 0.5)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Turbulence Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Motion Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Dynamic Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Mathematical Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Agent-Based Modeling

Not enough data

Not enough data

Monte Carlo Simulation

Not enough data

Not enough data

Environment

Hardware support

7.2

49

8.1(won by 0.9)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Task

8.0

53

8.3(won by 0.3)

8

Manage Multiple Profiles

7.2

52

9.0(won by 1.8)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Command Clarity

7.9

58

8.8(won by 0.9)

8

 (There is a greater than 0.5 difference between this product's rating and its competitors)

Additional Functionality

Activity Dashboard

Not enough data

Not enough data

Configurable Workflow

Not enough data

Not enough data

API

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Verification

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Visualization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Generative AI

Not enough data

Not enough data

3D Imaging

Not enough data

Not enough data

Projections

Not enough data

Not enough data

Data Import/Export

Not enough data

Not enough data

Design Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Drag & Drop

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real-Time Monitoring

Not enough data

Not enough data

Version Control

Not enough data

Not enough data

Visual Analytics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Third-Party Integrations

Not enough data

Not enough data

Access Controls/Permissions

Not enough data

Not enough data

Workflow Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Direct Manipulation

Not enough data

Not enough data

Scenario Planning

Not enough data

Not enough data

Product Data Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Predictive Analytics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Change Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Process Control

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customization

Not enough data

Not enough data

Content Library

Not enough data

Not enough data

Document Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Real-Time Data

Not enough data

Not enough data

Reporting & Statistics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Rules-Based Workflow

Not enough data

Not enough data

File Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Compliance Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Policy Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

Graphical Data Presentation

Not enough data

Not enough data

Customizable Reports

Not enough data

Not enough data

Graphical Workflow Editor

Not enough data

Not enough data

Reporting/Analytics

Not enough data

Not enough data

Industry Specific Database

Not enough data

Not enough data

Project Workflow

Not enough data

Not enough data

AI Copilot

Not enough data

Not enough data

Performance Management

Not enough data

Not enough data

MEP[Hide 9 FeaturesShow 9 Features](javascript:void(0);)

Not enough data

8.9

11

Design

Systems

Not enough data

9.2(won by default)

10

3D

Not enough data

8.7(won by default)

9

Documentation

Not enough data

8.7(won by default)

10

Fabrication

Not enough data

9.0(won by default)

8

Clash Detection

Not enough data

8.8(won by default)

7

Work

Integrate

Not enough data

8.5(won by default)

9

Drafting

Not enough data

8.9(won by default)

9

Analysis

Not enough data

8.8(won by default)

10

Simulations

Not enough data

9.2(won by default)

10

User Insights

Reviewers' Company Size

[![Ansys Fluent](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/f81862c245a1305e970d834eb338dbb0/ansys-fluent.svg "Ansys Fluent")](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews)

Ansys Fluent

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

39.8%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

33.1%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

27.1%

[![SolidWorks Flow Simulation](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_239bd9fed8ff51a6b1ba27a52f4ad1df/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation.png "SolidWorks Flow Simulation")](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/reviews)

SolidWorks Flow Simulation

Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)

48.5%

Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)

27.3%

Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.)

24.2%

Small-Business

(50 or fewer emp.)

39.8%

48.5%

Mid-Market

(51-1000 emp.)

33.1%

27.3%

Enterprise

(\> 1000 emp.)

27.1%

24.2%

Reviewers' Industry

[![Ansys Fluent](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/f81862c245a1305e970d834eb338dbb0/ansys-fluent.svg "Ansys Fluent")](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews)
Ansys Fluent

Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

21.2%

Aviation & Aerospace

10.2%

Design

7.6%

Automotive

7.6%

Airlines/Aviation

6.8%

Other

46.6%

[![SolidWorks Flow Simulation](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_239bd9fed8ff51a6b1ba27a52f4ad1df/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation.png "SolidWorks Flow Simulation")](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/reviews)
SolidWorks Flow Simulation

Information Technology and Services

21.2%

Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

12.1%

Design

12.1%

Higher Education

9.1%

Automotive

9.1%

Other

36.4%

FAQs

## Ansys Fluent vs SolidWorks Flow Simulation FAQs

Generated using AI

Last updated: August 14, 2026

### What is the difference between Ansys Fluent vs SolidWorks Flow Simulation?

Ansys Fluent stands out for its higher G2 rating, broader reviewer base, and stronger support and setup scores compared to SolidWorks Flow Simulation.

| [Ansys Fluent](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews) | [SolidWorks Flow Simulation](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/reviews) |
| --- | --- |
| 4.5/5 (122 reviews) | 4.1/5 (35 reviews) |
| Small-Business | Small-Business |
| 8.5 | — |
| 8.5 | 8.3 |
| User-friendly GUI and robust simulation capabilities | Integrated with SolidWorks CAD and easy to use for basic simulations |

### How do the pricing models of Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation compare?

Ansys Fluent is rated higher for value, with reviewers expressing greater satisfaction with its pricing compared to SolidWorks Flow Simulation.

- **Ansys Fluent:** Reviewers note that while Ansys Fluent is expensive, its powerful capabilities and extensive features justify the cost for advanced simulation needs.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation:** Reviewers highlight its suitability for low-budget projects and basic simulations, but mention that its accuracy and features may not match higher-end CAE packages.
- **Switching reasons:** In recent reviews, buyers switch to Ansys Fluent for more precise results and advanced simulation capabilities when SolidWorks Flow Simulation's accuracy is insufficient.

### What are the best alternatives to Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation?

The best alternatives to Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation are MATLAB, SimScale, and Altair Inspire.

| Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Ansys Fluent](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews) | 4.5/5 (122) | Small-Business | Expensive but justified by advanced features | User-friendly GUI and robust simulation capabilities |
| [SolidWorks Flow Simulation](https://www.g2.com/products/dassault-systemes-solidworks-flow-simulation/reviews) | 4.1/5 (35) | Small-Business | Good for low-budget, basic simulations | Integrated with SolidWorks CAD and easy to use for basic simulations |
| [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) | 4.5/5 (771) | Small-Business | — | Extensive mathematical and simulation capabilities |
| [SimScale](https://www.g2.com/products/simscale/reviews) | 4.6/5 (284) | Small-Business | — | Cloud-based simulation with collaborative features |
| [Altair Inspire](https://www.g2.com/products/altair-inspire/reviews) | 4.3/5 (76) | Small-Business | — | Intuitive interface for simulation-driven design |

### Which Simulation & CAE features should I prioritize when comparing Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation?

Buyers should prioritize simulation accuracy, ease of use, integration with CAD tools, meshing capabilities, and support resources when comparing Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation.

- **Simulation accuracy:** Ansys Fluent scores 8.9 on Meets Requirements, while SolidWorks Flow Simulation scores 8.6.
- **Ease of use:** SolidWorks Flow Simulation scores 8.3, slightly higher than Ansys Fluent's 8.0.
- **Integration with CAD tools:** SolidWorks Flow Simulation is directly integrated with SolidWorks CAD, frequently cited as a key strength in reviews.
- **Meshing capabilities:** Ansys Fluent reviewers highlight robust and customizable meshing, while SolidWorks Flow Simulation reviewers note limited mesh control.
- **Support resources:** Ansys Fluent scores 8.5 for Quality of Support, compared to 8.3 for SolidWorks Flow Simulation.

### What are the pros and cons of Ansys Fluent vs SolidWorks Flow Simulation?

Ansys Fluent's headline strength is its robust simulation capabilities and user-friendly GUI, while SolidWorks Flow Simulation is praised for its integration with SolidWorks CAD and ease of use for basic simulations.

- **Ansys Fluent strengths:** Reviewers highlight its versatility, advanced physics modeling, high accuracy, and extensive features for complex simulations.
- **Ansys Fluent trade-offs:** Reviewers note a steep learning curve, high system requirements, and higher cost.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation strengths:** Reviewers praise its direct integration with SolidWorks CAD, intuitive interface, and suitability for quick, basic simulations.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation trade-offs:** Reviewers mention limited mesh control, lower accuracy for advanced simulations, and fewer advanced features compared to Ansys Fluent.

### Is Ansys Fluent or SolidWorks Flow Simulation better for small businesses?

SolidWorks Flow Simulation is better suited for small businesses, as reflected by its strong small-business segment and reviewer sentiment.

- **Ansys Fluent:** Small-Business segment; reviewers appreciate its power but often cite high cost and complexity as barriers for smaller teams.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation:** Small-Business segment; reviewers consistently highlight its ease of use, integration with SolidWorks CAD, and suitability for budget-conscious, less complex simulation needs.

### Which Simulation & CAE platform has better integrations?

Reviewers indicate parity between Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation for integrations, with both products supporting integration with CAD tools but no dominant third-party integration cited.

- **Ansys Fluent:** Reviewers mention integration with other ANSYS tools and SolidWorks, enabling design, testing, and editing of mechanical parts within a broader engineering workflow.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation:** Reviewers highlight its integration as a plugin within SolidWorks CAD, allowing direct simulation on assemblies and rapid design iteration.

### How do Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation compare on customer support?

Ansys Fluent and SolidWorks Flow Simulation are rated nearly equally on Quality of Support, with Ansys Fluent at 8.5 and SolidWorks Flow Simulation at 8.3, indicating parity.

- **Ansys Fluent:** Reviewers frequently mention responsive support, a strong user community, and helpful online resources.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation:** Reviewers describe support as generally helpful, with some noting quick responses and effective assistance for setup and troubleshooting.

### Which is easier to implement, Ansys Fluent or SolidWorks Flow Simulation?

Ansys Fluent scores higher on Ease of Setup with an 8.5, while SolidWorks Flow Simulation lacks a published score, but reviewers describe both as accessible for new users.

- **Ansys Fluent:** Reviewers highlight a user-friendly GUI, clear option naming, and smooth initial setup, though some note a learning curve for advanced features.
- **SolidWorks Flow Simulation:** Reviewers consistently praise its simple, step-by-step setup process and integration with SolidWorks CAD, making it easy for beginners to implement.

Alternatives

**Ansys Fluent Alternatives**

 ![MATLAB](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_d5738f5e7922b4552c3ba543a2b9dee6/matlab.jpeg "MATLAB")

[
MATLAB
](/products/matlab/reviews)

 ![SimScale](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/a25740e2051c7be093789de32cbf1e66/simscale.svg "SimScale")

[
SimScale
](/products/simscale/reviews)

 ![Simcenter Inspire](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/d83699653e967e265705cdd3b757685d/simcenter-inspire.svg "Simcenter Inspire")

[
Altair Inspire
](/products/simcenter-inspire/reviews)

 ![Simcenter STAR-CCM+](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/a536d7a8c281cd06128c8aab580e663a/simcenter-star-ccm.svg "Simcenter STAR-CCM+")

[
Simcenter STAR-CCM+
](/products/simcenter-star-ccm/reviews)

**SolidWorks Flow Simulation Alternatives**

 ![MATLAB](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_d5738f5e7922b4552c3ba543a2b9dee6/matlab.jpeg "MATLAB")

[
MATLAB
](/products/matlab/reviews)

 ![COMSOL Multiphysics®](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_430788c054407e86310771e320229ed1/comsol-multiphysics.jpg "COMSOL Multiphysics®")

[
COMSOL Multiphysics®
](/products/comsol-multiphysics/reviews)

 ![OpenFOAM](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/thumb_square/thumb_square_6d1562fb11a3a579d5593a493d52bd77/openfoam.jpg "OpenFOAM")

[
OpenFOAM
](/products/openfoam/reviews)

 ![Autodesk CFD](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/8af8491ba16af8d37c525cb9d042d3f6/autodesk-cfd.svg "Autodesk CFD")

[
Autodesk CFD
](/products/autodesk-cfd/reviews)

## Ansys Fluent vs SolidWorks Flow Simulation

- Reviewers felt that Ansys Fluent meets the needs of their business better than SolidWorks Flow Simulation.
- When comparing quality of ongoing product support, reviewers felt that Ansys Fluent is the preferred option.
- For feature updates and roadmaps, our reviewers preferred the direction of Ansys Fluent over SolidWorks Flow Simulation.