# AutoCAD, Global Mapper vs SOLIDWORKS Comparison

| | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.4 out of 5 | 4.3 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 1,933 | 30 | 643 | 
| **Largest Market Segment** | Small-Business (46.8% of reviews) | Mid-Market (40.0% of reviews) | Small-Business (44.3% of reviews) | 
| **Entry Level Price** | $260.00 1 user | Starting at $700.00 With One-Time Purchase | No pricing available | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### AutoCAD

Pros:
- Ease of Use (180 reviews)
- Drawing (115 reviews)

Cons:
- Expensive (65 reviews)
- Learning Curve (48 reviews)

### Global Mapper

**Not enough data**

### SOLIDWORKS

Pros:
- Ease of Use (34 reviews)
- Features (28 reviews)

Cons:
- Performance Issues (16 reviews)
- Slow Performance (15 reviews)

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 8.8 (1578 reviews) | 8.5 (26 reviews) | 8.8 (535 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.3 (1586 reviews) | 7.8 (25 reviews) | 8.6 (540 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.3 (346 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.3 (112 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | 8.0 (204 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.0 (47 reviews) | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 8.2 (1422 reviews) | 8.2 (22 reviews) | 8.2 (475 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | 8.5 (203 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.3 (47 reviews) | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 8.0 (1547 reviews) | 7.4 (27 reviews) | 8.6 (529 reviews) | 

---
## Pricing

### AutoCAD

#### Entry-Level Pricing

Plan: Monthly Subscription

Price: $260.00 1 user

Description: Access software 1 month at a time for the lowest up-front investment.


Key Features:
- Access to the latest software releases
- 1-on-1 online support
- Includes AutoCAD Mobile App

[Browse all 4 editions](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/pricing)

#### Free Trial

Yes

### Global Mapper

#### Entry-Level Pricing

Plan: Global Mapper

Price: Starting at $700.00 With One-Time Purchase

Description: Perpetual license with annual Maintenance and Support

Key Features:
- Single User Node-Locked license
- Single User Floating license
- USB Dongle License

[Browse all 2 editions](https://www.g2.com/products/global-mapper/pricing)

#### Free Trial

Yes

### SOLIDWORKS

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

No information available

---
## Features Comparison By Category

### Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.1/10 | 490 |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Visualizing** | 8.4 (411 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering** | 7.3 (378 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Drawing** | 9.2 (428 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Editing** | 8.8 (410 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Sequence Steps** | 8.2 (371 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Dynamic Updating** | 8.3 (199 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Collaboration

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Multi User** | 7.9 (368 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **File Import/Export** | 8.8 (422 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Annotating ** | 8.7 (416 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Document Storage** | 8.7 (396 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Construction

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Fabrication** | 8.4 (367 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Reinforcement Tools** | 8.2 (357 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Clash Detection ** | 7.5 (335 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Grading** | 8.1 (187 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Earthwork** | 7.8 (180 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Generative AI

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **AI Text Generation** | 7.2 (48 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **AI Text Summarization** | 7.1 (46 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **AI Text-to-3D** | 6.2 (48 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Common Data Environment (CDE) - Building Design and Building Information Modeling

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Role-Based Access** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Centralized Data Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Cost Estimation - Building Design and Building Information Modeling

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Lifecycle Cost Tracking** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Quantity Takeoff & Cost Estimation** | 7.0 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Electrical & Circuit Design - Building Design and Building Information Modeling

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Clash Detection** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Electrical System Modeling** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **MEP Coordination** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Load Calculation & Analysis** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Interoperability with BIM & CAD** | 9.3 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Circuit Design Integration** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

### Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.7/10 | 53 |

#### CAD to CAM

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **CAD-CAM Import** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.0 (42 reviews) | 
| **CAM Data Exchange** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (42 reviews) | 
| **CAD/CAM Compatibility** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.9 (43 reviews) | 

#### CNC Programming

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **CNC Workflows** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.7 (39 reviews) | 
| **CNC Feature Recognition** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (38 reviews) | 
| **Programming Control** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.4 (37 reviews) | 

#### Machining

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Job Set-up** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (39 reviews) | 
| **Operations** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.7 (39 reviews) | 
| **Tooling and Toolpaths** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (39 reviews) | 

### General-Purpose CAD

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.4/10 | 598 |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.8/10 | 112 |

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 9.5 (532 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.5 (107 reviews) | 
| **Modeling** | 8.0 (497 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.4 (107 reviews) | 
| **Visualize ** | 8.1 (490 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.2 (103 reviews) | 
| **Rendering** | 7.4 (428 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.1 (100 reviews) | 

#### Edit

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **File Import ** | 8.7 (496 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.5 (98 reviews) | 
| **Push/Pull** | 8.2 (439 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.4 (90 reviews) | 
| **Views** | 8.5 (485 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.3 (101 reviews) | 
| **Grips ** | 8.4 (459 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.3 (85 reviews) | 

#### Collaboration

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Annotate** | 8.6 (480 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.6 (94 reviews) | 
| **Documentation ** | 8.7 (473 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.0 (96 reviews) | 
| **Data Extract** | 8.4 (448 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.4 (90 reviews) | 

### GIS

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.4/10 | 46 |
| **Global Mapper** | 8.2/10 | 5 |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | N/A | N/A |

#### Data Management

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Data Capture** | 8.6 (37 reviews) | 8.7 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Storage** | 8.8 (38 reviews) | 8.3 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Manipulation** | 8.6 (36 reviews) | 7.7 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Visualization** | 8.8 (37 reviews) | 8.7 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Map Creation

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Geocoding** | 8.4 (37 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Buffer Zone Query** | 8.0 (32 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Overlaying** | 8.7 (36 reviews) | 8.0 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Publishing** | 8.6 (34 reviews) | 7.7 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Analysis

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Spatial Analysis** | 8.5 (34 reviews) | 8.0 (5 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Reporting ** | 7.9 (34 reviews) | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Streaming ** | 8.0 (29 reviews) | Feature Not Available | Not enough data | 

### CAD Libraries

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.9/10 | 35 |

#### Library

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Categorize** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.9 (29 reviews) | 
| **Search** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (28 reviews) | 
| **Deduplication** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.4 (28 reviews) | 
| **Feedback** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (23 reviews) | 

#### CAD

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Types** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (24 reviews) | 
| **Models** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.4 (30 reviews) | 
| **Compatibility** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.1 (29 reviews) | 

#### Integration

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Catalogs** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.5 (26 reviews) | 
| **CAD & PLM** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.6 (29 reviews) | 
| **ERP** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (25 reviews) | 

### CAD Data Exchange

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.8/10 | 34 |

#### Data

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **3D Format** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.3 (29 reviews) | 
| **Data Quality** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (27 reviews) | 
| **Extra Information** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (26 reviews) | 
| **Standard Format** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.0 (27 reviews) | 
| **Translate** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (24 reviews) | 
| **Validation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.7 (25 reviews) | 

#### Logistics

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Integrate** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.1 (25 reviews) | 

### Additive Manufacturing

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 7.9/10 | 66 |

#### File Support - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **STL Compatible** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.7 (61 reviews) | 
| **3MF Compatible** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.5 (47 reviews) | 
| **OBJ Compatible** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.4 (52 reviews) | 

#### File Editing - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Mesh Repair** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.5 (55 reviews) | 
| **File Editing** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (60 reviews) | 

#### Software Integrations - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Standalone Slicer** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.6 (49 reviews) | 
| **Inetgrated 3D Modeling** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (58 reviews) | 

#### Software Type - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Cloud-based Platform** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.7 (48 reviews) | 
| **Downloadable Application** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (53 reviews) | 

#### Generative AI - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **AI Text-to-Image** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 6.0 (20 reviews) | 
| **AI Text-to-3D** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 6.1 (20 reviews) | 

#### Building Preparation - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Material Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Building Simulation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Slicing Optimization** | Not enough data | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

### CAD Viewers

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 9.0/10 | 49 |

#### File Options

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Import files** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.9 (44 reviews) | 
| **Export files** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.1 (43 reviews) | 
| **View 2D files** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.1 (43 reviews) | 
| **View 3D files** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.3 (44 reviews) | 
| **Batch convert files** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (35 reviews) | 
| **File size** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (41 reviews) | 

#### Tools

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Dimensioning tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.5 (43 reviews) | 
| **Change units** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.1 (41 reviews) | 
| **3D/solid modeling tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.2 (43 reviews) | 

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.4 (43 reviews) | 

### PCB Design

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.2/10 | 15 |

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **PCB layout editing** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.9 (12 reviews) | 
| **Schematic editor** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.8 (12 reviews) | 

#### Tools

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **3D modeling tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.2 (13 reviews) | 
| **Component placement** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.7 (13 reviews) | 

#### Library

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Component libraries** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.2 (13 reviews) | 

#### Platform

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Board size** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (13 reviews) | 
| **Layers** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.1 (12 reviews) | 

#### Customization

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Custom commands** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.8 (12 reviews) | 
| **Custom interface** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (12 reviews) | 

### Simulation & CAE

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | N/A | N/A |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.2/10 | 64 |

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.2 (62 reviews) | 
| **Drawing Tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 9.0 (62 reviews) | 
| **Editing Tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.8 (62 reviews) | 
| **Rendering tools** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.7 (60 reviews) | 

#### Tools

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Fluid analysis** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.0 (54 reviews) | 
| **Finite element analysis** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.9 (56 reviews) | 
| **Multibody dynamics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.4 (49 reviews) | 

#### Work

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Discrete event modeling** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.6 (41 reviews) | 
| **Continuous event modeling** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 7.8 (42 reviews) | 
| **Mechanical event simulation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (51 reviews) | 
| **Manufacturing process simulation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.1 (44 reviews) | 
| **Integrate** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.4 (47 reviews) | 

#### Environment

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.3 (53 reviews) | 
| **Task** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.4 (51 reviews) | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.2 (49 reviews) | 
| **Command Clarity** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 8.6 (53 reviews) | 

### Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.2/10 | 22 |
| **Global Mapper** | N/A | N/A |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.4/10 | 45 |

#### Tools - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 7.5 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.4 (36 reviews) | 
| **Rendering Tools** | 7.0 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.7 (28 reviews) | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 9.0 (15 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.2 (30 reviews) | 
| **Editing Tools** | 8.9 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.1 (26 reviews) | 
| **Text Editing Tools** | 8.7 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 7.7 (25 reviews) | 

#### File Options - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Export Files** | 8.5 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.6 (31 reviews) | 
| **Import Files** | 8.9 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.6 (27 reviews) | 
| **File Interoperability** | 8.2 (16 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.3 (29 reviews) | 
| **Backwards compatibility** | 8.2 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.0 (26 reviews) | 
| **File size** | 8.0 (15 reviews) | Not enough data | 7.3 (32 reviews) | 

#### Customization - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Custom Commands** | 8.1 (15 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.4 (23 reviews) | 
| **Custom Scripts** | 8.3 (15 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.4 (24 reviews) | 
| **Custom Menus** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 7.6 (24 reviews) | 
| **Custom Interface** | 8.2 (17 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.2 (24 reviews) | 

#### Environment - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 7.9 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.0 (27 reviews) | 
| **Task-based interfaces** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 8.4 (23 reviews) | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 7.9 (23 reviews) | 
| **Command Clarity** | 8.6 (14 reviews) | Not enough data | 9.0 (27 reviews) | 

---
## Categories

**Unique to AutoCAD (4):** [GIS Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/gis), [Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim), [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)

**Unique to Global Mapper (2):** [GIS Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/gis), [Drone Analytics Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/drone-analytics)

**Unique to SOLIDWORKS (10):** [Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad), [General-Purpose CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad), [Simulation & CAE Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae), [CAD Viewers](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-viewers), [Sketching Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/sketching), [PCB Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/pcb-design), [Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/computer-aided-manufacturing-cam), [CAD Libraries](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-libraries), [CAD Data Exchange Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-data-exchange), [Additive Manufacturing Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/additive-manufacturing)


---
## Reviewer Demographics

### By Company Size

| Segment | AutoCAD | Global Mapper | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 46.8% | 33.3% | 44.3% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 34.3% | 40.0% | 33.8% | 
| **Enterprise** | 18.9% | 26.7% | 21.9% | 

### By Industry

#### AutoCAD

- **Architecture & Planning:** 22.3%
- **Civil Engineering:** 10.4%
- **Construction:** 9.3%
- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 8.6%
- **Design:** 8.4%
- **Oil & Energy:** 3.2%
- **Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing:** 2.9%
- **Automotive:** 2.9%
- **Information Technology and Services:** 2.3%
- **Higher Education:** 1.8%
- **Other:** 27.8%

#### Global Mapper

- **Oil & Energy:** 26.7%
- **Civil Engineering:** 23.3%
- **Information Technology and Services:** 6.7%
- **Environmental Services:** 6.7%
- **Wireless:** 3.3%
- **Utilities:** 3.3%
- **Telecommunications:** 3.3%
- **Renewables & Environment:** 3.3%
- **Mining & Metals:** 3.3%
- **Maritime:** 3.3%
- **Other:** 16.7%

#### SOLIDWORKS

- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 23.2%
- **Design:** 11.7%
- **Automotive:** 6.6%
- **Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing:** 5.9%
- **Medical Devices:** 5.8%
- **Machinery:** 5.6%
- **Higher Education:** 4.6%
- **Aviation & Aerospace:** 4.5%
- **Oil & Energy:** 3.0%
- **Consumer Goods:** 2.2%
- **Other:** 26.8%

---
## Alternatives

### Alternatives to AutoCAD

- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1324 reviews)
- [Altium Develop](https://www.g2.com/products/altium-develop/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (997 reviews)
- [Rhinoceros](https://www.g2.com/products/rhinoceros/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (191 reviews)
- [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (695 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (599 reviews)
- [Esri ArcGIS](https://www.g2.com/products/esri-arcgis/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (539 reviews)
- [Designcenter NX](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-nx/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (527 reviews)
- [MicroStation](https://www.g2.com/products/microstation/reviews) — 4.0/5 stars (412 reviews)
- [ZWCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/zwcad/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (349 reviews)
- [ActCAD BIM](https://www.g2.com/products/actcad-actcad-bim/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (50 reviews)

### Alternatives to Global Mapper

- [Esri ArcGIS](https://www.g2.com/products/esri-arcgis/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (539 reviews)
- [Google Earth Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/google-earth-pro/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (384 reviews)
- [QGIS](https://www.g2.com/products/qgis/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (154 reviews)
- [Surfer](https://www.g2.com/products/surfer/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (126 reviews)
- [MapInfo Pro](https://www.g2.com/products/mapinfo-pro/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (120 reviews)
- [Maptitude](https://www.g2.com/products/maptitude/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (148 reviews)
- [ArcGIS Online](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-online/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (190 reviews)
- [BatchGeo](https://www.g2.com/products/batchgeo/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (1047 reviews)
- [Xactly](https://www.g2.com/products/xactly/reviews) — 4.2/5 stars (1091 reviews)
- [Octave Imagine (ERDAS IMAGINE)](https://www.g2.com/products/octave-imagine-erdas-imagine/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (31 reviews)

### Alternatives to SOLIDWORKS

- [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (519 reviews)
- [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (695 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (599 reviews)
- [Inventor](https://www.g2.com/products/inventor/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (440 reviews)
- [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (200 reviews)
- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1324 reviews)
- [Designcenter NX](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-nx/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (527 reviews)
- [IronCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/ironcad/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (43 reviews)
- [CATIA](https://www.g2.com/products/catia/reviews) — 4.2/5 stars (255 reviews)
- [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (770 reviews)

---
## Top Discussions

### AutoCAD

- Title: [Can we add simulation?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/15648-can-we-add-simulation) — 4 comments, 3 upvotes
  > **Top comment:** "Yes we can do any kind of simulation here. This tool provides great flexibility."
- Title: [Which of the features might be useful for CAD software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/which-of-the-features-might-be-useful-for-cad-software) — 3 comments
  > **Top comment:** "3d extend "
- Title: [What is AutoCAD Architecture used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-autocad-architecture-used-for) — 2 comments, 2 upvotes
  > **Top comment:** "AutoCAD Architecture is a specialized version of AutoCAD developed for architects and building professionals. It provides intelligent architectural..."
- Title: [Can you do 3d in AutoCAD?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/can-you-do-3d-in-autocad) — 2 comments
  > **Top comment:** "Yes"
- Title: [What is AutoCAD software used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-autocad-software-used-for) — 2 comments
  > **Top comment:** "drafting, design and drawing production.  2d and 3d"

### Global Mapper

No discussions available for this product.

### SOLIDWORKS

- Title: [What is SOLIDWORKS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-solidworks-used-for) — 3 comments, 1 upvote
  > **Top comment:** "A person can use SolidWorks for many things, Part modeling, Assembly Testing, rendering, Creating working animation of any machine or product. Start..."
- Title: [How to stop or cancel a ongoing command.](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-to-stop-or-cancel-a-ongoing-command) — 2 comments, 1 upvote
  > **Top comment:** "By pressing escape key."
- Title: [best use o this software](https://www.g2.com/discussions/35425-best-use-o-this-software) — 2 comments, 1 upvote
  > **Top comment:** "Making 2D sketches and extruding them to make 3d sketches."
- Title: [Where is the Features toolbar in Solidworks?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/where-is-the-features-toolbar-in-solidworks) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Right-click in the window border, click Toolbars, and select or clear a toolbar name.
Click Tools > Customize. On the Toolbars tab, select the toolbars to..."
- Title: [What are features in Solidworks?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-are-features-in-solidworks) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Solidworks have so many feature like sketch tool, Part modeling, Assembly modeling, Drawing Tool, Sheet metal, weldments, Surface modeling, Rendering Tool,..."

---
**Source:** [G2.com](https://www.g2.com) | [Comparison Page](https://www.g2.com/compare/autocad-vs-global-mapper-vs-solidworks)