# AutoCAD vs SOLIDWORKS Comparison
---
## AI Generated Summary
- **G2 reviewers report** that AutoCAD excels in user-friendliness, making it easy for newcomers to learn and adopt. Users appreciate its precision and flexibility, which are crucial for creating highly accurate drawings in engineering and architecture.
- **According to verified reviews** , SOLIDWORKS stands out for its intuitive 3D modeling capabilities, allowing users to transform complex ideas into detailed designs effortlessly. Reviewers highlight the software's self-explanatory interface and the helpful AI engine that enhances the design process.
- **Users say** that both SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD offer solid support, with each receiving commendable ratings in this area. However, SOLIDWORKS users specifically mention that they find it easy to onboard new engineers, which can be a significant advantage for teams looking to scale quickly.
- **Reviewers mention** that while AutoCAD has a broader market presence and a higher overall satisfaction score, SOLIDWORKS is often praised for its competitive pricing and value, making it a strong choice for small businesses looking for effective CAD solutions.
- **G2 reviewers highlight** that SOLIDWORKS shines in its modeling and rendering tools, with users noting the software's ability to handle complex parts and assemblies with ease. In contrast, AutoCAD is recognized for its superior drawing tools, which are essential for 2D and 3D design work.
- **According to recent user feedback** , both products have their strengths in setup and administration, but SOLIDWORKS users report a slightly more favorable experience, indicating that the software is easier to configure and manage for their specific workflows.



| | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.4 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 1,936 | 643 | 
| **Largest Market Segment** | Small-Business (46.9% of reviews) | Small-Business (44.3% of reviews) | 
| **Entry Level Price** | $260.00 1 user | No pricing available | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### AutoCAD

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

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

### SOLIDWORKS

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

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

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 8.8 (1580 reviews) | 8.8 (535 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.3 (1588 reviews) | 8.6 (540 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.3 (348 reviews) | 8.3 (112 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | 8.0 (204 reviews) | 8.0 (47 reviews) | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 8.2 (1424 reviews) | 8.2 (475 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | 8.5 (203 reviews) | 8.3 (47 reviews) | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 8.0 (1549 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

### 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 |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

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

#### Collaboration

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

#### Construction

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

#### Generative AI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

### Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

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

#### CAD to CAM

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

#### CNC Programming

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

#### Machining

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

### General-Purpose CAD

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.4/10 | 600 |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.8/10 | 112 |

#### Design

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 9.5 (533 reviews) | 9.5 (107 reviews) | 
| **Modeling** | 8.0 (499 reviews) | 9.4 (107 reviews) | 
| **Visualize ** | 8.2 (492 reviews) | 9.2 (103 reviews) | 
| **Rendering** | 7.4 (428 reviews) | 8.1 (100 reviews) | 

#### Edit

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **File Import ** | 8.7 (496 reviews) | 8.5 (98 reviews) | 
| **Push/Pull** | 8.2 (439 reviews) | 8.4 (90 reviews) | 
| **Views** | 8.5 (486 reviews) | 9.3 (101 reviews) | 
| **Grips ** | 8.4 (460 reviews) | 8.3 (85 reviews) | 

#### Collaboration

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Annotate** | 8.6 (480 reviews) | 8.6 (94 reviews) | 
| **Documentation ** | 8.7 (474 reviews) | 9.0 (96 reviews) | 
| **Data Extract** | 8.4 (448 reviews) | 8.4 (90 reviews) | 

### GIS

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.4/10 | 46 |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | N/A | N/A |

#### Data Management

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Data Capture** | 8.6 (37 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Storage** | 8.8 (38 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Manipulation** | 8.6 (36 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Visualization** | 8.8 (37 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Map Creation

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

#### Analysis

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

### CAD Libraries

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

#### Library

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

#### CAD

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

#### Integration

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

### CAD Data Exchange

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

#### Data

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

#### Logistics

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

### Additive Manufacturing

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

#### File Support - Additive Manufacturing

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

#### File Editing - Additive Manufacturing

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

#### Software Integrations - Additive Manufacturing

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

#### Software Type - Additive Manufacturing

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

#### Generative AI - Additive Manufacturing

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

#### Building Preparation - Additive Manufacturing

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

### CAD Viewers

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

#### File Options

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

#### Tools

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

#### Design

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

### PCB Design

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

#### Design

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

#### Tools

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

#### Library

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

#### Platform

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

#### Customization

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

### Simulation & CAE

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

#### Design

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

#### Tools

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

#### Work

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

#### Environment

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

### Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **AutoCAD** | 8.2/10 | 22 |
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.4/10 | 45 |

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

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 7.5 (14 reviews) | 9.4 (36 reviews) | 
| **Rendering Tools** | 7.0 (14 reviews) | 8.7 (28 reviews) | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 9.0 (15 reviews) | 9.2 (30 reviews) | 
| **Editing Tools** | 8.9 (14 reviews) | 9.1 (26 reviews) | 
| **Text Editing Tools** | 8.7 (14 reviews) | 7.7 (25 reviews) | 

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

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Export Files** | 8.5 (14 reviews) | 8.6 (31 reviews) | 
| **Import Files** | 8.9 (14 reviews) | 8.6 (27 reviews) | 
| **File Interoperability** | 8.2 (16 reviews) | 8.3 (29 reviews) | 
| **Backwards compatibility** | 8.2 (14 reviews) | 8.0 (26 reviews) | 
| **File size** | 8.0 (15 reviews) | 7.3 (32 reviews) | 

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

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Custom Commands** | 8.1 (15 reviews) | 8.4 (23 reviews) | 
| **Custom Scripts** | 8.3 (15 reviews) | 8.4 (24 reviews) | 
| **Custom Menus** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | 7.6 (24 reviews) | 
| **Custom Interface** | 8.2 (17 reviews) | 8.2 (24 reviews) | 

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

| Feature | AutoCAD | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 7.9 (14 reviews) | 8.0 (27 reviews) | 
| **Task-based interfaces** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | 8.4 (23 reviews) | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 7.9 (13 reviews) | 7.9 (23 reviews) | 
| **Command Clarity** | 8.6 (14 reviews) | 9.0 (27 reviews) | 

---
## Categories
**Shared Categories (2):** [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 AutoCAD (2):** [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)

**Unique to SOLIDWORKS (8):** [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 | SOLIDWORKS | 
|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 46.9% | 44.3% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 34.2% | 33.8% | 
| **Enterprise** | 18.9% | 21.9% | 

### By Industry

#### AutoCAD

- **Architecture & Planning:** 22.3%
- **Civil Engineering:** 10.4%
- **Construction:** 9.2%
- **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:** 27.9%

#### 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 (1326 reviews)
- [Altium Develop](https://www.g2.com/products/altium-develop/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1004 reviews)
- [Rhinoceros](https://www.g2.com/products/rhinoceros/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (192 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 (606 reviews)
- [Designcenter](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (599 reviews)
- [Esri ArcGIS](https://www.g2.com/products/esri-arcgis/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (539 reviews)
- [MicroStation](https://www.g2.com/products/microstation/reviews) — 4.0/5 stars (414 reviews)
- [ZWCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/zwcad/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (350 reviews)
- [ActCAD BIM](https://www.g2.com/products/actcad-actcad-bim/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (50 reviews)

### Alternatives to SOLIDWORKS

- [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (518 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 (606 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 (1326 reviews)
- [Designcenter](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (599 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 (256 reviews)
- [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (771 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"

### 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-solidworks)