Link copied to clipboard # AutoCAD vs SOLIDWORKS Comparison - What are their main differences? Share [ Export ](/compare/autocad/solidworks/export.csv) AutoCADSOLIDWORKS[+ Add Product](#) Pricing **AutoCAD** Free Trial **$260.00** 1 user · Monthly Subscription **SOLIDWORKS** Free Trial **$2,820.00** Per Year · SOLIDWORKS Design Standard Offer **Pricing Insights** from reviews Time to Implement **AutoCAD** 3 monthsFaster Based on 46 responses **SOLIDWORKS** 4 months Based on 14 responses Return on Investment **AutoCAD** 10 months6 months sooner Based on 43 responses **SOLIDWORKS** 16 months Based on 13 responses Perceived Cost **AutoCAD** $$$$$ **SOLIDWORKS** $$$$$ Average Discount **AutoCAD** 14%4% more **SOLIDWORKS** 10% **Pros & Cons** from reviews **AutoCAD** [ Ease of Use (183) ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1082940&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Drawing (116) ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1080836&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Expensive (65) ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1083719&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Learning Curve (48) ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1084463&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews) **SOLIDWORKS** [ Ease of Use (37) ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1930356&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Features (29) ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1930595&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Performance Issues (17) ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1935588&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews)[ Slow Performance (15) ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?filters%5Bsentiment_snippet%5D=1931247&qs=pros-and-cons#reviews) Integrations **AutoCAD** [ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_fbd2f0083ddc2714d55c1756f0d3830a/3ds-max-design.png "Product Avatar Image") 3ds Max ](https://www.g2.com/products/3ds-max/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_7fe3ac866a6ee2c8e79ddc61b45ae7d2/adobe-illustrator.png "Product Avatar Image") Illustrator ](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-illustrator/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_b63a01034ac032eb534b8ffbbe659987/adobe-indesign.png "Product Avatar Image") Adobe InDesign ](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-indesign/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_0d6021e1f6253f85ed0eb22a67eb101b/adobe-photoshop.png "Product Avatar Image") Photoshop ](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-photoshop/reviews)[ View all ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/integrations) **SOLIDWORKS** [ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_dfb12a5a88f8f2862f8227c868951fc6/ansys-fluent.JPG "Product Avatar Image") Ansys Fluent ](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-fluent/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_9b382ecc8231d9ab219026ed27878ac1/ansys-mechanical.png "Product Avatar Image") Ansys Mechanical ](https://www.g2.com/products/ansys-mechanical/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_269a752fb4baefda8b9e83f98c7646dc/autocad.png "Product Avatar Image") AutoCAD ](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews)[ ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/large_detail/large_detail_74e8c2b6032e9e6ea745b0b308009973/autodesk-fabrication-estmep.png "Product Avatar Image") AutoDesk Fabrication ESTmep ](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fabrication-estmep/reviews)[ View all ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/integrations) Screenshots **AutoCAD** ![AutoCAD 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/60860/expirable-direct-uploads_2F01d32968-bcaf-480d-828b-8ef3ca82b796_2FPDF-SHX-Text-Recognition.png) **SOLIDWORKS** ![SOLIDWORKS 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/1834212/AURA_resized.jpg) **Ratings** from reviews Meets Requirements **AutoCAD** 8.8 8.81,600 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.8 8.8591 Ease of Use **AutoCAD** 8.4 8.41,654 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.7 8.7596 Ease of Setup **AutoCAD** 8.3 8.3413 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.5 8.5166 Ease of Admin **AutoCAD** 8.0 8.0212 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.2 8.258 Quality of Support **AutoCAD** 8.2 8.21,441 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.2 8.2529 Has the product been a good partner in doing business? **AutoCAD** 8.5 8.5211 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.4 8.458 Product Direction (% positive) **AutoCAD** 8.0 8.01,566 **SOLIDWORKS** 8.6 8.6575 **Features** ratings from reviews General-Purpose CAD 8.4 662 8.9 133 Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) 8.1 27 8.4 95 Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Not enough data 8.8 56 CAD Data Exchange Not enough data 8.8 38 GIS 8.5 47 Not enough data Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) 8.1 506 Not enough data PCB Design Not enough data 8.2 15 Simulation & CAE Not enough data 8.3 73 CAD Viewers Not enough data 9.0 55 Additive Manufacturing Not enough data 7.9 71 CAD Libraries Not enough data 8.9 40 User Insights **Reviewers' Company Size** Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 46.3% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 34.3% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 19.5% Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 46.3% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 34.3% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 19.5% Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 46.7% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 32.5% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 20.8% Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.) 46.7% Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.) 32.5% Enterprise(\> 1000 emp.) 20.8% **Reviewers' Industry** [![AutoCAD](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1531166548/autocad.svg "AutoCAD")](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) AutoCAD Architecture & Planning 22.1% Civil Engineering 10.5% Construction 9.6% Mechanical or Industrial Engineering 8.5% Design 8.2% Other 41.1% [![SOLIDWORKS](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/87a0eaa40f8b9a14542c077a348a699d/solidworks.svg "SOLIDWORKS")](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) SOLIDWORKS Mechanical or Industrial Engineering 22.4% Design 11.8% Automotive 6.6% Medical Devices 5.7% Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing 5.6% Other 47.9% Alternatives **AutoCAD Alternatives** ![SketchUp](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/fcc93ca191f4edc5826c62935fefbf14/sketchup.svg "SketchUp") [ SketchUp ](/products/sketchup/reviews) ![Altium Develop](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/9ece538c466a3522832215687c2d4b84/altium-develop.svg "Altium Develop") [ Altium Develop ](/products/altium-develop/reviews) ![Onshape](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/64b9ed904ebc3f3bc714a720216f40d4/onshape.svg "Onshape") [ Onshape ](/products/onshape/reviews) ![Designcenter Solid Edge](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/d83699653e967e265705cdd3b757685d/designcenter-solid-edge.svg "Designcenter Solid Edge") [ Designcenter Solid Edge ](/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) **SOLIDWORKS Alternatives** ![Autodesk Fusion](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/28ab5b3990e257fc5851e9730734a9cc/autodesk-fusion.svg "Autodesk Fusion") [ Autodesk Fusion ](/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) ![Onshape](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/64b9ed904ebc3f3bc714a720216f40d4/onshape.svg "Onshape") [ Onshape ](/products/onshape/reviews) ![Designcenter Solid Edge](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/d83699653e967e265705cdd3b757685d/designcenter-solid-edge.svg "Designcenter Solid Edge") [ Designcenter Solid Edge ](/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) ![Inventor](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/ce04423e3201c72cb3ff129d2325b8d4/inventor.svg "Inventor") [ Inventor ](/products/inventor/reviews) ## AutoCAD vs SOLIDWORKS FAQs Generated using AI Last updated: August 14, 2026 ### What is the difference between SOLIDWORKS vs AutoCAD? SOLIDWORKS is distinguished by its advanced 3D parametric modeling and integrated simulation tools, while AutoCAD is favored for its precision 2D drafting and industry-standard compatibility. | [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) | [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) | | --- | --- | | 4.5/5 (646 reviews) | 4.4/5 (1,940 reviews) | | Small-Business | Small-Business | | 8.3 | 8.3 | | 8.2 | 8.2 | | 3D Modeling (27 all-time mentions) | Precision (53 all-time mentions) | ### How do the pricing models of SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD compare? SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD are rated at parity for value, with both scoring 8.3 on Price/Cost satisfaction. - **SOLIDWORKS:** In recent reviews, many cite the software as expensive, but several highlight its competitive pricing and strong value for professional engineering work. - **AutoCAD:** Reviewers frequently mention high subscription costs and note that the price can be a barrier for individuals and small businesses, though the value is justified by its industry-standard status. - **Switching reasons:** Reviewers switching from AutoCAD to SOLIDWORKS often cite the need for advanced 3D modeling and integrated simulation capabilities. ### What are the best alternatives to SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD? The top three alternatives to SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD are SketchUp, Autodesk Fusion, and Onshape. | Product | G2 Rating (reviews) | Largest Segment | Pricing Insight | Top Reviewer-Cited Strength | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) | 4.5/5 (646 reviews) | Small-Business | Expensive for small companies, but competitive for professional use | 3D Modeling (27 all-time mentions) | | [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) | 4.4/5 (1,940 reviews) | Small-Business | High subscription cost, justified by industry-standard status | Precision (53 all-time mentions) | | [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) | 4.5/5 (1,327 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Ease of Use and rapid conceptual modeling | | [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) | 4.5/5 (520 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE workflows | | [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) | 4.7/5 (725 reviews) | Small-Business | — | Cloud-based collaboration and version control | ### Which Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) features should I prioritize when comparing SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD? Buyers should prioritize 3D modeling, simulation tools, precision drafting, integration capabilities, and ease of use when comparing SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD. - **3D Modeling:** SOLIDWORKS (27 all-time mentions), AutoCAD (70 all-time mentions) - **Simulation Tools:** SOLIDWORKS (16 all-time mentions), AutoCAD (—) - **Precision Drafting:** SOLIDWORKS (—), AutoCAD (53 all-time mentions) - **Integration Capabilities:** SOLIDWORKS (CAD Integration, 15 all-time mentions), AutoCAD (Revit integration, 182 all-time mentions) - **Ease of Use:** SOLIDWORKS (37 all-time mentions), AutoCAD (183 all-time mentions) ### What are the pros and cons of SOLIDWORKS vs AutoCAD? SOLIDWORKS is strongest in advanced 3D modeling and simulation, while AutoCAD excels in precision 2D drafting and industry-standard compatibility. - **SOLIDWORKS strengths:** 3D Modeling (27 all-time mentions), Ease of Use (37), User Interface (21), Simulation Tools (16), CAD Integration (15), Efficiency (15), Assembly Design (12), Easy Learning (12) - **SOLIDWORKS trade-offs:** Performance Issues (17), Slow Performance (15), High System Requirements (14), Complexity (11), Expensive (11) - **AutoCAD strengths:** Ease of Use (183), Drawing (116), 3D Modeling (70), Detailed Engineering Drawings (66), Precision (53), 3D Visualization (52), Accuracy (47), Design Ease (45), Drawing Efficiency (37) - **AutoCAD trade-offs:** Expensive (65), Learning Curve (48), High Cost (46), Difficult Learning (45), Slow Performance (33), Feature Limitations (28), Drawing Issues (22), System Lagging (22), Missing Features (21), Large File Handling (17), Limited Modeling (13) ### Is SOLIDWORKS or AutoCAD better for small businesses? Both SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD are most widely used by small businesses, but SOLIDWORKS receives more frequent praise for ease of learning and onboarding in this segment. - **SOLIDWORKS:** Small-Business is the largest segment; reviewers highlight its intuitive interface, easy onboarding, and strong support resources for small teams. - **AutoCAD:** Small-Business is the largest segment; reviewers note its industry-standard status and precision, but mention a steeper learning curve and higher cost as challenges for small businesses. ### Which Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) platform has better integrations? AutoCAD is favored for integrations, especially with Revit and other Autodesk tools. - **SOLIDWORKS:** Integrates with CATIA (38 all-time mentions) and SolidWorks Simulation (13 all-time mentions). - **AutoCAD:** Integrates with Revit (182 all-time mentions), SOLIDWORKS (30), and SketchUp (28). ### How do SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD compare on customer support? SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD are rated at parity for Quality of Support, both scoring 8.2. - **SOLIDWORKS:** Reviewers frequently describe support as responsive and helpful, with strong onboarding resources and a large community for troubleshooting. - **AutoCAD:** Reviewers note reliable support, with some citing effective assistance and others mentioning that support can be less effective for individual users. ### Which is easier to implement, SOLIDWORKS or AutoCAD? SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD are rated at parity for Ease of Setup, both scoring 8.3. - **SOLIDWORKS:** Reviewers highlight straightforward initial setup, quick onboarding, and minimal downtime for learning the system. - **AutoCAD:** Reviewers mention easy installation and setup, with guidance available, though some note the interface can be overwhelming for beginners.