# SOLIDWORKS vs ZW3D Comparison
---
## AI Generated Summary
- **G2 reviewers report** that SOLIDWORKS excels in user satisfaction, with many praising its intuitive interface that simplifies complex 3D modeling and assembly tasks. Users appreciate the extensive range of features for parametric modeling and simulations, which enhance their design capabilities.
- **Users say** ZW3D stands out for its unique Hybrid Modeling kernel, allowing for seamless work with both solids and surfaces. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those tackling complex architectural designs, making the modeling process more fluid and efficient.
- **According to verified reviews** , SOLIDWORKS is recognized for its robust file conversion capabilities, which significantly boost productivity by allowing easy integration with other CAD software. This feature is a game-changer for users who frequently collaborate across different platforms.
- **Reviewers mention** that ZW3D's all-in-one solution is a major advantage, as it combines 3D design, simulation, and CAM functionalities in a single tool. This integration is seen as a time-saver, particularly for users who value efficiency in their workflow.
- **G2 reviewers highlight** that while SOLIDWORKS has a slightly lower score in setup ease, its overall support quality is commendable. Users have noted that the customer support team is responsive and helpful, which can be crucial during the implementation phase.
- **Users express** that ZW3D's file compatibility is impressive, as it can handle various formats effectively. This feature, along with its efficient customer support, makes it a reliable choice for users who need to work with diverse file types regularly.



| | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.5 out of 5 | 4.4 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 645 | 18 | 
| **Largest Market Segment** | Small-Business (44.3% of reviews) | Small-Business (47.1% of reviews) | 
| **Entry Level Price** | No pricing available | Free Trial 1 license With One-Time Purchase | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### SOLIDWORKS

Pros:
- Ease of Use (37 reviews)
- Features (29 reviews)

Cons:
- Performance Issues (17 reviews)
- Slow Performance (15 reviews)

### ZW3D

Pros:
- Ease of Use (4 reviews)
- Compatibility (3 reviews)

Cons:
- Difficult Learning (2 reviews)
- Outdated Interface (2 reviews)

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 8.8 (536 reviews) | 8.8 (17 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.6 (541 reviews) | 8.3 (17 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.2 (113 reviews) | 8.9 (12 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | 7.9 (46 reviews) | Not enough data | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 8.2 (476 reviews) | 8.5 (17 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | 8.3 (46 reviews) | Not enough data | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 8.6 (530 reviews) | 9.3 (17 reviews) | 

---
## Pricing

### SOLIDWORKS

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

No information available

### ZW3D

#### Entry-Level Pricing

Plan: ZW3D Lite

Price: Free Trial 1 license With One-Time Purchase

Description: For product design

Key Features:
- Basic CAD features

[Browse all 3 editions](https://www.g2.com/products/zw3d/pricing)

#### Free Trial

Yes

---
## Features Comparison By Category

### Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.7/10 | 53 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### CAD to CAM

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **CAD-CAM Import** | 9.0 (42 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAM Data Exchange** | 8.8 (42 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAD/CAM Compatibility** | 8.9 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### CNC Programming

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **CNC Workflows** | 8.7 (39 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CNC Feature Recognition** | 8.6 (38 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Programming Control** | 8.4 (37 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Machining

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Job Set-up** | 8.6 (39 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Operations** | 8.7 (39 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Tooling and Toolpaths** | 8.8 (39 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### General-Purpose CAD

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.8/10 | 113 |
| **ZW3D** | 8.5/10 | 18 |

#### Design

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 9.5 (108 reviews) | 9.0 (16 reviews) | 
| **Modeling** | 9.4 (108 reviews) | 9.1 (16 reviews) | 
| **Visualize ** | 9.2 (104 reviews) | 8.3 (16 reviews) | 
| **Rendering** | 8.1 (101 reviews) | 8.6 (14 reviews) | 

#### Edit

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **File Import ** | 8.5 (99 reviews) | 8.8 (16 reviews) | 
| **Push/Pull** | 8.3 (91 reviews) | 8.8 (16 reviews) | 
| **Views** | 9.3 (102 reviews) | 9.0 (16 reviews) | 
| **Grips ** | 8.3 (86 reviews) | 8.4 (16 reviews) | 

#### Collaboration

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Annotate** | 8.6 (95 reviews) | 7.2 (15 reviews) | 
| **Documentation ** | 9.0 (97 reviews) | 8.5 (16 reviews) | 
| **Data Extract** | 8.4 (91 reviews) | 8.3 (15 reviews) | 

### CAD Libraries

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.9/10 | 35 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### Library

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Categorize** | 8.9 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Search** | 8.6 (28 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Deduplication** | 8.4 (28 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Feedback** | 8.6 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### CAD

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Types** | 8.8 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Models** | 9.4 (30 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Compatibility** | 9.1 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Integration

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Catalogs** | 8.5 (26 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAD & PLM** | 9.6 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **ERP** | 8.6 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### CAD Data Exchange

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.8/10 | 34 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### Data

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D Format** | 9.3 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Quality** | 8.8 (27 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Extra Information** | 8.3 (26 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Standard Format** | 9.0 (27 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Translate** | 8.3 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Validation** | 8.7 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Logistics

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Integrate** | 9.1 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Additive Manufacturing

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 7.9/10 | 66 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### File Support - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **STL Compatible** | 8.7 (61 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **3MF Compatible** | 8.5 (47 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **OBJ Compatible** | 8.4 (52 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### File Editing - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Mesh Repair** | 7.5 (55 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File Editing** | 8.6 (60 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Software Integrations - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Standalone Slicer** | 7.6 (49 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Inetgrated 3D Modeling** | 8.8 (58 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Software Type - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Cloud-based Platform** | 7.7 (48 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Downloadable Application** | 8.6 (53 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Generative AI - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **AI Text-to-Image** | 6.0 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **AI Text-to-3D** | 6.1 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Building Preparation - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **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 |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 9.0/10 | 49 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### File Options

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Import files** | 8.9 (44 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Export files** | 9.1 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **View 2D files** | 9.1 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **View 3D files** | 9.3 (44 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Batch convert files** | 8.3 (35 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File size** | 8.3 (41 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Dimensioning tools** | 9.5 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Change units** | 9.1 (41 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **3D/solid modeling tools** | 9.2 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Design

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 9.4 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### PCB Design

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.2/10 | 15 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **PCB layout editing** | 7.9 (12 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Schematic editor** | 7.8 (12 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D modeling tools** | 9.2 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Component placement** | 8.7 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Library

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Component libraries** | 8.2 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Platform

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Board size** | 8.6 (13 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Layers** | 8.1 (12 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Customization

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Custom commands** | 7.8 (12 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom interface** | 8.3 (12 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Simulation & CAE

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.2/10 | 65 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 9.2 (63 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 9.0 (63 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Editing Tools** | 8.8 (63 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering tools** | 7.7 (61 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Fluid analysis** | 7.8 (55 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Finite element analysis** | 7.8 (57 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Multibody dynamics** | 7.3 (50 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Work

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Discrete event modeling** | 7.4 (42 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Continuous event modeling** | 7.6 (43 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Mechanical event simulation** | 8.3 (52 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manufacturing process simulation** | 8.1 (45 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Integrate** | 8.4 (48 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Environment

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 8.3 (54 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Task** | 8.3 (52 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 8.1 (50 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Command Clarity** | 8.6 (54 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **SOLIDWORKS** | 8.4/10 | 46 |
| **ZW3D** | N/A | N/A |

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

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 9.5 (37 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering Tools** | 8.7 (28 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 9.2 (31 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Editing Tools** | 9.1 (26 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Text Editing Tools** | 7.7 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 

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

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Export Files** | 8.6 (31 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Import Files** | 8.6 (27 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File Interoperability** | 8.3 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Backwards compatibility** | 8.0 (26 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File size** | 7.3 (33 reviews) | Not enough data | 

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

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Custom Commands** | 8.4 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Scripts** | 8.4 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Menus** | 7.6 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Interface** | 8.2 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 

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

| Feature | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 8.0 (27 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Task-based interfaces** | 8.4 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 7.9 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Command Clarity** | 9.0 (28 reviews) | Not enough data | 

---
## Categories
**Shared Categories (1):** [General-Purpose CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad)

**Unique to SOLIDWORKS (9):** [Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad), [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 | SOLIDWORKS | ZW3D | 
|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 44.3% | 47.1% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 33.9% | 29.4% | 
| **Enterprise** | 21.8% | 23.5% | 

### By Industry

#### SOLIDWORKS

- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 23.0%
- **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:** 27.0%

#### ZW3D

- **Design:** 17.6%
- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 11.8%
- **Higher Education:** 11.8%
- **Environmental Services:** 11.8%
- **Manufacturing:** 5.9%
- **Oil & Energy:** 5.9%
- **Maritime:** 5.9%
- **Information Technology and Services:** 5.9%
- **Industrial Automation:** 5.9%
- **Graphic Design:** 5.9%
- **Other:** 11.8%

---
## Alternatives

### Alternatives to SOLIDWORKS

- [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (520 reviews)
- [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (725 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (634 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 (202 reviews)
- [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (1939 reviews)
- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1327 reviews)
- [Designcenter](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (658 reviews)
- [IronCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/ironcad/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (43 reviews)
- [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (770 reviews)

### Alternatives to ZW3D

- [Inventor](https://www.g2.com/products/inventor/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (440 reviews)
- [Autodesk Fusion](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (520 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (634 reviews)
- [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (1939 reviews)
- [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (725 reviews)
- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1327 reviews)
- [Altium Develop](https://www.g2.com/products/altium-develop/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1050 reviews)
- [MicroStation](https://www.g2.com/products/microstation/reviews) — 4.0/5 stars (416 reviews)
- [AutoCAD LT](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad-lt/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (287 reviews)
- [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (202 reviews)

---
## Top Discussions

### 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,..."

### ZW3D

No discussions available for this product.

---
**Source:** [G2.com](https://www.g2.com) | [Comparison Page](https://www.g2.com/compare/solidworks-vs-zw3d)