What I like best about Solid Edge is its powerful and intuitive combination of parametric and synchronous modeling. This hybrid approach allows for faster design iterations and greater flexibility when working with complex assemblies. The interface is user-friendly, and the integration with Siemens PLM tools enhances collaboration across projects. Additionally, features like simulation, sheet metal design, and rendering are well-integrated and highly efficient, making Solid Edge an excellent all-in-one solution for mechanical design and engineering tasks. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

While Solid Edge is a powerful tool, one area for improvement is its learning curve for new users, especially when transitioning from other CAD platforms. Some advanced features—like synchronous technology—can be confusing at first without proper training. Additionally, performance can occasionally lag when handling very large assemblies or complex simulations, depending on system specs. Better integration with third-party plugins and improved file compatibility with other CAD software would also enhance workflow flexibility. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Affordable compared to some competitors

Easy to set up and maintain

Intuitive user interface, especially for 3D modeling and assemblies

Strong simulation and manufacturing capabilities

Cloud-based collaboration tools make teamwork much easier Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Can be resource-heavy on older hardware

Some advanced features have a learning curve

Integration with third-party tools could be smoother in a good way Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

The software is easy to install and use, with a straightforward setup process that requires minimal effort. It offers simple and intuitive file management, remains stable during operation, and features a user-friendly interface that enhances the overall experience for both beginners and advanced users I woud say. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

The software lacks comprehensive information and documentation, which makes it challenging for new users to understand its full capabilities. Additionally, version updates are released with minimal explanations or changelogs, leaving users uncertain about what has changed or improved. This lack of transparency and guidance significantly increases the learning curve and makes it difficult to fully master the software without extensive trial and error. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What I like best about Solid Edge is its synchronous modeling technology — it genuinely changes the game for CAD design workflows. Unlike traditional parametric systems that force you to build and edit geometry in a strict history-based order, Solid Edge lets you make direct edits at any point, even on imported models from other CAD tools, without breaking downstream features.

This flexibility is incredibly valuable when working in fast-paced environments where design changes happen frequently, or when collaborating across teams that may use different software platforms. I can revise geometry, move faces, adjust features, or rework entire assemblies without rebuilding the model from scratch — and without the “feature tree errors” that tend to plague other CAD systems.

Additionally, Solid Edge does a fantastic job combining:

Ease of use for quick concept modeling,

Robust features like sheet metal design, simulation, and CAM tools,

And excellent multi-CAD compatibility, which is crucial for supplier collaboration.

It’s the rare CAD platform that gives both power and speed — without the overhead of larger, more complex systems like NX or CATIA. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

While Solid Edge is a powerful and flexible CAD tool, there are a few areas where it falls short — especially when compared to more mature or enterprise-level platforms.

1. PLM and ERP Integration Is Limited or Cumbersome

Out-of-the-box, Solid Edge doesn’t offer the tight integration with PLM or ERP systems that some other Siemens tools (like NX with Teamcenter) provide. If you're in an environment where full digital thread or traceability is needed, setting that up with Solid Edge can require custom workflows or middleware, and it’s not always straightforward.

2. Customer Support Can Be Inconsistent

While Siemens and its resellers do offer support, the quality can vary significantly depending on your service tier and region. For critical issues, response times and escalation procedures are not always as fast or transparent as one would expect from an engineering-grade tool.

3. User Interface Can Feel Dated in Places

Though the ribbon-based interface is generally easy to navigate, some dialogs and tool configurations still carry a legacy feel. It’s not as modern or polished as, say, Autodesk Fusion 360 — especially when it comes to visualization, real-time rendering, or customization options.

4. Resource Usage & Stability Under Large Assemblies

Solid Edge handles small to medium assemblies quite well, but with very large or complex assemblies, you may experience slowdowns or memory issues — especially on mid-tier workstations. It’s better than it used to be, but still not as optimized as high-end platforms like Creo or NX.

5. Limited Cloud Collaboration Tools

Unlike newer CAD tools that are fully cloud-native (e.g., Onshape), Solid Edge is still largely desktop-based. While Siemens has started offering cloud-connected options, true real-time collaborative features are lacking, which can be a bottleneck for distributed teams. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Having utilized Solid Edge for several months for mechanical design tasks, I have established that it is a powerful and feature-rich application that is especially applicable in product development and manufacturing environments for engineers. The ensuing is an evaluation of my experience:

1. User Interface & Learning Curve

Solid Edge has a new, ribbon-style interface that's intuitive if you're familiar with other Siemens applications or even Microsoft Office. For complete beginners, however, the learning curve is fairly steep—especially if you're transitioning from applications like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Some of the terminology and workflow differ slightly, but Siemens offers excellent tutorials and an active user forum.

2. Synchronous Technology

A highlight is Synchronous Technology. This allows you to directly edit geometry without worrying about a feature tree. This hybrid modeling approach (synchronous and ordered) can seriously speed up design iteration and makes editing imported models so much easier. At first, it was strange not to be working with a parametric history tree only, but in the end, it was a huge time-saver.

3. 3D Modeling Capabilities

The modeling strength is good. From simple components to complex assemblies, Solid Edge handles them well. Patterning, mirroring, and component relationships are all straightforward features. It is also competent in sheet metal design with a good set of bend and flattening tools. Complicated surfacing is not as fluid as in some of the high-end CAD packages like NX or CATIA.

4. Assembly & Simulation

Solid Edge assembly environment is efficient. Large assemblies perform better than I expected, though the performance is sluggish on low-power machines. Built-in simulation tools for stress analysis and motion simulation are adequate to perform basic validation, but I found myself exporting to more advanced FEA packages quite often to run detailed simulations.

5. Drafting & Documentation

The 2D drafting is powerful. Dimensions, tolerances, and BOM generation are straightforward. Drawing mode is well integrated with the 3D model, with changes being automatically updated. Annotation tools are professional-level and can be customized.

6. File Management & Collaboration

Integrated Teamcenter integration (for those who use it) is a huge benefit in the enterprise space. The file system can become unwieldy for single users or small teams if not managed properly. Fortunately, the data management functionality continues to improve, and Siemens has introduced cloud-based services with Xcelerator Share. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Steep learning curve for new users

Not ideal for complex surfacing or organic design

Interface may feel outdated next to more modern cloud-native tools

Performance issues on budget machines Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

As a master's student currently doing my thesis in Germany (focused on hardware and circuit design), I’ve been exploring different CAD tools that are industry-relevant. What I like about Solid Edge is how professional and structured the interface feels. Even though I’m still learning, the way it combines 3D modeling with simulation capabilities seems perfect for engineering workflows. I’ve also noticed that it supports synchronous modeling, which makes quick design changes much easier, which is a huge plus during thesis or project work when things constantly evolve.

Another small thing I appreciate is that it doesn’t feel overly “clunky” like some older CAD programs. It seems fairly modern and responsive. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Since I’m new to Solid Edge, the learning curve is definitely there, especially if you’re used to other tools like SolidWorks or Fusion 360. Some of the terms and workflows felt a bit unfamiliar at first. Also, as a student, I found it a bit tricky to figure out how to access the student version or trial without having a company license. It would be great if the on-boarding process for students was a bit smoother or more visible. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What I like most is how intuitive the interface becomes once you get the hang of it, especially with the Ease of Use improving over time. The 3D modeling features are super helpful for visualizing complex designs, and the Ease of Implementation is smooth with the right support. The Number of Features is impressive, offering a wide range of tools, and the Ease of Integration with other Siemens tools makes my workflow seamless. I use it with high Frequency of Use daily, which shows its reliability. Customer Support, while not perfect, has been there when I needed it most. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

The learning curve can be steep, especially for someone like me who’s not a pro yet, which affects the Ease of Use initially. The Ease of Implementation can be challenging without proper guidance, and Customer Support could be more responsive and detailed. The Number of Features, while great, can feel overwhelming, and some advanced ones are hard to access. Ease of Integration is excellent with Siemens tools, but I’ve noticed occasional lag with large projects, which impacts my Frequency of Use. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

It makes modeling fast and flexible, combining the best of parametric and direct modeling. I use it regularly for 3D parts, assemblies, and technical drawings, and it handles everything smoothly. The interface is clean, the tools are powerful, and performance is great even on mid-range hardware. A reliable choice for serious engineering work. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

I can mention the user interface can feel outdated, and the learning curve may be steep for beginners . Some menus are cluttered, and finding the right tools can take time for new users. The software is clearly designed for professionals, but beginners might find the workflow less intuitive at first Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

I like how Solid Edge makes both direct and parametric modeling easy to use. It’s fast, flexible, and the interface feels clean. I can handle large assemblies without much lag, and the built-in simulation tools save me time switching between software. It’s great for both quick edits and complex designs, and really supports everyday engineering tasks well. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Sometimes the software feels a bit heavy, especially with bigger files — you need a good PC for smooth performance. Some features are hidden in menus and take time to get used to. Also, cloud sharing and real-time team collaboration tools could be better. But overall, the benefits easily outweigh these small issues. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

The Solid Edge is a quite excellent software to design 3-D mechanical components. I have made parts and little machines with it and it functioned quite well. Its easiness of changing the design even after completion is amongst the best things about it.

The software is of contemporary and clean appearance. Most of them are readily available, and in case you are not familiar with it, it may require small amount of time to learn. Solid Edge works well with other tools to which your company might already be subscribed (in this case, Siemens).

It also possesses great capabilities to work on sheet metal, conduct the basic simulations, and create 2D drawings. This simulation is useful but not when subjected to very complex testing.

Online teamwork is one of the things that could be improved. The file sharing and the cloud is not so silky compared to some newer programs. However, all in all Solid Edge is a very good program to use by an engineer or a student who is interested in professional level design. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

Truth be told, there is nothing I really do not like in Solid Edge. So far my interaction with the software has been a breeze. Every tool I have been utilizing in my activities of 3D modeling, part design as well as assembly, have functioned perfectly fine. The interface is all very simple to comprehend and once familiar with it you find it to be quite swift and to the point. The synchronous technology is my favorite tool also, editing and modifying is much easier in this tool compared to other CAD tools, tried. The sheet metal-design and technical drawings features in the Solid Edge are also very good. Although others do discuss drawbacks involved in cloud collaboration, I have not experienced any complications personally. In general, it is a highly trusting and worth using software, and I am very satisfied with everything it suggests. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.