[ SOLIDWORKS Reviews ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) [ SOLIDWORKS Reviews ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) # SOLIDWORKS Features ##### ## CAD to CAM (3) CAD-CAM Import Import CAD models into CAM CAM Data Exchange Support for CAD to CAM data exchange CAD/CAM Compatibility The solution supports CAD and CAM models Show More ##### ## CNC Programming (3) CNC Workflows Automated CNC programming workflows CNC Feature Recognition Feature recognition and conversion Programming Control Programming control for shop floor equipment Show More ##### ## Machining (3) Job Set-up Set up jobs with work coordinates and cutting conditions Operations Handle roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing operations Tooling and Toolpaths Manage tooling and toolpaths for production Show More ##### ## Design (11) Drawing Access to basic tools for drawing, such as line, cirlce and polygon. Modeling Create realistic 3D models of your design Visualize Design your structure in 3D. Rendering Produce 3D visualizations without any integrating hardware. Drawing Access to basic tools for drawing, such as line, cirlce and polygon. PCB layout editing Ability to modify PCB layouts and PCB circuitry Schematic editor Ability to capture electrical properties and other attributes of components, wires, nets and pins. 3D/solid modeling Tools Ability to modify 3D primitives (parametric editing tools, free-form editing tools, symmetrical editing process, etc.) Drawing Tools Ability to access basic drawing tools (line, circle, polygons, etc.) Editing Tools Ability to access basic editing tools (erase, trim, extend, undo, etc.) Rendering tools Ability to access rendering tools (lighting tools, texture mapping, custom material creation, etc.) Show More ##### ## Edit (4) File Import Import and export files in a number of different formats. Push/Pull Ability to push or pull the surface of your model in order to get the desired shape. Views View your model from any angle while you design and edit. Grips Tools that enable users to reshape, move or manipulate geometry. Show More ##### ## Collaboration (3) Annotate Annotate your designs with various notes and tags. Documentation Generate 2D drawings of your 3D models. Data Extract Extract information from objects, such as attributes and properties. Show More ##### ## Library (5) Categorize Ability to categorize CAD models by use, supplier, or product. Search Allows users to search by category, supplier, or product. Deduplication Identify duplicate parts or components and remove them to avoid misuse. Feedback Users can rate CAD models and post comments. Component libraries Ability to find and download high quality PCB footprints Show More ##### ## CAD (3) Types Include multiple types of CAD models such as MCAD, ECAD, CAE, and BIM. Models Support 2D and 3D models, as well as drawings. Compatibility Provide compatibility with major CAD software products. Show More ##### ## Integration (3) Catalogs Integrate with 3D parts catalogs systems. CAD & PLM Integrate with 3D CAD and PLM software products. ERP Integrate with ERP systems. Show More ##### ## Logistics (1) Integrate Integrate with general-purpose CAD software solutions Show More ##### ## Data (6) 3D Format Provide the availability to save data in a 3D format Data Quality Perform data quality checks Extra Information Capture information such as geometry and attributes Standard Format Support industry standard formats Translate Translate CAD data from one system to another Validation Perform data validation checks Show More ##### ## File Support - Additive Manufacturing (3) STL Compatible Can support the viewing and conversation of STL files. 3MF Compatible Can support the viewing and conversation of 3MF files. OBJ Compatible Can support the viewing and conversation of OBJ files. Show More ##### ## File Editing - Additive Manufacturing (2) Mesh Repair Capable of repairing mesh in imported 3D models. File Editing Capable of editing models natively within the platform. Show More ##### ## Software Integrations - Additive Manufacturing (2) Standalone Slicer Software is a standalone slicer that intakes 3D models created in other applications. Inetgrated 3D Modeling Software also provides built-in 3D modeling capability. Show More ##### ## Software Type - Additive Manufacturing (2) Cloud-based Platform Software is available as a cloud-based, in-browser offering. Downloadable Application Software is available as an downloadable application. Show More ##### ## Tools (8) Dimensioning tools Ability to apply standard dimensioning tools to add accurate information to Drawing design. Change units Change between standard Drawing units applied to measurement and dimensioning only. 3D/solid modeling tools Ability to modify 3D primitives (parametric editing tools, free-form editing tools, symmetrical editing process, etc.) 3D modeling tools Ability to modify 3D primitives (parametric editing tools, free-form editing tools, symmetrical editing process, etc.) Component placement Ability to place circuit components within the PCB design Fluid analysis Ability to conduct computational fluid dynamics and thermal analysis Finite element analysis Ability to conduct finite element analysis test Multibody dynamics Ability to conduct kinematics and dynamic analysis of mechanisms Show More ##### ## File Options (6) Import files Support for a number of file formats for import Export files Support for a number of file formats for export View 2D files Ability to view 2D files View 3D files Ability to view 3D files Batch convert files Ability to convert a bunch of DWG files to an older or current version available. File size Support for a range of file sizes without degrading the user experience Show More ##### ## Customization (2) Custom commands Ability to create custom commands or command aliases, change the active customization file, and configure command properties. Custom interface Ability to customize the user interface and recall customizations. Can define the workspace a custom panel should appear in. Show More ##### ## Platform (2) Board size Ample board space available for PCB design Layers Ample amount of layers to edit PCB designs Show More ##### ## Work (5) Discrete event modeling Ability to model discrete event simulation such as analyzing event-driven system models and optimizing performance characteristics such as latency, throughput, and packet loss. Continuous event modeling Ability to model continous event simulation Mechanical event simulation Ability to conduct mechanical event simulation Manufacturing process simulation Ability to model a manufacturing processes like casting, molding and die press forming Integrate Ability to integrate with CAD and PLM software Show More ##### ## Environment (4) Hardware support Ability to support a sufficient number of hardware developers (by default or through the use of custom drivers). Task Support for custom interfaces designed around specific design tasks, by default (out of the box) or through user customization. Manage Multiple Profiles Support for multiple user interface customizations. Can store and recall interfaces as required by a specific user without closing the application and without the need for scripting knowledge. Command Clarity Names of basic commands are clear and easy to understand. On-cursor documentation, such as tool tips and pop-up descriptions, provide clarification of icons and other user interface elements. Show More ##### ## Generative AI - Additive Manufacturing (2) AI Text-to-Image Provides the ability to generate images from a text prompt. AI Text-to-3D Provides the ability to generate 3D renderings from a text prompt. Show More ##### ## Tools - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) (5) 3D/solid modeling Tools Offers the ability to modify 3D primitives, including parametric editing tools, free-form editing tools, and symmetrical editing processes Rendering Tools Offers ease of use when accessing rendering tools such as lighting tools, texture mapping, and custom material creation Drawing Tools Provides ease of use when accessing basic drawing tools such as lines, circles, polygons, and other fundamental geometric shapes. Editing Tools Offers ease of use when accessing basic editing tools like erase, trim, extend, undo, and more. Text Editing Tools Provides ease of use when accessing basic text creation and modification tools such as font style, multi-line text, wrap-around text, justification, spell checker, etc. Show More ##### ## File Options - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) (5) Export Files Supports exporting designs to a variety of file formats, facilitating compatibility with other software and workflows. Import Files Supports a variety of file formats for import, enabling users to incorporate external data into their designs. File Interoperability Maintains compatibility with a variety of advanced design and imaging applications, ensuring integration and interoperability across different software platforms. Backwards compatibility Maintains compatibility between current and previous versions of their file formats, allowing users to open and work with files created in older versions without issues. File size Supports a range of file sizes, ensuring smooth performance even when working with large or complex designs. Show More ##### ## Customization - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) (4) Custom Commands Offers the ability to create custom commands or command aliases, change the active customization file, and configure command properties according to user preferences and workflow requirements. Custom Scripts Ability to create custom scripts to automate tasks, such as add standard layers or styles to a drawing, update the title block, or automate plotting tasks. Custom Menus Ability to create custom menus, sub-menus, and contextual menus. Can create new toolbars and arrange menus in workspace. Custom Interface Offers the ability to customize the user interface and tailor the workspace according to the users' specific needs and preferences. Show More ##### ## Environment - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) (4) Hardware support Supports hardware developers by default or through the use of custom drivers, ensuring compatibility with various hardware configurations commonly used by designers and engineers. Task-based interfaces Offers tailored interfaces for common tasks by default or through user customization, accommodating individuals' workflow needs and preferences. Manage Multiple Profiles Supports multiple user interface customizations, allowing users to store and recall interfaces as needed without closing the application or requiring scripting knowledge. Command Clarity Basic commands have clear names and on-cursor documentation, like tooltips and pop-up descriptions, offers clarification of icons and other user interface elements. Show More ##### ## Building Preparation - Additive Manufacturing (3) Material Management Manages library of materials, powders, and process parameters across multiple worksites Building Simulation The software simulates the build process to help ensure high-quality 3D prints Slicing Optimization Converts 3D CAD models into layer-by-layer instructions (G-code) for industrial printers Show More [ ![Zoho Analytics](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/1546618488/zoho-analytics.svg "Zoho Analytics") Sponsored Zoho Analytics 4.2/5(285) Visit Website ](javascript:void(0)) ## Top-Rated Alternatives [ ![Autodesk Fusion](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/28ab5b3990e257fc5851e9730734a9cc/autodesk-fusion.svg "Autodesk Fusion") Autodesk Fusion 4.5/5(510) ](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/reviews) [ ![Onshape](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/hd_favicon/64b9ed904ebc3f3bc714a720216f40d4/onshape.svg "Onshape") Onshape 4.7/5(683) ](https://www.g2.com/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 4.3/5(596) ](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) [ View All Alternatives ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/competitors/alternatives) SOLIDWORKS Comparisons ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/small_square/small_square_19c4c507ebba54cd623e1c0a704becd9/sketchup.png "Product Avatar Image") SketchUp 4.5/5(1,327) [ Compare Now ](https://www.g2.com/compare/solidworks-vs-sketchup) ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/small_square/small_square_3f9c0906fd6d9b7d077d88bc63dfc5f1/designcenter.png "Product Avatar Image") Designcenter 4.4/5(628) [ Compare Now ](https://www.g2.com/compare/designcenter-vs-solidworks) ![Product Avatar Image](https://images.g2crowd.com/uploads/product/image/small_square/small_square_0198037acba79b477a7bfa122c512587/inventor.png "Product Avatar Image") Inventor 4.4/5(440) [ Compare Now ](https://www.g2.com/compare/inventor-vs-solidworks) ##### Categories on G2 [ General-Purpose CAD ](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad)[ Simulation & CAE ](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae)[ Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) ](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad) [ Additive Manufacturing ](https://www.g2.com/categories/additive-manufacturing)[ Sketching ](https://www.g2.com/categories/sketching)[ PCB Design ](https://www.g2.com/categories/pcb-design)[ CAD Viewers ](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-viewers)[ Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) ](https://www.g2.com/categories/computer-aided-manufacturing-cam)[ CAD Libraries ](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-libraries)[ CAD Data Exchange ](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-data-exchange) Show More ##### Explore More [ Leading user research service for software development teams ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/leading-user-research-service-for-software-development-teams)[ Best platforms for onboarding SaaS customers ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/top-platforms-for-onboarding-saas-customers)[ Best VDR software for mergers and acquisitions ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-s-the-best-vdr-software-for-mergers-and-acquisitions) [ Top tools for tracking container performance ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/top-tools-for-tracking-container-performance)[ Best customer success platform for growing software companies ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/best-customer-success-platform-for-growing-software-companies)[ Pros and Cons Details ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons) Show More [ Leading user research service for software development teams ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/leading-user-research-service-for-software-development-teams)[ Best platforms for onboarding SaaS customers ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/top-platforms-for-onboarding-saas-customers)[ Best VDR software for mergers and acquisitions ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-s-the-best-vdr-software-for-mergers-and-acquisitions) [ Top tools for tracking container performance ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/top-tools-for-tracking-container-performance)[ Best customer success platform for growing software companies ](https://www.g2.com/discussions/best-customer-success-platform-for-growing-software-companies)[ Pros and Cons Details ](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)