Solid Edge Alternatives

FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a general purpose parametric 3D CAD modeler. The development is completely Open Source (LGPL License). FreeCAD is aimed directly at mechanical engineering and product design but also fits in a wider range of uses around engineering, such as architecture or other engineering specialties. FreeCAD features tools similar to Catia, SolidWorks or Solid Edge, and therefore also falls into the category of MCAD, PLM, CAx and CAE.

Features:

• 3D modelling
• Parametric Modeling
• Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
• DWG support
• FEM
• Procedural modeling
• Windows XP Compatibility
• 3d Drawing
• Bim
• Drawing 2D

Autodesk AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a leading CAD (computer-aided design) software used professionally throughout architectural, electrical, mechanical and other engineering and design industries. It was once available under a perpetual license but is now accessed solely through a subscription. That subscription supports cloud-based storage for easy access to designs across devices as well as continued development and feature additions which have been plenty.

Features:

• Drawing 2D
• DWG support
• Batch plotting

LibreCAD

LibreCAD (originally QCad then CADuntu) is an open source 2D CAD application for Windows, Apple and Linux. It is based on Qt, which is a leading cross-platform application and UI development framework. LibreCAD can read DWG files (and others) as of the latest Nightly build. It writes DXF files, but can also export SVG, JPG, PNG, PDF and other files.

Features:

• Bim
• Construction layers
• Drawing
• Portable

SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a leading 3D CAD software for design, analysis and product data management. SOLIDWORKS solutions can help boost productivity, harness intelligence, foster innovation, and facilitate collaboration. Through tight integration, SOLIDWORKS tools enable you to leverage 3D models throughout the organization, bringing processes together so you can get products to market faster.

Features:

• 3D modelling
• Easy Measurements
• Drawing 2D
• Parametric Modeling
• Simulation

PTC Creo

Creo Elements/Pro – formerly Pro/ENGINEER – is the standard in 3D product design, featuring state-of-the-art productivity tools that promote best practices in design while ensuring compliance with your industry and company standards. Integrated, parametric, 3D CAD/CAM/CAE solutions allow you to design faster than ever, while maximizing innovation and quality to ultimately create exceptional products.

Features:

• CAE
• Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)

Shapr3D

Shapr3D is a revolutionary 3D modeling software created exclusively for your iPad Pro and your Apple Pencil. Shapr3D is the only truly mobile CAD app - a quick but precise way to create 3D models for engineering, design, 3D prints, and more. COMPATIBILITY Shapr3D is compatible with ALL major CAD software. You can export your works into a STL, STEP, or an IGES file.

Features:

• 3D modelling
• 3D modelling
• Android Sync
• Apple Pencil support
• Mechanical Design
• Sketching

Designspark Mechanical

DesignSpark Mechanical is a 3D modeling software reported to be easy to use so that all engineers will be able to create and share models. Designs can be linked directly to RS/Allied off-the-shelf components for automatic bill of materials generation, part numbers, and costs for included components. DesignSpark Mechanical can export to DXF, SketchUp, ECAD, OBJ, STEP, and STL formats.

KOMPAS-3D

KOMPAS-3D is for creating three-dimensional associative models for individual parts and assembly's containing both original and standardized elements. The parametric technology allows quickly obtaining models for typical products basing on a once designed prototype. Numerous service functions facilitate solving auxiliary designing and production maintenance problems.

Autodesk 123D Design

123D Design is a free, powerful, yet simple 3D creation and editing tool which supports many new 3D printers.

Microsoft 3D Builder

View, capture, personalize, and print 3D models. Download many kinds of 3D files and edit them using the 3D modeling space. Take a picture with your webcam and make it 3D.