Top SOLIDWORKS Alternatives for CAD Design

For 3D computer-aided design, SOLIDWORKS is undoubtedly one of the leading pieces of CAD software. Its robust functionality makes it a go-to for many professionals. However, SOLIDWORKS is only available for Windows, and while it supports 2D designs, some alternatives offer more robust functionality in that regard. Additionally, users on macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS devices (including iPads optimized for CAD) will need to explore SOLIDWORKS alternatives. This guide will explore some of the best alternative CAD software options available today, catering to various needs and operating systems.

Best SOLIDWORKS Alternatives

Whether you're looking for open-source solutions, cloud-based collaboration, or specialized features, there's a SOLIDWORKS alternative out there for you. Here's a curated list of top contenders:

FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a powerful, general-purpose parametric 3D CAD modeler that stands out as an excellent open-source SOLIDWORKS alternative. It's completely Open Source (LGPL License) and aimed at mechanical engineering and product design, but also suitable for architecture and other engineering specialties. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, FreeCAD features tools similar to SOLIDWORKS, offering 3D modeling, parametric modeling, Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), DWG support, FEM, and BIM capabilities, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.

SketchUp

SketchUp, formerly Google Sketchup, is a highly popular 3D modeling computer program ideal for architectural, interior design, civil and mechanical engineering, film, and video game design. It offers both a freemium version, SketchUp Make, and a paid version, SketchUp Pro, with additional functionalities. As a SOLIDWORKS alternative, SketchUp provides a clear and fast workflow, 3D sketching, and is available on Mac, Windows, and Web, making it accessible for diverse projects and users seeking intuitive design tools.

Onshape

Onshape is a professional CAD system that provides a robust SOLIDWORKS alternative, distinguished by its full-cloud, web-browser-based functionality. It offers parts, assemblies, and drawings with built-in version control and collaboration, all accessible on Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad. Onshape's cloud-native Documents eliminate file management hassles, making it perfect for real-time collaboration and remote work environments, and it includes parametric modeling and mechanical simulation features.

Autodesk AutoCAD

Autodesk AutoCAD is a leading commercial CAD software used professionally across architectural, electrical, mechanical, and other engineering and design industries, serving as a powerful SOLIDWORKS alternative. While it's now subscription-based, this supports cloud-based storage for easy access across devices (Mac, Windows, Web, Android, iPhone, iPad) and continuous feature development. AutoCAD excels in 2D drawing and DWG support, making it an essential tool for precise technical drafting.

Autodesk Fusion 360

Autodesk Fusion 360 offers an integrated form, function, and fabrication experience, making it a comprehensive SOLIDWORKS alternative for product ideas. Available for Mac and Windows, it provides free-form modeling, parametric modeling, Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and 3D sculpting. Fusion 360 supports seamless data import, engineering and testing, and preparing for manufacturing with tool path generation or 3D printing utility, all while enabling real-time collaboration and cloud sync.

Autodesk Inventor

Autodesk Inventor products provide a comprehensive and flexible set of software for 3D mechanical design, product simulation, tooling creation, and design communication, standing as a strong SOLIDWORKS alternative. Available for Windows, Inventor takes you beyond 3D to Digital Prototyping, allowing you to design, visualize, and simulate products by integrating all design data into a single digital model. Its features include parametric modeling, assembly files, extruding sketches, mechanical design, and prototyping.

DraftSight

DraftSight is a professional-grade 2D CAD product designed for users who need a better way to read, write, and share DWG files. While SOLIDWORKS is known for 3D, DraftSight focuses on robust 2D capabilities, making it an excellent specialized SOLIDWORKS alternative for 2D drafting needs. It's easy to use and available for Windows, with features like 2D drawing and 3D sketching, offering a cost-effective solution for professional CAD users, students, and educators.

BRL-CAD

BRL-CAD is a powerful cross-platform open source solid modeling system that offers a distinct SOLIDWORKS alternative, especially for advanced geometric analysis and rendering. With over 20 years of active development, it includes interactive geometry editing, high-performance ray-tracing, image and signal-processing tools, and libraries for robust geometric representation. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, BRL-CAD is ideal for users requiring robust solid modeling with a strong emphasis on computational geometry and analysis.

BricsCAD

BricsCAD is a comprehensive all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg format, answering needs for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. As a SOLIDWORKS alternative, it brings a cost-effective, multi-platform CAD solution to Windows, macOS, and Linux. BricsCAD is available as a permanent/perpetual license and subscription, with options for networked or stand-alone computers, and offers robust features like 3D modeling, BIM import, mechanical design, and simulation.

pCon.planner

The pCon.planner is a cost-free professional furnishing 2D-/3D-tool that serves as a unique SOLIDWORKS alternative for interior design and furnishing concepts. Available for Windows, it allows users to comfortably and professionally create complex furnishing concepts and visualize them in photo-realistic quality. Supporting file formats like dwg, dxf, 3ds, and skp, pCon.planner is an excellent choice for design professionals seeking specialized visualization and planning tools.

Ultimately, the best SOLIDWORKS alternative depends on your specific needs, budget, operating system, and design focus. Whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, cloud-based collaboration, or specialized 2D/3D capabilities, this list provides a strong starting point to explore the perfect CAD solution for your projects.