SOLIDWORKS alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave SOLIDWORKS: desktop version is Windows only, and expensive, usually sold through resellers. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces SOLIDWORKS, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. FreeCAD currently ranks first.
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Show all 6 alternativesThe best SOLIDWORKS alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for most people
FreeCADFree and open source parametric CAD for those who can't justify the licence.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for a free option
FreeCADFree and open source parametric CAD for those who can't justify the licence.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
Solid EdgeSimilar capability with synchronous modeling and free editions for makers.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for open source
FreeCADFree and open source parametric CAD for those who can't justify the licence.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for Mac
Autodesk FusionCheaper cloud CAD with CAM included, cross-platform on Windows and Mac.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for Windows
Autodesk InventorComparable mechanical CAD that bundles well with AutoCAD in Autodesk shops.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for Linux
FreeCADFree and open source parametric CAD for those who can't justify the licence.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for iPhone and Android
OnshapeBrowser-based CAD from the SOLIDWORKS founders' team, with built-in version control.
Best SOLIDWORKS alternative for working in the browser
CATIADassault's high-end CAD for aerospace and automotive surface and systems design.
SOLIDWORKS alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to SOLIDWORKS?
FreeCAD ranks first right now. Free and open source parametric CAD for those who can't justify the licence. Solid Edge and Onshape follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to SOLIDWORKS?
Yes. FreeCAD (open source), Solid Edge (free plan + paid), Onshape (free plan + paid) and Autodesk Fusion (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to SOLIDWORKS?
Yes: FreeCAD.
Which SOLIDWORKS alternatives work on Linux?
FreeCAD runs on Linux.
Why do people switch from SOLIDWORKS?
The complaints we hear most: desktop version is Windows only; expensive, usually sold through resellers; licensing options are complicated.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces SOLIDWORKS, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.