
Onshape
Browser-based professional CAD with built-in PDM, version control and real-time collaboration.
- Verified facts
- 4 of 4
- Alternatives ranked
- 5
- Approved reviews
- 0
- Visits sent from here
- 0
About Onshape
Onshape is a cloud-native mechanical CAD system from PTC that runs entirely in a web browser and on iOS and Android, with no installs or file management. Several people can edit the same model at once, every change is saved in a complete history, and branching and merging work like version control in software development, which removes the copies and conflicts typical of file-based CAD. It offers parametric part studios, assemblies, sheet metal, drawings, rendering, CAM through partners and a FeatureScript language for custom features. Because it is cloud-only, you need an internet connection and must trust PTC with your data. The Free plan is for personal projects and makes all documents public; Standard and Professional plans are priced per user per year and add private storage and data management. Startups and education can get it free, and professionals can trial Professional.
Best for: Engineering teams who want collaborative CAD without installs or file conflicts.
Pros and cons
What works
- Runs in any browser with nothing to install
- Real-time collaboration with full version history
- Free plan for hobby and personal projects
Why people leave
- Requires an internet connection
- Free plan documents are public
- Paid plans are expensive for individuals
Top Onshape alternatives
See all 5- 1
SOLIDWORKS62.6The established desktop CAD with the largest pool of trained users.
- 2
FreeCAD59.6Free, open source and fully offline, with your files kept locally.
- 3
Shapr3D57.2Easier direct modeling with an excellent iPad and pencil experience.
- 4
Autodesk Fusion56.0Desktop CAD with integrated CAM and a free personal-use licence.
- 5
Zoo Design Studio55.3Newer CAD that mixes code-based modeling with an AI assistant.
Why people left Onshape
In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.
No switching stories yet. If you moved away from Onshape, review the app you switched to and tell us why.
Reviews
No approved reviews yet. How we verify reviewers
Write a review of Onshape
Onshape: common questions
Is Onshape free?
Onshape has a free plan and paid plans. Free plan: Yes, public documents only (checked on Onshape's own site).
Is Onshape open source?
No, Onshape is not open source. Open-source alternatives include FreeCAD and Zoo Design Studio.
What platforms does Onshape run on?
Onshape is available for Web, iOS and Android.
What are the best alternatives to Onshape?
The highest-ranked Onshape alternatives right now are SOLIDWORKS, FreeCAD and Shapr3D. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.