Best General-Purpose CAD Software

Anindita Sengupta
AS
Researched and written by Anindita Sengupta

General-purpose computer-aided design (CAD) is a prototyping software for engine designs, architectural sketches, 3D models, prototypes, and mock-ups of construction sites and building projects. General-purpose CAD works with the integration of 3D modeling software, BIM software, civil engineering software, or graphic design software to chart technical, nuanced, and intricate designs.

General-purpose CAD software is general engineering and design software that all industries can use to develop plant designs in the initial stages of a product's lifecycle. It is used in a project model's ideation, creation, and planning stages. Once a plan or mockup is ready, the CAD document circulates within RnD, testing, and project management teams for approvals and further design intrications.

To qualify for inclusion in the General-Purpose Computer-Aided Design (CAD) category, a product must:

Have 2D technical drawing capabilities
Have 3D modeling capabilities
Possess the ability to be used across several industries

Best General-Purpose CAD Software At A Glance

Best for Small Businesses:
SketchUp
SketchUp
Best for Mid-Market:
AutoCAD
AutoCAD
Best for Enterprise:
AutoCAD
AutoCAD
Highest User Satisfaction:
SketchUp
SketchUp
Best Free Software:
AutoCAD
AutoCAD
Show LessShow More
Best for Enterprise:
AutoCAD
AutoCAD
Highest User Satisfaction:
SketchUp
SketchUp
Best Free Software:
AutoCAD
AutoCAD
G2 takes pride in showing unbiased reviews on user satisfaction in our ratings and reports. We do not allow paid placements in any of our ratings, rankings, or reports. Learn about our scoring methodologies.
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104 Listings in General-Purpose CAD Available
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    G2 Score
SketchUp
By Trimble
(1,299)4.5 out of 5
5th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$119.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    SketchUp helps architects and designers turn their ideas into reality with simple, powerful 3D modeling software. Whether your design is massive or miniature, we'll be with you every step of the way.

    Users
    • Architect
    • Designer
    Industries
    • Architecture & Planning
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 75% Small-Business
    • 18% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • SketchUp is a design tool used for creating 3D conceptual drawings for work and home spaces, and for converting 2-D details into 3-D for easier interpretation.
    • Users frequently mention that SketchUp is intuitive, easy to learn, and versatile, allowing for quick creation of models and visualizations, and offering a vast library of pre-made components and textures.
    • Reviewers noted that SketchUp has a learning curve, can be confusing, lacks in its 3D library, and has issues with plug-ins not being automatically updated, and struggles with precision and accuracy, especially for 3D printing.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • SketchUp Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    423
    3D Modeling
    245
    Drawing
    159
    3D Visualization
    134
    Easy Learning
    131
    Cons
    Missing Features
    103
    Limited Features
    90
    Limited Modeling Capabilities
    83
    3D Modeling Issues
    81
    Slow Performance
    61
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • SketchUp features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.6
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.7
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.1
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Trimble
    Year Founded
    1978
    HQ Location
    Sunnyvale, CA
    Twitter
    @TrimbleCorpNews
    11,477 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    9,021 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

SketchUp helps architects and designers turn their ideas into reality with simple, powerful 3D modeling software. Whether your design is massive or miniature, we'll be with you every step of the way.

Users
  • Architect
  • Designer
Industries
  • Architecture & Planning
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 75% Small-Business
  • 18% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • SketchUp is a design tool used for creating 3D conceptual drawings for work and home spaces, and for converting 2-D details into 3-D for easier interpretation.
  • Users frequently mention that SketchUp is intuitive, easy to learn, and versatile, allowing for quick creation of models and visualizations, and offering a vast library of pre-made components and textures.
  • Reviewers noted that SketchUp has a learning curve, can be confusing, lacks in its 3D library, and has issues with plug-ins not being automatically updated, and struggles with precision and accuracy, especially for 3D printing.
SketchUp Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
423
3D Modeling
245
Drawing
159
3D Visualization
134
Easy Learning
131
Cons
Missing Features
103
Limited Features
90
Limited Modeling Capabilities
83
3D Modeling Issues
81
Slow Performance
61
SketchUp features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.6
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.7
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.1
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.8
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Trimble
Year Founded
1978
HQ Location
Sunnyvale, CA
Twitter
@TrimbleCorpNews
11,477 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
9,021 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ
Read SketchUp Reviews
AutoCAD
By Autodesk
(1,426)4.4 out of 5
3rd Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$2940 /2 years
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Subscribe to Autodesk® AutoCAD® including specialized toolsets and get access to industry-specific functionality, greater mobility with the new web and mobile apps, and the latest feature updates. Spe

    Users
    • Project Engineer
    • Designer
    Industries
    • Architecture & Planning
    • Civil Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 44% Small-Business
    • 35% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • AutoCAD Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    89
    Drawing
    59
    3D Modeling
    36
    Features
    32
    Detailed Engineering Drawings
    31
    Cons
    Expensive
    31
    Difficult Learning
    26
    3D Modeling
    23
    3D Modeling Issues
    18
    High Hardware Requirements
    18
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • AutoCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.3
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.4
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.7
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.4
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    286,884 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ:ADSK
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Subscribe to Autodesk® AutoCAD® including specialized toolsets and get access to industry-specific functionality, greater mobility with the new web and mobile apps, and the latest feature updates. Spe

Users
  • Project Engineer
  • Designer
Industries
  • Architecture & Planning
  • Civil Engineering
Market Segment
  • 44% Small-Business
  • 35% Mid-Market
AutoCAD Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
89
Drawing
59
3D Modeling
36
Features
32
Detailed Engineering Drawings
31
Cons
Expensive
31
Difficult Learning
26
3D Modeling
23
3D Modeling Issues
18
High Hardware Requirements
18
AutoCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.3
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.4
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.7
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.4
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
286,884 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADSK
Read AutoCAD Reviews
SponsoredYou’re seeing this ad based on the product’s relevance to this page. Sponsored content does not receive preferential treatment in any of G2’s ratings.
Onshape
By PTC
(648)4.7 out of 5
1st Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$1,500.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT.​ Only Onshape:​ - Eliminates CAD crashes and never loses data​ - Includes built-

    Users
    • Mechanical Engineer
    • Owner
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 79% Small-Business
    • 17% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • OnShape is a cloud-based CAD software that allows users to design and model in 2D and 3D, collaborate with colleagues, and access designs from any computer.
    • Reviewers frequently mention the software's intuitive functionality, ease of use, ability to run on less powerful computers, and the benefit of always using the most up-to-date version without needing to install new versions.
    • Users mentioned issues such as difficulty in selecting intricate 3D faces, limitations in adding fillets near bends in sheet metal features, and the software's reliance on a stable internet connection, as it does not have an offline version.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Onshape Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    101
    Online Accessibility
    64
    Cloud Services
    62
    Features
    58
    Collaboration
    53
    Cons
    Missing Features
    64
    Lack of Features
    36
    Internet Dependency
    29
    Limited CAD Features
    25
    Slow Performance
    25
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Onshape features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.2
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.6
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.6
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.9
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    PTC
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    Boston, Massachusetts
    Twitter
    @PTC
    39,142 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    8,214 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Onshape by PTC is the leading cloud-native CAD & PDM software that runs on any device, anywhere-requiring zero IT.​ Only Onshape:​ - Eliminates CAD crashes and never loses data​ - Includes built-

Users
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Owner
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 79% Small-Business
  • 17% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • OnShape is a cloud-based CAD software that allows users to design and model in 2D and 3D, collaborate with colleagues, and access designs from any computer.
  • Reviewers frequently mention the software's intuitive functionality, ease of use, ability to run on less powerful computers, and the benefit of always using the most up-to-date version without needing to install new versions.
  • Users mentioned issues such as difficulty in selecting intricate 3D faces, limitations in adding fillets near bends in sheet metal features, and the software's reliance on a stable internet connection, as it does not have an offline version.
Onshape Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
101
Online Accessibility
64
Cloud Services
62
Features
58
Collaboration
53
Cons
Missing Features
64
Lack of Features
36
Internet Dependency
29
Limited CAD Features
25
Slow Performance
25
Onshape features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.2
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.6
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.6
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.9
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
PTC
Company Website
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Twitter
@PTC
39,142 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
8,214 employees on LinkedIn®
Solid Edge
By Siemens Digital Industries Software
(398)4.3 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
4th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
DealsSpecial offer!
25% off: $82.5- $360.75/month
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Solid Edge is a portfolio of affordable, easy to deploy, maintain, and use software tools that advance all aspects of the product development process – mechanical and electrical design, simulation, ma

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    • Mechanical Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Automotive
    Market Segment
    • 53% Small-Business
    • 32% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Solid Edge Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    104
    3D Modeling
    99
    Features
    57
    User Interface
    52
    CAD Designing
    51
    Cons
    Performance Issues
    43
    Missing Features
    39
    Not User-Friendly
    33
    Poor User Interface
    33
    Complexity
    30
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Solid Edge features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.9
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.0
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.6
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.6
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • What G2 Users Think
    Expand/Collapse What G2 Users Think
    • User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights are written by G2's Market Research team, using actual user reviews for Solid Edge, left between February 2022 and May 2022.
    • Reviewers appreciate Solid Edge’s advanced designing features even though some have noted a lag if their devices do not have adequate RAM.
    • Reviewers like its intuitive and intelligent interface which allows new users to learn and work on the software easily.
    • Reviewers value ​​how Solid Edge provides a combination of CAD, CAM and CAE tools under one platform to make 3D printing easy.
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Siemens Digital Industries Software
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1980
    HQ Location
    Plano, Texas
    Twitter
    @siemenssoftware
    36,943 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    13,578 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Solid Edge is a portfolio of affordable, easy to deploy, maintain, and use software tools that advance all aspects of the product development process – mechanical and electrical design, simulation, ma

Users
  • Design Engineer
  • Mechanical Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Automotive
Market Segment
  • 53% Small-Business
  • 32% Mid-Market
Solid Edge Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
104
3D Modeling
99
Features
57
User Interface
52
CAD Designing
51
Cons
Performance Issues
43
Missing Features
39
Not User-Friendly
33
Poor User Interface
33
Complexity
30
Solid Edge features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.9
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.0
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.6
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.6
Views
Average: 8.5
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights are written by G2's Market Research team, using actual user reviews for Solid Edge, left between February 2022 and May 2022.
  • Reviewers appreciate Solid Edge’s advanced designing features even though some have noted a lag if their devices do not have adequate RAM.
  • Reviewers like its intuitive and intelligent interface which allows new users to learn and work on the software easily.
  • Reviewers value ​​how Solid Edge provides a combination of CAD, CAM and CAE tools under one platform to make 3D printing easy.
Seller Details
Seller
Siemens Digital Industries Software
Company Website
Year Founded
1980
HQ Location
Plano, Texas
Twitter
@siemenssoftware
36,943 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
13,578 employees on LinkedIn®
ZWCAD
By ZWSOFT
(193)4.5 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
2nd Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$899.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    ZWCAD is a fast and powerful and compatible 2D CAD solution for architects, engineers, and designers in the AEC and manufacturing industries. Its unparalleled compatibility and compelling price make i

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    • Architecture & Planning
    • Civil Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 73% Small-Business
    • 21% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • ZWCAD is a 2D CAD program that provides DWG file format compatibility and is used by designers, engineers, and architects in the industrial and AEC sectors.
    • Reviewers appreciate the software's user-friendly interface, fast performance, high customization potential, and its cost-effective perpetual license model which significantly improves productivity.
    • Users mentioned occasional system crashes, minor bugs, and a need for more advanced features and tools similar to those found in other CAD software.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • ZWCAD Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    83
    Tool Efficiency
    27
    Powerful Performance
    21
    User Interface
    21
    Customer Support
    20
    Cons
    Software Freezing
    18
    Missing Features
    14
    Lack of Features
    11
    Software Import
    10
    Slow Performance
    7
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • ZWCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.9
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.3
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    9.2
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    9.0
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    ZWSOFT
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1998
    HQ Location
    Guangzhou, Guangdong
    Twitter
    @ZWSOFT
    1,583 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    306 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

ZWCAD is a fast and powerful and compatible 2D CAD solution for architects, engineers, and designers in the AEC and manufacturing industries. Its unparalleled compatibility and compelling price make i

Users
No information available
Industries
  • Architecture & Planning
  • Civil Engineering
Market Segment
  • 73% Small-Business
  • 21% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • ZWCAD is a 2D CAD program that provides DWG file format compatibility and is used by designers, engineers, and architects in the industrial and AEC sectors.
  • Reviewers appreciate the software's user-friendly interface, fast performance, high customization potential, and its cost-effective perpetual license model which significantly improves productivity.
  • Users mentioned occasional system crashes, minor bugs, and a need for more advanced features and tools similar to those found in other CAD software.
ZWCAD Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
83
Tool Efficiency
27
Powerful Performance
21
User Interface
21
Customer Support
20
Cons
Software Freezing
18
Missing Features
14
Lack of Features
11
Software Import
10
Slow Performance
7
ZWCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.9
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.3
Drawing
Average: 8.8
9.2
File Import
Average: 8.3
9.0
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
ZWSOFT
Company Website
Year Founded
1998
HQ Location
Guangzhou, Guangdong
Twitter
@ZWSOFT
1,583 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
306 employees on LinkedIn®
Autodesk Fusion
By Autodesk
(462)4.5 out of 5
14th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$680.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Autodesk Fusion connects capabilities, data, and people across the entire product development lifecycle. Fusion provides you with CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB tools along with PLM/PDM and MES (manufacturing

    Users
    • Owner
    • Design Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 68% Small-Business
    • 22% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Autodesk Fusion 360 is a CAD software designed for design engineering, offering features for 3D modeling, static simulation, animation, drafting, and compatibility with 5-axis machining.
    • Users like the software's understandable UI, easy commands, productive work capabilities, quick customer support, and its ability to integrate with 3D printing software and laser cutting machines, as well as its cross-platform availability on both Windows and Mac.
    • Users mentioned issues such as the software being limited in the free tier, high pricing, a steep learning curve, difficulty in using with a trackpad, occasional program hang-ups, constant updates with the cloud-based software, and crashes during modeling operations or while generating a drawing.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Autodesk Fusion Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    51
    Features
    35
    3D Modeling
    26
    Efficiency
    23
    Collaboration
    20
    Cons
    Internet Dependency
    15
    Cloud Issues
    14
    Performance Issues
    14
    Missing Features
    13
    Cloud Dependency
    12
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Autodesk Fusion features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.8
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.9
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.5
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    286,884 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Autodesk Fusion connects capabilities, data, and people across the entire product development lifecycle. Fusion provides you with CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB tools along with PLM/PDM and MES (manufacturing

Users
  • Owner
  • Design Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 68% Small-Business
  • 22% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Autodesk Fusion 360 is a CAD software designed for design engineering, offering features for 3D modeling, static simulation, animation, drafting, and compatibility with 5-axis machining.
  • Users like the software's understandable UI, easy commands, productive work capabilities, quick customer support, and its ability to integrate with 3D printing software and laser cutting machines, as well as its cross-platform availability on both Windows and Mac.
  • Users mentioned issues such as the software being limited in the free tier, high pricing, a steep learning curve, difficulty in using with a trackpad, occasional program hang-ups, constant updates with the cloud-based software, and crashes during modeling operations or while generating a drawing.
Autodesk Fusion Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
51
Features
35
3D Modeling
26
Efficiency
23
Collaboration
20
Cons
Internet Dependency
15
Cloud Issues
14
Performance Issues
14
Missing Features
13
Cloud Dependency
12
Autodesk Fusion features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.8
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.9
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.5
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.8
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Company Website
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
286,884 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
DraftSight
By Dassault Systemes
(178)4.2 out of 5
6th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Starting at $299.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    A feature-rich DraftSight is a versatile 2D CAD solution tailored for professionals such as architects, engineers, construction service providers, professional CAD users, designers, educators, and hob

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    • Mechanical Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Manufacturing
    Market Segment
    • 63% Small-Business
    • 30% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • DraftSight Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    67
    Pricing
    33
    Compatibility
    27
    Easy Learning
    23
    Features Functionality
    21
    Cons
    Missing Features
    16
    Software Instability
    13
    Poor Customer Support
    11
    Expensive
    9
    Limited Tools
    9
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • DraftSight features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.2
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.3
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.3
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    7.6
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Dassault Systemes
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1981
    HQ Location
    Velizy-Villacoublay
    Twitter
    @Dassault3DS
    74,962 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    26,398 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

A feature-rich DraftSight is a versatile 2D CAD solution tailored for professionals such as architects, engineers, construction service providers, professional CAD users, designers, educators, and hob

Users
  • Design Engineer
  • Mechanical Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing
Market Segment
  • 63% Small-Business
  • 30% Mid-Market
DraftSight Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
67
Pricing
33
Compatibility
27
Easy Learning
23
Features Functionality
21
Cons
Missing Features
16
Software Instability
13
Poor Customer Support
11
Expensive
9
Limited Tools
9
DraftSight features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.2
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.3
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.3
File Import
Average: 8.3
7.6
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Dassault Systemes
Company Website
Year Founded
1981
HQ Location
Velizy-Villacoublay
Twitter
@Dassault3DS
74,962 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
26,398 employees on LinkedIn®
Inventor
By Autodesk
(432)4.4 out of 5
9th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$2085 1 year
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Autodesk® Inventor® 2021 software provides engineers and designers professional grade design and engineering solution for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. With Inv

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    • Mechanical Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Machinery
    Market Segment
    • 43% Mid-Market
    • 35% Small-Business
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Inventor Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    17
    3D Modeling
    14
    Easy Learning
    10
    User Interface
    10
    Ease of Learning
    9
    Cons
    Assembly Issues
    5
    Complexity
    5
    Difficult Learning
    4
    Error Management
    4
    Assembly Difficulties
    3
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Inventor features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.2
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.7
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.1
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.0
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    286,884 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ:ADSK
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Autodesk® Inventor® 2021 software provides engineers and designers professional grade design and engineering solution for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. With Inv

Users
  • Design Engineer
  • Mechanical Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Machinery
Market Segment
  • 43% Mid-Market
  • 35% Small-Business
Inventor Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
17
3D Modeling
14
Easy Learning
10
User Interface
10
Ease of Learning
9
Cons
Assembly Issues
5
Complexity
5
Difficult Learning
4
Error Management
4
Assembly Difficulties
3
Inventor features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.2
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.7
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.1
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.0
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
286,884 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADSK
Read Inventor Reviews
SOLIDWORKS
By Solidworks
(566)4.4 out of 5
10th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    SOLIDWORKS delivers connected, easy-to-use tools that help you innovate and accelerate every aspect of your product development process.

    Users
    • Design Engineer
    • Mechanical Design Engineer
    Industries
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    • Design
    Market Segment
    • 51% Small-Business
    • 40% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Solidworks is a software for 3D modelling and simulation that supports a variety of tools and add-ons for different domains.
    • Users like the intuitive interface, smooth implementation process, seamless integration capabilities, and the vast variety of tools and toolbox that help in modelling a variety of designs.
    • Reviewers experienced issues with the software such as crashing with large assemblies loading, difficulty in using the analysis feature, long start-up times, and limitations in meshing geometry for simulations.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • SOLIDWORKS Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    63
    Features
    43
    3D Modeling
    40
    CAD Designing
    29
    User Interface
    29
    Cons
    Performance Issues
    25
    Expensive
    22
    Slow Performance
    21
    Assembly Issues
    19
    High System Requirements
    14
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • SOLIDWORKS features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.2
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.4
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.4
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    9.2
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Solidworks
    Year Founded
    1981
    HQ Location
    Vélizy-Villacoublay, FR
    Twitter
    @SOLIDWORKS
    184,732 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    26,418 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    EPA: DSY
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

SOLIDWORKS delivers connected, easy-to-use tools that help you innovate and accelerate every aspect of your product development process.

Users
  • Design Engineer
  • Mechanical Design Engineer
Industries
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
  • Design
Market Segment
  • 51% Small-Business
  • 40% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Solidworks is a software for 3D modelling and simulation that supports a variety of tools and add-ons for different domains.
  • Users like the intuitive interface, smooth implementation process, seamless integration capabilities, and the vast variety of tools and toolbox that help in modelling a variety of designs.
  • Reviewers experienced issues with the software such as crashing with large assemblies loading, difficulty in using the analysis feature, long start-up times, and limitations in meshing geometry for simulations.
SOLIDWORKS Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
63
Features
43
3D Modeling
40
CAD Designing
29
User Interface
29
Cons
Performance Issues
25
Expensive
22
Slow Performance
21
Assembly Issues
19
High System Requirements
14
SOLIDWORKS features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.2
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.4
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.4
File Import
Average: 8.3
9.2
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Solidworks
Year Founded
1981
HQ Location
Vélizy-Villacoublay, FR
Twitter
@SOLIDWORKS
184,732 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
26,418 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
EPA: DSY
Read SOLIDWORKS Reviews
AutoCAD LT
By Autodesk
(267)4.3 out of 5
13th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$760 every 2 years
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Create precise 2D drawings faster with the easy-to-use drafting tools in Autodesk® AutoCAD LT® software. Share your work with confidence using TrustedDWG™ technology, the original and most accurate wa

    Users
    • Project Engineer
    • Designer
    Industries
    • Architecture & Planning
    • Civil Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 52% Small-Business
    • 36% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • AutoCAD LT Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    24
    Detailed Engineering Drawings
    9
    Drawing Tools
    8
    Tool Efficiency
    6
    User Interface
    6
    Cons
    3D Modeling
    9
    Lack of Features
    5
    Missing Features
    5
    Expensive
    4
    Slow Performance
    3
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • AutoCAD LT features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.7
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.5
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.8
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    7.9
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Autodesk
    Year Founded
    1982
    HQ Location
    San Francisco
    Twitter
    @autodesk
    286,884 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
    Ownership
    NASDAQ:ADSK
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Create precise 2D drawings faster with the easy-to-use drafting tools in Autodesk® AutoCAD LT® software. Share your work with confidence using TrustedDWG™ technology, the original and most accurate wa

Users
  • Project Engineer
  • Designer
Industries
  • Architecture & Planning
  • Civil Engineering
Market Segment
  • 52% Small-Business
  • 36% Mid-Market
AutoCAD LT Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
24
Detailed Engineering Drawings
9
Drawing Tools
8
Tool Efficiency
6
User Interface
6
Cons
3D Modeling
9
Lack of Features
5
Missing Features
5
Expensive
4
Slow Performance
3
AutoCAD LT features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.7
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.5
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.8
File Import
Average: 8.3
7.9
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Autodesk
Year Founded
1982
HQ Location
San Francisco
Twitter
@autodesk
286,884 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
14,516 employees on LinkedIn®
Ownership
NASDAQ:ADSK
Read AutoCAD LT Reviews
Altium Designer
By Altium
(522)4.5 out of 5
8th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
DealsSpecial offer!
10% off: $319/month
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Altium Designer is the most comprehensive, modern, end-to-end PCB design software and the number one choice among engineers and designers worldwide. Representing decades of innovation and development,

    Users
    • Electrical Engineer
    • Student
    Industries
    • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
    • Automotive
    Market Segment
    • 55% Small-Business
    • 32% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Altium Designer Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    146
    Features
    133
    PCB Design
    79
    Efficiency
    52
    Schematic Design
    42
    Cons
    Expensive
    47
    Learning Curve
    40
    Missing Features
    38
    Software Bugs
    27
    Complex Interface
    26
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Altium Designer features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    8.4
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.5
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.1
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • What G2 Users Think
    Expand/Collapse What G2 Users Think
    • User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights are written by G2's Market Research team, using actual user reviews for Altium Designer, left between November 2021 and October 2022.
    • Reviewers appreciate Altium Designer’s full integration with layouts and schematics.
    • Reviewers like many new features Altium Designer offers, but some features are complicated to utilize.
    • Reviewers appreciate the various components and chips in Altium Designer even though some reviewers say they are hard to set up.
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Altium
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1985
    HQ Location
    La Jolla, CA
    Twitter
    @altium
    9,207 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    1,170 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Altium Designer is the most comprehensive, modern, end-to-end PCB design software and the number one choice among engineers and designers worldwide. Representing decades of innovation and development,

Users
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Student
Industries
  • Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
  • Automotive
Market Segment
  • 55% Small-Business
  • 32% Mid-Market
Altium Designer Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
146
Features
133
PCB Design
79
Efficiency
52
Schematic Design
42
Cons
Expensive
47
Learning Curve
40
Missing Features
38
Software Bugs
27
Complex Interface
26
Altium Designer features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
8.4
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.5
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.1
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.8
Views
Average: 8.5
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights are written by G2's Market Research team, using actual user reviews for Altium Designer, left between November 2021 and October 2022.
  • Reviewers appreciate Altium Designer’s full integration with layouts and schematics.
  • Reviewers like many new features Altium Designer offers, but some features are complicated to utilize.
  • Reviewers appreciate the various components and chips in Altium Designer even though some reviewers say they are hard to set up.
Seller Details
Seller
Altium
Company Website
Year Founded
1985
HQ Location
La Jolla, CA
Twitter
@altium
9,207 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
1,170 employees on LinkedIn®
BricsCAD
By Hexagon AB
(130)4.5 out of 5
12th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:€314.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    BricsCAD the first all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg that answers all your needs; 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. The BricsCAD® family of products brings a cost-effective,

    Users
    • Owner
    Industries
    • Construction
    • Civil Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 73% Small-Business
    • 22% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • BricsCAD Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    7
    CAD Compatibility
    4
    Easy Learning
    3
    Tool Efficiency
    3
    3D Modeling
    2
    Cons
    Difficult Configuration
    1
    Difficult for Beginners
    1
    Difficult Learning
    1
    Large File Handling
    1
    Limited Tools
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • BricsCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.0
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.3
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.5
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Hexagon AB
    HQ Location
    Stockholm
    Twitter
    @HexagonAB
    12,237 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    791 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

BricsCAD the first all-in-one CAD design solution in .dwg that answers all your needs; 2D drafting, 3D modeling, mechanical design, and BIM. The BricsCAD® family of products brings a cost-effective,

Users
  • Owner
Industries
  • Construction
  • Civil Engineering
Market Segment
  • 73% Small-Business
  • 22% Mid-Market
BricsCAD Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
7
CAD Compatibility
4
Easy Learning
3
Tool Efficiency
3
3D Modeling
2
Cons
Difficult Configuration
1
Difficult for Beginners
1
Difficult Learning
1
Large File Handling
1
Limited Tools
1
BricsCAD features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.0
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.3
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.5
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.8
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Hexagon AB
HQ Location
Stockholm
Twitter
@HexagonAB
12,237 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
791 employees on LinkedIn®
Read BricsCAD Reviews
MicroStation
By Bentley Systems
(327)4.0 out of 5
Optimized for quick response
15th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$2,135.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    MicroStation is the only computer-aided design (CAD) software purpose-built for infrastructure design, helping architects and engineers like you bring their vision to life, present their designs to th

    Users
    • Project Engineer
    • Transportation Engineer
    Industries
    • Civil Engineering
    • Architecture & Planning
    Market Segment
    • 36% Enterprise
    • 33% Mid-Market
    User Sentiment
    How are these determined?Information
    These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
    • Microstation is a CAD program used for managing intricate design and modeling jobs, particularly in the architecture and engineering sectors.
    • Users like the numerous features available for both 2D and 3D designs, the user-friendly interface, the ability to handle external references, and the advanced AccuSnap functionality, as well as the software's interoperability and customization possibilities.
    • Users mentioned that Microstation is overshadowed by the competition when it comes to 3D capabilities, the user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, the software can be resource-intensive, and it uses different file formats which can cause frustration and time wasting.
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • MicroStation Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    33
    3D Modeling
    19
    Drawing
    18
    Features
    14
    Compatibility
    10
    Cons
    Difficult for Beginners
    6
    Poor Interface Design
    6
    Slow Performance
    6
    Difficult Learning
    5
    Software Import
    5
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • MicroStation features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    7.8
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    8.8
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    7.8
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    8.0
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Bentley Systems
    Company Website
    Year Founded
    1984
    HQ Location
    Exton, PA
    Twitter
    @BentleySystems
    17,843 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    4,994 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

MicroStation is the only computer-aided design (CAD) software purpose-built for infrastructure design, helping architects and engineers like you bring their vision to life, present their designs to th

Users
  • Project Engineer
  • Transportation Engineer
Industries
  • Civil Engineering
  • Architecture & Planning
Market Segment
  • 36% Enterprise
  • 33% Mid-Market
User Sentiment
How are these determined?Information
These insights, currently in beta, are compiled from user reviews and grouped to display a high-level overview of the software.
  • Microstation is a CAD program used for managing intricate design and modeling jobs, particularly in the architecture and engineering sectors.
  • Users like the numerous features available for both 2D and 3D designs, the user-friendly interface, the ability to handle external references, and the advanced AccuSnap functionality, as well as the software's interoperability and customization possibilities.
  • Users mentioned that Microstation is overshadowed by the competition when it comes to 3D capabilities, the user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, the software can be resource-intensive, and it uses different file formats which can cause frustration and time wasting.
MicroStation Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
33
3D Modeling
19
Drawing
18
Features
14
Compatibility
10
Cons
Difficult for Beginners
6
Poor Interface Design
6
Slow Performance
6
Difficult Learning
5
Software Import
5
MicroStation features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
7.8
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
8.8
Drawing
Average: 8.8
7.8
File Import
Average: 8.3
8.0
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Bentley Systems
Company Website
Year Founded
1984
HQ Location
Exton, PA
Twitter
@BentleySystems
17,843 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
4,994 employees on LinkedIn®
Shapr3D
By Shapr3d
(151)4.9 out of 5
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:Free
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    Shapr3D builds instinctive CAD tools, helping design and manufacturing teams complete complex tasks with speed and efficiency. Through our multi-platform structure, you can work flexibly across device

    Users
    • Student
    Industries
    • Design
    • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
    Market Segment
    • 83% Small-Business
    • 11% Mid-Market
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Shapr3D Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    11
    Easy Learning
    7
    3D Modeling
    6
    Intuitive
    6
    Ease of Creation
    4
    Cons
    Limited Tools
    2
    Performance Issues
    2
    Software Import
    2
    3D Modeling
    1
    Complex Modeling
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Shapr3D features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.7
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.5
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.5
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    9.3
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Shapr3d
    Year Founded
    2015
    HQ Location
    Budapest, Hungary
    Twitter
    @shapr3d
    6,581 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    126 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

Shapr3D builds instinctive CAD tools, helping design and manufacturing teams complete complex tasks with speed and efficiency. Through our multi-platform structure, you can work flexibly across device

Users
  • Student
Industries
  • Design
  • Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Market Segment
  • 83% Small-Business
  • 11% Mid-Market
Shapr3D Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
11
Easy Learning
7
3D Modeling
6
Intuitive
6
Ease of Creation
4
Cons
Limited Tools
2
Performance Issues
2
Software Import
2
3D Modeling
1
Complex Modeling
1
Shapr3D features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.7
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.5
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.5
File Import
Average: 8.3
9.3
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Shapr3d
Year Founded
2015
HQ Location
Budapest, Hungary
Twitter
@shapr3d
6,581 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
126 employees on LinkedIn®
Read Shapr3D Reviews
Ares Commander
By Graebert
(17)4.8 out of 5
7th Easiest To Use in General-Purpose CAD software
Save to My Lists
Entry Level Price:$350.00
  • Overview
    Expand/Collapse Overview
    • Product Description
    How are these determined?Information
    This description is provided by the seller.

    THE ARES TRINITY OF CAD SOFTWARE: Modern DWG Editing for Desktop, Mobile and Cloud Create and modify DWG drawings anywhere, on any device, and enjoy unrivaled flexibility The n°1 alternative to Aut

    Users
    No information available
    Industries
    No information available
    Market Segment
    • 47% Mid-Market
    • 47% Small-Business
  • Pros and Cons
    Expand/Collapse Pros and Cons
    • Ares Commander Pros and Cons
    How are these determined?Information
    Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
    Pros
    Ease of Use
    7
    Customer Support
    4
    Tool Efficiency
    2
    3D Modeling
    1
    CAD Compatibility
    1
    Cons
    Software Import
    3
    High System Requirements
    1
    Plugin Issues
    1
    Slow Performance
    1
    Software Freezing
    1
  • User Satisfaction
    Expand/Collapse User Satisfaction
    • Ares Commander features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
    9.4
    Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
    Average: 8.3
    9.4
    Drawing
    Average: 8.8
    8.3
    File Import
    Average: 8.3
    9.2
    Views
    Average: 8.5
  • Seller Details
    Expand/Collapse Seller Details
    • Seller Details
    Seller
    Graebert
    Year Founded
    1977
    HQ Location
    Berlin, Berlin
    Twitter
    @graebertcad
    1,034 Twitter followers
    LinkedIn® Page
    www.linkedin.com
    100 employees on LinkedIn®
Product Description
How are these determined?Information
This description is provided by the seller.

THE ARES TRINITY OF CAD SOFTWARE: Modern DWG Editing for Desktop, Mobile and Cloud Create and modify DWG drawings anywhere, on any device, and enjoy unrivaled flexibility The n°1 alternative to Aut

Users
No information available
Industries
No information available
Market Segment
  • 47% Mid-Market
  • 47% Small-Business
Ares Commander Pros and Cons
How are these determined?Information
Pros and Cons are compiled from review feedback and grouped into themes to provide an easy-to-understand summary of user reviews.
Pros
Ease of Use
7
Customer Support
4
Tool Efficiency
2
3D Modeling
1
CAD Compatibility
1
Cons
Software Import
3
High System Requirements
1
Plugin Issues
1
Slow Performance
1
Software Freezing
1
Ares Commander features and usability ratings that predict user satisfaction
9.4
Has the product been a good partner in doing business?
Average: 8.3
9.4
Drawing
Average: 8.8
8.3
File Import
Average: 8.3
9.2
Views
Average: 8.5
Seller Details
Seller
Graebert
Year Founded
1977
HQ Location
Berlin, Berlin
Twitter
@graebertcad
1,034 Twitter followers
LinkedIn® Page
www.linkedin.com
100 employees on LinkedIn®
Read Ares Commander Reviews
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General-Purpose CAD Topics

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Learn More About General-Purpose CAD Software

What is CAD Software?

General-purpose CAD is a visual design software that enables construction engineers, architects, and civil engineers to visualize their product designs. The interface is simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, making it accessible for developers, software engineers, and graphic designers.

General-purpose CAD software stores design components, tools, and assets within a library. 

It is used in construction and architecture as part of the design and implementation processes. It is also a prime tech suite for real estate developers, civil and printed circuit board (PCB) engineers, and urban planners.

The main goal of general-purpose CAD is to make projects sustainable and efficient, offering potential stakeholders a detailed preview of products before committing to any specific course of action.

What are the common features of general-purpose CAD software?

Traditionally, the concept of a product requires input from different teams. The process becomes difficult when you don’t have a standard prototype that everyone can review. Still, with general-purpose CAD, businesses can create a lo-fi version of their prototype and review it. 

  • Parametric modeling: General-purpose CAD software defines dimensions, localizes objects, and determines the parameters of different visual blocks. These factors are imperative for planning a construction or infrastructure project.
  • 3D modeling: 3D modeling is helpful for initial design iterations, such as reference geometry. Solid modeling offers mass properties and sectioning capabilities. Surface modeling gives users control over curved surfaces for accurate manipulation, and modeling is ideal for freeform sculpting, ceasing, and smoothing.
  • Assembly design: General-purpose CAD is used in factories to assemble complex spare parts or machinery, build schematic captures, and digitize operations with a computer program.
  • Drafting: An object designed with a general-purpose CAD tool will eventually be created in reality. CAD allows designers to manage 2D drafting and 2D drawings as much as needed. You can erase, trim, and modify the drawings you create to ensure they are up to your organization’s standards.
  • Collaboration and sharing: The software has real-time project collaboration and sharing across different verticals and engineers. The general-purpose CAD software keeps you updated on projects in which a good share of revenue has been invested.
  • Real-time document management: The software stores your documents and design histories so you can access them anytime. It manages electronic documents, signatures, and other assets for a structured and efficient workflow.
  • Compatibility and interoperability: You can easily embed the general-purpose CAD software with your business's custom ERP or database management system. While integrating CAD software with your system, ensure it works on your operating systems like Windows, Linux, or macOS.
  • Customization and automation: The tool makes it easier to build custom logic, codes, typedefs, and plugins to automate project workflows and speed up product development.
  • Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) integration: General-purpose CAD software integrates with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) for making machines and renewing the process from design to production.
  • Mobile accessibility: The mobile CAD app manages real-time design changes and tracks user activity and location. It brings added flexibility, convenience, and work efficiency to organizations dealing with complex designs and manufacturing processes.
  • Finite element analysis: This feature conducts feasibility analysis for a product under severe conditions and ensures the fallback or failover mechanism is in place.
  • Drawing: The most basic feature of a general-purpose CAD platform is drawing, allowing you to sketch your initial ideas. With this feature, you’ll find tools to create a precise drawing of your object.
  • Rendering: Rendering a 3D model creates a raster image based on the 3D objects in a previously-designed scene. This feature shows a clear vision of the design, not just a plotted drawing. A rendering of a 3D object allows you to see certain details, such as the effect of light and shadows.
  • Editing: With this software, designers can edit their designs as much as they need. They can perform actions like erase, trim, and undo until your work matches your vision.
  • File options: You can rely on general-purpose CAD tools for sharing your work with colleagues via file export through many different formats. The native file format for CAD software is typically compatible with advanced design and imaging applications. These tools also support large file sizes, so you must limit the designs you are working on.

What are the benefits of general-purpose CAD software?

CAD is a step forward for automation and digital thinking. With a simple learning curve, any team can design top-notch products. Other benefits of general-purpose CAD are:

  • Accelerated time to market: With CAD automation, the planning and ideation of a product are done sooner than without. The more quickly the product lands in a manufacturing plant, the faster the supply chain network moves. This speeds up the time to market.
  • Enhanced collaboration: General-purpose CAD software’s intuitive dashboards and applications provide multiple-user access, role-based access, and secure authentication for better collaboration and team communication.
  • Improved decision-making: The software easily embeds strategies into drafts and automates decision-making processes. It simulates agile designs, incorporates critical path feedback, and arranges review processes for faster project submission. This improves decisions made by investors and yields better monetary outcomes.
  • Interdisciplinary integration: The software supports integration with various engineering disciplines like civil, PCB, mechanical, structural, electronics, and telecommunications (ENTC). Within these disciplines, it keeps project teams updated and notified of all edits made to the master file.
  • Cost reduction through simulation: CAD technology builds virtual models that teams test remotely, reducing upfront asset and training expenditures.
  • Resource efficiency and energy savings: The software reduces manual effort by building foolproof, intricate design drafts and product mock-ups. This saves time, energy, power, internet consumption, and other implicit business resources.
  • Scalability: CAD software manages a business’s evolving needs as it grows its workforce or exerts team efforts in new directions. The data management module of a general-purpose CAD platform handles increasing volumes of design data while permitting scope for the expansion of infrastructure and the tech ecosystem.

Who uses general-purpose CAD software?

While it is useful across many fields, such as construction and filmmaking, engineers use this software the most. The introduction of this tool was revolutionary because it allowed designers and artists to merge with engineers. 

People in construction and filmmaking use general-purpose CAD tools to develop 2D and 3D precision drawings and models of buildings and physical objects. Engineers and other users depend on this software to digitally draft their designs and analyze materials, processes, dimensions, and tolerance. Engineers utilize all this data to create 2D or 3D objects.

Besides engineering teams, the tool has been integrated into graphic design and 3D modeling software like SketchUp, Blender, and AutoCAD to teach non-technical teams about product design. Real estate developers, product designers, data visualization experts, urban planners, and interior decorators use general-purpose CAD integration to analyze current status and predict future marketability and asset life. For furniture and decor, the software renders home layouts to create plans for building and renovation.

Challenges with general-purpose CAD software:

Being adept at understanding the technicalities of a product is difficult. That hurdle makes general-purpose CAD software a little unapproachable in the following ways.

  • License and cost: Since general-purpose CAD software has intricate design plugins and prototype building and testing integrations, the license is a little tricky. The prices soar a bit if you compare it to your product's ROI and dividend value.
  • Security: Since general-purpose CAD software contains a rough blueprint of a service or app that you want to develop, it can be risky to share it with other people. It might trigger security issues, vulnerabilities, or brute force attacks.
  • Learning curve: Consider the project methodology you plan to use with this software. Keeping the project deadlines in mind, users might find it challenging to work and inspect designs with the tool.
  •  Performance optimization: The software has limited performance capabilities as it builds simulations in 2D or 3D within a computer network. The performance of CAD testing is limited and calculated and doesn’t anticipate any long-term usability.
  • Vendor support: Users need to investigate the quality of customer support provided by the software vendor, including availability, responsiveness, and the availability of training resources. They should inquire about the frequency and nature of software updates to ensure ongoing compatibility with evolving industry standards.
  • Feature set and compatibility: CAD designs aren’t formattable if opened with a different system application. Before purchasing a general-purpose CAD solution, evaluate your project requirements and ERP software so there is no onboarding error.

Which companies should buy general-purpose CAD software?

Evaluating your design with physical and mathematical logic steers you ahead in the market. Below are seven major sectors that should invest in general-purpose CAD software.

  • Manufacturing companies: Product manufacturing companies across different industries require this tool to build cost-efficient products, understand supplier and landing cost requirements, and strengthen their supply chain with efficient resource handling.
  • Aerospace and aviation: The aerospace and aviation industry can optimize passenger services, fleet management, safety practices, and engine manufacturing by revamping aircraft designs with general-purpose CAD integration. By allowing all stakeholders to understand engine counterparts and features, they can build solid and crashproof systems.
  • Architectural, construction, and infrastructure: Architectural and infrastructure companies need general-purpose CAD to build virtual models, site layouts, and plans, analyze investment areas, and reduce construction costs. 
  • Engineering consultancies: From civil firms to mechanical systems, consultants can outsource design analysis and help create efficient products.
  • Electronics and semiconductors: Investing in this tool can help identify electronic components and their technical specifications and allow you to manage and produce good-quality circuit boards.
  • Energy and utilities: Companies that supervise facility maintenance and plant, property, and equipment (PPE) operations can use general-purpose CAD to manage their services and factory inspections remotely.
  • Product design and e-commerce: With the newest addition in bulk, product design, and e-commerce, firms can use general-purpose CAD to incorporate durability in products. This gives them a competitive edge and benchmark for their brand reputation.

General purpose CAD software pricing

The cost of general-purpose CAD software depends on what software variant fits your business and project requirements. Use cases are based on business size (small, medium, and large) and domain specialization. The mainstream way of purchasing this software is by buying an upfront annual license or monthly subscription ranging from $150 to $300 across different software-as-a-service solutions.

SketchUp, SolidEdge, AutoCAD, Onshape, Revit, Fusion 360, and Solidworks are all in the leader quadrant of G2’s Fall 2023 grid report. Solutions listed on G2 offer free tutorials at $0 for 30. However, the price may vary, and you need to contact the vendor directly to get a custom quote. 

CAD software subscriptions are mostly monthly, annual, 2-year, or 3-year plans. Free versions of the tool are a great option if you are a hobbyist or gamer who needs a new toolset. While premium plans may seem expensive, checking out G2 deals will help you invest smarter and analyze ROI. 

To figure out how to buy the best general-purpose CAD software, experiment with a few providers. Click on “Start a Trial” directly via their G2 page to visit the vendor website or register for a demo.

Implementation of general-purpose CAD software

To implement general-purpose CAD software, make sure you select the right software that fits your business needs and follow the below-mentioned steps: 

  • Assessment of developer assets: Besides knowledge, the developer needs physical infrastructure and CAD software access. Enabling permissions for software assets helps create an easy implementation workflow for your teams.
  • Software selection: Do not depend on price constraints and the license renewal process. Select software based on budget health, ROI value, and existing vendor partnerships. Make sure you shortlist the software based on feedback from your team.
  • Budget constraints: Integrating general-purpose CAD software should not hurt other software investments or spending you’ll be working on for the next fiscal year. Straining your financial health is not advised. Analyze economic profits, opportunity costs, and alternative options to manage your operating margins.
  • Data migration: Plan and execute the migration of existing data pools and lakes that contain design workflows to maintain data integrity. Ensure you make a container image and store design data securely.
  • Customer success support: Evaluate the customer success of vendors via their testimonials, partner stories, and responses on the website. Learn the previous experience through community forums.
  • Contract and memorandum of understanding (MOU): List the areas where you require specialized CAD assistance within the MOU you sign with your software provider. Flag it during the product implementation process.
  • Proposal match: Match the proposal quote and the negotiated price during the customer journey. The details, numbers, and prices quoted by the vendor should be the same as the base price.