SolidWorks

What is SolidWorks?

SolidWorks is a professional 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software developed by Dassault Systèmes. Launched in 1995, SolidWorks was created to bring powerful 3D parametric modeling to the Windows platform, making advanced mechanical design accessible to a broader audience than traditional Unix-based CAD workstations. Today, SolidWorks has grown into one of the most widely used CAD systems in the world, with millions of users across industries including automotive, aerospace, consumer products, medical devices, and industrial equipment manufacturing.

What distinguishes SolidWorks from other CAD software is its focus on parametric, feature-based solid modeling with an intuitive interface that balances power with usability. Designs are created through a series of operations called features that can be modified at any time, with changes propagating throughout the model automatically. This approach, combined with powerful assembly tools, simulation capabilities, and comprehensive documentation features, creates a complete product development environment that takes designs from concept through manufacturing within a single integrated platform.

SolidWorks has become the de facto standard for mechanical engineering in countless organizations, from individual consultants to Fortune 500 companies. Its comprehensive ecosystem includes specialized modules for simulation, rendering, electrical design, and product data management. The software’s extensive training resources, certified professional program, and massive user community make it particularly valuable for career development in engineering and product design. With continued development by Dassault Systèmes and integration with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, SolidWorks remains at the forefront of mechanical CAD innovation.

Key Features

• Parametric Modeling: Feature-based design approach where dimensions and relationships drive geometry, enabling rapid design changes that automatically update entire models and assemblies.
• Assembly Design: Powerful tools for creating and managing assemblies with mates, constraints, configurations, and design tables for complex product structures.
• Drawing Production: Automated 2D drawing creation from 3D models with dimensioning, tolerancing, annotations, and bill of materials for manufacturing documentation.
• Sheet Metal: Specialized tools for designing sheet metal parts with bend calculations, flat pattern generation, and manufacturing-ready output for fabrication.
• Surfacing: Advanced surface modeling capabilities for creating complex organic shapes and imported surface data manipulation for styling applications.
• Simulation: Integrated analysis tools including FEA stress analysis, motion studies, thermal analysis, and computational fluid dynamics for design validation.
• PDM Integration: Product Data Management through SolidWorks PDM for version control, revision management, and team collaboration on design projects.
• Weldments: Structural member design with automatic cut lists, trim features, and detailing for welded frame structures and similar fabrications.
• Configurations: Create multiple versions of parts and assemblies within single files using design tables and configuration management for product families.
• CAM Integration: Direct integration with CAM software through SOLIDWORKS CAM and third-party solutions for CNC programming and manufacturing.

What’s New

SolidWorks continues evolving with annual releases that introduce new capabilities, performance improvements, and workflow enhancements based on extensive user feedback.

• Assembly Performance: Significant improvements in handling large assemblies with faster loading, better graphics performance, and improved memory efficiency.
• Detailing Mode: Open drawings faster with a lightweight mode optimized for dimensioning and annotation work without loading full model data.
• Mesh Modeling: Enhanced mesh editing capabilities for working with scanned data, 3D printed models, and imported mesh files from other software.
• Simulation Enhancements: Improved solver performance, new mesh controls, and better results visualization for more accurate and faster analysis.
• Electrical Integration: Tighter integration between mechanical and electrical design with improved harness routing and SOLIDWORKS Electrical connectivity.
• 3DEXPERIENCE Connection: Enhanced cloud connectivity for data management, collaboration, and access to SOLIDWORKS from web browsers.
• User Interface Updates: Modernized interface elements, customizable workspaces, and improved dark mode for reduced eye strain during long sessions.
• Sustainability Tools: New environmental impact analysis helps designers evaluate carbon footprint and material choices early in development.

System Requirements

Windows

• Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit only)
• Processor: Intel or AMD with SSE2 support (i7 or Xeon recommended)
• RAM: 16 GB minimum (32 GB or more recommended for large assemblies)
• Storage: 10 GB for installation (SSD strongly recommended)
• Graphics: Certified workstation graphics card (NVIDIA Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro)
• Display: 1920 x 1200 minimum resolution

Browser-Based Access (3DEXPERIENCE)

• Browser: Chrome, Firefox, or Edge (latest versions)
• Internet: Stable broadband connection
• Any operating system with supported browser

How to Install SolidWorks

Windows Installation

1. Log in to your SolidWorks account at solidworks.com
2. Download the Installation Manager from your account
3. Run the Installation Manager with administrator privileges
4. Choose installation type (Individual or Administrative Image)
5. Select products and features to install
6. Specify installation location and options
7. Wait for download and installation to complete
8. Activate your license and restart if prompted

# SolidWorks requires Windows - no Linux or Mac native version
# Installation is through graphical installer only

# Verify system meets requirements
systeminfo | findstr /C:"OS" /C:"Memory"

# Check graphics card
wmic path win32_VideoController get name

# Recommended: Update graphics drivers before installation
# Download from NVIDIA or AMD based on your card

# After installation, verify
"C:\Program Files\SOLIDWORKS Corp\SOLIDWORKS\SLDWORKS.exe" /v

Network/Server Installation

1. Create administrative image using Installation Manager
2. Configure options in the admin image
3. Deploy to client machines via network share
4. Configure license server (SNL) for network licensing
5. Test activation on client machines

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Industry Standard: Widespread adoption means extensive job opportunities, easy collaboration, and abundant resources for learning and problem-solving.
• Intuitive Interface: Well-designed user interface makes powerful features accessible without overwhelming new users, reducing learning curve significantly.
• Integrated Ecosystem: Complete product development suite including CAD, simulation, PDM, and CAM in one platform reduces integration challenges.
• Assembly Power: Excellent tools for creating, managing, and analyzing complex assemblies with thousands of components and configurations.
• Simulation Tools: Built-in FEA, CFD, and motion analysis enable design validation without leaving the CAD environment or purchasing separate software.
• Documentation: Automated drawing creation with views, dimensions, and annotations streamlines the transition from design to manufacturing documentation.
• Training Resources: Comprehensive certification program, extensive documentation, and massive user community support professional development.

Cons

• Windows Only: No native macOS or Linux version limits platform choices, requiring Windows or virtualization for Mac and Linux users.
• High Cost: Professional licenses and annual subscriptions represent significant investment, particularly for small businesses and individuals.
• Hardware Requirements: Requires certified workstation graphics cards and substantial RAM for optimal performance with complex assemblies.
• Surface Limitations: While capable, surface modeling is less refined than dedicated surfacing software like Rhino or Alias for complex organic shapes.
• Large File Sizes: Complex assemblies can result in large files and slow performance without proper management and hardware resources.

SolidWorks vs Alternatives

Who Should Use SolidWorks?

SolidWorks is ideal for:

• Mechanical Engineers: Professional engineers designing products, machines, and mechanical systems benefit from comprehensive parametric modeling and simulation.
• Product Designers: Those developing consumer products, electronics enclosures, and manufactured goods find complete tools for the entire design process.
• Manufacturing Companies: Organizations producing machined parts, sheet metal fabrications, and assemblies benefit from manufacturing-oriented features.
• Engineering Students: Students preparing for mechanical engineering careers gain valuable skills with industry-standard software used by employers worldwide.
• Design Consultancies: Firms serving multiple clients across industries appreciate the versatility and widespread file format acceptance of SolidWorks.
• Small to Medium Businesses: Companies needing professional CAD capabilities find SolidWorks balances power with cost better than high-end enterprise systems.

SolidWorks may not be ideal for:

• Mac or Linux Users: Those committed to non-Windows platforms cannot run SolidWorks natively and must use virtualization or alternatives.
• Industrial Designers: Those prioritizing freeform surface modeling may prefer dedicated surfacing tools like Rhino or Alias for styling work.
• Budget-Constrained Users: Individuals and small businesses may find the cost prohibitive when capable free alternatives like FreeCAD or Fusion 360 exist.
• Occasional Users: Those needing CAD infrequently may not justify the ongoing subscription costs compared to one-time purchase alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does SolidWorks cost?

SolidWorks pricing varies by package and licensing model. Standard SolidWorks starts around $3,995 for a perpetual license plus annual subscription for updates, or approximately $1,295 per year for term licensing. Professional and Premium packages add features at higher prices. Education licenses are significantly discounted, and individual Maker licenses are available at reduced cost. Contact a SolidWorks reseller for exact pricing as it varies by region and purchase terms.

Can SolidWorks run on Mac?

SolidWorks does not have a native macOS version. Mac users can run SolidWorks through Boot Camp (installing Windows on Mac), or using virtualization software like Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion. Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3) require Windows ARM through Parallels, which runs SolidWorks with varying success. For serious work, a Windows PC with a certified graphics card is recommended for optimal performance and support.

What is the difference between SolidWorks Standard, Professional, and Premium?

Standard includes core parametric modeling, assemblies, drawings, and basic simulation. Professional adds advanced rendering (PhotoView 360), file management (PDM Standard), automated cost estimation, and design analysis tools. Premium includes everything in Professional plus advanced simulation (static, motion, thermal), wiring and piping routing, tolerance analysis, and sustainability assessment. Choose based on specific needs, as many users find Standard sufficient for core design work.

Is SolidWorks good for 3D printing?

SolidWorks excels at creating precise mechanical parts suitable for 3D printing. It exports to STL and 3MF formats and includes mesh preparation tools. The software’s parametric nature makes it easy to modify designs for printability. For functional mechanical parts, enclosures, and fixtures, SolidWorks is excellent. For artistic or highly organic 3D printing projects, dedicated sculpting or mesh modeling software might be more appropriate.

How long does it take to learn SolidWorks?

Basic competency typically takes 40-80 hours of focused learning for users new to 3D CAD. Most users can create simple parts and assemblies within a few weeks of regular practice. Advanced features like simulation, surfacing, and configurations require additional study time. SolidWorks offers structured training courses, and many users pursue Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) and Professional (CSWP) certifications to validate their skills for employers.

Final Verdict

SolidWorks has earned its position as the world’s most popular mechanical CAD software through a winning combination of powerful capabilities and approachable usability. The parametric modeling approach handles everything from simple brackets to complex assemblies with thousands of parts, while the integrated simulation tools enable design validation without leaving the platform. For mechanical engineers and product designers, SolidWorks provides a comprehensive environment that addresses the complete product development cycle.

The software’s greatest strength is its balance of depth and accessibility. Features that would be complex in other systems become intuitive through SolidWorks’ well-designed interface and workflow. The massive user community means problems have usually been solved before, and the certification program provides clear paths for professional development. The ecosystem of add-ons, simulation tools, and PDM integration creates a complete platform that scales from individual users to enterprise deployments.

SolidWorks is the right choice for mechanical engineers, product designers, manufacturing professionals, and engineering students who need industry-standard capabilities and career-relevant skills. The Windows-only requirement and cost may deter some users, and those focused on organic surfaces might prefer dedicated styling tools. However, for parametric mechanical design with powerful simulation and documentation features, SolidWorks remains the benchmark against which competitors are measured.