3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs. Autodesk Inventor

Choosing the right CAD software is important for engineers and designers, but it can also impact many others in an organization. Choosing the right solution for your business will allow your team to improve efficiency and get better long-term results.

Let's compare two options for 3D CAD software: 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS and Autodesk Inventor. Both tools offer robust capabilities, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This article provides a detailed comparison across several key areas to help you make an informed decision.

For a quick overview of SOLIDWORKS vs Inventor, see our 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs Inventor Matrix.

User Interface and Ease of Use:

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS offers a user-friendly interface, just like desktop SOLIDWORKS. This makes it easy for users to navigate and utilize, reducing the learning curve for new users. The seamless integration with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform further enhances collaboration and data management. SOLIDWORKS also provides a scalable solution that connects to SIMULIA and DELMIA for simulation and manufacturing.

Inventor also provides a customizable interface, allowing experienced users to tailor their workspace. Inventor can work with other tools, but it lacks the same depth of integrated solutions. It also does not have a built-in data management solution.

Design Tools and Capabilities: 

When it comes to design tools, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS excels with advanced features like integrated simulation and analysis. This integration simplifies workflows and enhances design validation.

Inventor also provides strong mechanical design and manufacturing tools, with comprehensive simulation and stress analysis capabilities. Inventor can integrate with Fusion 360 for cloud-based functionality. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS also features an extensive library of add-ons and connected tools to make it a more scalable solution.

Performance and Scalability: 

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS offers better scalability by leveraging cloud-based collaboration and a large variety of connected tools for extended capabilities. This makes it easier to add needed functionality as your team grows. Its cloud integration facilitates efficient project management and resource allocation.

Additionally, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS packages often include xDesign. This allows users to access cloud-based CAD within the same environment and the same cloud-based data management solution. 

Inventor may not perform as well with large assemblies because it relies entirely on your machine's capabilities. For businesses looking to optimize hardware investment, Inventor may not be a good solution.

Cost and Licensing Options: 

SOLIDWORKS license options are more expansive to meet your team's needs than Inventor. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS uses a subscription model. While SOLIDWORKS also sells perpetual licenses, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is only sold as a subscription.

All SOLIDWORKS licenses sold after July of 2023 give you access to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It offers better collaboration and data management tools.

SOLIDWORKS offers 3 main tiers of licensing to accommodate your team's needs and keep the cost of SOLIDWORKS right for you. Detailed pricing for 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS can be found here. Inventor is also offered on a subscription basis of around $2,500 a year.

Support and Community: 

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS offers extensive support through Value Added Resellers (VARs). It also has a large, active online and in-person user community. Comprehensive training and certification programs help users maximize their software's potential. Meanwhile, Inventor benefits from Autodesk’s extensive knowledge base and active user community, with access to Autodesk University providing valuable learning resources.

When should you pick 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS over Inventor?

Collaborative Design Projects: 

If your team requires seamless collaboration 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is for you. With its superior tools and efficient data management on the cloud, it ensures all team members can work together smoothly.

Complex Assemblies and Detailed Modeling: 

Projects involving intricate assemblies and detailed modeling will benefit from SOLIDWORKS. It has advanced tools and an intuitive interface to streamline the design process. Integrated simulation and analysis also aides in validating designs and producing high-quality outputs.

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs Inventor Matrix

Bottom Line: 

Both 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS and Autodesk Inventor are powerful CAD tools, each with unique strengths. Inventor is great for mechanical design and manufacturing. It has strong features and works well with Autodesk tools.

On the other hand, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS has an advantage. It offers better collaboration features, cloud solutions, and complete design capabilities. By carefully evaluating your specific needs and considering the scenarios outlined above, you can choose the software that best aligns with your project requirements and business goals. 

If you are looking to buy SOLIDWORKS, reach out to our sales team for a consultation.