What’s special about SolidWorks?
Solidworks stands out from other CAD software due to its intuitive user interface, powerful design and simulation capabilities, and wide range of specialized tools for different engineering disciplines. Its parametric feature-based modelling allows for quick and easy modifications to designs. Solidworks also seamlessly integrates CAD modelling with analysis tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Motion Simulation. This comprehensive suite of design and simulation tools in one package gives engineers a streamlined workflow to take concepts from initial design to prototype and manufacturing. The large Solidworks user community and third-party integrations further extend its capabilities. With its ease of use and depth of functionality, Solidworks provides engineers with an efficient way to transform ideas into innovative products.
Product: SolidWorks | Founding Date: 1993 |
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Company: Dassault Systèmes Simulia Corp. | IPO Status: Public |
Founders: Jon Hirschtick | Deployment Type: On-premise (self-hosted) |
Free Trial: Available | Company HQ: Waltham, Massachusetts, United States |
Rating: 4.1 ⭐ | 103
Choosing the right hardware configuration is crucial to get optimal performance from SolidWorks. This guide summarizes the system requirements and provides component recommendations for Solidworks version 2022/2023/2024.
System Requirements for SOLIDWORKS 2024-2022 (EDU 2022-2024)
For Simple Solidworks Projects:
This system supports simulations for simple flow, uncomplicated components, small assemblies (with less than 200 components), and drawings. It covers various analyses for parts and assemblies, including linear statics, thermal considerations, frequency, fatigue, and optimization. The system is also capable of simulating gaps and contact for assemblies with straightforward components.
Set up Cost (Laptop/Desktop)~1800$:
Processor: Intel Core i5 , min. 3.3 GHz
OS: Windows 10 or 11
RAM: 12GB minimum
Hard Drive: Minimum 250 GB SSD
Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX A2000
For Intermediate Solidworks Projects:
Tailored for assemblies with 200-1000 components and drawings, this system is ideal for intricate parts characterized by advanced shapes, large patterns, and shells, with 200+ features. It supports simulations for parts and assemblies, covering non-linear analyses, dynamics, and random vibrations, and providing capabilities for moderate gaps and contacts. The system is also equipped for moderate flow simulations.
Set up Cost (Laptop/Desktop)~2500$:
Processor: Intel Core i7 or Xeon, min. 3.3 GHz
OS: Windows 10 or 11
RAM: Minimum 16GB
Hard Drive: Minimum 250 GB SSD
Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX A4000
For Advanced Solidworks Projects:
Designed for assemblies containing 1000 to 200,000 components, this system is tailored for very complex parts featuring advanced surfacing features or hybrid modelling. It enables large-scale complex analyses and simulations, including extensive flow simulations.
Set up Cost (Laptop/Desktop)~3200$:
Processor: Intel Core i7 or Xeon, min. 3.3GHz
OS: Windows 10 or 11
RAM: Minimum 32GB
Hard Drive: Minimum 250 GB SSD
Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX A5000, A6000, or RTX 8000
The minimum system requirement is available on SOLIDWORKS' official website
Solidworks CAD Alternatives:
AutoCAD: Developed by Autodesk, AutoCAD is a versatile software that can handle both 2D and 3D design and drafting. It is widely used in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.
Inventor: Also from Autodesk, Inventor is software for 3D mechanical solid modelling design. It includes an array of features for simulation, optimization, and tooling.
Fusion 360: This is another Autodesk product that combines CAD, CAM, and CAE, including 3D modelling and simulation, in a cloud-based platform.
CATIA: Developed by Dassault Systèmes, the same company behind SolidWorks, CATIA is a powerful software widely used in industries such as automotive and aerospace for 3D design, electrical systems design, fluid systems design, and mechanical systems design.
NX CAD: Formerly known as Unigraphics, NX from Siemens provides a suite of solutions for product design, engineering, and manufacturing.
FreeCAD: This is a free, open-source alternative that's more suitable for hobbyists or those who can't afford commercial CAD software.
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