Many drafters still use it primarily for 2D drawings and 2D drafting (2D CAD), but its capabilities make it great for modeling your 3D printing projects.
#Solidworks vs autocad software
Since its introduction, it’s become the most-used software in the design world.ĪutoCAD 3D started as a way to model 2D geometry and evolved to include various 3D modeling options like solids, surfaces, and meshes. It was an instant hit and revolutionized the drafting game with innovations such as the ability to work on multiple drawings at a time and object transparency. It came from a 1970s software called Interact CAD (computer aided design) and was the first drafting program developed for personal computers rather than the minicomputers that were common at the time. AutoCAD also “plays better” with the other Autodesk software suites.ĪutoCAD is a computer-aided drafting software developed by AutoDesk in 1982. Autodesk IS the market leader for CAD and as such updates their products more frequently (free upgrades) and generally pioneers new features. That isn’t to say you need an engineering degree to get what you want from them, but just keep in mind that a basic familiarity with drafting concepts (or the willingness to spend extra time Googling them) will help you orient yourself within these systems no matter which one you pick.īottom Line Up Front Summary: Solidworks is fine for JUST 3D drafting, however I would recommend upgrading to AutoCAD here if you planning to operate a serious business with both 2D and 3D crossover needs, or may need reliable support. One thing to keep in mind – both of these programs are designed for users who already have some computer-aided drafting and computer-aided design experience.
#Solidworks vs autocad windows
It’s like the options of an Apple or Windows computer – they’ll both get you to the same place, but the ways they get you there are different, and you should know the individual steps of each so you can use your smoothest path. However, there are plenty of distinctions between AutoCAD software and Solidworks for 3D modelling that you need to consider before choosing. These are both programs with legacies of excellence in drafting and 3D modeling with plenty of support, both official and amateur, so at first, it may seem like you can pick whichever one is on sale, or whichever one your favorite YouTube 3D printer uses, and it won’t matter in the end.
#Solidworks vs autocad how to
We’ve given you a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the hundreds of different options out there, so now we’re going to focus on the merits of the two most popular: AutoCAD and Solidworks. Your hardware is only as useful as your software lets it be, so make sure, first of all, to be honest about your own starting skill levels, time and patience to learn something new. That distinction goes to finding the perfect software for your needs. It’s the most obvious aspect of the whole process, and there are almost as many choices as there are possible projects – but, choosing your hardware is not the ultimate destination of your 3D printing journey. When you take the plunge into 3D printing, it’s easy to get caught up in the machinery.