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We've compiled a list of 54 free and paid alternatives to Onshape. The primary competitors include SOLIDWORKS, Autodesk Fusion (Fusion 360). In addition to these, users also draw comparisons between Onshape and Solid Edge, SketchUp, AutoCAD. Also you can look at other similar options here: CAD and PLM Software, Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software.


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5.0 out of 5
SOLIDWORKS
One Time License Free Free Trial

Suited for engineering teams requiring advanced parametric modeling and deep integration with manufacturing tools. It offers mature simulation and drawing capabilities that go beyond Onshape’s browser-based flexibility.

Autodesk Fusion (Fusion 360)
Subscription Free Free Trial

Ideal for designers needing a unified environment for CAD, CAM, and CAE. Its built-in simulation and generative design tools enable end-to-end workflows that extend past Onshape’s collaboration-first focus.

Solid Edge
Subscription Free Free Trial

Effective for companies using hybrid modeling with strong mechanical requirements. It combines direct and parametric design, supporting legacy workflows that may not transition easily to Onshape’s cloud-native model.

SketchUp
Subscription Free Free Trial

Fits teams focused on conceptual 3D modeling and architectural visualization. Its intuitive interface and plugin ecosystem suit fast drafting and rendering, where Onshape is more structured for mechanical precision.

AutoCAD
Subscription Free Free Trial

Best for users needing detailed 2D drafting alongside 3D capabilities. It supports architectural and civil design standards, offering drawing accuracy in domains where Onshape’s mechanical tooling is less applicable.

Designed for enterprises handling complex assemblies in aerospace or automotive. Its surface modeling and system engineering features support large-scale development that Onshape doesn’t target.

Ideal for users seeking open-source flexibility with parametric design. It enables scripting and customization in a local environment, useful where Onshape’s subscription-based model or cloud dependency is a constraint.

Suited for designers working with freeform surfaces and complex geometries. It excels in industrial and jewelry design, offering NURBS modeling precision that complements creative use cases outside Onshape’s core scope.

Autodesk Inventor
Subscription Free Trial

Autodesk Inventor is 3D CAD software for mechanical design, simulation, and documentation. It provides advanced modeling tools, multi-CAD translation, and native DWG support, enabling efficient design validation and manufacturing preparation while e…

Altium 365
Subscription Free Trial

Altium 365 is an electronics hardware development platform that enables secure collaboration. It combines requirements management, supply chain data, library management, ECAD connectivity, co-design, and a manufacturing portal to boost productivity,…

Onshape is a cloud-based CAD and PDM solution offering real-time collaborative design, integrated PDM with branching and merging capabilities, and comprehensive activity tracking with version restoration. Designed for cross-device accessibility, it ensures stable performance and efficient project workflows without risk of data loss or system crashes.

Onshape Platforms

iPad iPad
iPhone iPhone
Linux Linux
Mac Mac
Android Android
Web-Based Web-Based
Windows Windows

Onshape Video and Screenshots

Onshape Overview

Onshape is a cloud-based product development platform offering professional-grade CAD tools for designing and managing products. It allows real-time collaboration, enabling teams to work simultaneously on a single design from any device. Key features include built-in PDM (Product Data Management), version control, and advanced tools for 3D modeling, assemblies, and sheet metal design. Onshape’s cloud infrastructure eliminates the need for IT maintenance, making it accessible and scalable for both small teams and large enterprises.

The primary advantage of Onshape is its ability to provide seamless collaboration without worrying about versioning issues, crashes, or data loss. It integrates advanced CAD capabilities with the convenience of cloud technology, offering flexibility, efficiency, and streamlined product development workflows.

Onshape Features

tick-square Workflow Management
tick-square Version Control
tick-square Third Party Integrations
tick-square Solar Design
tick-square Sketching and Annotation Tools
tick-square Reference Management
tick-square Modeling & Simulation
tick-square Mechatronics
tick-square Mechanical
tick-square Manufacturing Design Data
tick-square For Solar Companies
tick-square For 3D Printing
tick-square File Management
tick-square Electrical
tick-square Design Analysis
tick-square Data Import/Export
tick-square Customizable Branding
tick-square Component Library
tick-square Bill of Materials Management
tick-square Animation
tick-square 3D Design & Modeling
tick-square 2D Drawing
tick-square Real Time Comparisons
tick-square 3D Imaging
tick-square Multiple Format Support
tick-square CAD Tools
tick-square Design Management
tick-square Annotations
tick-square Configurable Workflow
tick-square Content Library
tick-square Product Data Management
tick-square Configuration Management
tick-square Customizable Templates
tick-square Visual Analytics
tick-square For Manufacturers
tick-square Data Visualization
tick-square Change Management
tick-square Bills of Material
tick-square Secure Data Storage
tick-square Rules-Based Workflow
tick-square Real Time Updates
tick-square Role-Based Permissions
tick-square Project Templates
tick-square Multiple Projects
tick-square Collaboration Tools
tick-square Document Management
tick-square Activity Dashboard
tick-square Template Management
tick-square Access Controls/Permissions
tick-square Reporting/Analytics
tick-square API

Onshape Integrations

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Onshape Tags

cross-platform-compatibility data-conversion assembly cloud-based 3d-cad cad

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