Autodesk Inventor vs SolidFace
Autodesk Inventor
autodesk.comSolidFace
solidface.comSide by side
| Figure | Autodesk Inventor | SolidFace |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 3 | 3 |
| Spec score · 3D CAD Software | 8.5 (#11) | 8.2 (#25) |
| Assembly design | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud collaboration | Yes | Yes |
| File import and export | Import: Autodesk states Inventor supports opening non-native CAD data. Export formats documented for parts include DWG, DWF/DWFx, IGES, JT, OBJ, RFA, SAT, STEP, STL, CATIA V5, Parasolid, and Pro/ENGINEER; assemblies additionally include RVT. Drawing formats include DWG, IDW, DWF/DWFx, and DXF. Format support varies by data type and version. | X_T, X_B, DWG, DWT, DXF, STL, BMP |
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Modeling method | hybrid | hybrid |
| Supported platforms | Windows | Windows 10 64-bit; desktop and cloud |
| Surface modeling | Yes | Yes |
Plans
Autodesk Inventor
- FlexPrice not published
- Free TrialFree
- Inventor MonthlyPrice not published
SolidFace
- SolidFace Drawing Student 2027Free
- SolidFace PTVFree
- SolidFace Drawing Full Perpetual$99, paid once
In their own words
Autodesk Inventor
Autodesk Inventor is Windows software for mechanical design, documentation, simulation, and model-based definition. Its 3D tools combine parametric, direct, freeform, and rules-based modeling, with support for assembly design, sheet metal, and surfaces. Inventor can open designs from other CAD systems without translation. Parts can be exported to formats including DWG, IGES, JT, OBJ, STEP, and STL; assembly exports also include RVT, while drawings support DWG, IDW, DWF/DWFx, and DXF. Design connections include Revit family data, Vault, Factory Design Utilities, and Inventor Nastran. Automation options include iLogic, the API, and Autodesk Platform Services. Inventor is paid, with a 30-day trial and no permanent free tier. Displayed monthly, annual, and three-year prices are placeholders, not figures. A subscription permits installation on up to three devices, but only the named user may sign in and use it on one computer at a time.