CATIA vs MicroStation
CATIA
3ds.com
MicroStation
bentley.comSide by side
| Figure | CATIA | MicroStation |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $544.75/mo | $221.33/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · 3D CAD Software | 8.5 (#10) | 8.1 (#27) |
| Spec score · Engineering Design Software | 8.3 (#7) | 7.8 (#13) |
| Spec score · CAD software | 8.4 (#11) | 8.0 (#16) |
| File import and export | STEP import and export; DXF, STL, VRML and IGES are listed as supported by other CATIA V5 products. | It can import formats including DWG, DXF, and IFC into DGN files, reference DWG files, and convert DGN files to iModels. |
| Purpose | CATIA supports imagining, designing, and simulating new products and systems. | MicroStation is infrastructure CAD software for creating precise 2D drawings and 3D models. |
| Security | Dassault Systèmes says it uses encryption, network monitoring, access controls, and threat detection, and follows security frameworks including ISO 27001. | Bentley’s Trust Center lists SOC 2 Type II, SOC 3, FedRAMP Class C, GovRAMP, and TX-RAMP badges; it says desktop applications are implemented on-premise and subscribers are responsible for project-data security controls. |
| Support | Online AEC purchasers can use a support community, ask product experts questions, and receive an onboarding meeting with a platform expert. | Bentley points users to product documentation, community forums, technical articles, webinars, and support resources. |
Plans
CATIA
- CATIA for Architecture, Engineering & Construction — Yearly Subscription$6,537 a year
In their own words
CATIA
CATIA is a parametric modeling and engineering product with tools for assembly design, sheet-metal work, and surface modeling. It supports cloud collaboration. Platform availability depends on the CATIA product: browser applications run on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, while CATIA V5 sheet-metal software is available for Windows. File format support also varies by product. STEP import and export are listed, while DXF, STL, VRML, and IGES are supported by other CATIA V5 products. CATIA is paid, with pricing on request. Buyers should match the intended modeling work, collaboration needs, platform, and file exchange requirements to the specific CATIA product. Its web and Windows listings do not mean that every CATIA capability is offered on both platforms.
MicroStation
MicroStation is paid Windows desktop CAD software for precise 2D drawings and 3D infrastructure models. It targets engineers, architects, and construction professionals, combining CAD with built-in BIM capabilities. Workflows include parametric constraints, reusable cells, and automatic documentation from models. BIM-ready models integrate with OpenBuildings Designer, OpenRoads, OpenRail, and ProjectWise. Geospatial work can combine vector and raster data, Esri ArcGIS REST services, Google Maps, imagery, point clouds, and reality meshes. MicroStation imports DWG, DXF, and IFC into DGN files, references DWG files, and converts DGN files to iModels. A Python API supports scripting, while Python Assistant and Bentley Copilot are listed as technology previews. The product supports Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 or 2025, and offline use is listed. There is no free plan; a trial requires a request, eligibility review, and approval.