CATIA vs Shapr3D

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.

Shapr3D is a 3D CAD application for direct and history-based parametric modeling. It has a built-in render engine and supports 3D-print export, while sculpting and animation tools are not included. The Free plan allows two projects and includes 20 generations. Pro costs $299/user/yr, billed annually and excluding VAT, and allows unlimited projects. Shapr3D runs natively on Windows, macOS, iPadOS and visionOS, works offline, saves designs locally and syncs them to Shapr3D Cloud when connected. It imports and exports native CAD formats, including XT, STEP, IGES, DWG, STL and 3MF. Browser-based Review Links let people view and comment on models, drawings and visualizations. Pro supports shared team projects, contributors, centralized storage and secure review links. Its 14-day Pro trial gives access to all features, but requires a credit card and charges on day 14 unless canceled at least 24 hours before. Listed requirements include Windows 10 version 2004 or later, macOS Sonoma 14.0 or later, and iPadOS 17 or later.