EngView Packaging Suite vs iC3D Suite

EngView Packaging Suite is CAD/CAM software for structural packaging design and production, including boxes and POP/POS displays. Its workflow runs from concept and dieline creation through 3D visualization and production output. The design library contains over 2,500 ready-to-use packaging standards, including the full ECMA and FEFCO codes. Adobe Illustrator integration supports artwork application, 3D viewing, and production-ready file generation. The 3D Presenter creates visualizations with artwork and finishing effects and can output 3D PDF and web3D files. Layout Optimizer arranges designs on sheets to minimize waste and can nest multiple one-ups or artworks. The CAM module supports cutting plotters, lasers, and waterjets, with tool paths intended to minimize cutting time. An API allows the parametric design technology to be integrated into web-to-print platforms, packaging e-shops, and custom applications. The suite includes dieline editing and import, preflight checks, and cloud collaboration. Lite costs €760 a year, Standard €2,080 a year, and Professional €3,620 a year. A 10-day free trial is available after registration and contact with a local representative.

iC3D Suite is a real-time packaging design application for creating live 3D virtual mockups. Smart Mesh lets users position labels and artwork on models without UVW texture-coordinate mapping, while Shape Modeller creates asymmetric forms such as perfume bottles, trigger sprays, and molded containers. Shrink and Shrink Correction visualize the distortion of artwork or labels on 3D models. Ray Tracing simulates lighting for high-resolution effects, and Light Map Editor recreates editable studio lighting. The cloud-based iC3D opsis viewer and storage supports collaboration, email sharing, and animated movies; its listed viewer limit is 25 models. Artwork links work in both directions with Adobe Illustrator and Hybrid PACKZ. The software imports formats including Collada, OBJ, STL, PDF, DXF, and CF2, and exports 3D, production-workflow, and image files. It runs on macOS 12 or later and Windows 10 or later, with specified processor, GPU memory, and RAM requirements. Pricing is on request, and a free trial is listed.