MicroStation vs Siemens NX
MicroStation
bentley.com
Siemens NX
plm.sw.siemens.comSide by side
| Figure | MicroStation | Siemens NX |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $221.33/mo | — |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · 3D CAD Software | 8.1 (#27) | 8.6 (#7) |
| Spec score · CAD software | 8.0 (#16) | 8.5 (#8) |
| Spec score · Engineering Design Software | 7.8 (#13) | 7.8 (#14) |
| File formats | It can import formats including DWG, DXF, and IFC into DGN files, reference DWG files, and convert DGN files to iModels. | NX X Manufacturing Essentials can import, export, and visualize Parasolid, IGES, DXF, STEP, STL, and JT models. |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Support | Bentley points users to product documentation, community forums, technical articles, webinars, and support resources. | Siemens provides NX customer support and links users to its support center and NX community. |
| Trial | A trial requires a request form, eligibility review by a Bentley representative, and approval for guided access; the page does not state its duration. | Siemens advertises a 30 day free trial of NX X. |
Plans
Siemens NX
- NX X Design Essentials, Standard, Advanced and PremiumPriced on request
In their own words
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.
Siemens NX
Siemens NX is a product development suite spanning design, engineering, and manufacturing. It uses hybrid modeling and includes assembly design, sheet-metal tools, and surface modeling. Windows desktop use is supported, while NX X Design provides browser access as a cloud SaaS service with built-in data management. NX X Design has Essentials, Standard, Advanced, and Premium tiers, built on a common core with progressively added functionality. The tiers can share data without translation with other Siemens Xcelerator software. NX supports IGES, STEP AP203, STEP AP214, DXF/DWG, STL, and 3MF; NX X data exchange also lists JT, Solid Edge, and SolidWorks open. Design Copilot NX answers questions using documentation for the user's NX version and can link to documentation or launch mentioned commands. Other listed tools include virtual and augmented reality design, model-based inspection characteristics, sketch checking with automatic correction, and routed-systems design with rule checking. NX is paid, with pricing on request and a 30-day free trial; no free plan is listed.