Siemens NX vs SOLIDWORKS

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.

SOLIDWORKS provides 3D software for creating, simulating, publishing, and managing product data. SOLIDWORKS Design supports parts, assemblies, drawings, sheet-metal, and framing workflows; the portfolio also includes simulation tools for evaluating performance, efficiency, and durability. The installed Design application can work offline. With Cloud Services, it connects to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for collaboration and data management, including sharing and marking up designs and managing revisions. Browser-based xDesign tools provide modeling without a local installation. Standard with Cloud Services costs $2,820 a year for a single machine-locked device, excluding local taxes. Professional costs $3,456 a year and Premium costs $4,716 a year, each for a single user and excluding local taxes. A Makers plan costs $48 a year for personal, non-commercial use, and Design Standard is free for students. The listed platforms include macOS, web, and Windows, though client SOLIDWORKS products list Windows 10 and Windows 11 64-bit support; eDrawings for Mac lists supported macOS releases. Online purchases include support, and orders can be canceled and refunded within 15 days.