Autodesk Inventor vs SOLIDWORKS
| Autodesk Inventor | SOLIDWORKS | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Paid from | — | $4/mo |
| Open source | No | No |
| Platforms | Windows | macOS, Web, Windows |
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Modeling method | hybrid | — |
| Assembly design | Yes | Yes |
| Sheet-metal tools | Yes | Yes |
| Surface modeling | Yes | — |
| Cloud collaboration | Yes | Yes |
| Supported platforms | Windows | — |
| File import and export | Import: Autodesk states Inventor supports opening non-native CAD data. Export formats documented for parts include DWG, DWF/DWFx, IGES, JT, OBJ, RFA, SAT, STEP, STL, CATIA V5, Parasolid, and Pro/ENGINEER; assemblies additionally include RVT. Drawing formats include DWG, IDW, DWF/DWFx, and DXF. Format support varies by data type and version. | — |
| Paid from | — | $2,820/user/mo |
Both are listed in Best 3D CAD Software, Best CAD Software. On Bettesworth Construction, SOLIDWORKS scores higher on our published basis.