Which Version of SOLIDWORKS Should I Buy?

Article by TriMech Solutions, LLC updated November 22, 2022

Article

Deciding which version of SOLIDWORKS is the best option for you is one of the most popular questions we get. Each version provides a variety of tools that you’ll benefit from!

SOLIDWORKS Standard

Standard is the first stepping stone of SOLIDWORKS if you are just beginning to learn the fundamentals of CAD or if you’re looking for a base to work with. The Standard version includes basic part modeling features and limited access to add-ins such as Sheet Metal, Weldments, and Simulation. Going the standard route is valuable to those who do not have a lot of experience with SOLIDWORKS or CAD in general, or if you or your company do not require a lot of add-in features.

SOLIDWORKS Professional

The Professional version of SOLIDWORKS includes a few more extra features than the standard version. My favorite? The SOLIDWORKS Toolbox: a library of universal standard parts! A few more simulation and electrical features are also included. Professional is for those who still don’t prefer the highest priced version but could really use the features that aren’t all included in standard, such as the toolbox. Professional is a good middleman for companies or people who are a little more experienced in SOLIDWORKS or have more specific work set in mind.

SOLIDWORKS Premium

Premium SOLIDWORKS is just about the best that’s offered to you and your company! While it is the most expensive, it includes advanced features not provided by the other two versions. Routing and more Simulation features are provided with this version, so if you’re working with such topics, this might be the best option for you.

The table included here provides a checklist of all available features with each version of SOLIDWORKS. This chart is a good start to decide which SOLIDWORKS fits your workload. Remember, a Client Executive and your local Application Engineer can aid you in your choice for your version. TriMech also offers training classes if you need a little help starting off with SOLIDWORKS.

SOLIDWORKS Product Matrix

FeatureSOLIDWORKS StandardSOLIDWORKS ProfessionalSOLIDWORKS Premium
Ease of Use
Part and Assembly Modeling
2D Drawings
Design Reuse and Automation
Animation and Visualization
Interference Check
Collaborate and Share CAD Data (3D Interconnect & eDrawings)
Advanced CAD File Import
Basic Analysis Tools (SimulationXpress & FloXpress)
Productivity Tools
SOLIDWORKS CAM Standard
Design for Manufacturing
SOLIDWORKS Visualize Standard (Must be on Active Subscription)
CAD Libraries
Automatic Task Scheduling and Batch Processing
Design for Cost & Cost Estimation
ECAD/MCAD Collaboration (CircuitWorks™)
Advanced Photorealistic Rendering (PhotoView 360)
CAD Standards Checking
Automated Tolerance Stack-Up Analysis (TolAnalyst)
SOLIDWORKS File Management
Reverse Engineering (ScanTo3D)
eDrawings® Professional
Motion Analysis
Structural Part and Assembly Analysis
Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) for Environmental Impact: SOLIDWORKS Sustainability
Routing of Pipes and Tubes
Routing of Electrical Cabling and Wiring Harnesses
Routing of Rectangular and Other Sections
Advanced Surface Flattening
Assembly Level Cost Roll Up
ViewViewView

 

If you still need help choosing which version of SOLIDWORKS to buy, contact us to speak with an expert.

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TriMech Solutions, LLC

TriMech provides thousands of engineering teams with 3D design and rapid prototyping solutions that work hand-in-hand, from sketch to manufacturing. Javelin became a subsidiary of TriMech Solutions LLC in 2021.