Autodesk Inventor vs SolidWorks: 2026 Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of Autodesk Inventor (3D Modeling) and SolidWorks (3D Modeling): pricing, platforms, ratings, supported file formats, deployment options, and the specific strengths each tool brings to a CAD team in 2026.
AI
Autodesk Inventor
$315 (Subscription)
★ 4.7/5 expert score
Professional-grade 3D mechanical design and simulation.
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SolidWorks
$1295 (Subscription)
★ 4.9/5 expert score
The de-facto industry standard for 3D parametric mechanical design.
| Autodesk Inventor | SolidWorks | |
|---|---|---|
| Expert score | ★ 4.7/5 | ★ 4.9/5 |
| Pricing | $315 (Subscription) | $1295 (Subscription) |
| Platforms | Windows | Windows |
| External reviews | 1,020 reviews on G2 / Capterra / TrustRadius | 3,550 reviews on G2 / Capterra / TrustRadius |
| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days |
| File formats | IPT, IAM, IDW, IDX, STEP, IGES, … | SLDPRT, SLDASM, SLDDRW, STEP, IGES, Parasolid, … |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop, Cloud |
| API / SDK | Yes (.NET / COM API) | Yes (COM-based API) |
| Industries | Manufacturing | Mechanical, Manufacturing, Automotive |
| Strengths | iLogic design automation · Eco-system integration | Intuitive workflow · Superior Parasolid stability · Unmatched ecosystem |
| Limitations | Windows only · Expensive | Windows only · Hardware hungry · Legacy API |
Which one to pick
Pick Autodesk Inventor if you need
cheaper starting price ($315 vs $1295).
Read the full Autodesk Inventor review →Pick SolidWorks if you need
higher expert score (4.9/5 vs 4.7/5); runs in the cloud; broader industry coverage.
Read the full SolidWorks review →Want a personalised shortlist?
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