SOLIDWORKS Solutions for Engineers and Innovators
Design, Simulate, and Manufacture with Confidence
MECAD Systems is South Africa’s authorised SOLIDWORKS reseller and training partner, helping engineers and manufacturers design better products faster with SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE.
90-Day Pilot Project
Limited to first-time SOLIDWORKS users – unlock 90 days of full 3D CAD access with guided training and expert support.
Exclusive offer from

90-Day Pilot Project
Limited to first-time SOLIDWORKS users – unlock 90 days of full 3D CAD access with guided training and expert support.
Exclusive offer from

About MECAD Systems
South Africa’s most experienced SOLIDWORKS partner
For almost four decades, MECAD Systems has partnered with engineering and manufacturing companies to drive design innovation through SOLIDWORKS software, training, and technical support.
Recognised by Dassault Systèmes, we provide end-to-end assistance – from software implementation to advanced simulation and consulting – ensuring your teams work smarter, faster, and more accurately.
With over 2 700 active clients, we are trusted for our reliability, technical expertise, and dedication to long-term success.
SOLIDWORKS Solutions Across South Africa
National presence, local expertise
Whether you’re based in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, or the Western Cape, MECAD delivers certified SOLIDWORKS software, training, and on-site support tailored to your industry.
Our offices in Centurion, Cape Town, and Durban allow us to provide fast, hands-on assistance to clients in every province.
As South Africa’s longest-standing SOLIDWORKS partner, our reach extends throughout the African continent, supporting engineers wherever innovation happens.
SOLIDWORKS Products and Engineering Tools
A complete SOLIDWORKS suite
Boost productivity and streamline your workflow with MECAD’s complete portfolio of SOLIDWORKS design, simulation, and manufacturing tools. Each product is integrated to deliver seamless collaboration, better data control, and faster product development.
SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD
Design, simulate, and document 3D models with precision using the industry-standard SOLIDWORKS CAD environment.
SOLIDWORKS Simulation
Run structural, thermal, and motion analyses to test real-world performance before manufacturing.
SOLIDWORKS PDM
Manage design data securely, track revisions, and collaborate across teams with centralised version control.
SOLIDWORKS Electrical
Quickly create intelligent electrical schematics and automate wiring documentation directly in SOLIDWORKS.
SOLIDWORKS CAM
Connect design to manufacturing with integrated CAM software that automates CNC programming inside SOLIDWORKS.
SOLIDWORKS Plastics
Predict and prevent moulding defects by simulating plastic flow during part and mould design.
SOLIDWORKS Visualize
Transform CAD data into stunning, photorealistic images and animations for marketing and presentations.
DraftSight
Professional 2D drafting and 3D design software compatible with DWG files, ideal for creating accurate drawings.
SOLIDWORKS Composer
Produce clear, interactive assembly instructions and manuals directly from your 3D models.
See what SOLIDWORKS can do
From concept to realistic visualisation
SOLIDWORKS turns precise CAD models into lifelike renders using built-in visualisation tools. Add realistic lighting, materials and textures to present designs exactly as they will appear in production.

Our SOLIDWORKS services
How MECAD helps you succeed
SOLIDWORKS Training
Gain hands-on expertise through certified courses from MECAD Academy – Essentials, Advanced Design, Simulation and more.
SOLIDWORKS Support
Get fast, practical help from local engineers who keep your software and workflows performing at their best.
SOLIDWORKS Consulting
Optimise efficiency with tailored workflow analysis and implementation from MECAD Technologies.
Why choose MECAD Systems
The SOLIDWORKS advantage
01
Engineering Expertise Since 1986
With decades of experience in CAD and engineering software, MECAD Systems has guided South African companies through every design evolution – from early CAD tools to today’s SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE platforms.
02
Authorised SOLIDWORKS Partner
We’re a recognised Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS reseller, providing genuine licences, certified training, and direct technical support for engineers and manufacturers across South Africa.
03
Trusted by Over 2 700 Companies
Our clients – from small workshops to large manufacturers – use SOLIDWORKS through MECAD to shorten design cycles, reduce costs, and boost collaboration.
04
All-in-One SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem
Software, training, consulting, and data management all under one roof – making MECAD your single source for end-to-end SOLIDWORKS solutions.
01
Engineering Expertise Since 1986
With decades of experience in CAD and engineering software, MECAD Systems has guided South African companies through every design evolution – from early CAD tools to today’s SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE platforms.
02
Authorised SOLIDWORKS Partner
We’re a recognised Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS reseller, providing genuine licences, certified training, and direct technical support for engineers and manufacturers across South Africa.
03
Trusted by Over 2 700 Companies
Our clients – from small workshops to large manufacturers – use SOLIDWORKS through MECAD to shorten design cycles, reduce costs, and boost collaboration.
04
All-in-One SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem
Software, training, consulting, and data management all under one roof – making MECAD your single source for end-to-end SOLIDWORKS solutions.
Our SOLIDWORKS blog
Insights for SOLIDWORKS users
Frequently Asked Questions
Your SOLIDWORKS questions answered
Go to Shop SOLIDWORKS, choose your edition (e.g., SOLIDWORKS Standard), and submit the quick form. Our team confirms licensing, onboarding, and support. Need a tailored quote for Simulation, Electrical, or PDM? Request a quote on the same page.
SOLIDWORKS Standard is currently R 3 650 per month on a 3-month subscription (billed monthly). For other packages, terms, or promotions, see the live pricing and request a quote.
MECAD Systems provides robust support to ensure our clients can fully leverage their software tools. Our support includes technical assistance, troubleshooting, software updates, and best practice advice.
Clients can reach our support team via phone, email, or through our online support portal. We are committed to providing timely and effective solutions to any issues our clients may encounter.
Yes, MECAD Systems offer customisation and consulting services tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our consulting services include workflow optimisation, custom software development, and implementation support.
We work closely with our clients to understand their specific requirements and deliver solutions that improve efficiency and productivity.
MECAD Systems stands out due to our comprehensive range of services, deep industry expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
We provide not only top-tier software solutions but also exceptional training, support, and consulting services. Our personalised approach ensures that we meet the specific needs of each client, helping them achieve their business goals efficiently.
SOLIDWORKS offers free trials for evaluation and free or discounted licenses for educational institutions. For commercial use, a paid subscription or perpetual license is typically required.
SOLIDWORKS is renowned for its 3D modeling, simulation, and product design capabilities, making it ideal for engineering and manufacturing. AutoCAD is more suited for 2D drafting. Many professionals prefer SOLIDWORKS for advanced design needs.
SOLIDWORKS pricing varies by package and licensing model. For example, MECAD Systems offers SOLIDWORKS Standard billed monthly for R3650,00 excl. VAT per month for a 3-month period. For detailed SOLIDWORKS pricing and tailored quotes, please contact MECAD Systems.
While SOLIDWORKS has a learning curve typical of professional-grade 3D CAD software, many users become proficient quickly with the right training. MECAD Systems offers expert SOLIDWORKS training to help you master the software efficiently.
For beginners, the standard SOLIDWORKS package is recommended as it includes essential tools for 3D design and simulation. MECAD Systems can guide you to choose the best SOLIDWORKS solution for your needs.
Absolutely. SOLIDWORKS is a standalone 3D CAD platform that does not require prior knowledge of AutoCAD. Specialised SOLIDWORKS training courses are available to help you learn from scratch.
SketchUp is user-friendly for basic 3D modeling, but SOLIDWORKS offers a comprehensive suite of tools for professional engineering and product design. For detailed, high-quality design work, SOLIDWORKS is preferred.
SOLIDWORKS licenses are available as either perpetual licenses (with annual maintenance fees) or subscription-based models. Permanent ownership is an option with the perpetual license model.
It depends on your career goals. For 3D product design and advanced engineering, SOLIDWORKS is generally more powerful. For 2D drafting, AutoCAD might be suitable. Overall, SOLIDWORKS is highly recommended for comprehensive design work.
The best CAD software depends on your specific needs. SOLIDWORKS is widely regarded as one of the top CAD programs for its advanced 3D modeling, simulation, and design capabilities.
Yes, SOLIDWORKS is resource-intensive. A powerful computer with a high-performance processor, ample RAM, and a professional-grade graphics card is recommended to handle complex SOLIDWORKS designs efficiently.
The time it takes to learn SOLIDWORKS varies by individual and training method. Many users become proficient within a few weeks to a few months, especially when supported by structured SOLIDWORKS training from experts.
SOLIDWORKS does not generally offer free licenses for startups, though special pricing or trial options may be available. Contact MECAD Systems for the latest SOLIDWORKS offers and discounts.
Connect with Our SOLIDWORKS Experts
Let’s Design the Future Together
Ready to buy SOLIDWORKS, start training or optimise your workflows? Join the thousands of engineers who trust MECAD Systems to deliver world-class SOLIDWORKS solutions.