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SOLIDWORKS Design
SOLIDWORKS Design brings together fast 3D modelling, clear documentation tools and cloud-enabled collaboration to support engineers through every stage of product development. Whether you work with simple parts or large assemblies, the software helps you design efficiently and deliver production-ready results.
What is SOLIDWORKS Design?
SOLIDWORKS Design is a complete 3D CAD environment used to create parts, assemblies and detailed drawings. It supports daily engineering work by providing an intuitive interface, predictable modelling tools and built-in collaboration features that keep teams aligned.
You can sketch, model, review and prepare manufacturing documentation within one platform, with cloud-connected services simplifying feedback, sharing and version control.
Key capabilities include:
Powerful parametric modelling
Assembly design with performance-focused tools
2D and 3D manufacturing documentation
Assistive AI for modelling and drawing tasks
Connected cloud collaboration
CAD-aware file storage and version control
Integrated workflows with simulation, rendering and CAM
Benefits of SOLIDWORKS Design
SOLIDWORKS Design gives teams a stable, efficient workflow that reduces rework and keeps projects moving forward. The tools are designed to support everyday engineering tasks without adding complexity.
Key points:
- Consistent sketching and feature tools
- Reliable updates as the model evolves
- Stable performance on assemblies
- Predictable design intent through all stages
Key points:
- Intuitive and easy to learn
- Customisable shortcuts and menus
- Focused layout for clean navigation
- Built to reduce unnecessary clicks
Key points:
- Secure cloud-based model sharing
- Browser-based viewing and markup
- Centralised feedback tracking
- No extra software required for reviewers
SOLIDWORKS Design Capabilities
SOLIDWORKS Design includes the essential tools engineers need to move from idea to production while maintaining clarity across parts, assemblies and documentation.
Complete Tools for Product Developmen
Build parts, assemble components and generate production-ready drawings in one connected environment. As your model changes, your drawings and documentation update automatically.
Key points:
Fast 3D part and assembly creation
Automated drawing updates
Built-in BOM support
Smooth transition from design to manufacturing
Smarter Tools for Everyday Modelling
Specialised tools accelerate repetitive or industry-specific tasks. You can design sheet metal parts, weldments, routed systems and mould components using workflows built around manufacturing standards.
Key points:
Sheet metal, weldment and mould tools
Hardware library with standard components
Automated features reduce repetitive work
Assistive intelligence predicts common actions
Clear Documentation and Faster Reviews
Create detailed drawings or use 3D annotations depending on your release process. Browser-based review tools help you gather clear feedback from internal teams or manufacturing partners.
Key points:
Production-ready 2D drawings
Support for GD&T and 3D annotations
Browser-based markup for faster reviews
Smoother approval cycles
Built-In Control of Versions and Revisions
SOLIDWORKS Design keeps design relationships intact through CAD-aware storage. Assemblies stay linked, file references remain valid and version history is easy to track.
Key points:
Prevent overwritten work
Maintain correct file references
Clear revision tracking
Cloud-connected access options
Compare SOLIDWORKS Design Packages
Capabilities
SOLIDWORKS Design
Standard
SOLIDWORKS Design
Professional
SOLIDWORKS Design
Premium
SOLIDWORKS Design Licensing and Deployment Options
SOLIDWORKS Design is available in two deployment models. Both include the same CAD tools – the difference lies in how the licence is installed and accessed.
Cloud Now
(Flexible Access Across Devices)
Cloud Now is licensed to the user rather than the machine. You can install the software from the cloud and access it across multiple devices, with automatic connection to Cloud Services.
Key points:
Named-user licence
Accessible across devices
Installed and updated via the cloud
Quarterly and yearly licensing options
Cloud Ready
(Local Installation With Cloud Features)
Cloud Ready installs directly on a workstation and can be paired with optional cloud capabilities. It’s suited for fixed setups, device-based licensing and network deployments.
Key points:
Local installation on a single device
Device-based or floating licence options
Optional cloud-enabled features
Quarterly, yearly and perpetual terms available
Request a SOLIDWORKS Design Quote
Real-world results with SOLIDWORKS Design
Explore our SOLIDWORKS Customer Stories that showcase how teams in engineering, manufacturing, and product design use SOLIDWORKS Desgn to speed development, improve quality, and reduce costs. Each case study details the challenge, SOLIDWORKS-powered workflow, and measurable results you can replicate.
Software: SOLIDWORKS Premium, SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation, SOLIDWORKS Visualize
Henlo Coffee
Software: SOLIDWORKS Premium with
built-in FEA
Miser Hybrid Technologies
Software: SOLIDWORKS Premium, SOLIDWORKS Professional
CADAC/Dometic
Software: SOLIDWORKS Professional, SOLIDWORKS Visualize
Stage Zero
Software: SOLIDWORKS Professional, SOLIDWORKS Premium, SOLIDWORKS PDM, SOLIDWORKS Visualize
Macrotec Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions about SOLIDWORKS Design
What is SOLIDWORKS Design
SOLIDWORKS Design is used to create 3D parts, assemblies and detailed drawings for engineering projects. It supports the full product development process – from conceptual modelling to manufacturing documentation — and is widely adopted across industries such as machinery, consumer goods, electronics, medical and research engineering. It helps teams design accurately, communicate clearly and deliver products with consistent quality.
Is there a SOLIDWORKS Design free trial?
Yes. You can request a free trial that provides access to the modelling tools, drawing environment and cloud-enabled collaboration features. This allows you to experience the workflow and determine how SOLIDWORKS Design fits into your engineering process.
What are the SOLIDWORKS Design system requirements?
Performance depends on project size and complexity, but SOLIDWORKS Design generally benefits from strong single-core CPU performance, a certified graphics card and sufficient RAM for assemblies. MECAD can recommend hardware tailored to your workload to ensure smooth performance and reliability.
How much does SOLIDWORKS Design cost?
Pricing varies based on licence type and term. Both Cloud Now and Cloud Ready licences offer flexible purchase options. MECAD can provide accurate pricing and guidance to help you select the most suitable setup for your business.
Are there solutions for startups or entrepreneurs?
Yes. The SOLIDWORKS for Startups programme provides qualifying companies with access to SOLIDWORKS Design and additional tools at no cost. The programme includes training resources and collaborative support to help early-stage hardware teams accelerate product development. MECAD can assist with eligibility checks.
Is SOLIDWORKS Design easy to learn?
SOLIDWORKS Design is known for its approachable interface and strong learning resources. It is used in thousands of educational institutions worldwide, giving students experience with industry-standard tools. Users can access structured training, certifications and community support both online and through MECAD.
Is SOLIDWORKS Design the same as SOLIDWORKS xDesign?
No. SOLIDWORKS Design is a locally installed CAD system for Windows workstations. SOLIDWORKS xDesign is a cloud-native, browser-based tool that runs on any device. They complement each other depending on how your team works and collaborates.
Does SOLIDWORKS Design run on the cloud?
SOLIDWORKS Design installs locally, but its Cloud Services allow you to share designs, manage revisions and gather feedback through cloud-connected tools. If you require a fully cloud-native CAD experience, SOLIDWORKS xDesign offers browser-based modelling with no installation required.
How MECAD Systems Can Help
Option for Your Team
Support When You Need It
With Flexible Licensing
Get Started With SOLIDWORKS Design
SOLIDWORKS Design provides the modelling accuracy, collaboration tools and documentation features needed to move ideas into production. Whether you work alone or as part of a team, it helps you design efficiently and maintain consistent quality across your projects.