Plasticity vs SolidWorks
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
CAD-style modeling built for artists.
Parametric 3D CAD for mechanical design.
The verdict
Both Plasticity and SolidWorks are credible cad tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Plasticity if you want a lower starting price (from $149 once), a longer free trial (30 days), broader platform coverage and a higher overall rating (4.7/5). CAD-style modeling built for artists.
SolidWorks — Parametric 3D CAD for mechanical design.
Plasticity vs SolidWorks: side by side
| Dimension | Plasticity | SolidWorks |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $149 onceWinner | Custom |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | 30 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | One-time | Subscription |
| Best for | Concept Artists, Product Designers | Mechanical Engineers, Manufacturers |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, LinuxWinner | Windows |
| Rating | 4.7/5Winner | 4.5/5 |
Plasticity key facts
- Vendor
- Plasticity
- Pricing
- One-time — From $149 once
- Free tier
- Free trial (30 days)
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Concept Artists, Product Designers
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2022
- Headquarters
- USA
SolidWorks key facts
- Vendor
- Dassault Systèmes
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Windows
- Best for
- Mechanical Engineers, Manufacturers
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 1995
- Headquarters
- Waltham, MA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Plasticity better than SolidWorks?
Neither is universally better — Plasticity edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Plasticity or SolidWorks cheaper?
Plasticity is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $149 once. Plasticity starts at from $149 once; SolidWorks starts at custom.
Can Plasticity replace SolidWorks?
Yes for most teams — both are cad tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.