Alternatives to SALOME
An open-source platform for CAD modeling, meshing and visualizing results of numerical simulations. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.
The original
SALOME
An open-source platform for CAD modeling, meshing and visualizing results of numerical simulations.
Replacements
Listings that take over the same core job as SALOME.
Gmsh
An open-source 3D finite element mesh generator with a built-in CAD engine and post-processor.
Gmsh is also free and open source, focused on finite element meshing with a built-in CAD engine, adds macOS and ARM builds, and is scriptable through .geo files.
FreeCAD
A parametric 3D modeller for real objects: design by sketching constrained 2D shapes, then change the parameters later.
FreeCAD is a free, open-source parametric modeller with a FEM workbench, runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, and puts more weight on general part design than on simulation pipelines.
Similar software
Related functionality, not a direct replacement.
Elmer FEM
Open-source multiphysics simulation software based on the finite element method.
MeshLab
The standard tool for cleaning up messy 3D scan data: fill holes, remove noise, simplify and convert between mesh formats.
BRL-CAD
Constructive solid geometry modelling system with ray tracing and analysis.
Siemens NX
High-end CAD, CAM, and CAE suite used in aerospace and automotive design.
Autodesk Inventor
Parametric 3D CAD software for mechanical design, simulation and engineering documentation.
Autodesk Fusion 360
Cloud-connected parametric CAD, CAM, and CAE platform with a free personal tier.
