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DesignSpark Mechanical vs SolidWorks: catalog facts
DesignSpark Mechanical	SolidWorks
Best for: Engineers and makers who need quick 3D models and edits without a full parametric CAD package	Best for: Industry-standard parametric CAD software for 3D design and product development
Free + paid options A free Explorer plan is available, with paid Creator and Engineer plans adding more tools.	Paid Commercial license; no free tier.
Windows	Windows
Push-pull direct modelling that suits non-specialists Imports and exports STEP, IGES, STL and DXF All 3 strengths for DesignSpark Mechanical Push-pull direct modelling that suits non-specialists Imports and exports STEP, IGES, STL and DXF Free plan with no project limit	Industry-standard status means broad training resources, plugins, and file compatibility Deep feature set for parametric modeling, assemblies, and simulation add-ons
Assembly tools require the paid Engineer plan Some import and export features depend on the plan	Windows-only desktop application with a steep learning curve Commercial licensing makes it costly for individuals or small studios
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for DesignSpark Mechanical rs-online.com/designspark/mechanical-software Catalog checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for SolidWorks solidworks.com Catalog checked September 22, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.