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Onshape

Onshape

Overview

What is Onshape?

Onshape is a cloud-native product development platform with integrated CAD, data management and analytics. Onshape aims to accelerate time to market and improve innovation by:1) Access: Unlike file-based CAD which is on-premise only, Onshape enables remote access for designers and…

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Recent Reviews

TrustRadius Insights

Onshape has established itself as the go-to CAD tool for product design and R&D in the robotics and automation industry, offering …
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Awards

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Reviewer Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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Standard

1,500

Cloud
per year per user

Professional

2,500

Cloud
per year per user

Enterprise

Contact sales team

Cloud
per year per user

Entry-level set up fee?

  • No setup fee
For the latest information on pricing, visithttps://www.onshape.com/en/pricing

Offerings

  • Free Trial
  • Free/Freemium Version
  • Premium Consulting/Integration Services

Starting price (does not include set up fee)

  • $1,500 per year per user
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Product Details

What is Onshape?

Onshape is a cloud-native product development platform with integrated CAD, data management and analytics. Onshape aims to accelerate time to market and improve innovation by:

1) Access: Unlike file-based CAD which is on-premise only, Onshape enables remote access for designers and engineers from anywhere, and on any internet-connected device -including tablets and smart phones.

2) Collaboration: Onshape aims to eliminate the version control problems and blocking of file-based CAD and PDM systems by enabling real-time, simultaneous access and collaboration for designers and engineers.

The vendor boasts over 2 million users who work in Onshape to modernize and streamline their product development cycle. According to the vendor, Onshape users in 170+ countries have logged over 6 million hours modeling advanced robotics, biomedical devices, industrial machinery, agriculture equipment, and consumer products. Onshape is designed to be an anywhere, anytime CAD system. The vendor reports that 1 in 8 sessions occur on mobile devices.

Founded in 2012, the Onshape leadership team includes the original creators of SOLIDWORKS® and other leaders in cloud infrastructure, data security, and mobile. PTC purchased Onshape in 2019.

Onshape Features

  • Supported: Parts (top-down or bottom-up solid and surface modeling)
  • Supported: Assemblies (design in-context, built-in standard hardware and parts linked from documents, single mate)
  • Supported: Drawings (fully detailed drawings of parts and assemblies, import/export DWG, DWT and DXF file formats)
  • Supported: Data Management (built-in version control and release management tools)
  • Supported: Collaboration (real-time simultaneous design, follow mode, comments)
  • Supported: Workflow (automate workflows to manage release and revision, custom workflows)
  • Supported: Bill of Materials (manage while simultaneously editing and assembly with real-time updates)
  • Supported: Configurations (separate tables for each configuration option, configuration variables enable infinite product variations with unique release history)
  • Supported: Analytics (monitor project status with Activity, Release, Project and User dashboards, security reviews, global permissions)
  • Supported: Integrations (robust REST API, App Store with ERP, PLM, SSO, simulation, CAM)
  • Supported: Support (contact support directly in the product, Learning Center with tutorials and instructor led training )
  • Supported: Security (role-based access control, AES-256 encryption, optional 2FA and audit logs, SOC 2 Type 2 compliant)

Onshape Videos

Onshape Technical Details

Deployment TypesSoftware as a Service (SaaS), Cloud, or Web-Based
Operating SystemsUnspecified
Mobile ApplicationApple iOS, Android
Supported CountriesGlobal
Supported LanguagesEnglish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Spanish

Frequently Asked Questions

Onshape starts at $1500.

SOLIDWORKS, Autodesk Fusion 360, and Autodesk Inventor are common alternatives for Onshape.

Reviewers rate Implementation Rating highest, with a score of 9.2.

The most common users of Onshape are from Small Businesses (1-50 employees).
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Comparisons

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Reviews and Ratings

(75)

Community Insights

TrustRadius Insights are summaries of user sentiment data from TrustRadius reviews and, when necessary, 3rd-party data sources. Have feedback on this content? Let us know!

Onshape has established itself as the go-to CAD tool for product design and R&D in the robotics and automation industry, offering real-time collaboration and version control. Users from various industries, such as 3D printing service companies, machine design companies, and startups, have highlighted its usefulness and efficiency in their workflows. For instance, a 3D printing service company relies on Onshape for file conversion needs, particularly when converting SolidWorks files to the .stl format. Onshape's support for parts, assemblies, drawings, simulations, and renderings has made it a preferred full CAD suite for machine design companies collaborating with vendors and customers.

The ease of use and time-saving aspects of Onshape have resonated with users across industries. An early-stage startup values Onshape for its simplicity, design traceability, and lack of technical glitches compared to other CAD programs. Similarly, in sensor and microcontroller development, Onshape aids in the rapid development of lab fixtures and enclosures by supporting import/export of part files and collaboration features. Additionally, Onshape is being used extensively in the automotive industry, serving as the primary CAD system for a company providing automation solutions. The advantages of version management, sharing designs with customers, and collaboration have been instrumental in improving their processes.

Another significant benefit of Onshape is its accessibility from any computer or mobile device due to its cloud-based infrastructure. This feature allows users to work on designs anytime, anywhere without the need for expensive hardware or IT support. It simplifies collaboration within teams as well as with outside suppliers worldwide by providing easy tracking of changes and versions. Furthermore, organizations have found that Onshape addresses file management challenges associated with traditional systems by simplifying collaboration among cross-functional design teams and maintaining document management architecture.

Onshape's versatility is evident in its application across multiple industries such as marine, opto-mechanical engineering, product development, industrial automation, and vertical farming. It has become the preferred CAD system for designing 3D printed products and prototypes, thanks to its cloud and collaboration features along with multi-CAD import capabilities. Moreover, Onshape has proven to be a cost-effective and powerful solution for small teams and individuals, offering ease of use and sufficient capabilities for various projects.

The cloud-based nature of Onshape makes it convenient for sharing information with other departments, vendors, clients, and coworkers, improving communication and collaboration. Users appreciate the ability to work in the same document simultaneously, enabling real-time collaboration, especially beneficial for remote teams. It simplifies the process of converting customer designs into manufacturable components by streamlining communication and collaboration.

Furthermore, Onshape's permission-based access ensures secure sharing of CAD data while minimizing the need for CAD administration and support. Its tutorial videos and responsive support staff make it easy for users to learn and navigate the software. Onshape's unique configuration capabilities provide efficiency and control in designing similar models with different dimensions, unlocking potential that might be limited by other CAD packages.

The cloud-based system of Onshape revolutionizes CAD by enabling easy sharing and collaboration with customers, coworkers, and suppliers, involving a broader audience in the design process. It is widely used in various industries such as selling through configurators, manufacturing, CAM software, and modeling industrial automation, highlighting its versatility and integration capabilities.

Overall, Onshape's cloud-based infrastructure, collaborative features, user-friendly interface, and versatile applications have made it a preferred choice for professionals across industries. Its ability to simplify design processes, streamline collaboration, improve communication, and enhance accessibility from any device has proven to be invaluable in achieving efficient product development and solving customer challenges.

Cloud-based infrastructure and collaboration capabilities: Many users have expressed their appreciation for Onshape's cloud-based infrastructure, which allows them to access their data from anywhere and on any device without the need for software installation or file management. This feature has been highly praised by reviewers who value the flexibility and convenience it offers.

Clear version control and change tracking: The ability to clearly see versions and change history in Onshape has received positive feedback from users. This feature enables them to track and manage their design progress effectively, ensuring that they are always working with the most up-to-date information.

In-application support and assistance: Users have praised Onshape's in-application support, mentioning that they have received rapid assistance whenever they needed help. They appreciate the ability to share their models with the support team, which greatly aids in getting the necessary help. This responsive support system has been highlighted as a valuable asset by many reviewers.

Confusing User Interface: Some users have expressed frustration with the confusing and difficult-to-navigate user interface of Onshape. They find it challenging to locate certain features or accomplish specific design tasks, often having to rely on external resources like Google and forums for assistance.

Lack of Advanced Features: Several users have mentioned that Onshape lacks certain advanced features that are available in other CAD packages. These missing features include basic simulation, rendering, and animations, which can be a drawback for users who heavily rely on them for their design work.

Steep Learning Curve: The software's lack of a traditional file-based data structure has resulted in a steep learning curve for some users. They have to adapt to the versioning, revisions, releases, and branches system, requiring extra thought and effort to align with their workflow.

Users of Onshape have provided several recommendations based on their experience with the CAD tool. Here are the three most common recommendations:

  1. Try Onshape for a project and consider the cost vs. value: Many users suggest giving Onshape a try for a specific project. They highlight the importance of evaluating the software's features and learning how it works during the trial period. Additionally, users emphasize considering the cost-effectiveness of Onshape compared to other CAD tools.

  2. Start slow and work on simple projects first: Users advise starting with smaller and simpler projects when using Onshape. By gradually familiarizing yourself with the software, you can better understand its capabilities and optimize your workflow.

  3. Utilize Onshape support and forums for assistance: Users recommend taking advantage of Onshape's support resources, including their support team and online forums. They suggest reaching out to tech support for guidance on migrating from another software, determining the Bill of Materials (BOM) structure, and organizing parts effectively. Engaging with the user community in forums allows for discussions with other users and developers to ensure that your specific needs are met.

It is important to note that these recommendations showcase users' perspectives on how to get the most out of Onshape and maximize its benefits for their CAD needs.

Attribute Ratings

Reviews

(1-9 of 9)
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Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Collaboration and design sharing with outside suppliers around the world is made very easy with Onshape. Being able to access Onshape anywhere anytime so long as you have an internet connection is a huge advantage over other systems out there. The ability to track changes and versions with ease of a google document is extremely useful and time saving.
  • Sharing and working with outside companies
  • Ease of use for no users
  • Online live collaboration
  • Surfacing could have some additional functionality for organic shapes
  • Converting shapes to engineering manufacturing methods, like flattening basic surfaces
  • More apps linked to Onshape, apps that perform useful design and engineering functions outside of CAD
Out of all the CAD platforms used over the years Onshape combines all the benefits from ease of use to more complex engineering. The two great benefits is no requirements for specific computer hardware besides a good internet connection and access from any computer or workstation including phones.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Students use Onshape to learn basic CAD skills and designing parts for additive manufacturing. They use mostly basic functionality of the software, but do utilize the collaborative component. As the teacher the monitoring and support aspects are developing and getting much better than when I was first introduced to the program. I can now send students starter documents and set up collaborate groups. I don't limit available features, but I know that is also available. The biggest problem for me that this program addresses is it's capability to operate completely within a web browser. Most students only have school chromebooks that don't have the memory space to support a downloaded program so being able to access through a web browser is a big plus despite any limitations that creates.
  • Ability for user to collaborate on documents.
  • Ease of access to all documents from any web connected device.
  • Straightforward and easy to navigate user interface within document.
  • Administrative page for enterprise users is hard to add users or change user permissions.
  • Alerts for failed features are sometimes difficult to find.
Onshape has been great as a learning platform for students as they are typically using fairly basic functions and smaller projects. As projects get more complicated or documents contain more parts or larger assemblies the program does use more bandwidth and processing power, which has let to some lag and loading issues.
Terran Gerratt | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I use it for 3D printing. It is especially useful as I run a Linux machine and most other CAD software doesn't work on Linux. The web-based nature of onshape makes it very unique and portable. I also like the ability to view and make small edits from my phone.
  • Version control
  • Collaborative
  • Accessable from various devices
  • 3D sketches
  • Assemblies can get very confusing
  • Working better in mobile app
The ability to work on my projects no matter where I am or what computer I have with me makes Onshape incredibly valuable. I love being able to pull up models on my phone to show colleagues and to quickly reference dimensions. The built-in source control makes sure I never lose my work.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
We are providers of automation solutions to the auto industry in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Onshape has been a great resource to help with the design of fixtures, jigs, and machines for our customers, which is our main business. We previously used other design platforms like Solid Works and Inventor, but after using Onshape, there was no looking back. Those other platforms make a mess when managing versions of a design and depend on files for sharing, which creates another set of problems. Sharing a view-only design with a customer is a breeze with OS, and since no software installation is required, all of our customers are able to access the system and review the design.
  • Not needing to save a file.
  • Working in the clod.
  • Super easy to share.
  • Real time team collaboration.
  • Excellent management of versions.
  • You absolutely need an internet connection (not really a con).
  • It lags behind in some areas regarding specialty functions like electric or mold design.
Onshape is well suited to replace any other design suite as long as you have a dependable internet connection and don't need special design modules like electric design. It shines when working in a collaborative way with other persons, when the computer has reliability problems, when it's needed to explore several design ideas, and when it's needed to share a design and retain control of the IP, among many others. I definitely wouldn't use any traditional design software again, even when those other companies are in fact, offering some incomplete on-the-cloud "solutions".
Kalle Halme | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Onshape SAAS is used to make 3d models for our customer's needs and we can send those models for real-time inspections for them. We also make suggestions to our customers for different kinds of assemblies where this tool is marvelous. We have also designed some own products and can show them easily in anywhere where we want PDA or mobile phone etc.
  • Web based
  • Full 3d modelling cad
  • Reliable
  • Some missing function that I was used in other 3D cads, but after updates, a lot of them has been added
When you work in the field or office Onshape is great. If you work somewhere without no good internet, Onshape is not the right choice. We do not make big assemblies but I have seen Onshape can handle them also, in this area we do not have experience and cannot say yes or no if need to handle a huge whole.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
We use Onshape as our primary CAD system and converted over from another major CAD system just in time for the COVID lockdowns. Very glad we did due to the ability to work remotely with other team members. I haven't looked back. I've used CAD systems for 20 years and Onshape is by far my favorite of the past 20 years. I've admin'd other CAD systems in the past which has always been a headache, whether it's managing the files, shared hardware, user controls, revision, ... All of it is better in Onshape.
  • Remote Work Enabled
  • Multi-User Design
  • Administration
  • Revision Control
  • Search Function
COVID lockdowns hit and you need to work from home ASAP. With ONshape you already have cloud-based computing straight from your work computer; you can easily do this at home with your home computer, or just take your work laptop home and work on that. To go from "in office" to "at home" work takes near-zero time. Other CAD systems require lengthy installs or moving desktops around or ensuring you have VPN access to a work server. None of that is needed. Administration of this across the users is incredibly simple.
Kevin Eppers | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 7 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
OnShape is the 3D CAD software I have chosen to use for new product development. We are two users working with injection molded parts, machined parts, purchased parts, and large assemblies. For larger assemblies, I save a lot of time with the convenient mate tools. We also take advantage of the integrated release management system to save a ton of time not using a vault check in check out system.
  • Part modeling is clean convenient and user-friendly.
  • Assembly mates are amazingly quick and robust.
  • Working on the cloud allows us access from anywhere.
  • I would like to see more functionality and options for dimensioning drawings. Customizing text positioning can be critical to optimizing a layout that has a lot of tightly packed features, unfortunately, there are not many options.
  • Version history is great in theory, but it needs a search function to make it useful. Example: There is no way to find a list of changes to "Extrusion 1" without manually going through. And the problem is that my team and I use CAD as a development tool to get an idea into 3D space, then review details with the team once there is a visual. The result is hundreds to thousands of line items in the version history, so manual searching is not feasible.
  • I don't believe that branching is useful (yes I have reviewed the self-guided material about it, and have gone through the instructor lead training).
I come from using SOLIDWORKS for four years, and as much as I love it over Pro-E, I find Onshape has the same level of functionality in regards to part design. Assemblies are easier to make functional. Where OnShape really shines is that the integrated release management is significantly easier and does not leave any possibility for the release process to be done wrong. This is huge when being audited. You can also store any file type for design history records in OnShape. If you don't need release management and just design parts there aren't a lot of benefits other than the ease of access from anywhere on any device. OnShape is not perfect, but the problems cost less time and frustration than any other CAD I have used.
Matthew Bush | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
At Hirebotics we use Onshape to drive the design of all our robot-as-a-service customer installations. We use Onshape across the engineering and operations organization as well as with our vendor base. One of the issues that we needed to address was having collaborative access to all of our design documents regardless of where engineers are physically located. Since we deploy turn-key robotic workcells in just a few weeks we need to be able to collaborate on the design with several engineers all working on the same models at the same time. With the built-in PDM we are also able to control our release to procurement cycle from directly within the application. The cloud nature of the software suits our business perfectly as our engineers are often traveling to customer sites but they are always able to get into the system and collaborate with other engineers.
  • Cloud-connected - we never have to worry about updating our design computers or upgrade the software as the upgrades happen automatically every few weeks. We are always on the latest version and get access to the newest features.
  • Analytics, we are able to see how we are using the tool, how long projects are really taking to complete and how much time we are spending in the system.
  • Extensible, we are able to use FeatureScript and write functions for our own features. We have used this to automate repetitive tasks so that we save time on designing features that we use over and over.
  • Electrical schematics, currently there is no easy way to create electrical schematics in the system
  • Performance, as with all software we are always wanting it to do more in less time.
Overall Onshape has been a great partner to work with. The software works very well for our mechanical design systems and saves us design time by rethinking how things are done in CAD. One area where we do not feel it is currently a great fit is electrical cabinet design and schematics.

I am sure though that these features will be coming in future releases and know that we get meaningful, new software features every few weeks.
Christopher DeAngelis | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I use OnShape for designing mechanisms and parts that can be 3d printed on my own 3d printer, or by a 3rd party through 3dHubs. I use OnShape to design desks and shelving before building them for myself. I also use OnShape to design small plastic parts and trinkets that can be 3d printed.
  • Online support
  • A large array of Functions
  • Terrific import export features
  • Ability to create scripts and functions
  • Performance, difficult to determine if performance issues are server-side or bandwidth/latency related
  • New Parts do not contain selectable x,y,z axis.
  • No virtual reality features
OnShape is well suited for any design project that calls for Collaboration. OnShape is not well suited for companies that already have large part databases using another CAD software.
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