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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

(1-3 of 3)
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Keegan Schoch | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
We are a web-based mechanical engineering services company, providing anything from technical drawings through complex machine design and analysis. In order to seamlessly integrate with companies' teams, having cloud-based CAD is almost a necessity. Passing local copies of files back and forth is inefficient, error-prone, and, frankly, just not fun. Onshape's cloud-based CAD system addresses all of these issues. Additionally, the transition from other nodal-based CAD was easy and we now prefer it over any other software we have used, not just for its cloud-based infrastructure.
  • Cloud-based infrastructure and collaboration is a primary benefit.
  • The available documentation is extremely thorough.
  • The ability to integrate with other software for simulation, renderings, etc. is fantastic.
  • Not having to save and being able to clearly see versions and change history is excellent.
  • Some of the hole callout features in drawings are very limited.
  • I have noticed some speed issues in larger assembly drawings.
  • Click responsiveness of dimensions within drawings.
  • Cut list flexibility is constrained to frames-only components.
Onshape's cloud-based infrastructure has set us apart as web-based mechanical engineering contractors. Our ability to collaborate, communicate, and efficiently support our clients is unparalleled in Onshape. The versions and revision control are powerful and effective, though, like any file management system, require training to use properly.

Additionally, for any clients working in Onshape's Enterprise accounts, we can quickly be granted permission to various projects and begin immediate work without any file exchange of static documents.

The interrelations of the features within a document (in-context editing, derived parts, etc.) and improvements to the assembly mating process are all fantastic - we have found this to be very beneficial in helping us outpace standard engineering times.
  • Improved productivity and client satisfaction
  • Integration with other companies' engineering teams
Having direct access to both a dedicated customer success manager and an account executive has been invaluable. Additionally, the ability to directly share documents with Onshape support and get live tech support is very useful. I have never been dissatisfied with the level of service I have received on any issue.
We were provided extensive training opportunities through the various documents available and bootcamps that came complementary with the licenses. This combined with the live and integrated support options made integration straightforward, especially since we came from familiar CAD systems.
No
  • Price
  • Product Features
  • Product Usability
The cloud-native infrastructure was a key element for our web-based business.
I think emphasizing software that was conducive to our remote/web-based structure was the right decision and I would not change that as a selection criteria.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
We use Onshape for our machine design and full CAD suite. It is used to collaborate with vendors and customers. We use the parts, assemblies, drawings, simulations, renderings, etc. For us, it is our full CAD design system.
  • Collaboration
  • speed
  • Ease of use
  • Assemblies
Great tool for collaborating in real time with vendors, customers, and teammates. Full CAD system that fulfills all our design needs
  • Easy collaboration with partners
  • Easy onboarding and productivity curve
  • Speed up design, decreasing our time to shipment
The support is second to none. They are always very quick to respond, and they respond with well thought out answers. If they don't have an answer, they are open to submitting issues as an enhancement request.
Implementation was very fast, and we were up and running with a high degree of productivity within a week. We did have some experience with the free trial, which was nice.
  • System Design
  • Quotations
  • Product Management
  • Configurable options in the design
  • Sharing live links to CAD with others
  • Data Management
  • Revision management
Great value for the money, and really enables us to design efficiently and effectively.
Yes
Solidworks, NX. Looking to add more functionality for the cost.
  • Price
  • Product Features
Product features were key, ensuring that they lined up with the features we were using in our previous software.
Process would stay the same. The collaboration and ease of use are the keys for us.
  • Implemented in-house
No
  • Time required for training and getting up to speed
We did not, the regular support is fantastic on the professional accounts.
Yes
Yes, resolved quickly, and we were notified of the progress as the bug was being fixed.
All the time, but especially with some new features that were rolled out, we were able to get our questions answered quickly
No support necessary.
It is super easy to use, help is well documented and laid out, and there are numerous videos and tutorials to assist
  • Modelling
  • Assemblies
  • Simulations
  • drafting/detailing could be improved
Yes
Great, well laid out and optimized for the mobile interface. 3D scanning is a phenomenal addition to the platform.
James Fitch | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Onshape is primarily used in our new product development group though not exclusively. We are primarily a SolidWorks shop, but I have been pushing the use of Onshape as an alternative platform since I started here at Nu-Way. When we do use it, it is for the complete development of an end product for a customer and all modeling and drawing generation is performed using it.
  • Always on and available in any level of machine. No need for a workstation.
  • Lack of files and need to manage same.
  • Like the document approach where everything related to the project can be in a single logical container.
  • Like the overall speed and lack of crashes or need to update.
  • Like that it will import nearly anything. We often use it as a file translator for the SW folks.
  • Like the constant development and frequent feature improvements.
  • Really like the support. Nearly every time we need assistance with something and submit a ticket, there is a rep responding within literally, minutes. Best support in the business.
  • Like the team too. Always easy to get in touch with and responsive to issues and or questions.
  • Feature scripts. We don't yet program our own, but we do use those created by others. Having that ability really opens up what the tool can be if you can program it. I'm learning Python right now because I want to be able to dig into that side of the tool and see what I can do.
  • Sheet metal tools. That is the number one issue holding back the wider deployment in our environment. As a sheet metal fabricator, that is the realm we work in 95% of the time, if not more.
  • Maybe some additional mates like a center mate that would infer a center point between two other features.
  • Faster performance. It has gotten noticeably faster over the last couple of years, but nobody ever complained about faster response times, so more is more.
Basic modeling is very quick and easy. I particularly like the top-down modeling approach and Onshape is architected with that in mind. Drawings are now much more fully featured and perform well, so no real issues there. I really like that we can share the environment within and outside the organization which allows for a high level of transparency with the project stake holders.
We don't use the release cycle aspect of Onshape since the rest of our organization is based on files and using PDM for controlling and distributing them. We have discussed how we might use Onshape for that whole workflow, but until it is the primary CAD tool, will not likely pursue that for now.
  • On the plus side, when we do use it, the process is really frictionless and I can see a time when if it were our primary platform, there would be a good deal better ability to share information with one another.
  • The ROI is not clear yet since again, it is not yet our primary platform. In a very real sense, it is still viewed as an extended beta evaluation until or when the tools in Onshape are the functional equivalent of those in SW.
  • I'm not sure how much time or effort the IT staff spend on maintaining SW, but I do know that each version rollout is quite an effort whereas Onshape does that on the fly and there is literally no effort required by IT other than to provide a fast internet connection.
Without exaggeration, I think Onshape has the best support in the business. They have set new levels of expectation from how I view software support. We could not be happier with that aspect of our Onshape experience. In fact, I often refer to it when speaking to other software companies as an example for how they should model their support. It's that good.
That was a while ago, but it was basically sign up and go. The online tutorial materials are great and really, once you get going, it is remarkably easy to learn. Plus there are plenty of tutorial videos on a whole host of topics that clearly illustrate how to do various tasks. I am largely self-taught and that is coming from a place where I was familiar with 3D CAD, but had never really dug in to learn it. At this point there are not too many things that I am afraid to tackle based on just using it.
Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365), SmartDraw, ProjectManager.com
No
  • Product Features
This was based on my belief that premises-based software's days are numbered and tools like Onshape represented the future. Of course, the tool set has to be on par with the software it aims to replace and in the beginning, that was not the case, but Onshape have been steadily chipping away at that feature gap ever since and are closing in rapidly. I suspect that in the not too distant future, the choice will not be based on features or performance, since the price of entry will be equity on that front, but ease of use and cost of ownership, both of which Onshape excel at.
I would do it again without hesitation. I guess in retrospect, I had hoped the level of interest and adoption here would have taken hold sooner, but as the tool evolves, the perceived difference between Onshape and SW will, I hope, diminish. Put another way; If I were to start an engineering-based organization today, I would select Onshape.
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