List of the Top 25 Free Engineering Software in 2025

SkyCiv Structural 3D is a cloud-based program that facilitates the design, analysis, and modeling of intricate 3D structures without any installation requirements, as it operates entirely online. Renowned as one of the top online structural analysis tools, it boasts a variety of powerful analytical features, including Linear and P-Delta analysis for cables, buckling plate analysis, and frequency response analysis. Additionally, SkyCiv Structural 3D comes equipped with integrated design checks for various materials and standards, such as steel, wood connections, and foundations, while adhering to regulations from AISC, NSD, AISI, EN, AS, CSA, BS, and many others. The versatility and comprehensive nature of this software make it an excellent choice for engineers and designers looking to enhance their structural projects efficiently.

DigitalClone® for Engineering stands out as the sole software that seamlessly combines various scales of analysis within a unified platform. Recognized globally as the premier tool for predicting gearbox reliability, DC-E excels not only in its modeling and analysis capabilities specific to gearboxes and gear/bearing interactions but also uniquely incorporates fatigue life modeling through advanced, physics-based methodologies (US Patent 10474772B2). By enabling the creation of a digital twin for gearboxes, DC-E encompasses every phase of an asset's lifecycle—from the optimization of design and manufacturing processes to the selection of suppliers, followed by thorough root cause analysis of failures and condition-based maintenance along with prognostics. This innovative computational environment significantly decreases both the time and costs associated with launching new designs and ensuring their long-term maintenance, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency. Moreover, it empowers engineers to make informed decisions at every stage, leading to improved performance and reliability.

Lucidchart is a web-based diagramming application that enables users to design and disseminate high-quality diagrams efficiently. It facilitates various forms of communication and teamwork, whether you are working on system architecture, engaging in brainstorming sessions, or managing projects. With its versatility and user-friendly interface, Lucidchart has garnered the affection of millions of users worldwide. This widespread appreciation highlights its effectiveness in enhancing productivity and collaboration across different fields.

NanoCAD serves as a robust computer-aided design tool, providing users with extensive features for both 3D modeling and 2D drafting. It functions effectively as a standalone DWG editor but can also be tailored with additional modules like Construction, Mechanica, and Topoplan to enhance its functionality. The platform supports the creation of 2D drawings and 3D solid models, incorporating both two-dimensional and three-dimensional parametric constraints for added precision. Additionally, it offers a Dynamic UCS feature that facilitates sketching directly on 3D surfaces, ensuring a seamless design experience. Documentation drawings are intricately linked to their respective 3D models, maintaining coherence throughout the design process, while also ensuring full compatibility with DWG files for easy integration within existing workflows. This makes NanoCAD an ideal choice for professionals seeking a flexible and comprehensive design solution.

Solid Edge comprises a suite of cost-effective software tools that are user-friendly and straightforward to manage. It enhances every facet of product development, encompassing mechanical and electrical design, simulation, manufacturing processes, technical documentation, data management, and collaboration through the cloud. Grounded in Siemens' cutting-edge technologies, Solid Edge provides an extensive and imaginative methodology for product development tailored to mainstream industries. This comprehensive toolkit is designed to streamline workflows and improve efficiency across various engineering disciplines.

The RFEM program for finite element analysis (FEA) facilitates rapid and straightforward modeling, along with structural and dynamic calculations, enabling the design and construction of various models featuring members, plates, walls, folded plates, shells, and additional solid elements. This modular software allows users to integrate the main RFEM program with relevant add-ons tailored to their specific needs. Designed as a comprehensive structural analysis tool, RFEM provides structural engineers with a 3D FEA solution that adheres to all contemporary civil engineering standards. Thanks to its efficient data input and user-friendly interface, users can easily model both simple and intricate structures. At the core of this modular software is the RFEM program, which serves as the foundation for generating structures, materials, loads, and plans for both spatial and planar structural systems that encompass plates, walls, shells, and members. Additionally, RFEM enables the creation of hybrid structures and allows for the modeling of contact elements, making it versatile for a wide range of applications in engineering design. This capability ensures that engineers can effectively simulate real-world conditions and interactions in their structural models.

Onshape is an innovative CAD and data management platform that features standard content libraries, advanced CAD capabilities, multi-part modeling, and in-context editing. It provides users with the convenience of accessing their work from any location at any time, eliminating the need for downloads or installations. Additionally, Onshape enables users to securely share and store their CAD data in a cloud workspace. Moreover, it allows for the management and monitoring of access rights to the stored CAD files, ensuring a higher level of security and collaboration. With Onshape, teams can work together more effectively, no matter where they are located.

HydroCAD Stormwater Modelling provides a user-friendly platform for conducting TR-20, TR55, SBUH, and Rational hydrology computations, in addition to calculations for time of concentration, storage solutions, outlet hydraulics, pump routing, and underground storage, as well as assessments of pollutant loads and various other factors. Users have the ability to import CAD files directly, utilize bypass routing, and work with siphons, skimmers, and tubes, along with the option to import localized rainfall data. Furthermore, the software includes a growing library of chambers to enhance design flexibility. The interactive graphical interface is designed to be both intuitive and efficient, ensuring consistently improved outcomes for users. As a result, HydroCAD empowers engineers and planners to make informed and effective decisions in their stormwater management projects.

VTScada is an intuitive platform that empowers users to design tailored industrial monitoring and control applications that are reliable and straightforward for end-users to navigate. Employed across various sectors globally for critical operations, VTScada facilitates industrial users in overseeing and managing their equipment through a computer interface. This powerful software can effectively handle the operation of pumps and motors, as well as present fluid levels and temperatures on screens. HMI software, such as VTScada, is essential for managing remote devices and gathering process data. For instance, municipal utilities can utilize radio communications to oversee the distribution of water and monitor wastewater collection points spread across extensive geographical regions or connect through an Ethernet network. This versatility makes VTScada an invaluable tool in enhancing operational efficiency across diverse applications.

MatDeck serves as a versatile technical software solution applicable across various fields such as mathematics, science, engineering, chemistry, and programming, among others. This comprehensive software package features a fully integrated Python IDE, an extensive library of mathematical functions, an intuitive drag-and-drop GUI Designer, and numerous visualization tools. Furthermore, it seamlessly integrates these elements into an advanced live document, delivering a professional computing experience while remaining budget-friendly. Users can leverage its capabilities for a wide range of projects, making it an ideal choice for both students and professionals.

OnScale emerges as a trailblazing platform in the realm of Cloud Engineering Simulation, combining sophisticated multiphysics solver technology with the limitless power of cloud supercomputers. This cutting-edge solution allows engineers to run numerous full 3D multiphysics simulations simultaneously, facilitating the development of genuine Digital Prototypes that accurately reflect the operational dynamics of complex high-tech devices. Aiming to provide an outstanding experience in Cloud Engineering Simulation, OnScale Solve is crafted to be intuitive, resilient, and efficient. It functions effortlessly on both public and private cloud infrastructures and includes a user-friendly web interface, an API for seamless integration into existing workflows, customizable scripting options for personalized engineering analyses, and plugins that enhance its modeling capabilities. Additionally, OnScale Solve empowers engineers to synthetically produce data essential for training sophisticated AI/ML algorithms, thus fostering technological innovation. This all-encompassing platform ensures engineers possess the necessary tools to redefine the limits of simulation and design, ultimately driving progress in engineering disciplines. By integrating these features, OnScale not only enhances the simulation process but also encourages a collaborative environment for engineers to explore new frontiers in technology.

Tomviz is a highly adaptable open-source software application that functions on multiple platforms, specifically designed for processing, visualizing, and analyzing 3D tomographic datasets, particularly in the realm of electron tomography. Its intuitive graphical interface allows users to represent objects in diverse formats, including shaded contours and volumetric projections, which significantly enriches the investigation and scrutiny of large 3D tomograms. The application is capable of managing several datasets simultaneously, providing users with customizable colormaps and various visualization features for rotation, slicing, animation, and the ability to export visual representations as images or videos. Advanced data analysis is facilitated through tools such as histograms, multicorrelative statistics, numerous filtering options, and the ability to create personalized Python scripts. In addition, Tomviz supports the reconstruction of tomographic data from experimental sources and comprises an extensive suite of Python tools dedicated to 3D analysis, aiding the execution of custom algorithms. This robust platform is designed for compatibility with 64-bit versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, ensuring it is readily available to a broad spectrum of users and applications. Overall, Tomviz is an exceptional and comprehensive tool for professionals engaged in electron tomography and the intricate analysis of 3D data, making it an essential asset in scientific research and development. Its versatility and functionality make it a preferred choice for those looking to enhance their 3D data processing capabilities.

Factor AE stands out as an intuitive management tool designed specifically for architecture and engineering companies, streamlining project monitoring, time allocation, invoicing, and enhancing visibility throughout the organization. This innovative platform enables firms to classify projects into various categories, including fixed fee, hourly, and non-billable segments, facilitating meticulous oversight of employee hours and budget consumption across different levels. Furthermore, it offers features for tracking sub-consultants and associated expenses, whether they are included in project costs or handled independently, all while ensuring a seamless invoicing workflow. Factor AE also equips firms with the ability to create project timelines, define crucial milestones, assign responsibilities, and optimize resource distribution, thereby helping to meet client deadlines and improve resource utilization. Its robust functionality allows users to gain quick insights into project statuses, enabling easy comparisons of budgets and timelines with actual results by phase, while also supporting revenue projections and prompt adjustments to preemptively address potential issues before they escalate. In essence, this all-encompassing platform significantly enhances operational workflows and supports informed decision-making processes for firms operating in the architecture and engineering fields. Additionally, its user-friendly nature ensures that teams can quickly adapt to the system, further promoting productivity and collaboration.

Easily modify multiple AutoCAD drawings in three clicks or fewer by applying basic, complex, or dynamic changes to each document. Efficiently organize your projects by managing files, creating lists, and designating specific project directories for straightforward access. Additionally, you can share these lists and custom scripts with others, promoting collaboration and enhancing efficiency. By integrating these scripts, you can handle more intricate editing tasks smoothly, with the added benefit of storing project-specific scripts for quick access. Furthermore, with AutoCAD Electrical's compatibility with ".WDP" project files, you can effortlessly load a complete project into the FileQueue by double-clicking the file in the Hurricanes file selector. This functionality facilitates batch plotting, purging, binding, and scripting of your files, greatly enhancing your computer's capability to execute repetitive tasks swiftly. Improve the time-saving potential of batch scripting across AutoCAD Electrical, Mechanical, and Architectural disciplines, allowing you to manage all drawings in a single AutoCAD session without the need to open and close files repeatedly. This efficient method not only conserves time but also significantly boosts overall productivity. Ultimately, this streamlined workflow transforms the way you interact with AutoCAD, leading to a more effective project management experience.

LibreCAD is a free and open-source CAD application that operates on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. The software boasts a robust support system and comprehensive documentation, thanks to a vibrant community of users, contributors, and developers. The project originated from an attempt to incorporate CAM functionalities into the community edition of QCad for the Mechmate CNC router. Since QCad CE was built on the outdated Qt3 library, a transition to Qt4 was essential for further enhancements, which led to the temporary establishment of CADuntu. However, after a short duration, the community decided that the name was unsuitable and began discussions to select a more appropriate title, ultimately leading to the adoption of LibreCAD. The shift of the rendering engine to Qt4 required substantial effort, and initially, LibreCAD depended on the Qt3 support library. This transition was successfully finalized during the development of the 2.0.0 series, with significant contributions from the chief developer, Rallaz, marking LibreCAD's journey towards complete independence from Qt3, aside from the 1.0.0 series. This evolution not only improved the functionality of the software but also reinforced its reputation and standing within the CAD community, paving the way for future innovations and enhancements.

ODOP: Spring surpasses conventional spring calculators by providing an advanced design application within the Open Design Optimization Platform that isn't limited to specific issues. This software effectively tackles intricate demands found in mechanical engineering and machine design by removing the laborious task of manually inputting parameters such as wire diameter, coil diameter, free length, and coil count, which often require several iterations to achieve an acceptable result. With its groundbreaking method, ODOP reverses standard formula relationships to reduce uncertainty in the design process. By backsolving spring design equations, it skillfully conforms to the constraints set for various problem variables. Whether aiming to identify the lightest material for superior performance or to guarantee durability with minimal risk of failure, our helical coil spring design software proficiently pinpoints the constrained limits of any variable. Consequently, it not only streamlines the design process but also enables engineers to attain precise results while conserving essential time and resources. This innovative approach ultimately enhances productivity and fosters more effective engineering practices.

SmartSketch® is an innovative tool designed for technical offices, seamlessly integrating premier business diagramming features with award-winning drawing technology. This versatile and cost-effective engineering and drafting solution boosts productivity while minimizing costs for EPCs and owner operators, all while automating detailed tasks across the entire plant lifecycle. As a vital part of Hexagon PPM’s comprehensive lifecycle offering, SmartSketch serves as an outstanding resource for various drawing generation tasks that are crucial to your workflow. Moreover, it facilitates the creation and modification of Intergraph Smart® 3D drawings, significantly enhancing its usability in engineering endeavors. Its array of features not only streamlines drafting processes but also ensures that professionals can work with greater efficiency and precision, making SmartSketch® an essential tool for those in the field. Ultimately, the capabilities of SmartSketch® make it a critical asset for engineers seeking to improve their workflow and elevate project outcomes.

Real-time collaboration, an intuitive simulator, and a community-driven approach to content creation significantly streamline the hardware development process. The modern tools for sharing, user permissions, and an accessible version control system empower users to leverage collective expertise effectively. Our commitment to open-source principles is unwavering. With Flux's continuously expanding library of schematics and components, you can quickly embark on your projects. Moreover, our user-friendly programmable simulation eliminates the need for advanced degrees. You can even preview your schematic online before commencing construction. Flux serves as the ultimate destination for innovative hardware projects, whether you are crafting components for an ambitious Mars mission or designing a straightforward circuit board. As a comprehensive, web-based electronic design platform, Flux dismantles traditional obstacles in hardware design. Our approach is distinct and groundbreaking, focusing on collaborative, transparent building practices. We invite you to become part of our vibrant community of makers, engineers, and entrepreneurs who are dedicated to enhancing hardware design tools and fostering innovation together. Join us in this exciting journey toward better hardware solutions.

OpenFOAM is a free and open-source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software that has been created by OpenCFD Ltd since 2004. It is supported by a large user community that includes individuals from numerous engineering and scientific disciplines, encompassing both industrial and academic users. This software provides an extensive range of functionalities designed to tackle numerous challenges, including complex fluid dynamics with chemical reactions, turbulence, heat transfer, and applications in areas such as acoustics, solid mechanics, and electromagnetics. To promote ongoing advancements, OpenFOAM is updated twice a year, incorporating improvements that are financed by users and contributions from the broader community. The software is meticulously tested by ESI-OpenCFD's application experts, development partners, and selected clients, all bolstered by ESI's global infrastructure and dedication to maintaining high standards. Quality assurance is upheld through a rigorous testing process, which includes hundreds of daily unit tests, a series of moderate tests performed weekly, and a comprehensive, industry-oriented test suite. This diligent strategy guarantees that OpenFOAM remains dependable and effective for its various users. Beyond that, the cooperative aspect of its development nurtures an active community that consistently propels innovation within the software, enhancing its capabilities and user experience. This dynamic environment not only enriches the software itself but also fosters collaboration among its users, leading to shared knowledge and advancements in the field.

LIRA-SAPR is an all-encompassing software solution that leverages BIM technology for the analysis and design of various mechanical and building engineering structures. It offers capabilities for both dynamic (forces and displacements) and static analyses, as well as the selection and examination of sections for steel and reinforced cement (RC) structures. Additionally, users can generate preliminary drawings for steel frameworks and individual RC components, enhancing the efficiency of the design process. This robust software serves as an invaluable tool for engineers seeking to optimize their structural designs.

Nextensor presents three cost-effective and robust standalone solutions, each enhancing the functions of its predecessor. Additionally, the iTrain product features an extensive training suite designed to facilitate the education of both customers and maintenance personnel within a simulated environment. The Nextensor iStart solution addresses five critical aspects of project development, which include collaboration, design, visualization, documentation, cost management, and simulation, covering operation, flow, and capacity. Building on this foundation, Nextensor iBuild expands its functionalities by introducing two more features: Functional Digital Models and Automaton Control Simulation. Furthermore, Nextensor iTrain offers an interactive virtual training suite tailored for solution providers, customers, and internal technical staff, particularly those responsible for operating and maintaining the systems. To complement these offerings, Nextensor Lite serves as a complimentary product for remote work, providing access to all previously mentioned solutions with minimal restrictions. This structure ensures that users have the tools needed for effective project management and staff training while enjoying the benefits of a streamlined and user-friendly experience.

The eZWalker review discusses a 3D modeling and collaboration tool that incorporates an XRE rendering core alongside independent intellectual property rights. This unique combination enables it to effectively analyze three-dimensional data from a variety of sources, including plant information management (PIM), building information modeling (BIM), and machinery. Its lightweight engineering model capabilities make it particularly suitable for diverse industrial applications, such as facilitating collaboration among EPC general contractors for project visualization, enabling designers to conduct 3D model reviews and construction simulations, and providing owners with visualization for operational and maintenance training. Furthermore, eZWalker can seamlessly synchronize cloud data with PIMCenter, an independently developed platform for managing assets throughout their entire lifecycle. This integration enhances the overall functionality and usability of the software in real-world applications.

h2x Engineering offers an intuitive platform that streamlines the laborious and often lengthy manual processes involved in engineering design and calculations. You can easily initiate your project, incorporate the necessary equipment, and once you're finished, you can review your findings and conveniently export them as a PDF. This efficiency not only saves time but also enhances productivity in engineering tasks.

Enhance your product design and development experience by leveraging Creo, the sophisticated 3D CAD/CAM/CAE software that empowers you to envision, design, produce, and innovate with remarkable efficiency. In an era marked by fierce competition, teams engaged in product design and manufacturing are under constant pressure to boost productivity and minimize expenses while upholding exceptional levels of creativity and quality. Fortunately, Creo provides a comprehensive and adaptable array of 3D CAD tools that distinguish themselves in the industry. The newest iteration, Creo 7.0, brings forth revolutionary features in areas such as generative design, real-time simulation, multibody design, additive manufacturing, and beyond. Transforming your concepts into digital prototypes has never been more straightforward, precise, or user-friendly than with Creo, a leader in CAD technology for over 30 years. With the launch of Creo 7.0, PTC highlights its commitment to enhancing an already formidable toolset, utilizing strategic alliances to expand its capabilities and cater to the ever-changing demands of the industry. This continuous improvement signals a future where your design prowess can evolve in tandem with your business goals, fostering innovation and progress. As you explore the possibilities with Creo, you’ll find that your creative potential can truly thrive.

Acquire your assembly plan effortlessly with just three simple steps. We generate your assembly blueprint right in front of you at no charge. Users of Assemblio witness outcomes that are 16 times faster than traditional methods. With Assemblio, you can envision the future of assembly planning. By leveraging cutting-edge software, a detailed assembly guide can be automatically created in just minutes from a CAD model. Assemblio offers a revolutionary strategy to optimize our assembly planning. We simplify your assembly journey from start to finish. Thanks to AI technology, each instruction stage can be modified in real-time, negating the need to start from scratch. Our application is meticulously designed to be error-free through reverse engineering, thereby reducing the necessity for extensive pre-planning. Client feedback shows that you can achieve similar results in a mere 8% of the usual time required. Streamline your assembly planning and focus on what truly matters. Assemblio generates PDFs, videos, and comprehensive digital step-by-step guides for your convenience. You can also easily schedule a demo to have your assembly plan created live in front of you. With these groundbreaking features, you will find your assembly process to be more efficient, effective, and tailored to meet your unique needs than ever before. This innovative approach not only saves time but also enhances overall productivity.