Yes, SOLIDWORKS is available with a perpetual license option, which means you purchase the software with a one-time payment and own that version indefinitely. This gives you permanent access to the software without ongoing license fees. However, upgrades, technical support, and access to new versions require an optional annual maintenance subscription. Without this subscription, you will continue to use your existing version but won't receive software updates or support. Many customers choose perpetual licenses for long-term stability and cost-effectiveness, especially when combined with TECHNIA’s expert support and services. Alternatively, SOLIDWORKS also offers flexible subscription and term licensing if you prefer lower upfront costs and the latest updates included. Our experts will help guide you to the best licensing model based on your business needs and budget.

The cost of SOLIDWORKS depends on the package and licensing model you choose. A SOLIDWORKS Standard annual license with cloud services starts around €3,500, whereas a SOLIDWORKS Premium license with cloud services will cost around €4,435. Perpetual licenses are available, however term licenses - 3-month (QSC) and 12-month (YSC) - provide more flexible, lower upfront costs. All prices exclude VAT and may vary depending on the region and reseller. Our experts can provide tailored pricing and advise on the best licensing option to fit your business needs.

SOLIDWORKS does not offer a permanently free full version for commercial use. It is important to avoid cracked or pirated versions of SOLIDWORKS. Using cracked software is illegal and carries significant risks including exposure to malware and viruses, loss of data, unstable performance, and absence of technical support or updates. Companies and individuals using unlicensed software also face legal consequences, fines, and damage to their reputation. For most commercial and professional requirements, a paid license from TECHNIA ensures full features, professional support, and compliance. If cost is a concern, our experts can help explore cost-effective licensing options designed for your needs.

Yes, SOLIDWORKS offers a version called SOLIDWORKS for Makers, designed specifically for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and makers. It provides similar functionality to SOLIDWORKS Professional but at a very affordable subscription price (around €40 per year). This version is intended for non-commercial use with an annual revenue limit of €1,690 from projects created using the software. SOLIDWORKS for Makers includes 3DEXPERIENCE cloud integration for file storage and collaboration but differs slightly in user interface and support options compared to commercial licenses. It is a great entry point for individuals wanting to learn and create without the investment required for full commercial licensing. For those interested in hobbyist or educational use, our experts can provide guidance to choose the best SOLIDWORKS package based on needs and goals.

SOLIDWORKS PDM and 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS both help manage product data but serve different purposes and environments. SOLIDWORKS PDM is a traditional, often on-premise solution focused primarily on managing CAD files within design and engineering teams. It organizes files securely in a vault, provides version control, and automates workflows to ensure design data integrity. This solution is ideal for companies with established IT infrastructure who need a highly configurable and secure environment for CAD data management. In contrast, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is built on the cloud-native 3DEXPERIENCE platform, which offers a broader product lifecycle management (PLM) approach that goes beyond just file management. It integrates collaboration tools, project planning, and process oversight across departments such as engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and sales. This cloud-based platform enables real-time access, secure data sharing, and team collaboration from anywhere, reducing IT overhead and streamlining workflows across the entire organization. Choosing between the two depends on your organizational needs. If your focus is primarily CAD file management with local control, SOLIDWORKS PDM is a strong choice. However, if you want an interconnected, scalable platform to manage the product lifecycle and collaboration enterprise-wide, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS provides a more comprehensive solution. Our experts can help assess your requirements and recommend the best fit for your team and business goals.

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS Desktop both deliver powerful 3D CAD design capabilities but differ in how they are deployed and how teams collaborate. SOLIDWORKS Desktop runs locally on your computer with a traditional license, providing high performance that depends on your hardware and allowing full offline access. In contrast, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is a cloud-connected solution accessed through the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, which enables remote access from any internet-connected device and supports real-time collaboration among distributed teams. The cloud platform centralizes data management with secure storage, version control, and lifecycle management, reducing IT overhead and streamlining workflows compared to desktop file systems. Functionally, both versions share around 95% of core SOLIDWORKS features and a similar user interface, but 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS integrates more deeply with additional apps for simulation, virtual reality, and PLM (product lifecycle management). Choosing between them depends on whether your priority is modern cloud collaboration and integration or offline work with local control. If you're not sure, our experts can help you find the ideal fit for your team's needs and projects.