SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE: How to get the best out of your equipment?

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Subscriptions, prices, free licenses, comparisons… The ultimate guide to choosing the right formula in 2025.


Why switch to SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE?

Since 2021, Dassault Systèmes has been offering SolidWorks in a “Connected” version via the 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform. This strategic change marks a major evolution in the way SolidWorks is used, without disrupting user habits:

  • Same interface, same design functions (3D CAD, 2D drafting, sheet-metal working, mechanical welding, etc.).
  • Multi-platform access: desktop, laptop, telecommuting, all with a simple email login
  • Enhanced security: secure cloud storage against cyber attacks
  • Fluid collaboration: teamwork without complex configuration

Available subscription packages

SolidWorks Connected is available in three levels:

Version Main features Ideal for…
Standard 3D CAD, drawing, sheet metal work Basic needs, methods office
Professional + photorealistic rendering, intelligent library SME, Design office
Premium + electrical routing, advanced simulation Engineering, Calculation and simulation engineer

💡 Unlike “On Premise” licenses linked to a serial number, Connected subscriptions are floating and linked to a user. This allows total flexibility of use. Connected licenses are natively “floating”, which generates significant savings for multi-site teams.

💰 Subscription rates and packages

Prices vary according to feature level and commitment mode:

Offer Annual price Quarterly price Key features
Standard 3 480 €/year 846 €/quarter 3D CAD, cloud collaboration, data management
Professional 4,152 €/year 1,044 €/quarter + photorealistic rendering, intelligent CAD library
Premium 5,496/year 1,308 €/quarter + electrical routing, static analysis, advanced simulation

Rates and terms

Subscriptions are available on a monthly or annual basis, with or without commitment.

  • Flexible invoicing as with Office 365 or Google Workspace
  • Updates included
  • storage included (can be stored locally, on a server or in the secure SECNUM Cloud Dassault Systèmes)
  • No separate maintenance contract

Free licenses and discounts

For startups :

  • 3DEXPERIENCE for Startups program: access to SolidWorks Premium + Simulation from €49/month for the first year
  • Personalized support from an Ohmycad Customer Success Manager

One-off reductions :

  • Coupon -12%: SW3DXP2021DEMO32 valid on Apps (excluding services), for new tenants in France (Temporary offer)
  • Contact us for current promotions.

Storage and collaborative working

Two options are available:

  1. Local storage: same as older versions
  2. Dassault Systèmes cloud storage:
    • Protection against cyber attacks
    • Data access from anywhere
    • No PDM or SQL server required
    • Integrated collaborative tools
    • PDM management included as standard

Modules not yet ported

Some modules are not yet available in the Connected version:

  • CircuitWorks
  • SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D/Schematics
  • SOLIDWORKS Inspection
  • SOLIDWORKS PCB
  • SOLIDWORKS Plastics
  • SOLIDWORKS Xpress

👉 Check with your Ohmycad engineer that your needs are covered.


Who is SolidWorks Connected for?

✅ Recommended for :

  • New customers and startups
  • Native teleworking companies
  • Cybersecurity-sensitive structures
  • Those who want to avoid managing servers and backups

❌ Avoid if:

  • You are already using On Premise licenses (On Premise -> “Connected” migration packages are available, but hybrid installations are not recommended.
  • You develop macros or use APIs extensively
  • You need to work on older software versions (prior to 2022)

Conclusion

SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Connected is much more than just a subscription: it’s a new way of designing, collaborating and securing your projects. Flexible, modern and scalable, it’s the natural choice for forward-looking companies.

🔗 Further information


🌍 Useful external references

Yes, in specific cases: via the supervisedfree trial (24 h online access, then temporary key possible), and via the Startup program (year 1 free under certain conditions), in official partnership with Dassault Systèmes. In all other cases, obtaining “free” access does not comply with licensing requirements and may expose you to legal and security risks. To test in good standing: free trial, then personalized evaluation according to your use.

Ohmycad offers 24-hour online test (full functionality). Depending on returns, a ~15-day temporary key can be issued. All you have to do is enter your pro details, then access the test environment. It’s the quick and official way to evaluate performance, with no obligation.

All data is stored in Dassault Systèmes datacenters in Yvelines, France.

The uncompromising Dassault Systèmes partner

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