Your files still open
Read SLDPRT/SLDASM and STEP directly to keep working on existing designs, and open Alibre files to work with Alibre users.
MECHCAD 2026 · SolidWorks alternative
A SolidWorks alternative built for machine design
MECHCAD 2026 covers parametric parts, assemblies of thousands of parts, drawings, motion and robot simulation, and G-code in one program — and reads your existing SolidWorks files without SolidWorks installed.
MECHCAD 2026 compared with SolidWorks
| Topic | MECHCAD 2026 | SolidWorks |
|---|---|---|
| Licence | Perpetual with first-year MA, or yearly; buy online | Perpetual/term via resellers |
| Reads SolidWorks files | SLDPRT / SLDASM without SolidWorks installed | Native format |
| Other formats | STEP, Alibre AD_PRT, Siemens NX PRT, STL | Many formats |
| Robot simulation | 6-axis robot and cobot cells in Expert | Depends on the package |
| CAM | 2.5D/3D milling and turning in Premium | Depends on the package |
| Support | Thai engineers who build machines | Through the vendor’s resellers |
One program, part to G-code
Parts, assemblies, drawings, automatic BOM, robot simulation and CAM in one program.
Try the top edition free
Download and install, then start the 30-day Premium trial with every feature.
Frequently asked questions
Can MECHCAD open SolidWorks files?
Yes. MECHCAD reads SLDPRT and SLDASM without SolidWorks installed, as well as STEP and Alibre files.
How much does MECHCAD cost?
Perpetual with first-year MA: Standard $990, Expert $1,990, Premium $2,790 (THB 34,900 / 69,900 / 99,000 incl. VAT), or yearly from $390 (THB 13,900).
Is CAM included?
The Premium edition includes 2.5D/3D milling and turning CAM with CNC post-processors.
Is there a free trial?
Yes — download and install, then press Start 30-day Premium trial on the Welcome screen.
SolidWorks is a trademark of its owner, used here only for comparison. MET is not affiliated with it. Details about other products are general and current as of October 2026.