SOLIDWORKS provides a vast toolset to designers across a variety of industries and is used to design a huge range of products around the world. What Determines the Cost of SOLIDWORKS?
As businesses look for scalable design solutions, its important to understand that the cost of SOLIDWORKS is likely to vary based on the individual requirements of the business.
The most influential factors on the price you'll pay for SOLIDWORKS in 2025 are likely to include:
- The SOLIDWORKS package & tools required to meet design demands. [ Jump to section! ]
- Which SOLIDWORKS licensing model is most suitable for the business. [ Jump to section! ]
- How much experience a team or user has with SOLIDWORKS. [ Jump to section! ]
- The level of ongoing support required throughout product development. [ Jump to section! ]
- Whether additional products in the SOLIDWORKS portfolio could help.
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We'll discuss those 5 key factors in more detail throughout the rest of this guide.
There is no 'one-size-fits-all' solution when it comes to SOLIDWORKS so it's easy to spend too much on tools and services you won't need or use.
The best way to avoid unnecessary expenses and find out how much SOLIDWORKS costs is to get in touch and discuss your exact requirements with your local SOLIDWORKS reseller.
The SOLIDWORKS Package
First, let's consider what you are buying - tools. These different tools for designing 3D components, assembling products, and creating 2D technical drawings come packaged up as the 'SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD' software we know and love.
SOLIDWORKS is available as four different packages: Standard, Professional, Premium, and Ultimate.
Each package or builds upon the last, offering additional functionality through increasingly advanced tools - you can see exactly what's included in each SOLIDWORKS package here.
SOLIDWORKS Version or Package?
A SOLIDWORKS package is the software that you purchase, whereas a SOLIDWORKS ‘version’ is the annual release of the software that comes packed with new features!
Every year we bring you the latest updates to SOLIDWORKS in our detailed guides, so you can check out what’s new in SOLIDWORKS 2025 as well as loads of previous SOLIDWORKS versions.
What's the Best SOLIDWORKS Package to Choose?
The best choice of SOLIDWORKS package varies between businesses and is heavily influenced by the individual requirements, workflows, and the complexity of projects handled by each.
Typically, businesses navigating more complex projects require more flexibility and functionality from their design software, so may expect to have to pay more.
SOLIDWORKS Professional adds data management capabilities (pictured) and collaboration tools, while the Premium package introduces FEA analysis for virtual testing amongst a host of additional functionality. But choosing the “ultimate” package might mean you’re paying for more tools than what your business needs, so it's worth discussing your individual requirements with your local SOLIDWORKS reseller.
You might find that you can make savings on SOLIDWORKS simply by having a conversation! We’ll help you identify your requirements and find the right SOLIDWORKS package that both meets your needs and fits your budget.
Try SOLIDWORKS for free and see how it can transform the way you approach design.
Get a Trial SOLIDWORKS Licensing Options
When buying software, you’re usually actually purchasing your access to the software. This access comes in the form of ‘software licenses’, each with their unique serial key (or license number).
There are two types of SOLIDWORKS licensing model you can purchase:
Perpetual License A perpetual license provides indefinite access to the software through a one-time upfront payment. You’ll have access to that purchased version indefinitely!
You can add an annual maintenance subscription to receive access to future versions, additional software, and technical support. This subscription is optional but highly recommended for long-term value.
Term License
Much like houses or a fancy tuxedo, software can also be rented.
Rental licences are available in 3-month or 12-month durations. All rental (or ‘term’) licenses include the maintenance subscription by default.
Perpetual licenses may cost more upfront but are often more cost-effective over time, especially for long-term usage. Term licences offer lower initial cost and flexibility but tend to cost more when assessed over multiple years.
Considering renting or buying SOLIDWORKS? We can help ensure you make the right choice for your long-term business future.
Indicative starting price: From £212/month (based on a 12-month Standard licence).
What's Included in a SOLIDWORKS Maintenance Subscription?
A SOLIDWORKS maintenance subscription (included with term licences, optional for perpetual) includes:
- Access to the latest features and software updates.
- Technical support from certified Expert and Elite SOLIDWORKS Engineers.
- Additional software, in-person events, and training discounts.
- Access to MySolidSolutions alongside exclusive webinars and on-demand content.
For a full list of subscription benefits, check out our breakdown of what’s included in your SOLIDWORKS subscription and consider how you and your business could benefit in the long run!
Ready to dive into SOLIDWORKS? Start your free trial now and experience cutting-edge design.
Get a Trial The Hidden Costs of SOLIDWORKS
Buying SOLIDWORKS from a reputable Value Added Reseller (VAR) means you’re unlikely to encounter any hidden costs.
So while there are no ‘hidden’ costs when buying SOLIDWORKS, there are some additional, optional costs in the form of tools and services that you may wish to factor into your budget:
- Add-on Products
- Training & Support
- Bespoke Services
Solid Solutions and our TriMech Group partners have been privileged to provide SOLIDWORKS to businesses within the Design & Engineering industries for more than 20 years.
As trusted partners in countless individual SOLIDWORKS journeys, we want to ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for and support you throughout your journey so you can get the most from your investment and design freely.
Add-on Products
Depending on your application, you may need more functionality such as:
- Design Optimisation & Virtual Testing
- Product Data Management (PDM)
- Photorealistic Rendering & Animations
- Electrical Schematics & Harness Design
- Assembly Manual Creation
- First-Article Inspection Reporting
- CNC Programming & Manufacturing (CAM)
- Design Automation
- Enhanced Subscription Offers
These tools open are all part of the SOLIDWORKS portfolio, but are licensed individually in addition to the mechanical 3D CAD software.
If you need to create product catalogues and dynamic digital content, then SOLIDWORKS Visualize may be worth considering as an additional requirement when budgeting. An early conversation can mitigate future challenges and reduce the long-term cost of designing with SOLIDWORKS, so reach out to us so we can discuss your specific requirements and tailor your solution to your business.
Training and Support
To maximise productivity and adoption, many businesses invest in certified SOLIDWORKS training. Solid Solutions offers industry-recognised courses, designed to accelerate skills and instil best practices.
Training courses run weekly both online and in classrooms around the UK & Ireland, where new users can gain confidence quickly and experienced users can glean new insights and tips from professional SOLIDWORKS instructors.
How much time do businesses lose due to improper technique or poor modelling practice by untrained users?
Our SOLIDWORKS training courses teach users everything they need to know to model effectively and gain industry-recognised SOLIDWORKS certifications.
SOLIDWORKS Technical Support comes as part of the maintenance subscription and provides users with access to friendly and experienced engineers who will help to resolve technical challenges, offer expert guidance, and minimise downtime.
Before purchasing SOLIDWORKS, make sure you do your homework! It’s worth trying out a technical support line to evaluate their offering over a quick phonecall.
There are three easy ways to log a ticket to get support with SOLIDWORKS from Solid Solutions:
Call us on 01926 333777.
Send an email to support@solidsolutions.co.uk.
Sign into our online support portal and add a new ticket!
Don’t underestimate the difference professional training and an active and accessible support line can make, especially when those deadlines start looming!
Bespoke Services
You’ll find that many SOLIDWORKS resellers provide perks and services as an optional extra to the software, including:
- Data Migration
- Software Setup and Implementation
- Workflow Consultation and Onboarding Support
- Customer Success Packages
These services may be bundled with your purchase or subscription and should be scoped to your business needs and infrastructure.
Before committing to purchasing any software, make sure the application will run on your computer! Otherwise you might end up with an unexpected additional cost of new hardware...
Make sure you verify that your machine meets the minimum system requirements, has a suitable graphics card (GPU), and is running a supported operating system before installing SOLIDWORKS.
If you aren’t sure or want to explore your options further, then it’s best to check with the professionals and review our guide to the best hardware for SOLIDWORKS in 2025 before purchasing any new hardware.
Is SOLIDWORKS Worth the Investment?
It’s a big question! And the answer is ultimately subject to each business case.
For many organisations, they find that SOLIDWORKS pays for itself through:
- Reducing design cycle time
- Minimising prototyping and material waste
- Improving accuracy due to fewer errors and less rework
- Enhancing collaboration and communication
As you pursue those tangible benefits, remember that choosing the right package, license type, and implementation partner is key to realising that value.
Don’t just take our word for it! Discover what our customers and start-ups have to say about the value of SOLIDWORKS to their business.
How to Get the Best Value from SOLIDWORKS
Here are three easy ways to increase your chances of getting the best SOLIDWORKS deal for your business:
- Talk to an Authorised Reseller: A UK-based SOLIDWORKS partner, like Solid Solutions, can tailor your setup and licensing to match your specific needs.
- Watch for Promotions: Seasonal discounts and new-customer offers may be available (particularly on term licences).
- Plan: Consider upcoming projects, hiring plans, and training needs before you commit.
Ready to dive into SOLIDWORKS? Start your free trial now and experience cutting-edge design.
Get a Trial How to Get a Quote for SOLIDWORKS
Ready to take the plunge? It’s free and easy to get a quick quote for SOLIDWORKS – and there’s no obligation to buy!
We understand that purchasing SOLIDWORKS is a significant investment in your business. That’s why we recommend taking your time to consider the package that is right for you and consulting with our team of experts to help you tailor and implement a solution.
Book a demonstration or arrange a consultation with our team to learn how SOLIDWORKS and Solid Solutions can help you realise your vision.
You can also get hands-on and try SOLIDWORKS for free with our 30-day desktop trial. It’s a great way to evaluate the software and see how it can work for you!