BricsCAD
BricsCAD is a powerful CAD software platform that provides a familiar 2D and 3D design environment with native DWG support for engineers, architects, and manufacturers worldwide.
VXelements
VXelements is a fully integrated 3D software platform that provides a complete set of specialized modules for 3D scanning, reverse engineering, and industrial quality control applications.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BricsCAD | VXelements |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bricsys.com | creaform3d.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $55/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2002 | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Ghent, Belgium | Lévis, Canada |
Overview
BricsCAD
BricsCAD gives you a familiar workspace to create 2D drafts and 3D models without the high cost of traditional subscriptions. You can open and edit your existing DWG files directly, ensuring your legacy data remains fully accessible and accurate. The platform combines standard drafting tools with advanced features like AI-driven BIM workflows and mechanical assembly design, all within a single, unified interface that feels immediately recognizable if you have used other CAD tools.
You can choose how you want to buy and deploy the software, whether through permanent licenses or flexible subscriptions. It serves everyone from solo architects to large engineering firms across the construction and manufacturing sectors. By using a single platform for different design disciplines, you reduce the need for multiple software packages and simplify your team's collaborative workflow.
VXelements
VXelements is a centralized 3D software platform that powers the entire ecosystem of Creaform 3D measurement technologies. You can manage your entire 3D scanning workflow within a single, intuitive interface, from initial data acquisition to final mesh optimization. It eliminates the need for multiple third-party tools by providing specialized modules tailored for specific industrial tasks like reverse engineering and dimensional inspection.
You can produce highly accurate 3D models and digital twins with real-time visualization of the scanning process. The software handles complex data processing in the background, allowing you to focus on capturing geometry rather than managing files. Whether you are performing high-precision quality control on a shop floor or recreating complex CAD geometry from physical parts, it provides the specialized tools you need to ensure measurement accuracy and workflow efficiency.
Overview
BricsCAD Features
- Native DWG Support Open, edit, and save your existing CAD files with 100% industry-standard compatibility to maintain your project history.
- AI-Powered Tools Automate repetitive tasks like adding BIM data or converting 2D geometry into 3D models with intelligent drafting assistants.
- Parametric 3D Modeling Create complex 3D parts and assemblies using a direct modeling approach that gives you total geometric freedom.
- BIM Integration Develop your architectural designs from concept to documentation using a familiar CAD workflow that supports open BIM standards.
- Mechanical Design Generate production-ready drawings and bills of materials for your manufacturing projects with specialized mechanical assembly tools.
- Point Cloud Processing Import and view massive point cloud datasets directly in your workspace to design accurately against as-built conditions.
VXelements Features
- Real-Time Visualization. See your 3D scan data appear on screen instantly as you move the scanner to ensure complete surface coverage.
- Automatic Mesh Generation. Create ready-to-use 3D meshes automatically from raw point cloud data without manual cleaning or alignment steps.
- VXmodel Module. Transfer your 3D scan data directly into CAD software for reverse engineering and 3D printing workflows.
- VXinspect Module. Perform industrial quality control by comparing scanned parts against original CAD files to identify dimensional deviations.
- Smart Resolution. Optimize your file sizes by capturing high detail only where needed while maintaining smooth surfaces elsewhere.
- VXremote App. Monitor your scanning sessions and change parameters from a tablet or smartphone while working away from your computer.
Pricing Comparison
BricsCAD Pricing
- Full 2D drafting tools
- Native DWG compatibility
- LISP routine support
- Highly customizable interface
- Perpetual license option available
- Everything in Lite, plus:
- 3D Direct Modeling
- Parametric constraints
- Civil design tools
- Point cloud visualization
- Third-party application support
VXelements Pricing
Pros & Cons
BricsCAD
Pros
- High compatibility with existing DWG files and commands
- Perpetual licensing options provide better long-term value
- Significantly faster performance on large, complex drawings
- Unified interface for 2D, 3D, and BIM workflows
- Excellent support for custom LISP scripts and plugins
Cons
- Smaller third-party plugin ecosystem than major competitors
- Steep learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Occasional stability issues with very large point clouds
VXelements
Pros
- Seamless integration with all Creaform 3D scanning hardware
- Real-time feedback significantly reduces scanning errors and rework
- Fast processing speeds for large and complex point clouds
- Intuitive interface is easy for new technicians to learn
Cons
- Requires high-performance workstation hardware to run smoothly
- Proprietary ecosystem limits use with non-Creaform scanners
- Advanced modules require separate licenses which increases costs