IronCAD
IronCAD is a professional 3D design software providing a unique dual-kernel approach that combines feature-based modeling with direct editing to accelerate your product development and mechanical design workflows.
PTC Onshape
Onshape is a professional-grade computer-aided design platform that combines 3D modeling, data management, and real-time collaboration tools into a single cloud-native solution for modern product development teams.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | IronCAD | PTC Onshape |
|---|---|---|
| Website | ironcad.com | onshape.com |
| Pricing Model | Custom | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 0 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2001 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, USA | Boston, USA |
Overview
IronCAD
IronCAD provides you with a flexible 3D design environment that breaks away from the constraints of traditional history-based modeling. You can move, resize, and manipulate parts instantly using the TriBall visualization tool, which simplifies complex positioning and alignment tasks. By utilizing both the ACIS and Parasolid modeling kernels simultaneously, you gain the ability to handle complex geometry without the typical regeneration errors found in other platforms.
You can seamlessly transition between 2D sketches and 3D models to create detailed production drawings and assemblies. The software is specifically designed for mechanical engineers and industrial designers who need to iterate quickly on custom machinery or modular equipment. Whether you are creating one-off prototypes or managing large-scale industrial assemblies, you can drag and drop pre-defined shapes from catalogs to build your designs faster.
PTC Onshape
Onshape is a professional-grade CAD platform built entirely in the cloud, eliminating the need for expensive hardware or complex installations. You can design complex 3D models, manage your product data, and collaborate with your team in real-time from any web browser or mobile device. Because it uses a single source of truth, you never have to worry about version control issues or overwritten files again.
You can streamline your entire product development lifecycle by using built-in release management and automated workflows. The platform is designed for engineering teams of all sizes, from startups to global enterprises, who need to move faster and work more flexibly. It solves the traditional headaches of file-based CAD by providing a secure, always-accessible environment where your entire team can contribute simultaneously.
Overview
IronCAD Features
- Unified Design Environment Create multiple parts and assemblies within a single file to eliminate the hassle of managing complex external links.
- TriBall Manipulation Tool Position, copy, and rotate any object in 3D space with a single intuitive graphical tool for precise placement.
- Dual-Kernel Switching Toggle between ACIS and Parasolid engines to solve complex geometry issues and ensure your models remain error-free.
- Drag-and-Drop Catalogs Build assemblies quickly by dragging standard shapes and parts from pre-defined catalogs directly into your 3D scene.
- Direct Geometry Editing Modify imported CAD data instantly without needing a feature history, making it easy to work with supplier files.
- Integrated 2D Detailing Generate associative 2D technical drawings from your 3D models to ensure your manufacturing documentation stays perfectly synced.
PTC Onshape Features
- Multi-Part Part Studios. Design related parts in a single environment to ensure perfect fit and function without managing complex external references.
- Real-Time Collaboration. Work simultaneously with your teammates on the same design and see their changes instantly with live editing tools.
- Built-in Version Control. Track every change automatically and return to any previous state of your design without ever saving a separate file.
- Branching and Merging. Experiment with new design ideas in isolated branches and merge the best versions back into your main project seamlessly.
- Cloud Simulation. Test your assemblies with integrated structural analysis tools that run in the cloud without slowing down your local machine.
- Mobile CAD Editing. Create and edit professional 3D models on your phone or tablet using native apps designed for touch-screen precision.
Pricing Comparison
IronCAD Pricing
PTC Onshape Pricing
- Public documents only
- Full professional CAD tools
- Real-time collaboration
- Standard content library
- Mobile app access
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Unlimited private documents
- Release management
- Company-wide sharing
- Custom properties
- Consolidated billing
Pros & Cons
IronCAD
Pros
- Incredible flexibility when modifying parts without history constraints
- The TriBall tool makes 3D positioning faster than competitors
- Handles large assemblies smoothly within a single file
- Excellent compatibility with imported files from other CAD systems
Cons
- Smaller user community compared to mainstream CAD platforms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-based tools
- Steep learning curve for users coming from history-based CAD
PTC Onshape
Pros
- Eliminates file crashes and data loss
- No installation or high-end hardware required
- Superior version control and history tracking
- Seamless collaboration with external vendors
Cons
- Requires constant high-speed internet connection
- Steep learning curve for complex surfacing
- Annual billing only for professional tiers