MicroStation
MicroStation is a computer-aided design software that provides precise 2D and 3D modeling capabilities for infrastructure professionals to design, document, and visualize complex engineering projects.
Modelur
Modelur is a parametric urban design software that integrates directly with SketchUp to provide real-time calculation of key urban indicators like floor area ratio and required parking spaces.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MicroStation | Modelur |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bentley.com | modelur.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Starting Price | $166/month | $49/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 14 days 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 | 1984 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Exton, USA | Ljubljana, Slovenia |
Overview
MicroStation
MicroStation gives you the power to design, document, and visualize infrastructure projects of any size or complexity. Whether you are working on bridges, roads, or utility networks, you can create precise 2D drawings and 3D models that maintain data integrity throughout the project lifecycle. You can integrate diverse data types, including point clouds and reality meshes, to ensure your designs reflect real-world conditions accurately.
The platform is built for professionals in engineering, architecture, and construction who need a reliable environment for collaborative work. You can automate the creation of high-quality deliverables like 3D PDFs and paper plots while managing complex BIM workflows. By using its advanced parametric modeling tools, you can quickly iterate on designs and reduce manual errors in your documentation process.
Modelur
Modelur is a specialized parametric tool designed to streamline your urban planning and design workflows within SketchUp. Instead of manually calculating complex zoning numbers, you can create 3D building masses that automatically update their data as you scale or move them. It helps you stay compliant with local regulations by providing instant feedback on land use, building heights, and density requirements.
You can quickly generate multiple design iterations and compare their financial or environmental impacts through live data syncing. This eliminates the need for tedious spreadsheets and manual area tracking, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of city planning. Whether you are designing a small neighborhood or a large-scale master plan, it ensures your 3D models remain data-rich and technically accurate throughout the entire design process.
Overview
MicroStation Features
- Parametric 3D Modeling Create intelligent 3D models using functional components that allow you to test multiple design variations and automate repetitive tasks.
- Automated Deliverables Generate consistent 2D drawings, schedules, and reports directly from your 3D models to ensure your documentation stays perfectly synchronized.
- Reality Data Integration Incorporate context from the real world by attaching point clouds, raster images, and reality meshes directly into your design environment.
- Interoperability Tools Work with almost any file format including DGN, DWG, and IFC to collaborate with partners using different software platforms.
- Photorealistic Rendering Produce stunning visualizations and animations with built-in rendering tools to communicate your design intent clearly to stakeholders.
- Geospatial Referencing Align your projects with precise geographic locations using hundreds of supported coordinate systems for accurate site-specific engineering.
Modelur Features
- Parametric Building Blocks. Create and modify building masses that automatically adjust their floor counts and areas based on your specific design parameters.
- Real-time Indicators. Monitor key metrics like Floor Area Ratio (FAR), site coverage, and total gross floor area instantly as you edit your model.
- Zoning Compliance Alerts. Set specific land-use constraints and receive immediate visual warnings if your design exceeds local height or density limits.
- Parking Requirement Calculator. Automatically calculate the number of required parking spaces based on your building's programmed use and total floor area.
- GIS Data Import. Import existing city data and terrain directly into your workspace to ensure your project sits accurately within its real-world context.
- Live Sync to Excel. Export your model data to Excel with a single click to generate detailed reports for stakeholders and city officials.
Pricing Comparison
MicroStation Pricing
- Full 2D/3D CAD capabilities
- 12-month term license
- 3 Keys (expert training credits)
- Standard technical support
- Access to Bentley communities
- Regular software updates
- Everything in Virtuoso, plus:
- Custom volume licensing
- Enterprise-level technical support
- Success plan consulting
- Flexible usage-based billing
- Dedicated account management
Modelur Pricing
- Full parametric modeling
- Real-time urban indicators
- Zoning compliance checks
- Excel data export
- Standard email support
- Everything in Personal, plus:
- Priority technical support
- Floating license options
- Advanced GIS integration
- Team collaboration tools
Pros & Cons
MicroStation
Pros
- Handles massive datasets and complex models without crashing
- Superior interoperability with diverse file formats like DWG
- Highly customizable interface to match your specific drafting needs
- Excellent precision for large-scale infrastructure and civil engineering
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users switching from AutoCAD
- Higher price point compared to basic drafting tools
- Hardware requirements are demanding for high-end 3D rendering
Modelur
Pros
- Significant time savings on manual area calculations
- Seamless integration with existing SketchUp workflows
- Easy to learn for current 3D modelers
- Highly accurate data for preliminary site studies
- Responsive support team for technical issues
Cons
- Requires a separate SketchUp license to operate
- Limited functionality outside of urban massing
- Performance can slow down with massive city models