EXScan S vs SOLIDWORKS Comparison: Reviews, Features, Pricing & Alternatives in 2026

Detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right solution for your team

Updated Apr 2026 8 min read

EXScan S

0.0 (0 reviews)

EXScan S is a dedicated 3D scanning software designed to work with Shining 3D EinScan desktop scanners to capture high-resolution digital models for engineering and design.

Starting at --
Free Trial NO FREE TRIAL
VS

SOLIDWORKS

0.0 (0 reviews)

SOLIDWORKS is a premier 3D computer-aided design software that provides engineers and designers with professional tools for modeling, simulating, and managing complex product development from concept to final manufacturing.

Starting at --
Free Trial 0 days

Quick Comparison

Feature EXScan S SOLIDWORKS
Website shining3d.com solidworks.com
Pricing Model One_time Custom
Starting Price Custom Pricing Custom Pricing
FREE Trial ✘ No free trial ✓ 0 days free trial
Free Plan ✘ No free plan ✘ No free plan
Product Demo ✓ Request demo here ✓ Request demo here
Deployment desktop desktop cloud
Integrations SolidEdge Geomagic Essentials Autodesk Fusion 360 Microsoft Excel ERP Systems Mastercam KeyShot Autodesk Vault MATLAB
Target Users small-business mid-market freelancer small-business mid-market enterprise
Target Industries education manufacturing engineering manufacturing aerospace automotive
Customer Count 0 0
Founded Year 2004 1993
Headquarters Hangzhou, China Waltham, USA

Overview

E

EXScan S

EXScan S is the essential software companion for your EinScan-S series desktop 3D scanners. It provides you with a streamlined workflow to convert physical objects into high-quality 3D data. You can manage the entire scanning process from initial calibration to mesh generation within a single, intuitive interface. The software handles complex data processing in the background, allowing you to focus on capturing every detail of your object with precision.

You can choose between different scanning modes depending on your project needs, whether you require high-speed capture or maximum detail. The software also includes tools for mesh optimization, hole filling, and smoothing to ensure your models are ready for 3D printing or further CAD development. It is specifically built for designers, engineers, and educators who need reliable digital replicas of small to medium-sized objects.

strtoupper($product2['name'][0])

SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS gives you a comprehensive suite of tools to transform your ideas into physical products. You can create precise 3D models, generate detailed 2D drawings, and run complex simulations to test how your designs will perform in the real world. The platform handles everything from simple parts to massive assemblies with thousands of components, ensuring your engineering data remains organized and accurate throughout the design cycle.

You can also streamline your manufacturing process by using integrated tools for CAM, inspection, and technical communication. Whether you are designing consumer electronics, industrial machinery, or medical devices, the software helps you reduce development time and costs. It is widely used by mechanical engineers, product designers, and manufacturing teams who need a reliable, industry-standard solution for professional-grade product development.

Overview

E

EXScan S Features

  • Automatic Calibration Follow simple on-screen prompts to calibrate your scanner quickly and ensure you always capture the most accurate data possible.
  • Multiple Scan Modes Switch between fixed and auto-turntable modes so you can capture objects of varying sizes and complexities with ease.
  • Real-time Visualization Watch your 3D model form on your screen as you scan, allowing you to identify and fill gaps instantly.
  • Mesh Optimization Refine your raw data into clean meshes using built-in tools for smoothing, sharpening, and reducing polygon counts.
  • Automatic Alignment Merge multiple scan angles automatically using geometry or marker points to create a complete 360-degree digital model.
  • Direct Export Save your finished models in standard formats like STL, OBJ, and PLY for immediate use in 3D printing.
strtoupper($product2['name'][0])

SOLIDWORKS Features

  • Parametric 3D Modeling. Create complex parts and assemblies quickly using sketch-based features that allow you to make instant design changes.
  • Automated 2D Drawing. Generate production-ready 2D drawings automatically from your 3D models, complete with dimensions, tolerances, and bills of materials.
  • Structural Simulation. Test your designs against stress, strain, and thermal loads to identify potential failures before you build a physical prototype.
  • Design for Manufacturing. Check your parts for manufacturability issues like draft angles or wall thickness to ensure they can be produced efficiently.
  • Data Management. Control your design revisions and collaborate with your team securely using built-in version control and file management tools.
  • Photorealistic Rendering. Create stunning visual content and marketing materials directly from your CAD data to showcase your products to stakeholders.

Pricing Comparison

E

EXScan S Pricing

S

SOLIDWORKS Pricing

Pros & Cons

M

EXScan S

Pros

  • Intuitive interface makes 3D scanning accessible for beginners
  • Fast processing speeds for generating high-density meshes
  • Seamless integration with EinScan-SE and EinScan-SP hardware
  • Reliable automatic alignment saves significant post-processing time

Cons

  • Hardware requirements for PC graphics cards are quite high
  • Limited advanced editing tools compared to standalone CAD software
  • Software updates can sometimes be slow to download
A

SOLIDWORKS

Pros

  • Massive community and library of pre-made components
  • Industry-standard file formats simplify collaboration with manufacturers
  • Highly logical parametric workflow for complex geometry
  • Excellent integration between design and simulation tools

Cons

  • Requires high-end hardware for smooth performance
  • Significant learning curve for advanced surfacing features
  • Windows-only desktop application limits operating system choices
×

Please claim profile in order to edit product details and view analytics. Provide your work email @productdomain to receive a verification link.