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.
SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a versatile diagramming software that allows you to create professional-quality flowcharts, floor plans, and organizational charts using automated formatting and a vast library of specialized templates.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | PTC Onshape | SmartDraw |
|---|---|---|
| Website | onshape.com | smartdraw.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $9.95/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 0 days free trial | ✓ 7 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has 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 | 2012 | 1994 |
| Headquarters | Boston, USA | The Woodlands, USA |
Overview
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.
SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a powerful diagramming tool designed to help you create professional visuals without the manual effort of traditional drawing software. Whether you need to map out complex business processes, design architectural floor plans, or build technical engineering diagrams, the platform automates the alignment and arrangement of your elements. You can simply click a command and watch your diagram reformat itself instantly as you add or move shapes.
The software serves a wide range of users, from solo contractors needing quick blueprints to enterprise teams documenting IT infrastructure. It solves the problem of messy, inconsistent diagrams by providing over 45,000 professional templates and 70,000 symbols. You can work entirely in your web browser or use the Windows desktop application, making it easy to collaborate with your team regardless of their operating system.
Overview
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.
SmartDraw Features
- Intelligent Formatting. Add or remove shapes and watch your diagram automatically readjust its layout to maintain perfect alignment and spacing.
- Extensive Template Library. Choose from over 70 different diagram types including flowcharts, floor plans, and network diagrams to start your project instantly.
- CAD-Drafting Engine. Design professional-grade floor plans and engineering drawings with ease using powerful tools that rival expensive CAD software.
- Data-Driven Diagrams. Generate charts and visuals automatically by importing data from your existing spreadsheets or external databases.
- Visio Import and Export. Collaborate with others easily by importing your old Visio files and exporting your new designs back to Visio format.
- Development Platform. Use the built-in SDK to create custom extensions and automate diagram generation for your specific business needs.
Pricing Comparison
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
SmartDraw Pricing
- Over 70,000 symbols
- 4,500+ smart templates
- Visio import and export
- Premium support included
- Cloud storage integration
- Everything in Individual, plus:
- Minimum 3 users required
- Shared team folders
- Administrative controls
- Document retention rules
Pros & Cons
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
SmartDraw
Pros
- Automated formatting saves hours of manual alignment
- Massive library of industry-specific symbols and templates
- Excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office and Visio
- Easier to learn than complex CAD software
Cons
- Web version can lag with very large diagrams
- No forever-free tier for casual users
- Subscription is required to keep desktop access