Best PLM for SolidWorks

Our verdict

For SolidWorks teams the first question is how tightly the system manages CAD files: check-in/out, references, revisions and BOM extraction from assemblies. Small teams are often well served by SolidWorks PDM or a cloud BOM tool; once change control, suppliers, quality and ERP come into play, a PLM connected to SolidWorks becomes the better foundation. Favor systems with a native SolidWorks add-in so engineers keep working inside their CAD.

Independent editorial guide · No paid placements · Updated 2026-11-02

How we selected

• Native SolidWorks integration
  Add-in for check-in/out, references, configurations and properties.
• BOM from CAD
  Accurate EBOM extraction from assemblies, including purchased parts.
• Change control
  ECO workflows that release CAD and BOM together.
• Multi-CAD & ECAD
  Handles other CAD tools and electronics data when needed.
• ERP connectivity
  Releases BOMs and items to ERP/MRP.
• Deployment & cost
  On-premise vault versus cloud, and total cost for the team size.

The shortlist

1. 1.SOLIDWORKS PDMOn-premise · Hosted

   Engineering data management for SOLIDWORKS-centric design teams.

   Best for: SolidWorks teams wanting native vaulting and revision control.

   Consider: PDM scope; add a PLM for cross-functional change, quality and supplier processes.

   Pricing: PDM Standard — Contributor, network license: £730 (ex VAT)

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis
2. 2.3DEXPERIENCE / ENOVIAOn-premise · Cloud

   Unified platform combining design, simulation, manufacturing, and PLM data management.

   Best for: Teams moving to Dassault's cloud platform with SolidWorks connected.

   Consider: Broad platform; plan the transition from file-based to platform-based data.

   Pricing: Per-user annual cost (partner estimate): US$2,000 – 10,000 / user / year

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis
3. 3.OpenBOMSaaS

   Entry-level, lightweight and cloud-native PDM and PLM platform.

   Best for: Low-cost cloud BOM management directly from SolidWorks.

   Consider: Lightweight; evaluate workflow depth for formal change control.

   Pricing: Professional Team: US$30 / seat / month

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis
4. 4.Duro PLMSaaS

   Cloud PLM for hardware startups needing structured BOMs quickly.

   Best for: Hardware startups adding structured BOMs and releases to SolidWorks.

   Consider: Focused scope; confirm quality depth for regulated markets.

   Pricing: Entry annual subscription (third-party report): from ≈ US$9,000 / year

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis
5. 5.Arena PLM & QMSSaaS

   Cloud-native PLM and quality management for electronics and medical devices.

   Best for: SolidWorks users needing cloud PLM plus QMS, e.g. medical or electronics.

   Consider: CAD data typically remains in a PDM; Arena manages BOM, change and quality.

   Pricing: Per-user annual subscription (benchmark range): US$1,200 – 2,500 / user / year

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis
6. 6.Aras InnovatorOn-premise · Private cloud · SaaS

   Open, low-code PLM platform with upgradeable customizations.

   Best for: Mid-size and enterprise teams wanting a flexible PLM with SolidWorks connectors.

   Consider: Highly configurable; plan configuration and integration effort.

   Pricing: Per-user subscription at 10,000 users (third-party): ≈ US$22 / user / month

   Full profile, customers & capability analysis

Capability comparison

Based on the same capability framework as each Directory profile.