Side by side
CATIA vs Forma3D
Both stand on 3d modeling software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Paid WebWindows
CATIA brings parametric modeling together with assembly, sheet-metal, and surface capabilities. Buyers should confirm which product supports their target platform and file formats before requesting pricing.
Visit CATIA Free trial iPhoneMac
Forma3D focuses on mesh editing, sculpting, face coloring, scanning, and export for 3D-printing workflows. Its Apple-device support, local processing, and specialized file exports are balanced by the lack of animation, rendering, and direct printer connections.
Visit Forma3DThe facts
| CATIA | Forma3D | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Not published | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web, Windows | iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | CATIA for Architecture, Engineering & Construction — Yearly Subscription: $6,537 a year | Annual: $49.99 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | 3ds.com | forma3d.app |
| On 3d modeling software | #123 of 147 | #127 of 147 |
CATIA: what it does well
- Supports parametric modeling and assembly design.
- Includes sheet-metal tools and surface modeling.
- Cloud collaboration is supported.
- STEP import and export are listed.
What to know first
- Pricing is available only on request.
- Platform availability varies by CATIA product.
- DXF, STL, VRML, and IGES support is product-dependent.
Forma3D: what it does well
- Edits STL and 3MF mesh files
- Includes vertex, edge, and face tools
- Paints faces for compatible multicolor printing
- Supports LiDAR object reconstruction
- Processes models on-device
What to know first
- No animation tools
- No render engine
- No free plan
- Does not connect directly to printers
Alternatives to CATIA Alternatives to Forma3D The whole list