Side by side
OpenLSTO vs TopOpt
Both stand on generative design software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
OpenLSTO focuses on 2D level set topology optimization with a stated compliance objective and volume constraint. Its command-line workflow and separate visualization requirement are important considerations.
Visit OpenLSTO Free plan Open source AndroidiPhoneLinux+4
TopOpt combines interactive tools with educational code and a parallel framework for more demanding work. Check the platform lists and Windows prerequisites before choosing an app.
Visit TopOptThe facts
| OpenLSTO | TopOpt | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | topopt.mek.dtu.dk |
| On generative design software | #5 of 20 | #1 of 20 |
OpenLSTO: what it does well
- Free, open-source software under Apache 2.0
- Minimizes compliance under a volume constraint
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows
- Supports .vtk output readable by ParaView
What to know first
- The described first version is limited to 2D
- Uses command-line arguments in a terminal
- Solution files require separate visualization software
TopOpt: what it does well
- Interactive 2D and 3D apps are listed
- 99-line MATLAB code targets engineering education
- PETSc framework supports parallel large-scale optimization
- Photonics offering includes five COMSOL models
What to know first
- Windows app downloads require VC++R2012 and VC++R2013
- No price is stated for the interactive apps
- ParaView 4.0 or newer is recommended for visualization
Alternatives to OpenLSTO Alternatives to TopOpt The whole list