ShopVox vs SolidWorks CAM

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Our analysts compared ShopVox vs SolidWorks CAM based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Manufacturing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

SolidWorks CAM Software Tool

Product Basics

ShopVox software helps small to medium-sized custom manufacturers manage their businesses, including quoting, production, shipping, and accounting. The software is designed to streamline operations and improve efficiency for businesses that create custom products or those with engineer-to-order or make-to-order workflows. Key benefits include improved organization, increased productivity, and better communication. Popular features include quoting, production scheduling, inventory management, and shipping integrations. Users generally find the software easy to use and appreciate the customer support. Pricing is based on the number of users and the features selected, with monthly and annual payment options available.

Since pricing details and feature availability can change over time, it's recommended to check the ShopVox website for the latest information.

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SolidWorks CAM bridges the gap between virtual designs and physical prototypes, translating 3D models into precise instructions for computer-controlled machines (CNCs). This powerful software caters to professionals like machinists, programmers, and engineers, streamlining workflows and optimizing production. Key benefits include reduced errors through automated toolpath generation, enhanced efficiency with machine simulation, and shorter lead times thanks to streamlined workflows. Popular features encompass 2D/3D machining, 5-axis support, and collision detection, ensuring smooth operation and accurate results. While offering a robust feature set, SolidWorks CAM comes with a premium price tag, typically licensed per seat and requiring annual subscriptions. This makes it ideal for established businesses with high production volumes who prioritize precision and efficiency. Smaller shops or hobbyists might find alternative solutions with more accessible pricing models.

Pros
  • Seamless SOLIDWORKS integration
  • Intuitive interface and workflow
  • Powerful toolpath generation
  • Accurate simulation capabilities
  • Comprehensive feature set
Cons
  • High price point
  • Steep learning curve
  • Limited post-processing options
  • Occasional performance issues
  • Subscription-based pricing
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$118 Monthly
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$995/Seat, Annually
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Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
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Android
Chromebook
Windows
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Linux
Android
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Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Streamlined Pricing: Implement this module to create tailored quotes, rapid online approval and obtain online payments seamlessly, reducing plenty of guesswork. 
  • Enhanced Deadline Management: Leverage built-in calendars to avoid missing deadlines and due dates. 
  • Centralized Management: Communicate with and monitor teams, clients and suppliers at all stages of the custom creation process in one centralized location instead of logging in and out of separate applications. 
  • Various Job Views: Review jobs and assignments under different display options such as card, list, calendar and custom job statuses to stay on top of completed and in-progress responsibilities. 
  • Product Catalogs: Work with various catalogs for product apparel such as screen printing, embroidery, heat press and more to review orders and make products easily. 
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  • NC Editor: Verify and back plot G-codes to evaluate and deliver to the computer numerical control (CNC) with direct numerical control (DNC) tools. 
  • eDrawings: Analyze 3D models with their relevant toolpaths to comprehend machining orders inside of eDrawings. 
  • CAM Probing: Recalibrate coordinate systems for manufacturing critical features with restricted tolerances with CAM probing, permitting users to reset toolpath coordinates for precise product fabrication. 
  • CAM Tab Cutting: Work with larger scrap pieces attached to the finished product with the tab cutting apparatus. It enables users to supervise time for toolpath setup and production after post processing. 
  • Universal Post Generator: Add and maximize procedures such as crafting and editing clients' post processors with the universal post generator. 
  • UserGroups: Carry out conversations with other SOLIDWORKS CAM users with the usergroups community accessory.  
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  • Job Management: Evaluate jobs in different views, including as cards, lists and calendars. Implement communication tools such as tasks, assets, emails, notes and purchasing. This module also permits customer transaction reviewing, global searching and associated purchasing linking to orders. 
  • Quoting: Utilize product templates for sign usages such as banners, yard signs, digitally-printed vinyl, vehicle wrap, magnets and more. Leverage other product templates, including business cards, promotional items, custom objects and SAGE promotions. 
  • Online Proofing: Stay attuned to numerous art revisions, observe time stamps and attached validated proofs to jobs. There also personal proofing URLs for clients, approval checklists and downloadable proof PDF files. 
  • Integrations: Integrate shopVOX with diverse programs like UPS, FedEx, Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, Stripe, Square and more. 
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  • Rules-Based Machining:  Utilize rules-based machining to superintend programming operations concurrently with implementing tolerances allocated to specific parts. This accessory pinpoints critical areas when crafting a piece instead of touching every individual feature that requires machining. 
  • Tolerance-Based Machining: Amend asymmetric tolerances to mean tolerances for various cutting tool tactics with the tolerance-based machining appliance. 
  • Knowledge-Based Machining: Establish machining strategies and tools needed for particular shapes and workpieces with the automatic or interactive feature recognition tools in the knowledge-based machining appliance. This function also automatically sets recurring machining operations per specific company regulations. 
  • Automatic Feature Recognition: Recognize prismatic parts such as holes, pockets, bosses and more with the automatic feature recognition module. 
  • Automatic Machine Times: Cipher and compare machine times to traditional techniques to verify each part's aspects are present before pledging to productions. 
  • 3+2 Programming: Execute machining styles with a three-axis milling platform utilizing two rotational axes on a five-axis machine within a tilted cutting machine through the 3+2 programming apparatus. 
  • High-Speed Machining: Sustain consistent tool pressure across the cutting process with the high-speed machining appliance. Users may implement several feed rates for tools to cut at full depth to decrease cycle times while prolonging the life of their tools and machinery. The machining route extension merges with standard cutting machinery to diminish overhead costs for machining parts. 
  • Turning: Carry out various forms of turning such as face rough and finish, groove rough and finish, OD threading and more via the turning feature. 
  • Part Modeling and Importing: Draft and input parts to effectively communicate with designers, study MBD data and apply vital manufacturing modifications with the part modeling and importing apparatus. 
  • Assembly Modeling and Importing: Verify fits and tolerances in parts with the assembly modeling and importing accessory. This tool can import clamps and vises to guarantee workpieces are made correctly the first time and provide users with the required clearances to remove the product upon completion. 
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Product Ranking

#52

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#66

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Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 205 reviews
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92%
of users recommend this product

ShopVox has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 92% when considering 205 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

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1.25 (1)
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4.62 (204)
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Awards

ShopVox stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

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Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Centralized Communication: ShopVox provides a centralized platform for communication, which helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that important information is not lost in email threads or instant messages.
Improved Efficiency: ShopVox can help to improve efficiency by automating tasks, such as creating quotes and invoices, and by providing tools for tracking time and materials.
Better Customer Service: ShopVox can help businesses to provide better customer service by giving them a way to track customer interactions and by making it easy for customers to get in touch with the business.
Reduced Costs: ShopVox can help businesses to reduce costs by automating tasks and by providing tools for tracking expenses.
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Seamless Integration: Works seamlessly with SOLIDWORKS models, minimizing data transfer errors and streamlining workflows.
Intuitive Interface: User-friendly interface with clear menus and icons, making it easier to learn and use even for beginners.
Powerful Toolpaths: Generates optimized and efficient toolpaths for various machining operations, reducing cycle times and material waste.
Accurate Simulation: Provides realistic machine simulations to identify potential collisions and optimize programs before actual machining, minimizing errors and rework.
Comprehensive Features: Offers a wide range of features for various machining needs, including 2/3/5-axis machining, wire EDM, and surface milling, making it suitable for diverse projects.
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Limited Integrations: ShopVox may not integrate well with all the software tools a manufacturing business uses, leading to data silos and manual data entry.
Customization Challenges: Customizing ShopVox to fit specific manufacturing workflows can be difficult, requiring workarounds or compromises that impact efficiency.
Mobile App Limitations: The ShopVox mobile app may lack some of the features available on the desktop version, hindering on-the-go access for production managers or field technicians.
Learning Curve: ShopVox can have a steep learning curve, especially for users unfamiliar with similar software, requiring significant time investment in training and onboarding.
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High Price Point: Requires a significant upfront investment and annual subscriptions, making it less accessible for smaller shops or hobbyists.
Steep Learning Curve: Mastering advanced features and toolpath strategies can be challenging for beginners, requiring dedicated training or experience.
Limited Post-Processing Options: Offers fewer built-in post-processors compared to some competitors, potentially requiring manual customization or third-party tools for specific machine setups.
Occasional Performance Issues: Users report occasional performance issues, especially with complex models or simulations, potentially impacting workflow efficiency.
Subscription-Based Pricing: The subscription-based model can be a disadvantage for businesses with low or unpredictable production volumes, leading to potentially higher costs per use.
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ShopVox users rave about its ability to streamline manufacturing processes, making it a one-stop shop for managing everything from quotes and orders to inventory and shipping. The software's customizability is a major plus, allowing businesses to tailor it to their specific workflows and needs. Users also appreciate the robust reporting features, which provide valuable insights into production efficiency and profitability. However, some users find the interface a bit clunky and overwhelming at first, with a steeper learning curve compared to simpler solutions like QuickBooks. ShopVox shines in its ability to handle complex manufacturing processes, including multi-level bills of materials and routing, setting it apart from more basic inventory management software. This makes it ideal for small to medium-sized manufacturers who have outgrown simpler tools and need a comprehensive solution to manage their growing operations.

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SolidWorks CAM gets high praise for its seamless integration with SOLIDWORKS models, streamlining workflows and minimizing errors. One user says, "It's like working with one program instead of two." The intuitive interface and powerful toolpath generation are also popular, with another user reporting, "I was able to program my first part within hours of installing it." However, the high price tag is a major sticking point for many. "It's definitely an investment," one user admits, "but it saves us time and money in the long run." The learning curve can also be steep, especially for complex features. As one reviewer puts it, "Mastering some of the advanced functions takes dedication, but the online resources and community are helpful." Compared to competitors, users appreciate SolidWorks CAM's accuracy and reliability. "The simulations are incredibly realistic," one reviewer notes, "it helps us avoid costly mistakes." However, limited post-processing options compared to some competitors like Mastercam can be an inconvenience. "We had to purchase a third-party post-processor for our specific machine," one user mentions. Ultimately, SolidWorks CAM shines for its tight integration, user-friendliness, and powerful features, ideal for businesses with high production volumes and complex machining needs. While the cost and learning curve can be barriers, the accuracy and time-saving potential make it a worthwhile investment for many users. As one reviewer concludes, "It's not perfect, but for integrated CAM with SOLIDWORKS, it's the best option on the market."

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