Top SolidWorks CAM Alternatives & Competitors For 2024

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Looking for alternatives to SolidWorks CAM? Many users crave user-friendly and feature-rich solutions for tasks like Platform Capabilities, Inventory Management, and Reports and Dashboards. Leveraging crowdsourced data from over 1,000 real Manufacturing Software selection projects based on 400+ capabilities, we present a comparison of SolidWorks CAM to leading industry alternatives like DELMIAworks, Deacom ERP, Macola, and MRPEasy.

SolidWorks CAM Software Tool
DELMIAworks Software Tool
Deacom ERP Software Tool
Macola Software Tool

Product Basics

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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DELMIAworks (formerly IQMS) contains integrated processes such as supply chain, finances, CRM, capacity planning and employee activity boosts. It detects and addresses operation obstacles. Implement real-time intel to accommodate varying clientele needs and gain up-to-date operation snapshots.

It's available for the cloud and on-premise deployments for better flexibility across industries and business sizes. Reduce scrap levels and boost repair times. It can also push for more on-time deliveries.
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Deacom ERP is an end-to-end, cloud-based solution designed for batch and process manufacturers. It's a good fit for industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, health and beauty, nutraceuticals and more.

It comes with accounting and finance, CRM, sales, WMS, BI dashboards, document management, scheduling, production data and regulatory management. It also offers industry-specific features, including catch weight, direct store delivery (DSD), EDI, formulation and ingredient management, multi-facility, eCommerce, MRP, MRO, and tracking and traceability.
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Macola provides business solutions to small and medium-sized distribution and manufacturing companies. It increases the accuracy and speed of managing a business and streamlines operations in complex manufacturing and distribution environments. It allows users to configure workspaces at user level without consultants or developers. It also streamlines processes such as workflows, automation and document management. 

It enhances how customers interact with the businesses, improving accuracy, speed and reliability. It offers access via mobile apps and the web, business intelligence, and automated workflows.


Pros
  • Strong inventory management
  • Robust financial reporting
  • Customizable to specific needs
  • Scalable for growth
  • Long-standing industry presence
Cons
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Limited mobile accessibility
  • Potential customization costs
  • Dated interface (in some versions)
  • Compatibility concerns with newer tech
read more...

MRPEasy is a robust software solution designed to streamline manufacturing processes, offering comprehensive tools for production planning, inventory management, and supply chain coordination. It is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized manufacturers who seek an affordable yet powerful system to enhance operational efficiency. The software's intuitive interface and scalability make it an attractive option for businesses aiming to optimize their manufacturing workflows without the complexity of larger enterprise systems.

Key benefits of MRPEasy include improved production scheduling, real-time inventory tracking, and enhanced resource allocation, which collectively contribute to reduced lead times and increased productivity. Popular features such as automated purchasing, detailed reporting, and seamless integration with accounting systems further bolster its appeal. Users often highlight the software's ease of use and the significant return on investment it provides.

In terms of pricing, MRPEasy offers a range of subscription plans based on the number of users and required features, typically billed monthly. This flexible pricing structure ensures that businesses can select a plan that aligns with their specific needs and budget constraints. Compared to similar products, MRPEasy is frequently praised for its balance of functionality and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred choice for many in the manufacturing sector.

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Product Assistance

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Live Online
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Webinars
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
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Product Ranking

#66

among all
Manufacturing Software

#17

among all
Manufacturing Software

#23

among all
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#15

among all
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#90

among all
Manufacturing Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

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Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards
Platform Capabilities
Reports and Dashboards
Warehouse Management
Production Scheduling
Inventory Management
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

SolidWorks CAM
DELMIAworks
Deacom ERP
Macola
MRPEasy
+ Add Product + Add Product
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing Computer-aided Design and Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAD and CAM) Management Engineering Change Control Inventory Management Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Mobile Capabilities Platform Capabilities Product Configuration Production Planning Production Scheduling Quality Management Recipe and Formula Management Reports and Dashboards Shop Floor Control Warehouse Management Work in Process (WIP) Work Order Management 67 60 44 85 82 80 95 50 67 86 80 0 91 60 88 67 56 70 8 44 79 64 33 63 50 47 67 50 0 43 70 59 17 44 0 25 50 75 100
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User Sentiment Summary

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Great User Sentiment 235 reviews
Good User Sentiment 7 reviews
Good User Sentiment 49 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 99 reviews
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80%
of users recommend this product

DELMIAworks has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 80% when considering 235 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

78%
of users recommend this product

Deacom ERP has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 78% when considering 7 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

78%
of users recommend this product

Macola has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 78% when considering 49 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

91%
of users recommend this product

MRPEasy has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 91% when considering 99 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

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Awards

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User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

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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Interface: Approximately 63% of users said this program is easy to use, noting the interface to be user friendly.
Overall Performance: Of the users who discussed this solution's performance, 55% said it fits industry needs and integrates throughout various departments within a company.
Functionality: Precisely 60% of users say the platform allows them to easily navigate between modules and offers real-time production monitoring.
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Industry-Specific Focus: Deacom's ERP system is designed specifically for manufacturing companies, which means it has built-in features and functionality that are relevant to the needs of these businesses. This can save companies time and money by eliminating the need to customize a generic ERP system.
Scalability: Deacom's ERP system is scalable, which means it can grow with a company as its needs change. This is important for manufacturing companies that are experiencing rapid growth or that expect to grow in the future.
Flexibility: Deacom's ERP system is flexible, which means it can be customized to meet the specific needs of a company. This is important for manufacturing companies that have unique processes or requirements.
Ease of Use: Deacom's ERP system is designed to be easy to use, even for users who are not familiar with ERP systems. This can help to reduce training time and costs.
Customer Support: Deacom provides excellent customer support, which can be helpful for companies that are new to ERP systems or that need help with troubleshooting.
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Accurate Inventory Tracking: Real-time visibility into stock levels and locations, minimizing stockouts and overstocking.
Robust Financial Insights: Generate comprehensive financial reports with drill-down capabilities for deeper analysis.
Tailored to Specific Needs: Configure Macola to match your unique workflows and processes, improving efficiency.
Adapts to Growth: Accommodate increasing business volume with Macola's scalable architecture.
Proven Manufacturing & Distribution Track Record: Benefit from Macola's deep understanding of industry-specific challenges.
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Intuitive Interface: Users praise MRPEasy for its user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and understand, even for those without extensive software experience.
Comprehensive Functionality: MRPEasy offers a wide range of features, covering various aspects of manufacturing, such as inventory management, production planning, and shop floor control, eliminating the need for multiple software solutions.
Excellent Support: Users consistently highlight the responsive and helpful customer support provided by MRPEasy, ensuring any issues are addressed promptly and efficiently.
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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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System Performance: Roughly 44% of users said updating this software wipes out previous system settings and has a lot of bugs.
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Reporting Limitations: Users have reported difficulties in generating specific or customized reports, often requiring reliance on Deacom's support team for assistance.
User Interface Complexity: The system's interface has been described as cumbersome and not intuitive by some users, leading to a steeper learning curve.
Limited Customization Options: While Deacom offers some flexibility, users have expressed limitations in tailoring the system to their unique workflows and requirements, potentially necessitating workarounds.
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Steeper Learning Curve: Initial setup and user training can be demanding, requiring dedicated resources.
Limited Mobile Accessibility: Interface may not be fully optimized for mobile devices, hindering remote work.
Potential Customization Costs: Extensive customization needs may incur additional development fees.
Dated Interface (in some versions): Older versions may have less intuitive interfaces compared to modern software.
Compatibility Concerns with Newer Tech: Integration with newer technologies might require additional effort or third-party tools.
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Limited Customization: Users have reported that customizing MRPEasy to fit their specific workflows can be challenging, especially for businesses with unique manufacturing processes.
Reporting Limitations: Some users have expressed frustration with the limited reporting capabilities of MRPEasy, finding it difficult to extract specific data insights or generate custom reports.
Mobile App Functionality: While MRPEasy offers a mobile app, some users have found its functionality to be limited compared to the desktop version, particularly for tasks like barcode scanning or shop floor data entry.
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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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DELMIAworks (formerly IQMS) is a manufacturing ERP that offers robust features —such as accounting, document control, CRM, serial number tracking, payroll, accounting, quote management and more — that users find helpful and necessary in streamlining operations. Its performance is highly intuitive and it adapts to various industries to swiftly fulfill assignments. Some users find that upgrading the software can be stressful because it changes original system settings. The application also has a few bugs that affect its speed. Nevertheless, users find it's a reliable tool with an easy interface that increases production.

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Deacom ERP, a cloud-based solution by ECI Software Solutions, has garnered attention for its comprehensive approach to managing manufacturing operations. User reviews from the past year highlight its strengths, weaknesses, and what sets it apart. Users praise Deacom ERP for its robust functionality, particularly its "tight process control." This allows businesses to establish repeatable and scalable practices, leading to greater efficiency and consistency. For example, the batch production feature incorporates quality control checks, ensuring adherence to standards throughout the manufacturing process. Another standout feature is the system's exceptional visibility. Deacom ERP automates a wide range of business processes within a centralized system, providing a clear overview of operations. The e-commerce platform's synchronization with the core ERP system ensures data is consistently up-to-date and accessible across the board. This real-time insight empowers businesses to make informed decisions and respond swiftly to changing market dynamics. However, some users have pointed out that Deacom ERP's learning curve can be steep, requiring dedicated time and effort for successful implementation and adoption. While the system's comprehensiveness is a strength, it can also make it initially overwhelming for some users. Overall, Deacom ERP is best suited for small to medium-sized businesses in industries like food and beverage, chemical, health and beauty, and pharma and life sciences. Its industry-specific features, such as formulation management and lot traceability, cater to the unique needs of these sectors. If your business prioritizes tight process control, seeks enhanced visibility across operations, and requires specialized functionality for your industry, Deacom ERP is worth considering. However, be prepared to invest in training and support to maximize its potential.

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For manufacturers and distributors, Macola is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's praised for its rock-solid core – think Fort Knox inventory tracking, treasure map-like financial reports, and a growth-friendly architecture that scales seamlessly. On the other hand, it's criticized for its learning curve resembling Mount Fuji and a mobile app stuck in a dark labyrinth. Compared to its competitors, Macola lacks the modern sparkle and broader integrations, but its deep industry expertise makes it a master of the manufacturing and distribution tango. Choosing Macola boils down to priorities: if operational power trumps cutting-edge tech, invest the time to learn its intricacies and embrace its classic vibe. For those seeking slick interfaces and mobile magic, Macola might not be the perfect fit.

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Is MRPEasy really a piece of cake to use? User reviews from the past year suggest MRPEasy is a user-friendly and comprehensive manufacturing ERP system that shines when it comes to small to mid-sized businesses. Users praise its intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and implement even without extensive technical expertise. They particularly appreciate its robust production planning, scheduling, and inventory management features, which streamline operations and boost efficiency. However, some users find its customization options somewhat limited, especially when it comes to integrating with other specialized software or accommodating unique industry-specific needs. For example, a user in the financial services industry noted that while MRPEasy provided a solid foundation for managing manufacturing processes, it lacked the flexibility to tailor certain aspects to their specific requirements. This makes MRPEasy a great fit for growing manufacturers and distributors who need a powerful yet easy-to-use system to manage their core operations without the complexity of enterprise-grade solutions. Its affordability and comprehensive feature set make it a compelling choice for businesses looking to optimize their manufacturing processes and gain a competitive edge.

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Related Categories

Top Alternatives in Manufacturing Software


Acumatica

Aptean ERP

Cetec ERP

DELMIAworks

Dynamics 365 Business Central

Dynamics 365 SCM

Epicor Kinetic

JobBOSS²

Katana MRP

MIE Trak Pro

MRPEasy

NetSuite

Oracle Fusion Cloud

Plex Systems

Sage 100 Cloud

SAP S/4HANA Cloud

SYSPRO

SyteLine

Visibility ERP

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