# What is the price of CATIA? A comprehensive buying guide

Gain a competitive edge in mechanical design with CATIA Mechanical Designer – explore its precision, efficiency, and collaborative power across industries

## Gaining a competitive edge with CATIA Mechanical Designer

In the competitive world of mechanical design and engineering, having the right tools can make all the difference. [CATIA Mechanical Designer ](https://www.3ds.com/store/plm-express-design-engineering)is a comprehensive solution for engineers who demand precision, efficiency and collaboration in their design processes. From automotive and aerospace to industrial machinery, industry leaders rely on CATIA software to bring their innovative ideas to life.

This guide will walk you through the pricing, features and benefits of CATIA Mechanical Designer to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your design needs.

## Understanding CATIA Pricing

When evaluating software like CATIA Mechanical Designer, it's important to consider both the pricing structure and the value it delivers. CATIA offers a variety of licensing options tailored to the needs of different users, from professionals to students. Here's a breakdown of the costs associated with CATIA licenses and what you get for your money.

[catia-blue](/media/18124)

## CATIA License Price

CATIA pricing can vary depending on the specific version and licensing model selected. In general, CATIA subscription offers several types of licenses, including perpetual licenses and subscription-based licenses. The perpetual license typically has a higher upfront cost with ongoing maintenance fees, while the subscription model offers more flexibility with annual or monthly payments. For the CATIA Mechanical Designer subscription, the pricing details are as follows:

- **Quarterly subscription:** $2,268 per quarter
- **Annual Subscription:** $7,229 per year

[catia-blue](/media/18124)

These prices reflect the comprehensive set of tools and capabilities provided by CATIA Mechanical Designer, making it a valuable investment for companies looking to improve their design processes. In addition, customers are now assigned a local partner in their country of purchase who can support them throughout the setup process.

## Discover CATIA Products

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![CATIA ](https://www.3ds.com/assets/invest/inline-images/logocatia.jpg)[**PLM Express Design Engineering**](/store/plm-express-design-engineering "Professional CATIA Bundles: AI-Driven Design Engineering, Ready to Use")

Empower smart product design and boost **engineering precision**

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![CATIA](https://www.3ds.com/assets/invest/inline-images/logocatia.jpg)![](https://www.3ds.com/assets/invest/inline-images/3ds_simulia_logotype_rgb_blue_0.png)

 **PLM Express Design & Simulation Engineering**

Advanced design tools with powerful **simulation** capabilities

[View product](/store/plm-express-design-and-simulation-engineering "Modeling & Simulation for Smarter Engineering")

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## CATIA Mechanical Designer software: Key capabilities and features

CATIA Mechanical Designer is specifically designed to meet the more complex needs of mechanical engineers and designers by providing a comprehensive suite of tools. These capabilities include:

- **Part Design**: Create complex mechanical parts with high accuracy.
- **Surface Design**: Design complex surfaces with advanced modeling techniques.
- **Sheet Metal Design** : Efficiently design and manipulate sheet metal parts.
- **Assembly Creation**: Create and manage complex assemblies of multiple components.
- **Mechanism Motion**: Simulate motion of assemblies to validate design functionality.
- **3D Model Review**: Perform thorough reviews of 3D models to ensure quality and accuracy.
- **Drafting**: Generate detailed 2D drawings from 3D models for manufacturing.

Integrated with the [**3D**EXPERIENCE platform](/store/3dexperience-platform "Design the future with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform"), CATIA Mechanical Designer enables seamless collaboration and real-time sharing of changes, allowing multiple team members to work simultaneously on the same project. It also supports direct modeling technology, functional design, advanced feature-based approaches, and knowledge-based design automation, making it a versatile tool for multiple engineering tasks.

[catia-article](/media/18125)

## Advantages of using CATIA Mechanical Designer

Primarily aimed at detailed mechanical design, including part, surface, and sheet metal design, as well as assembly creation and motion simulation, CATIA Mechanical Designer brings many benefits, including:

## Streamlined collaboration

Integration with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform ensures that team members can collaborate in real time, regardless of location.

## Improved productivity

Advanced tools and features streamline the design process, reducing the time it takes to develop and validate products.

## High accuracy and quality

CATIA's robust modeling capabilities enable the creation of accurate, high-quality designs.

## Versatility

The software supports multiple design tasks, from part and surface design to assembly creation and motion simulation.

## Scalability

CATIA Mechanical Designer scales to meet the needs of small teams and large enterprises. With various package options, it provides a flexible solution for different project requirements.

## 3DEXPERIENCE CATIA by DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

While both CATIA Mechanical Designer and [3DEXPERIENCE CATIA](https://www.3ds.com/products/catia/3dexperience-catia) are powerful tools for mechanical design, 3DEXPERIENCE CATIA takes design and engineering to the next level with advanced, integrated capabilities. Here's how they differ:

## Cloud-based solution

Unlike CATIA Mechanical Designer, 3DEXPERIENCE CATIA is completely cloud-based, providing unparalleled accessibility from anywhere.

## Advanced collaboration

Enables seamless collaboration across disciplines and locations, allowing multiple team members to work on the same project simultaneously.

## Enhanced productivity

Includes advanced modeling capabilities and real-time data sharing to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.

## Unified platform

Combines all aspects of product development, from initial concept to final design, into a single platform. This integration reduces errors and improves continuity.

## Next-Level engineering

Provides advanced tools for simulation, lifecycle management, and knowledge-based engineering that go beyond standard mechanical design.

## CATIA Student Version

CATIA offers a specialized version for students, providing a cost-effective way to access industry-standard design and engineering tools. [CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE Student Edition](https://www.3ds.com/edu/education/students/solutions/catia-3dx) comprises:

## 3D design tools

CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE Student Edition offers a comprehensive suite for part design, surface modeling, and assembly creation, equipping students with industry-standard tools to develop detailed mechanical products.

## Collaboration and data management

Integrated with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE Student Edition facilitates real-time collaboration and data sharing among students, enhancing teamwork and project efficiency in educational settings.

## Simulation and Analysis

It provides basic simulation tools for validating designs, integrated with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for real-time collaboration and data sharing. Students can also pursue certification to validate their skills, enhancing their career prospects in the competitive job market.

## Certification Opportunities

Students using CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE Student Edition can also pursue certification to validate their skills and enhance their career prospects. The certification process ensures that students are proficient in the use of CATIA tools and techniques, making them more competitive in the job market.

This version allows students to gain hands-on experience and hone their skills for future careers.

## FAQ about CATIA and Subscription

## What is CATIA Mechanical Designer?

The CATIA Mechanical Designer role by Dassault Systèmes offers powerful tools for creating advanced mechanical products and parts, supporting the entire design process from concept to detailed design. Integrated with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, it facilitates collaboration and increases productivity. The following article provides a detailed look at the pricing and features of CATIA Mechanical Designer to help guide your purchasing decision

## How much does CATIA cost?

CATIA offers two subscription ranges, depending on your design and simulation needs:

**CATIA Design Engineering**

- **Essential:** $7,229 per year ($602 per month, billed annually).
- **Master:** $9,230 per year ($769 per month, billed annually).
- **Elite:** $14,926 per year ($1,243 per month, billed annually).

**CATIA Design & Simulation Engineering**

- **Essential:** $11,188 per year ($932 per month, billed annually).
- **Master:** $16,844 per year ($1,403 per month, billed annually).
- **Elite:** $28,986 per year (monthly price to be confirmed).

## What is the difference between CATIA & SOLIDWORKS?

Here are the main differences between CATIA and SOLIDWORKS:

| **Nature** | **CATIA** | **SOLIDWORKS** |
|---|---|---|
| **Target Market** | Large enterprises and heavy industries | SMEs and medium-sized businesses. |
| **Key Features** | Advanced modeling, sophisticated surfaces, simulation, multi-disciplinary collaboration, Systems engineering, Construction and Infrastructure. | 3D modeling, sheet metal design, simulation, manufacturing integration. |
| **Interface and Usability** | More advanced, steeper learning curve. | Intuitive, user-friendly interface. |
| **Integration and Platform** | Integrated with 3DEXPERIENCE platform | Part of SOLIDWORKS ecosystem |
| **Cost and Licensing** | Perpetual and subscription licensing options. Cost includes not only licences but all services on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform | Perpetual licenses, subscriptions, student editions. |
| **Typical Use** | Industrial Equipment’s, all kind of manufacturing industries. | Mechanical design, industry applications. |

 ![	catia-price](https://www.3ds.com/assets/invest/2024-08/catia-price.png)

What is the price of CATIA