SOLIDWORKS Frequently Asked Questions

Run fit checks, motion studies, and stress simulations to confirm that your drone design is ready for assembly. You can also create drawings and 3D renderings to document your project or share it with other makers for feedback.

You can sketch, dimension, and generate drawings or cut lists to ensure your parts fit correctly and that you know exactly what materials you will need. You can start with simple 2D sketches and quickly transform them into precise 3D models for efficient and accurate home builds.

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers has the same core CAD functionality with the addition of the 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform for file storage, sharing, and version control. It is not compatible with commercial SOLIDWORKS licenses or third-party Add-Ins. Files are watermarked and can only be opened with a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license.

SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers runs entirely in your browser and works on any device with an internet connection. It is not compatible with commercial SOLIDWORKS licenses or third-party Add-Ins. Files are watermarked and can only be opened with a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers costs $48 USD per year, or $15 USD per month, excluding taxes. It is the same professional 3D CAD engineers use, priced for personal, non-commercial use. Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel them in your My Account portal.

Make sure you are using the same email address you used to purchase your subscription. Try clearing your browser cache or opening the platform in an incognito window. If your subscription is more than 30 days old, it may have lapsed. You can renew from the Makers store or submit a Support Form for help.

First, check your spam or junk folder. If you still don't see it, you can access your account through the Get Started page using the email address you used at checkout. If you are still unable to log in, contact support by submitting a Support Form.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers is currently available in: Algeria, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States. See the Makers FAQ for the latest availability information.

Yes. Both packages are built to be learned from scratch. Your platform's Resources section carries step-by-step tutorials, the Getting Started video playlist and the Welcome App with tours and training. You can also join the Made in 3D community to ask questions and see what other makers are building.

Not at all. Whether you’re creating your first prop or building a full suit of armor, SOLIDWORKS for Makers combines professional CAD precision with maker-friendly tools and tutorials. You’ll find guides, videos, and community support to help at every step.

No. There is no free version and no free trial. The subscription is $48 USD a year and carries a 15-day money-back policy, so you can try it and request a refund inside that window.

Yes. SOLIDWORKS for Makers includes 25 GB of 3DEXPERIENCE cloud storage across 3DDrive and 3DSpace. File versioning, history tracking and recovery are included. Storage cannot be expanded, and the 25 GB applies only to SOLIDWORKS for Makers licenses.

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers requires Windows 11. To confirm your system is compatible, use the Cloud Eligibility Tool, or check the list of Certified Hardware Requirements.

SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers runs in your browser and requires a stable internet connection. It is compatible with Chrome, Firefox and Edge on Windows, Mac, Chromebook and most tablets. No additional hardware requirements apply beyond a supported browser and a reliable internet connection.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers is for personal, non-commercial projects. You can design and even sell parts you make, as long as you generate less than $2,000 USD per year in revenue from them. For professional or broader use you need a SOLIDWORKS commercial or startup license. There is no upgrade path from a Makers license to a commercial one, so you would purchase the commercial license separately.