Best Civil Engineering Software with a Free Trial of 2025

ACTCAD is suitable for professional drawings creation for Architects, Structural Engineers, Civil Engineres, Mechanical Drawings, Electrical drawings, interior design, tool design, machine designs etc.ActCAD is professional grade 2D Drafting and 3D Modeling CAD software which works in dwg and dxf file formats. Most affordable cad software.ActCAD is a native dwg/dxf cad software suitable for professional 2D drafting and 3D modeling projects. ActCAD is trusted by over 30000 users in over 103 countries for more than 10 years. The interface, commands, icons, dialogs, shortcuts etc. are very much similar to other popular cad software tools available in market. Flexible license types available even for single license. There is no learning for existing cad users while saving 80% of the costs.ActCAD offers free email technical support without any limitations. ActCAD can be fully customized and programs can be developed using our free API toolkit. It supports popular programming languages like , lisp dcl, .net, C++ etc. Apart from all regular commands, ActCAD offers many productive tools like pdf to cad converter, Block libraries, Image to Cad converter, handling point sets between Cad and Excel and many more.

SkyCiv Structural 3D, a cloud-based Structural Analysis program, allows users to design, analyze, and model complex 3D structures. It can be used online and does not require installation. SkyCiv Structural 3D is the best online structural analysis. It includes the following: – Powerful Analysis: Linear and P-Delta Cables, Buckling Plates, Frequency RS - Integrated design checks for steel, wood connections, foundations wind (AISC. NSD. AISI. EN. AS. CSA. BS plus more ...)

Kenesto is a cloud-based storage system used to manage engineering, design, construction documents. Less expensive than enterprise PDM software, Kenesto offers automatic file locking, versioning and vaulting, 2D/3D viewing and web-based design review tools that are not available in consumer-grade cloud storage solutions like Dropbox and Google Drive. The solution acts like a mounted disk in customer's office, but with a single source of truth in cloud. File locking prevents users overwriting each other's data. All files are kept in perpetuity. Windows Explorer's familiar user interface allows files and folders to be arranged in the same manner as a C Drive. Kenesto supports workflows and tasks. SolidWorks plugin is free. All files are encrypted and stored in secure AWS S3 storage.

For infrastructure projects, it is essential to utilize CAD software capable of managing the vast amount of data required. MicroStation allows users to create effective 2D and 3D drawings suitable for any data size, making it a preferred choice among global transportation agencies, AEC firms, and various owner-operators who rely on DGN for their infrastructure needs. By using MicroStation, you can avoid the delays and mistakes that often accompany the conversion of designs from DWG formats. Given the lengthy lifecycles of infrastructure projects, MicroStation enables you to seamlessly work with data from any era, including that from the 1990s. The software is designed for user-friendliness and facilitates mastery through its customizable environment, which features in-app learning, video tutorials, and comprehensive support, making it possible to become proficient quickly. Various professionals, including engineers, architects, GIS specialists, constructors, and owner-operators, utilize MicroStation to design, model, visualize, document, map, and maintain infrastructure projects effectively. With its robust capabilities, MicroStation stands out as a versatile solution for the complex demands of modern infrastructure development.

GeoHECRAS is a river modeling software used to compute water surface profiles for steady and unsteady flow models, bridge and culvert roadway crossings, FEMA floodplain encroachments, stream restorations, inline reservoir structures, off-channel storage areas, and much more. GeoHECRAS provides an easy-to-use, single graphical platform to rapidly create stunning HEC-RAS models and 3D visualizations from a variety of different data sources like AutoCAD, MicroStation, ArcGIS, Google Maps, Bing Maps, and more.

Civil 3D® is a sophisticated civil engineering design application that enhances Building Information Modeling (BIM) by offering integrated tools aimed at refining drafting, design, and construction documentation processes. It allows users to perform grading design analyses in accordance with specific project requirements. The unique Grading Optimization feature is exclusive to Civil 3D and is included in the Architecture, Engineering & Construction Collection. This software redefines how professionals navigate, visualize, and engage with design models in Civil 3D. Additionally, Project Explorer, which is also part of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Collection, provides an extension that enhances user experience. With Civil 3D®, workflows are streamlined for various tasks including surface modeling, corridor design, site planning, drainage systems, and the production of documentation and plans. Furthermore, it enables secure access to Civil 3D files, data shortcuts, and xrefs from various locations and organizations, all within a unified data environment, making collaboration more effective than ever. Ultimately, Civil 3D® empowers civil engineers to work more efficiently and collaboratively across different projects and teams.

A data wrapper to the industry standard US Army Corps of Engineers HEC-HMS software, GeoHECHMS (a stormwater management software) speeds up the creation, analysis and review of stormwater models. It is compatible with AutoCAD graphic user interface. GeoHECHMS offers: • Automated HEC/HMS Workflows • AutoCAD Civil 3D & ArcGIS Integration • Automated Watershed Delineation • Detention Pond Design • Stormwater Design Tools for Purpose-Built Purpose • Automated TOC and Lag Time • Automated CN Computations • Comprehensive Report Generation GeoHECHMS allows one to quickly compare different scenarios, including pre-development conditions and post-development designs. Rapidly design, analyze, and compare retention and detention ponds.

Civil Designer is an integrated software suite of modules for earthworks, roads, highways, stormwater, wastewater, and potable water supply which seamlessly integrates into your BIM workflow.

HydroCAD Stormwater Modelling allows for easy TR-20, TR55, SBUH and Rational hydrology calculations, as well as TC calculations, storage, outlet hydraulics and pump routing, underground storage, pollutant loads, and more. You can import CAD directly, bypass routing, siphons, skimmers and tubes, as well as local rainfall data import. There is also an expanding chamber library. Interactive graphical environments are intuitive and fast, resulting in better results every time.

Designed for architects and all professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings, ArCADia-ARCHITECTURE offers a range of specialized features that streamline the documentation process, such as automatic generation of cross-sections, dimensioning, and list creation. Utilizing cutting-edge BIM technology, the architect receives a digital representation of the building as they develop their design, allowing for real-time oversight through an interactive 3D preview. This module enhances the functionality of the ArCADia BIM software by integrating advanced modeling capabilities, ensuring that architects can access comprehensive building design tools within the ArCADia BIM framework. With these features, the potential for creativity and efficiency in architectural projects is significantly increased, making it an essential tool for modern design practices.

This module is designed for professionals who work on internal sanitary systems and facilitates the production of detailed documentation for water supply systems within buildings. Users can efficiently produce drawings by utilizing automatic connections between draw-off taps and the overall installation. It also offers features for performing calculations, generating axonometric representations, ensuring hydraulic accuracy, and automatically selecting components from an extensive library. By integrating advanced functionalities, this module enhances the ArCADia BIM program, thereby providing users with additional building modeling options within the platform. As a result, designers can streamline their workflow and improve the quality of their outputs significantly.

SierraSoft Roads is a powerful BIM software solution specifically designed for the design and planning of roads and highways. Its advanced BIM features enable users to produce, modify, share, and analyze road information models, making the design process more efficient and collaborative. By integrating design and information modeling, SierraSoft Roads ensures a seamless workflow while optimizing activities and reducing costs. With its comprehensive toolset, the software allows for simultaneous design and policy control, offering real-time insights and improving decision-making throughout the project. In one unified product, users have access to all the essential tools for road design, information modeling, and quantities calculation, providing a complete solution for efficient project management and execution.

ClearCalcs cloud structural engineering software allows engineers and designers to simplify repetitive calculations using easy-to-use calculators for beams and columns, foundations, and other important information. ClearCalcs has calculators for all standards including the US, Eurocode, Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian. ClearCalcs can help you improve your productivity and design ability. Calculations can be linked together in one click, saving time and errors copy paste loads. Reports print to a simple one-page PDF for easy inspection.

AllyCAD, created and offered by Knowledge Base Software, boasts over 30 years of dedicated application and enhancement within the industry. It is highly favored by countless technical draughtspeople who appreciate its intuitive drawing functionalities and approach. With AllyCAD, all necessary draughting tools are readily accessible, empowering users to create designs tailored to their preferences. Its robust industrial capabilities, sophisticated features, and comprehensive toolkits position AllyCAD as the ultimate software solution for our clients. The platform supports both 2D and 3D draughting, delivering impressive speed and efficiency. Numerous features and enhancements have been integrated to provide users with the AllyCAD Advantage. For a more thorough exploration, we encourage you to visit the Features page. One significant benefit of AllyCAD is its specialized toolkits, which are tailored to expedite critical yet labor-intensive tasks across various CAD fields. Additionally, we take pride in being recognized for offering the best customer support available in the industry, ensuring our users have a seamless experience. Ultimately, AllyCAD not only enhances productivity but also fosters a creative environment for designers.

Plateia is an advanced software solution tailored for roadway design and reconstruction, fully compatible with BIM standards. This professional-grade, 3D tool utilizes a versatile and dynamic data model to facilitate seamless BIM workflows and adheres to the IFC standardized data format. Its thoughtfully crafted user interface and workflows align perfectly with established road design engineering practices, ensuring that users can quickly become proficient with the software. Plateia encompasses a comprehensive suite of commands and tools that supports the entire design process, beginning with preliminary design phases and extending through to detailed design. This includes integrating initial survey data, creating intricate 3D road models equipped with analysis capabilities, and offering robust documentation and publishing features. Furthermore, Plateia stands out for its ability to adapt to various project requirements, making it an invaluable asset for engineers and designers in the field.

InfraWorks® is a conceptual design tool tailored for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction, enabling them to create, examine, and visualize infrastructure design ideas in relation to both the built and natural surroundings, thereby enhancing decision-making processes and speeding up project approvals. It allows users to consolidate extensive datasets to form a comprehensive context model. The software facilitates the smooth integration of designs with geospatial GIS information. Users can accurately model current conditions that depict the surrounding environment. It also offers the capability to visually investigate various design alternatives within their real-world context. By employing analysis and simulation tools, critical elements of the project can be thoroughly assessed. Moreover, it helps in crafting engaging and immersive visualizations that effectively convey the design intent. The tool also aids in establishing the actual site conditions and in extracting linear features, which in turn helps to streamline the design process further. This comprehensive approach not only fosters creativity but also ensures that designs are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

SPACE GASS is a versatile 3D analysis and design software tailored for structural engineers. Its broad array of features accommodates everything from beams and trusses to complex structures like buildings, towers, tanks, cable systems, and bridges. Users can benefit from a powerful 64-bit multi-core solver, impressive 3D visualizations, and specialized elements including plate, frame, cable, and tension/compression-only types, as well as tools for moving loads and integrations with various CAD and building management systems. Choosing SPACE GASS means optimizing your resources with cost-effective, safe, and efficient designs. The user-friendly graphical interface allows for immediate visual feedback on changes, enhancing the design process. Additionally, a rapid sparse matrix solver takes full advantage of multi-core processing capabilities for increased efficiency. The software features a diverse suite of structural modeling tools, analysis methodologies, and design modules to meet various engineering needs. Moreover, an array of comprehensive video tutorials is available to guide users through complex tasks effectively. Finally, the software can be configured for either stand-alone use or floating network systems, adding flexibility for different working environments.

GEMS, which stands for Geotechnical Engineering Modelling Software, creates sophisticated and user-friendly CAD applications specifically tailored for the evaluation and design of foundations. This suite utilizes finite element modeling methods to effectively analyze both shallow and deep foundation systems, featuring dedicated modules for assessing beam foundations, pile foundations, and a unique option for offshore pile foundations. You can experience the GEMS foundation analysis suite at no cost through a cloud-based platform. Additionally, it is accessible for trial downloads and available for purchase on both PC and Mac systems, ensuring a wide range of users can benefit from its advanced capabilities. Whether you are a student or a professional, GEMS provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your foundation design projects.

Flow Calc 365 is an advanced and powerful software calculator for open channel flow using the Manning Equation for regular and irregular channel geometries for steady uniform flow including circular and elliptical pipes. Civil Engineers have found Flow Calc to be a useful tool for quick calculation results and professional reports. Flow Calc can be used to solve for Manning N Value, Channel Slope, Normal Depth, and Flow Rate for irregular channels and pipe channels including elliptical pipes. Rating Tables of Flow Rate versus Normal Depth are easily created where the user can modify variables of a channel such as side slope, channel slope, Manning N Value, and other variables. Flow Calc 365 uses trusted software installation practices utilizing RSA SHA-256 encryption technology to provide the highest level of security trust with validation reputation that is compliant with Microsoft Smartscreen® technology..

MasterSeries PowerPad represents a comprehensive suite for structural analysis and design, making it an excellent choice for engineers seeking extensive design features at a remarkably low cost. By offering scaled-down versions of its primary analysis and design tools, MasterSeries PowerPad ensures that a variety of established programs are accessible for less than one-third of their standard pricing. Central to PowerPad is the robust MasterFrame analysis module, which seamlessly connects with design modules for steel, concrete, composite, and timber, creating a fully integrated, three-dimensional analysis and design workspace. Additionally, the PowerPad (Student Edition) is available for free, providing students access to our commercial PowerPad Plus suite. Unlike mere proformas, PowerPad bundles lightweight versions of true software applications, including straightforward designs for steel, concrete, and timber beams, along with the capability to analyze beams, trusses, plane frames, grillages, and space frames. This extensive functionality supports engineers in executing a wide array of design projects efficiently.

The user interface of our software has been designed for maximum ease of use. Users can create geometry in multiple views using sophisticated modeling tools, or they can input data through spreadsheets, all seamlessly integrated within RISA-3D. This powerful tool offers analysis and design capabilities that facilitate the quick creation of various structures, accommodating a diverse selection of materials. You can design everything from buildings and bridges to tanks and culverts, covering a vast array of engineering needs. Detailed reports can be generated, featuring both graphical and numerical results, which provide comprehensive output and instill confidence in your designs for you and your team. The latest iteration of RISA-3D's user interface has been tailored specifically to the workflow of structural engineers. It employs a straightforward left-to-right, tab-by-tab ribbon system that allows users to easily navigate their models from initial concepts to final design refinement by simply following the sequence of icons. Moreover, the interface offers customization options, enabling users to keep their most frequently used tools readily accessible at all times, enhancing their efficiency even further. Ultimately, this thoughtful design ensures that engineers can focus more on innovation and less on navigating complex software.

Easily create single or multi-story buildings by using automated grid generation, graphical input for structural components, and intuitive parent/child relationships within a user-friendly interface. This platform allows for the straightforward design and optimization of floor systems made from various materials to meet specific loads, while also addressing live load reduction and vibration concerns, all governed by practical design rules for easy result management. RISAFloor ES provides comprehensive optimization features for rebar, thorough compliance checks including punching shear and detailing mandates, analysis of cracked section properties, and evaluation of elastic deflection. The software’s interface is designed to facilitate a seamless floor-by-floor modeling approach, making it simple to construct complex multi-story structures. Users can efficiently model floor components with tools such as DXF overlays, construction lines, and a blend of spreadsheet inputs alongside CAD-like functionalities. Furthermore, the ability to establish parent/child floor relationships allows for the replication of one floor’s layout onto others, significantly reducing the need for repetitive tasks in modeling and adjustments, which enhances overall productivity. This capability not only saves time but also ensures consistency across various levels of the building.

You can effortlessly generate intricate concrete geometries, encompassing everything from single levels and ramps to multi-story concrete edifices, by utilizing powerful modeling tools that also support imports from CAD and BIM applications. Analyze slabs or full structures efficiently for the cumulative impacts of gravity, lateral forces, and vibrations through advanced 3D finite element analysis, simple load takedown techniques, and precise slab alignment. Whether you are examining an existing reinforced concrete slab or crafting a multi-story post-tensioned building, ADAPT-Builder gives you the ability to manage every design element, including cracking, long-term deflections, and punching shear, thus ensuring that your results are both accurate and comprehensive. No matter your specific concrete design requirements, ADAPT offers a software solution tailored to your needs. Take the time to compare the various packages available and embark on your project today. ADAPT-Builder serves as the comprehensive platform for 3D modeling, analysis, and design alongside ADAPT-Floor Pro, Edge, MAT, and SOG, while Modeler can be integrated with ADAPT-PT and RC for enhanced functionality and versatility. With these tools at your disposal, you can achieve remarkable precision and efficiency in your concrete design endeavors.

By consistently considering the broader context, you are equipped to make superior design choices, which is why our satellite, aerial, and drone imagery from top-tier providers is ideal for offering valuable insights, inspiration, and clarity. In fact, it surpasses the experience of being on-site! This newfound ability to visualize every detail—every contour, channel, ridge, or obstacle both on the site and in the nearby regions—empowers you to design with unprecedented assurance, all at your convenience and from anywhere around the globe. This capability will not only captivate clients and stakeholders but also earn their admiration and secure contracts. Furthermore, the ability to export entire designs into Google Earth allows for immersive tours, making it easy for everyone involved to comprehend and appreciate your innovative proposals. Ultimately, this integration enhances collaboration and communication throughout the design process.

Simple, powerful, and inexpensive CAD software to survey. You can perform triangulation, contour maps, color-filled contour lines, sections, intersections and volume, edit XYZ files as well as simulate rainwater runoff. Even on less powerful PCs, you can process hundreds of thousands or points and create a 4D point cloud.