MicroStation

MicroStation

Bentley Systems
4.1 out of 5 stars
SolidFace

SolidFace

SolidFace Technology
1.0 out of 5 stars
Visit Website for MicroStation
MicroStation SolidFace
MicroStation:

About

MicroStation is the trusted CAD software purpose-built for the design, modeling, and management of global infrastructure projects. Known for its extreme scalability, MicroStation empowers engineering professionals to deliver precise 2D and 3D deliverables for projects of any size or complexity. A key differentiator is its industry-leading interoperability; users can integrate a massive variety of data types, including DWG, IFC, and SHP, without the need for risky data conversions or translations. By providing a single environment for various project elements, it ensures secure and effective deliverables across the entire project lifecycle. Whether you are an engineer, architect, or GIS professional, MicroStation provides the flexibility and power needed to turn a vision into a sustainable reality while maintaining the highest standards of data integrity.
SolidFace:

About

Built-in version control and simple management tools solve the costly need for a separate PDM system. Your team and you always on the latest design data. Every modification made by every user is captured and recorded and can be reversed at any time, providing unlimited undo/redo and a documented audit trail. Branching and merging enable many product ideas to be developed in parallel. The parameterization capability is one of the most significant advantages of SolidFace, and it is present in all design steps. 3D Motion simulation is no different; the simulation is updated simultaneously with the movement. Another important capability is the simulation of 2D mechanisms, which can be performed either in 2D drawing or in 3D sketch module. Directly available through SolidFace's software interface, this new online part library features over 100 million part numbers from hundreds of leading component manufacturers and distributors and thousands of ISO, ANSI, DIN, NF, GB, ASME, and more.
MicroStation:

Platforms Supported

Windows Supported
Mac Not Supported
Linux Not Supported
Cloud Not Supported
On-Premises Not Supported
iPhone Not Supported
iPad Not Supported
Android Not Supported
Chromebook Not Supported
SolidFace:

Platforms Supported

Windows Supported
Mac Not Supported
Linux Not Supported
Cloud Supported
On-Premises Not Supported
iPhone Not Supported
iPad Not Supported
Android Not Supported
Chromebook Not Supported
MicroStation:

Audience

Architects, engineers, construction professionals, CAD managers, BIM managers, project managers, drafters, documenters, visualization experts. Anyone who uses CAD to design, build and operate infrastructure assets, marine/naval, or industrial/plant drafting.
SolidFace:

Audience

Anyone interested in free 3D CAD software
MicroStation:

Support

Phone Support Not Supported
24/7 Live Support Supported
Online Supported
SolidFace:

Support

Phone Support Not Supported
24/7 Live Support Supported
Online Not Supported
MicroStation:

API

Offers API Not Supported
SolidFace:

API

Offers API Not Supported
MicroStation:

Screenshots and Videos

SolidFace:

Screenshots and Videos

MicroStation:

Pricing

$1,208 per year
Pricing details:
MicroStation on SELECT
Starting Price: $1,208 per year
Best For: Organizations requiring flexible licensing and continuous support.
Key Features: This subscription includes license pooling, which allows users to share licenses across multiple computers. It provides access to software upgrades, technical support, and the ability to use "Term Licenses" to pay for additional software as needed without upfront perpetual costs.

MicroStation Virtuoso (Practitioner License)
Starting Price: $2,656 per year
Best For: Individual practitioners or teams that need both software and expert training.
Key Features: This 12-month named-user license is sold through Bentley’s Virtuosity eStore. It includes two "Virtuosity Keys" per license. These keys are credits that can be redeemed for expert services, such as 1-on-1 mentoring, customized training courses, and tailored on-demand learning to help users "hit the ground running."

MicroStation Enterprise 365
Starting Price: Custom Quote
Best For: Large organizations requiring comprehensive access to the Bentley portfolio.
Key Features: This program provides unlimited access to Bentley’s infrastructure applications. Licenses are typically managed on a "per-day" basis for named users or unique machines. It is designed to scale with the organization, offering global pricing and simplified administration for multidisciplinary teams.

MicroStation for Education
Starting Price: $0 for Students / $1,500 for Institutional Units
Best For: Students, educators, and academic institutions.
Key Features: Individual students and faculty members can generally access MicroStation for free through the Bentley Education portal. For university departments, an annual flat fee provides unlimited installations for use in labs and administrative units.
Free Version Not Supported
Free Trial Supported
SolidFace:

Pricing

$89 per quarter
Free Version Supported
Free Trial Not Supported
MicroStation:

Reviews/Ratings

Overall 5.0 / 5
ease 5.0 / 5
features 5.0 / 5
design 5.0 / 5
support 5.0 / 5
SolidFace:

Reviews/Ratings

Overall 1.0 / 5
ease 1.2 / 5
features 1.2 / 5
design 1.2 / 5
support 1.0 / 5
MicroStation:

Pros from Real Users

Pros

  • Integrated package with lots of features and a tremendously more intuitive and user friendly interface and lots of power in modeling, and it reads and works on so many other software formats. I can open a DWG, do my work, save t, and nobody knows I did it on MicroStation. They just see the work done. Although expensive, it is not more expensive than the other serious packages but so much more efficient. It saves me hours and my productivity is paying off so quickly against the cost.
SolidFace:

Pros & Cons from Real Users

Pros

  • The account was closed and they "only" stole money once. Not much else that can be considered positive with this fraud.
  • Nothing.
  • Nothing. Absolutely nothing good with this product. This is nothing but a refund scam. Good on you if you find use for this product. I sure didn't.
  • Nothing as once I realised the free offer (not 30 day trial) was a con then I stopped using the software straight away as I had requested a refund and was told this would be refunded in 1-3 months and my account had also been closed.
  • Not a damn thing. Give me my money back. Mickey, Mini, Donald, Goofy, Archie, Veronica, Jughead, Charlie Brown...

Cons

  • It seems like it's a scam. Worst customer experience I've ever had.
  • Installed free trial version, then was billed around 80USD. Was promised a refund after I complained, which never came. Don't touch this PoS scammer company.
  • Automatic charge. Promised refund when mailed but 5 months later still no refund. They do not answer my emails no longer. Absolutely do not get this program. The software in it self sucked and barely had any functions.
  • Free 'beta' version is not free at all and they take monies as though it was a 30 day trial. Upon complaining the promise of a refund within 1-3 months is given but surprise surprise the monies are not returned.
  • I tinker with CADD software as a hobby. I am proficient in several platforms, Solidworks, AutoCAD, Inventor, Fusion 360, Sketchup, and numerous others. I am always looking for a good inexpensive package that I can use in my garage projects. I was invited, in November, to a free public beta trial. I wondered why I had to give my credit card info at the time. I soon found out. I downloaded the software but could not install it on my Windows 10 platform. I am an IT Professional so I can imagine the problems someone else might have had. I didn't think anything of it until I checked my bank account a few days later. I never authorized a purchase but I was still charged $44.00. Supposedly that is half price. But then I was charged another $89.00 4 days later. Again, I never used the product, never authorized a charge. I don't have a lot of money and live pretty much paycheck to paycheck. These unexpected charges cost me two NSF fees for other returned bills. (My fault I know) When I applied for a refund, I got the standard message just give us the last 4 digits of your card and the date is was charged on. I then received an email saying the refund was being processed but would take 1 to 3 months. BULLSHIT! No online transactions take more than 3 business days anymore. I have since emailed 4 times asking where my money is. I get no response except the same standard reply, regarding the 30 day money back guarantee. I just want my money back. I will be posting this as a warning everywhere I can find a place to post it.
MicroStation:

Training

Documentation Supported
Webinars Supported
Live Online Supported
In Person Supported
SolidFace:

Training

Documentation Supported
Webinars Supported
Live Online Supported
In Person Not Supported
MicroStation:

Company Information

Bentley Systems
Founded: 1984
United States
www.bentley.com/
SolidFace:

Company Information

SolidFace Technology
Founded: 2013
United States
solidface.com
MicroStation:

Alternatives

ActCAD Software

ActCAD Software

Jytra Technology Solutions
4.4 out of 5 stars
SolidFace:

Alternatives

ARES Commander

ARES Commander

Graebert
5.0 out of 5 stars
MicroStation:
iC3D

iC3D

Creative Edge Software
SolidFace:
Designcenter Solid Edge

Designcenter Solid Edge

Siemens
5.0 out of 5 stars
MicroStation:
OpenBuildings Designer

OpenBuildings Designer

Bentley Systems
SolidFace:
AutoCAD

AutoCAD

Autodesk
4.4 out of 5 stars
MicroStation:
AutoCAD

AutoCAD

Autodesk
4.4 out of 5 stars
SolidFace:
MicroStation:
SkyCiv Structural 3D

SkyCiv Structural 3D

SkyCiv Engineering
5.0 out of 5 stars
SolidFace:
ArCADia BIM

ArCADia BIM

ArCADiasoft
MicroStation:

Categories

3D Architecture Supported
3D Modeling Supported
Architectural CAD Supported
Architecture Supported
CAD Supported
Civil Engineering Supported
Engineering Supported
Public Works Supported
SolidFace:

Categories

3D Modeling Supported
Architectural CAD Supported
CAD Supported
MicroStation:

3D Modeling Features

2D Drawing Supported
Animation Supported
Annotations Supported
Bill of Materials Supported
Character Modeling Supported
Collaboration Tools Supported
Component Library Supported
Data Import / Export Supported
For 3D Printing Not Supported
For Architects Supported
For Manufacturers Supported
Reference Management Supported
Simulation Supported

Architectural CAD Features

2D Drawing Supported
3D Modeling Supported
Architectural Symbol Library Supported
Automatic Formatting Supported
BIM Modeling Not Supported
Comparison View Supported
Design Templates Supported
Drafting Supported

CAD Features

2 1/2-Axis Milling Not Supported
2D Drawing Supported
3-Axis Milling Not Supported
3D Modeling Supported
4-Axis Milling Not Supported
5-Axis Milling Not Supported
Civil Supported
Collaboration Supported
Database Connectivity Supported
Design Analysis Supported
Design Export Supported
Document Management Supported
Electrical Supported
Hole Making Supported
Mechanical Supported
Mechatronics Not Supported
Presentation Tools Supported
Simulate Cycles Not Supported
Spiral Output Supported
Structural Engineering Supported
Toolpath Simulation Not Supported
User Defined Cycles Supported

3D Architecture Features

2D Drawing Supported
Animation Supported
BIM Modeling Supported
Component Library Supported
Data Import / Export Supported
Landscape Design Supported
Virtual Tour Supported

Architecture Features

2D Drawing Supported
3D Modeling Supported
Bills of material Supported
BIM Modeling Supported
Building Information Modeling Supported
Client Management Not Supported
Contact Management Supported
Contract Management Not Supported
Document Management Supported
Drafting Supported
Manufacturing Design Data Supported
Presentation Tools Supported
Project Management Not Supported
Proposal Management Not Supported
Quotes/Proposals Not Supported
Visualization / Presentation Supported

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Features

CAD/CAM Compatibility Supported
Finite Element Analysis Not Supported
Fluid Dynamics Not Supported
Import / Export Files Supported
Integrated 3D Modeling Supported
Manufacturing Process Simulation Not Supported
Mechanical Event Simulation Not Supported
Multibody Dynamics Not Supported
Thermal Analysis Not Supported

Engineering Features

2D Drawing Supported
3D Modeling Supported
Chemical Engineering Supported
Civil Engineering Supported
Collaboration Supported
Design Analysis Supported
Design Export Supported
Document Management Supported
Electrical Engineering Supported
Mechanical Engineering Supported
Mechatronics Not Supported
Presentation Tools Supported
Structural Engineering Supported

Public Works Features

Billing & Invoicing Not Supported
Compliance Management Supported
Contract Management Not Supported
Customer Database Not Supported
Document Management Supported
Equipment Maintenance Not Supported
Fixed Asset Management Supported
Job Costing Not Supported
Project Management Not Supported
Service Request Management Not Supported
Work Order Management Not Supported
SolidFace:

3D Modeling Features

2D Drawing Supported
Animation Not Supported
Annotations Not Supported
Bill of Materials Supported
Character Modeling Not Supported
Collaboration Tools Supported
Component Library Supported
Data Import / Export Supported
For 3D Printing Supported
For Architects Supported
For Manufacturers Supported
Reference Management Not Supported
Simulation Supported

Architectural CAD Features

2D Drawing Supported
3D Modeling Supported
Architectural Symbol Library Not Supported
Automatic Formatting Not Supported
BIM Modeling Not Supported
Comparison View Not Supported
Design Templates Not Supported
Drafting Supported

CAD Features

2 1/2-Axis Milling Supported
2D Drawing Not Supported
3-Axis Milling Not Supported
3D Modeling Not Supported
4-Axis Milling Not Supported
5-Axis Milling Not Supported
Civil Not Supported
Collaboration Not Supported
Database Connectivity Not Supported
Design Analysis Not Supported
Design Export Not Supported
Document Management Not Supported
Electrical Not Supported
Hole Making Supported
Mechanical Not Supported
Mechatronics Not Supported
Presentation Tools Not Supported
Simulate Cycles Not Supported
Spiral Output Not Supported
Structural Engineering Not Supported
Toolpath Simulation Not Supported
User Defined Cycles Supported
MicroStation:

Integrations

ArcGIS Supported
Cesium Supported
ContextCapture Supported
DWG TrueView Supported
ERDAS IMAGINE Supported
LumenRT Supported
OpenBridge Designer Supported
OpenBuildings Designer Supported
OpenCities Map Supported
OpenRoads Designer Supported
Prevu3D Supported
ProSteel Supported
ProStructures Supported
ProjectWise Supported
Visual Studio Supported
SolidFace:

Integrations

ArcGIS Not Supported
Cesium Not Supported
ContextCapture Not Supported
DWG TrueView Not Supported
ERDAS IMAGINE Not Supported
LumenRT Not Supported
OpenBridge Designer Not Supported
OpenBuildings Designer Not Supported
OpenCities Map Not Supported
OpenRoads Designer Not Supported
Prevu3D Not Supported
ProSteel Not Supported
ProStructures Not Supported
ProjectWise Not Supported
Visual Studio Not Supported
SolidFace:
Claim SolidFace and update features and information
Claim SolidFace and update features and information