Quick Overview
- 1#1: ETABS - Advanced software for modeling, analysis, and design of concrete building systems including nonlinear behavior and seismic performance.
- 2#2: SAP2000 - Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for concrete structures supporting linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis.
- 3#3: STAAD.Pro - Comprehensive structural analysis and design software optimized for reinforced concrete elements per international codes.
- 4#4: Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional - Integrated BIM-enabled analysis software for concrete frames, shells, and slabs with advanced code checking.
- 5#5: midas Gen - Building design system specializing in high-rise concrete structures with construction sequence and nonlinear analysis.
- 6#6: Dlubal RFEM - Finite element software for detailed analysis and design of concrete structures including slabs, walls, and shells.
- 7#7: SCIA Engineer - Multi-material structural analysis tool with strong focus on concrete design, stability, and fire analysis.
- 8#8: Tekla Structural Designer - Analysis and design software for concrete frames and floors with automated optimization and code compliance.
- 9#9: SOFiSTiK - Modular FEA system for advanced concrete analysis including creep, shrinkage, and prestressing.
- 10#10: AxisVM - Efficient 3D structural analysis software for concrete buildings with integrated design modules.
Ranked based on advanced features (seismic, creep, prestressing), compatibility with international codes, user experience, and overall value, ensuring the list prioritizes tools that deliver both power and practicality for structural engineers.
Comparison Table
This comparison table evaluates leading concrete structural analysis software, including ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional, and midas Gen. It examines key features, usability, and industry adaptability to guide users toward the most suitable tool for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ETABS Advanced software for modeling, analysis, and design of concrete building systems including nonlinear behavior and seismic performance. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | SAP2000 Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for concrete structures supporting linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | STAAD.Pro Comprehensive structural analysis and design software optimized for reinforced concrete elements per international codes. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional Integrated BIM-enabled analysis software for concrete frames, shells, and slabs with advanced code checking. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | midas Gen Building design system specializing in high-rise concrete structures with construction sequence and nonlinear analysis. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Dlubal RFEM Finite element software for detailed analysis and design of concrete structures including slabs, walls, and shells. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | SCIA Engineer Multi-material structural analysis tool with strong focus on concrete design, stability, and fire analysis. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Tekla Structural Designer Analysis and design software for concrete frames and floors with automated optimization and code compliance. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | SOFiSTiK Modular FEA system for advanced concrete analysis including creep, shrinkage, and prestressing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | AxisVM Efficient 3D structural analysis software for concrete buildings with integrated design modules. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
Advanced software for modeling, analysis, and design of concrete building systems including nonlinear behavior and seismic performance.
Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for concrete structures supporting linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis.
Comprehensive structural analysis and design software optimized for reinforced concrete elements per international codes.
Integrated BIM-enabled analysis software for concrete frames, shells, and slabs with advanced code checking.
Building design system specializing in high-rise concrete structures with construction sequence and nonlinear analysis.
Finite element software for detailed analysis and design of concrete structures including slabs, walls, and shells.
Multi-material structural analysis tool with strong focus on concrete design, stability, and fire analysis.
Analysis and design software for concrete frames and floors with automated optimization and code compliance.
Modular FEA system for advanced concrete analysis including creep, shrinkage, and prestressing.
Efficient 3D structural analysis software for concrete buildings with integrated design modules.
ETABS
enterpriseAdvanced software for modeling, analysis, and design of concrete building systems including nonlinear behavior and seismic performance.
Advanced fiber-based nonlinear hinge models for precise simulation of reinforced concrete ductility and seismic performance
ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is a premier software for the analysis, design, and detailing of building structures, with exceptional capabilities for reinforced concrete systems. It enables detailed 3D modeling of frames, shear walls, slabs, and mats, supporting linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, including P-Delta, pushover, and time-history methods tailored to concrete behavior. The integrated design modules optimize reinforcement for beams, columns, walls, and foundations per numerous international codes like ACI, Eurocode, and ASCE.
Pros
- Unparalleled finite element modeling and meshing for complex concrete buildings
- Comprehensive nonlinear analysis for concrete cracking, yielding, and hysteretic behavior
- Automated design and optimization of RC elements with code-compliant detailing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High computational demands for large-scale models
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Professional structural engineers handling multi-story reinforced concrete buildings in seismic regions requiring code-compliant analysis and design.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$18,000 USD with annual maintenance ~20%; subscription and academic versions available at lower costs.
SAP2000
enterpriseVersatile finite element analysis and design tool for concrete structures supporting linear and nonlinear static and dynamic analysis.
Advanced nonlinear layered shell elements for detailed simulation of reinforced concrete cracking, crushing, and rebar yielding in a single model
SAP2000, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is a versatile finite element analysis and design software widely used for modeling, analyzing, and designing concrete structures such as buildings, bridges, and dams. It supports advanced linear and nonlinear analyses, including static, dynamic, seismic, and pushover methods tailored for concrete behavior like cracking, yielding, and ductility. The software integrates automated design checks for reinforced and prestressed concrete per major international codes, enabling performance-based design workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive nonlinear analysis capabilities for complex concrete behaviors like material nonlinearity and geometric effects
- Integrated design modules with automated optimization for RC and prestressed concrete per ACI, Eurocode, and other standards
- Robust modeling tools including shell, frame, and solid elements with extensive section libraries
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature-dense interface and advanced options
- High computational demands for large-scale models requiring powerful hardware
- Premium pricing model that may be prohibitive for small firms or individual users
Best For
Professional structural engineers handling large, complex concrete projects like high-rises, bridges, and seismic retrofits who require precise finite element analysis and code-compliant design.
Pricing
Commercial licensing with perpetual or annual subscription options; contact CSI for custom quotes, typically starting at $5,000+ per seat annually depending on modules and network licensing.
STAAD.Pro
enterpriseComprehensive structural analysis and design software optimized for reinforced concrete elements per international codes.
Integrated concrete design post-processor with code-specific optimization for rebar sizing, detailing, and deflection checks across multiple load cases
STAAD.Pro, developed by Bentley Systems, is a powerful structural analysis and design software excels in finite element modeling and analysis of concrete structures under static, dynamic, seismic, and wind loads. It offers comprehensive design modules for reinforced concrete beams, columns, slabs, walls, and foundations compliant with major codes like ACI 318, Eurocode 2, and IS 456. Ideal for complex projects, it supports 3D modeling, load combinations, and optimization, integrating seamlessly with other Bentley tools for detailed engineering workflows.
Pros
- Extensive support for international concrete design codes with automated reinforcement calculations
- Robust finite element analysis engine handling nonlinear, dynamic, and buckling behaviors
- Strong integration with BIM workflows and Bentley's RAM Connection for detailed design
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and command-driven inputs
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors like ETABS
- High subscription costs limit accessibility for small firms or freelancers
Best For
Experienced structural engineers designing large-scale concrete buildings, bridges, or industrial facilities requiring code-compliant analysis and optimization.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Bentley's SELECT program; annual costs range from $5,000-$15,000+ per user depending on edition, modules, and support.
Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional
enterpriseIntegrated BIM-enabled analysis software for concrete frames, shells, and slabs with advanced code checking.
Advanced nonlinear material models and pushover analysis tailored for realistic concrete behavior under extreme loads
Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional is a comprehensive BIM-integrated software for structural analysis and design, specializing in finite element modeling of concrete structures like beams, slabs, columns, walls, and shells. It performs advanced linear and nonlinear analyses, including seismic, dynamic, and pushover simulations, while automating reinforced concrete design per major codes such as ACI, Eurocode, and BS. The tool integrates seamlessly with Revit and other Autodesk products, enabling efficient workflows from modeling to code-compliant detailing.
Pros
- Extensive international code support for RC design and detailing
- Powerful nonlinear and seismic analysis capabilities for complex concrete structures
- Strong BIM integration with Revit for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High system resource requirements for large models
- Subscription model limits flexibility for small firms
Best For
Large structural engineering firms tackling complex, code-compliant concrete projects within Autodesk BIM ecosystems.
Pricing
Subscription-based at approximately $2,665/year standalone or included in Autodesk AEC Collection (~$3,075/year).
midas Gen
enterpriseBuilding design system specializing in high-rise concrete structures with construction sequence and nonlinear analysis.
Sophisticated construction stage analysis that accurately models time-dependent effects like creep, shrinkage, and sequential loading in concrete structures
midas Gen is a powerful finite element analysis software from MIDASoft, designed primarily for the modeling, analysis, and design of concrete structures in buildings, bridges, and other civil engineering projects. It excels in handling complex analyses such as nonlinear behavior, seismic time-history, pushover, and construction staging for reinforced and prestressed concrete. The software supports numerous international design codes and integrates BIM data for efficient workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive concrete design modules compliant with global codes like ACI, Eurocode, and others
- Advanced nonlinear and dynamic analysis capabilities including material hysteresis and cracking
- Excellent construction stage analysis for simulating real-world erection sequences
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- High system requirements and potential performance issues on standard hardware
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for small firms or individual users
Best For
Experienced structural engineers tackling large-scale, complex concrete projects like high-rise buildings or long-span bridges requiring precise nonlinear and staged construction analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $8,000-$12,000 with annual maintenance fees; network/subscription options from $3,000/year.
Dlubal RFEM
specializedFinite element software for detailed analysis and design of concrete structures including slabs, walls, and shells.
Sophisticated nonlinear analysis of concrete surfaces and solids with automated reinforcement design and optimization
Dlubal RFEM is a sophisticated finite element analysis (FEA) software designed for structural engineers, specializing in the modeling, analysis, and design of concrete structures including slabs, shells, and solids. It supports linear and nonlinear analyses, seismic and dynamic simulations, and integrates dedicated modules like RF-CONCRETE for reinforced concrete design per major codes such as ACI 318, Eurocode 2, and others. Ideal for complex projects like bridges, high-rises, and industrial facilities, it offers precise simulation of cracking, reinforcement, and ultimate limit states.
Pros
- Advanced nonlinear concrete material models including cracking and crushing
- Comprehensive code-compliant design modules for global standards
- Excellent integration with RSTAB for combined frame and surface analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to modular complexity
- High upfront and add-on module costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling intricate reinforced concrete projects requiring detailed FEM simulations.
Pricing
Perpetual base license ~€3,500-€5,000 plus €1,000-€3,000 per concrete module; annual subscriptions ~20-30% of perpetual cost.
SCIA Engineer
enterpriseMulti-material structural analysis tool with strong focus on concrete design, stability, and fire analysis.
Physical modeling interface that uses real-world dimensions and properties for intuitive input and error reduction in concrete analysis
SCIA Engineer is a powerful finite element analysis and design software tailored for concrete, steel, and composite structures, offering advanced modeling, nonlinear analysis, and code-compliant design checks. It excels in handling complex geometries like slabs, beams, columns, walls, and shells with features such as automated meshing, seismic analysis, and BIM integration via IFC. Primarily used for buildings, bridges, and industrial projects, it streamlines workflows from concept to detailed design.
Pros
- Comprehensive Eurocode and international concrete design modules with nonlinear cracking and creep analysis
- Intuitive physical modeling and automated load generation reducing setup time
- Strong BIM interoperability for collaborative workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced nonlinear features
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Performance can lag on extremely large models without high-end hardware
Best For
Mid-to-large structural engineering firms in Europe designing complex concrete buildings and bridges requiring precise code-compliant analysis.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions starting at around €6,000 per user, with perpetual licenses and enterprise discounts available.
Tekla Structural Designer
enterpriseAnalysis and design software for concrete frames and floors with automated optimization and code compliance.
Automatic gravity load takedown and meshing for slabs and walls, enabling rapid analysis of multi-story concrete frames
Tekla Structural Designer is a comprehensive BIM-enabled software for the analysis and design of concrete, steel, and timber structures, with robust tools for modeling RC frames, slabs, beams, columns, walls, and foundations. It performs 3D finite element analysis, code-compliant automated design checks, and optimization in a single integrated environment. The software supports international design codes and facilitates seamless data exchange with other Tekla tools for detailing and fabrication.
Pros
- Integrated 3D modeling, analysis, and automated design for concrete structures
- Supports complex geometries, staged construction, and nonlinear analysis
- Excellent BIM interoperability with Tekla Structures and other platforms
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- High resource demands on hardware for large models
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Experienced structural engineers working on multi-material building projects with significant concrete components who require BIM integration and code-compliant automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $4,000–$10,000 per year depending on modules and user seats; perpetual licenses available with annual maintenance.
SOFiSTiK
specializedModular FEA system for advanced concrete analysis including creep, shrinkage, and prestressing.
TEDDY parametric scripting system for fully automated, customizable structural modeling and analysis workflows
SOFiSTiK is a powerful finite element analysis and design software suite specialized in structural engineering, with robust capabilities for concrete structures including reinforced and prestressed concrete. It supports modeling, static and dynamic analysis, code-compliant design per Eurocodes and other standards, and automated detailing. Ideal for complex projects like bridges and high-rise buildings, it emphasizes precision in construction stage simulation and nonlinear analysis.
Pros
- Comprehensive concrete design modules with full code compliance (Eurocode, ACI, etc.)
- Advanced automation via TEDDY scripting for parametric modeling
- Excellent handling of construction stages and time-dependent effects
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to command-line heavy interface
- High licensing costs for full modular suite
- Less intuitive GUI compared to modern competitors like ETABS
Best For
Experienced structural engineers tackling complex concrete bridge and building projects requiring precise nonlinear analysis and automation.
Pricing
Modular perpetual or annual licenses starting at €5,000+ per module; enterprise pricing requires custom quote.
AxisVM
specializedEfficient 3D structural analysis software for concrete buildings with integrated design modules.
Ultra-fast nonlinear solver enabling quick iterations on complex concrete structures with automatic stability checks
AxisVM is a comprehensive finite element analysis and design software tailored for structural engineers, with strong capabilities in modeling and analyzing reinforced concrete structures. It supports 3D building models, linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, and automated design of beams, slabs, columns, walls, and foundations per Eurocodes and other standards. The software emphasizes speed, intuitive modeling, and detailed output reporting for concrete projects.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast calculation engine for large models
- Intuitive object-based modeling and excellent 3D visualization
- Robust reinforced concrete design modules with code compliance
Cons
- Limited support for non-European design codes
- Modular pricing can add up for full functionality
- Fewer BIM integrations compared to industry leaders like ETABS
Best For
European structural engineering firms focused on concrete building design who prioritize speed and user-friendly workflows.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses with modular pricing; basic structural analysis module starts at ~€2,500, full concrete design suite €5,000+ plus annual maintenance.
Conclusion
The reviewed software options showcase varying strengths, with ETABS leading as the top choice, excelling in modeling, analyzing, and designing complex concrete building systems, including nonlinear behavior and seismic performance. SAP2000 and STAAD.Pro follow, offering versatile finite element analysis and code-optimized reinforced concrete solutions, respectively, each suited to distinct project needs. Together, they represent the forefront of concrete structural analysis, combining innovation and reliability to meet diverse professional requirements.
Explore ETABS today to harness its advanced tools for seamless concrete structure design—whether tackling nonlinear scenarios or ensuring critical performance metrics—making it the ultimate pick for professionals seeking top-tier results.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison