Quick Overview
- 1#1: Ansys Granta Selector - Advanced materials selection software using Ashby charts, performance indices, and sustainability metrics to identify optimal materials for engineering applications.
- 2#2: Total Materia - Comprehensive database with over 11 million material properties supporting advanced search, comparison, and selection across metals, polymers, and composites.
- 3#3: Matmatch - Online materials discovery platform that connects users to a vast database and suppliers for quick property-based selection and prototyping.
- 4#4: UL Prospector - Materials search engine for polymers, metals, and ceramics with detailed datasheets, CAD downloads, and supplier matching for product development.
- 5#5: MatWeb - Extensive free online database offering property searches, comparisons, and downloadable datasheets for thousands of engineering materials.
- 6#6: Knovel - Interactive engineering database with materials data, property graphs, and selection tools integrated into a broader knowledge platform.
- 7#7: CAMPUS Plastics - Standardized database for thermoplastics enabling reliable property comparisons and selection for injection molding and other processes.
- 8#8: MakeItFrom - Materials property database with interactive charts and calculators for comparing and selecting materials based on key performance criteria.
- 9#9: Materials Project - Open computational database for exploring and selecting novel materials based on predicted properties from density functional theory.
- 10#10: AZoM Material Selector - Web-based tool for filtering and selecting materials by mechanical, thermal, electrical, and other properties from a curated database.
We ranked these tools based on features, data quality, usability, and value, ensuring a curated selection of reliable, high-performing options for modern material selection challenges.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading Material Selection Software tools, featuring Ansys Granta Selector, Total Materia, Matmatch, UL Prospector, MatWeb, and more, to guide readers in identifying software tailored to their material analysis needs. It breaks down key features, usability, and application suitability, helping users make informed choices for efficient material research and development workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ansys Granta Selector Advanced materials selection software using Ashby charts, performance indices, and sustainability metrics to identify optimal materials for engineering applications. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Total Materia Comprehensive database with over 11 million material properties supporting advanced search, comparison, and selection across metals, polymers, and composites. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Matmatch Online materials discovery platform that connects users to a vast database and suppliers for quick property-based selection and prototyping. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 4 | UL Prospector Materials search engine for polymers, metals, and ceramics with detailed datasheets, CAD downloads, and supplier matching for product development. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | MatWeb Extensive free online database offering property searches, comparisons, and downloadable datasheets for thousands of engineering materials. | other | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 6 | Knovel Interactive engineering database with materials data, property graphs, and selection tools integrated into a broader knowledge platform. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | CAMPUS Plastics Standardized database for thermoplastics enabling reliable property comparisons and selection for injection molding and other processes. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | MakeItFrom Materials property database with interactive charts and calculators for comparing and selecting materials based on key performance criteria. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | Materials Project Open computational database for exploring and selecting novel materials based on predicted properties from density functional theory. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 10 | AZoM Material Selector Web-based tool for filtering and selecting materials by mechanical, thermal, electrical, and other properties from a curated database. | other | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.5/10 |
Advanced materials selection software using Ashby charts, performance indices, and sustainability metrics to identify optimal materials for engineering applications.
Comprehensive database with over 11 million material properties supporting advanced search, comparison, and selection across metals, polymers, and composites.
Online materials discovery platform that connects users to a vast database and suppliers for quick property-based selection and prototyping.
Materials search engine for polymers, metals, and ceramics with detailed datasheets, CAD downloads, and supplier matching for product development.
Extensive free online database offering property searches, comparisons, and downloadable datasheets for thousands of engineering materials.
Interactive engineering database with materials data, property graphs, and selection tools integrated into a broader knowledge platform.
Standardized database for thermoplastics enabling reliable property comparisons and selection for injection molding and other processes.
Materials property database with interactive charts and calculators for comparing and selecting materials based on key performance criteria.
Open computational database for exploring and selecting novel materials based on predicted properties from density functional theory.
Web-based tool for filtering and selecting materials by mechanical, thermal, electrical, and other properties from a curated database.
Ansys Granta Selector
enterpriseAdvanced materials selection software using Ashby charts, performance indices, and sustainability metrics to identify optimal materials for engineering applications.
Comprehensive Ashby methodology with interactive performance indices for rapid, science-based material downselection.
Ansys Granta Selector is a leading materials selection and advisory software that empowers engineers to explore over 5,500 materials from metals, polymers, composites, and more using advanced data visualization tools like Ashby charts and performance indices. It facilitates optimal material choices by integrating mechanical, thermal, electrical, and sustainability properties, while supporting substitution and eco-design decisions. The software seamlessly integrates with Ansys Workbench, CAD/CAE tools, and PLM systems for streamlined workflows in product development.
Pros
- Extensive, curated database of 5,500+ materials with regularly updated properties
- Powerful visualization tools including interactive Ashby charts and trade-off plots
- Robust integration with Ansys simulation suite and third-party CAD/CAE software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users due to advanced functionality
- High enterprise-level pricing not suitable for small teams or individuals
- Requires significant computational resources for large datasets
Best For
Large engineering teams in aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries optimizing materials for performance, cost, and sustainability.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model; annual subscriptions start at $10,000+ per user/seat, with custom quotes for multi-user and on-premise deployments.
Total Materia
enterpriseComprehensive database with over 11 million material properties supporting advanced search, comparison, and selection across metals, polymers, and composites.
Unmatched global cross-reference engine linking equivalent materials across thousands of standards from 69 countries
Total Materia is a leading materials database and selection platform offering access to over 450,000 alloys, steels, polymers, and composites with detailed mechanical, physical, thermal, and chemical properties. It excels in cross-referencing materials across 69 countries' standards, enabling precise substitution, compliance checks, and advanced searches for engineering applications. The software supports CAD/CAE integration and tools like e-Design for optimized material selection in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and oil & gas.
Pros
- Vast database with 12+ million properties and global standards coverage
- Advanced tools for material substitution, alloy identification, and comparisons
- Seamless integration with CAD/CAE and ERP systems
Cons
- High subscription costs unsuitable for small teams or individuals
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Web-based interface can lag with very large datasets
Best For
Large engineering teams in manufacturing, aerospace, or automotive sectors requiring comprehensive global materials data for R&D and procurement.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription model with custom pricing starting at $5,000+ annually per user/module; volume discounts and quotes required.
Matmatch
specializedOnline materials discovery platform that connects users to a vast database and suppliers for quick property-based selection and prototyping.
Direct integration of material data with a supplier marketplace for instant quote requests
Matmatch is a web-based material selection platform providing access to over 300,000 engineering materials from various suppliers and databases, enabling users to search and filter by properties like mechanical strength, thermal conductivity, and standards compliance. It allows side-by-side comparisons, shortlisting, and direct supplier connections for quotes and procurement. The tool streamlines material discovery for engineers without needing specialized desktop software.
Pros
- Vast database covering metals, polymers, composites, and more with detailed property data
- Intuitive search filters and visualization tools for quick comparisons
- Built-in supplier marketplace for seamless procurement
Cons
- Limited advanced analytical tools like Ashby plots or optimization algorithms
- Data quality can vary depending on supplier contributions
- Web-only access with no offline capabilities
Best For
Engineers and procurement specialists in manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive needing fast, free material searches and supplier sourcing.
Pricing
Free for all users; suppliers pay subscription fees for premium listings and visibility.
UL Prospector
specializedMaterials search engine for polymers, metals, and ceramics with detailed datasheets, CAD downloads, and supplier matching for product development.
Integrated UL proprietary certification and performance testing data for reliable safety compliance.
UL Prospector is a web-based material selection platform providing access to an extensive database of polymers, chemicals, additives, and flame retardants from verified suppliers. It allows users to search, compare, and select materials based on properties like mechanical, thermal, electrical, and regulatory compliance data. The tool supports industries such as electronics, automotive, and consumer goods with datasheets, CAD files, and supplier contacts.
Pros
- Vast database with over 120,000 materials and detailed property data
- Strong focus on regulatory compliance including UL ratings and global standards
- Supplier directories and direct download of CAD models and datasheets
Cons
- Advanced comparison and analytics tools limited to premium users
- Primarily specialized in plastics and chemicals, less coverage for metals/composites
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Product engineers and compliance specialists in electronics and appliances needing quick access to certified material data.
Pricing
Free basic access for searches; Premium subscription starts at ~$1,200/year for full features and unlimited downloads.
MatWeb
otherExtensive free online database offering property searches, comparisons, and downloadable datasheets for thousands of engineering materials.
Largest free searchable database of material properties from manufacturers
MatWeb (matweb.com) is a comprehensive online database offering searchable access to over 150,000 material datasheets covering metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, and more. It enables users to find, compare, and download material properties such as mechanical, thermal, electrical, and physical characteristics for engineering applications. Primarily used for initial material screening and reference, it supports quick lookups and basic comparisons without requiring software installation.
Pros
- Extensive free database with 150,000+ materials
- Intuitive web-based search and comparison tools
- Reliable manufacturer-sourced data
Cons
- Lacks advanced Ashby-style selection charts or optimization
- Limited free exports and advanced filters
- No direct CAD/CAE integration
Best For
Engineers and designers needing a free, quick-reference database for preliminary material property lookups and comparisons.
Pricing
Free basic access; MatWeb Pro ($49/month or $395/year) for unlimited downloads and advanced features.
Knovel
enterpriseInteractive engineering database with materials data, property graphs, and selection tools integrated into a broader knowledge platform.
Interactive graphs and tables allowing real-time data sorting, filtering, and export for custom analysis
Knovel is a comprehensive web-based platform offering access to verified engineering data, including thousands of interactive tables, graphs, and equations from trusted publishers in materials science and engineering. It supports material selection by enabling users to search, filter, and compare material properties, standards, and process information. While not a dedicated selection tool with optimization algorithms, it excels as a reference database for reliable data lookup and analysis.
Pros
- Vast library of verified material properties and interactive data tools
- Advanced search with filters for quick property comparisons
- Integration of standards and handbooks from reputable sources
Cons
- No built-in advanced selection methods like Ashby charts or multi-objective optimization
- Primarily institutional licensing limits individual access
- Steep learning curve for fully leveraging complex datasets
Best For
Engineering teams and researchers in institutions needing a reliable database for material property data and quick lookups.
Pricing
Institutional subscriptions only; pricing customized based on organization size, contact Knovel for quotes (typically annual enterprise licenses).
CAMPUS Plastics
specializedStandardized database for thermoplastics enabling reliable property comparisons and selection for injection molding and other processes.
Integrated rheological and PVT datasets enabling accurate injection molding process simulation and material optimization
CAMPUS Plastics is a specialized database and material selection software focused on engineering thermoplastics, providing access to over 25,000 material grades with detailed properties including mechanical, thermal, rheological, and processing data. It enables users to search, compare materials, generate trade-off diagrams, and predict processability for applications like injection molding and extrusion. The platform supports integration with CAE tools and offers tools for optimizing material choices in product design.
Pros
- Extensive database of validated plastic material data from manufacturers
- Advanced comparison tools and property diagrams for quick selection
- Strong focus on processing simulation data like PVT and rheology
Cons
- Limited to thermoplastics; no coverage of metals, composites, or other materials
- Interface can feel dated and requires training for full utilization
- High cost primarily suited for enterprise users
Best For
Engineers and R&D teams in the plastics industry focused on injection molding and extrusion who need precise, manufacturer-sourced property data.
Pricing
Subscription-based with enterprise licensing starting at around €2,000-€10,000 annually depending on access level; limited free trial available.
MakeItFrom
otherMaterials property database with interactive charts and calculators for comparing and selecting materials based on key performance criteria.
Interactive property comparison charts that visualize multi-attribute trade-offs across diverse material classes
MakeItFrom.com is a web-based platform providing an extensive database of material properties for metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and more, enabling users to search, compare, and select materials based on criteria like mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. It features interactive charts, property diagrams, and selection matrices to visualize trade-offs and filter options efficiently. Primarily aimed at engineers, it supports preliminary material selection without requiring software installation.
Pros
- Vast database covering thousands of materials with detailed properties
- Intuitive interactive charts and comparison tools
- Free basic access with high value for quick lookups
Cons
- Web-only platform lacks offline or desktop capabilities
- Limited advanced optimization or simulation integration
- Premium features behind paywall for full dataset access
Best For
Engineers and designers needing fast, browser-based material property lookups and preliminary comparisons during design phases.
Pricing
Free for basic use; Pro subscription starts at $29/month for advanced features and ad-free experience.
Materials Project
specializedOpen computational database for exploring and selecting novel materials based on predicted properties from density functional theory.
High-throughput DFT database with predictive tools for thermodynamic stability and electrochemical performance
Materials Project is a free, open-access database providing computed properties from density functional theory (DFT) for over 150,000 materials, enabling users to search, compare, and select candidates based on properties like stability, band gaps, and formation energies. It includes tools for visualizing crystal structures, phase diagrams, Pourbaix diagrams, and reaction predictors to aid in materials discovery. Primarily focused on inorganic crystalline materials, it supports applications in batteries, solar cells, and catalysts.
Pros
- Extensive database of high-throughput computed properties
- Powerful visualization tools like structure viewers and stability diagrams
- Seamless API integration with Python libraries like pymatgen
Cons
- Data is computational only, lacking direct experimental validation
- Interface can feel overwhelming for beginners without materials science background
- Limited coverage of organics, polymers, and amorphous materials
Best For
Materials scientists and engineers needing rapid screening of inorganic candidates for energy and electronic applications.
Pricing
Completely free and open access.
AZoM Material Selector
otherWeb-based tool for filtering and selecting materials by mechanical, thermal, electrical, and other properties from a curated database.
Vast, searchable online database with real-time property comparisons and interactive Ashby charts
AZoM Material Selector is a free web-based tool from AZoM.com that provides access to a comprehensive database of materials, including metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Users can search, filter, and compare materials based on key properties such as mechanical strength, thermal conductivity, density, and more. It supports quick material selection for engineering and research applications through interactive charts and downloadable data.
Pros
- Extensive free database covering thousands of materials with detailed properties
- Intuitive web interface with filtering, sorting, and visualization tools
- Regular updates with new materials and data from industry sources
Cons
- Lacks advanced modeling, simulation, or optimization capabilities found in premium software
- No offline access or desktop application
- Limited export options and customization for complex workflows
Best For
Students, researchers, and early-stage engineers seeking quick, no-cost material lookups and comparisons.
Pricing
Completely free to use with no subscription required.
Conclusion
The top material selection software reviewed offer distinct strengths, with Ansys Granta Selector leading as the clear choice, combining advanced Ashby charts, performance indices, and sustainability metrics for optimal engineering selections. Total Materia impresses with its vast 11 million+ property database, while Matmatch excels in quick, supplier-connected discovery; both serve as strong alternatives for specific needs. Together, these tools provide engineers with powerful options to streamline their decision-making.
Begin by exploring Ansys Granta Selector—its blend of sophistication and practicality can elevate your material selection process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.