Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lantek - Provides an integrated suite of CAD/CAM, nesting, ERP, and production management software for sheet metal fabrication.
- 2#2: SigmaNEST - Delivers advanced true-shape automatic nesting to maximize material savings and throughput for metal cutting operations.
- 3#3: ProNest - Offers powerful nesting and cutting automation software for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet machines in fabrication shops.
- 4#4: RADAN - Comprehensive CAD/CAM solution for sheet metal cutting, punching, bending, and fabrication process optimization.
- 5#5: Tekla PowerFab - Cloud-based ERP and production management platform for steel fabricators handling quoting, inventory, and project delivery.
- 6#6: Metamation - Integrates CAD/CAM nesting with ERP functionality for custom make-to-order metal fabrication workflows.
- 7#7: Advance Steel - BIM software for 3D steel modeling, automated fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC file generation.
- 8#8: TRUMPF TruTOPS - Modular software suite for nesting, part programming, and shop floor management in sheet metal fabrication.
- 9#9: Bystronic BySoft Suite - CAD/CAM software for design, automatic nesting, and CNC programming of sheet metal laser, punch, and bending machines.
- 10#10: StruMIS - Specialized ERP system for steel fabrication managing projects, procurement, production control, and delivery tracking.
We evaluated these tools based on feature depth, ease of integration, user experience, and overall value, ensuring each software excels in addressing critical priorities like material optimization, production planning, and project management for fabricators of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Discover a comparative overview of top metal fabrication software, featuring Lantek, SigmaNEST, ProNest, RADAN, Tekla PowerFab, and more, to highlight their distinct functionalities and practical applications. This table provides clear insights, helping readers identify the right tool for their needs, whether prioritizing nesting accuracy, design flexibility, or workflow integration.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lantek Provides an integrated suite of CAD/CAM, nesting, ERP, and production management software for sheet metal fabrication. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | SigmaNEST Delivers advanced true-shape automatic nesting to maximize material savings and throughput for metal cutting operations. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | ProNest Offers powerful nesting and cutting automation software for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet machines in fabrication shops. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | RADAN Comprehensive CAD/CAM solution for sheet metal cutting, punching, bending, and fabrication process optimization. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Tekla PowerFab Cloud-based ERP and production management platform for steel fabricators handling quoting, inventory, and project delivery. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Metamation Integrates CAD/CAM nesting with ERP functionality for custom make-to-order metal fabrication workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Advance Steel BIM software for 3D steel modeling, automated fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC file generation. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | TRUMPF TruTOPS Modular software suite for nesting, part programming, and shop floor management in sheet metal fabrication. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Bystronic BySoft Suite CAD/CAM software for design, automatic nesting, and CNC programming of sheet metal laser, punch, and bending machines. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | StruMIS Specialized ERP system for steel fabrication managing projects, procurement, production control, and delivery tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
Provides an integrated suite of CAD/CAM, nesting, ERP, and production management software for sheet metal fabrication.
Delivers advanced true-shape automatic nesting to maximize material savings and throughput for metal cutting operations.
Offers powerful nesting and cutting automation software for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet machines in fabrication shops.
Comprehensive CAD/CAM solution for sheet metal cutting, punching, bending, and fabrication process optimization.
Cloud-based ERP and production management platform for steel fabricators handling quoting, inventory, and project delivery.
Integrates CAD/CAM nesting with ERP functionality for custom make-to-order metal fabrication workflows.
BIM software for 3D steel modeling, automated fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC file generation.
Modular software suite for nesting, part programming, and shop floor management in sheet metal fabrication.
CAD/CAM software for design, automatic nesting, and CNC programming of sheet metal laser, punch, and bending machines.
Specialized ERP system for steel fabrication managing projects, procurement, production control, and delivery tracking.
Lantek
enterpriseProvides an integrated suite of CAD/CAM, nesting, ERP, and production management software for sheet metal fabrication.
Universal nesting engine that simultaneously optimizes for multiple cutting technologies and geometries in 2D/3D
Lantek is a comprehensive CAD/CAM and ERP software suite tailored for the metal fabrication industry, providing advanced nesting, machining, and production management for sheet metal, tubes, profiles, and beams. It supports a wide array of cutting technologies including laser, plasma, oxy-fuel, waterjet, and punching, with real-time optimization to minimize waste and maximize throughput. The platform integrates seamlessly with shop floor machinery, ERP systems, and offers modules for bending, welding, and inventory control, making it a complete solution for modern fab shops.
Pros
- Superior nesting algorithms for optimal material utilization across 2D/3D geometries
- End-to-end integration with ERP, MES, and diverse CNC machines
- Robust support for multi-technology processes and complex fabrication workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High upfront costs for full modular implementations
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets
Best For
Enterprise-level metal fabrication companies needing scalable, integrated CAD/CAM/ERP for high-volume production.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; modular licenses start around €20,000-€50,000 annually depending on modules, machines, and scale.
SigmaNEST
specializedDelivers advanced true-shape automatic nesting to maximize material savings and throughput for metal cutting operations.
True-shape automatic nesting that precisely handles irregular and complex part geometries without manual adjustments
SigmaNEST is a leading CAD/CAM nesting software tailored for metal fabrication, optimizing part layouts on sheets and plates to minimize waste across laser, plasma, waterjet, oxyfuel, and punch processes. It supports both 2D and 3D nesting, integrates with ERP systems and various CNC machines, and includes modules for quoting, job management, and production reporting. Designed for efficiency, it delivers significant material savings and throughput improvements for fabricators handling complex geometries.
Pros
- Advanced true-shape nesting algorithms for superior material utilization and waste reduction
- Broad compatibility with CNC machines, CAD formats, and ERP integrations
- Comprehensive suite including quoting, inventory management, and production scheduling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- High upfront costs with quote-based pricing and annual maintenance
- Resource-heavy, requiring robust hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large metal fabrication shops prioritizing maximum material efficiency and automated production workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses start around $15,000-$30,000 depending on modules, plus 18-20% annual maintenance; subscription options available.
ProNest
specializedOffers powerful nesting and cutting automation software for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet machines in fabrication shops.
Automatic true-shape nesting with intelligent part clustering, common line cutting, and skeleton removal for unparalleled material savings
ProNest by Hypertherm is a powerful CAD/CAM nesting software tailored for metal fabrication, specializing in true-shape nesting for plasma, laser, oxyfuel, and waterjet cutting machines. It optimizes material utilization through automatic nesting algorithms, remnant management, and advanced lead-in/lead-out controls to minimize waste and cycle times. The software also includes comprehensive job costing, reporting, and integration with various CNC controllers for streamlined production workflows.
Pros
- Exceptional true-shape nesting algorithms that maximize material yield and reduce scrap
- Broad compatibility with cutting machines and seamless CAD import/export
- Advanced job costing, reporting, and remnant stock management for efficient shop floor operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to advanced CAD/CAM software
- Higher pricing may deter small shops or startups
- Primarily focused on 2D sheet cutting, lacking full 3D or ERP capabilities
Best For
Mid-sized to large metal fabrication shops with high-volume plasma or laser cutting needs that prioritize material efficiency and production optimization.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses range from $4,995 for Lite edition to $14,995+ for Pro edition, with annual maintenance fees around 15-20% of license cost.
RADAN
specializedComprehensive CAD/CAM solution for sheet metal cutting, punching, bending, and fabrication process optimization.
True-shape nesting with automatic hit elimination for ultra-efficient material utilization across multiple machines
RADAN is a powerful CAD/CAM software suite from Hexagon tailored for sheet metal fabrication, supporting processes like nesting, punching, profiling, laser cutting, and bending. It features advanced true-shape nesting, automatic toolpath generation, and 3D bending simulation to optimize material use and production accuracy. Ideal for complex manufacturing environments, it integrates with a wide range of CNC machines for seamless automation.
Pros
- Superior nesting algorithms for maximum material efficiency
- Comprehensive machine integration and automation support
- Accurate 3D bending simulation to reduce errors and scrap
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High cost with complex modular pricing
- Resource-intensive, demanding powerful hardware
Best For
Mid-to-large sheet metal fabrication shops handling high-volume, complex parts that prioritize precision and optimization.
Pricing
Quote-based modular licensing; perpetual licenses start around $25,000+ with annual maintenance fees of 15-20%.
Tekla PowerFab
enterpriseCloud-based ERP and production management platform for steel fabricators handling quoting, inventory, and project delivery.
Deep integration with Tekla Structures BIM software for direct model-to-fabrication workflows with full material traceability
Tekla PowerFab is a comprehensive cloud-based software suite from Trimble tailored for steel and metal fabricators, managing the full lifecycle from estimating and tendering to production control, inventory management, and logistics. It excels in integrating with Tekla Structures for BIM-driven workflows, enabling seamless data exchange between design, detailing, and fabrication processes. The platform provides real-time visibility into project status, material tracking, and shop floor operations to optimize efficiency and reduce errors.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end management covering estimating, production, and logistics
- Seamless BIM integration with Tekla Structures for model-based fabrication
- Advanced real-time reporting, analytics, and material traceability
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost, especially for smaller operations
- Cloud dependency may pose challenges in areas with poor connectivity
Best For
Large-scale steel fabricators handling complex structural projects that demand tight integration between design, detailing, and production.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom pricing starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually per user/module, depending on configuration and scale.
Metamation
enterpriseIntegrates CAD/CAM nesting with ERP functionality for custom make-to-order metal fabrication workflows.
Accurate quoting directly from 3D CAD models with automatic bend deductions and nesting previews
Metamation offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions for metal fabrication, including Metamation Xpress for rapid quoting and estimating from CAD files, advanced 2D/3D nesting for sheets, plates, and tubes, and Metafab ERP for shop floor management. It automates material optimization, job scheduling, and production control to streamline operations in fabrication shops. The platform supports diverse processes like plasma/laser cutting, bending, welding, and machining.
Pros
- Advanced intelligent nesting reduces material waste significantly
- Seamless integration of quoting, nesting, and ERP modules
- Supports complex geometries and multiple fabrication processes
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- User interface appears dated compared to modern competitors
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for smaller shops
Best For
Mid-to-large metal fabrication shops needing an integrated end-to-end solution for quoting, nesting, and production management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular licensing starts around $10,000+ annually depending on shop size and features.
Advance Steel
specializedBIM software for 3D steel modeling, automated fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC file generation.
Connection Vault with thousands of customizable parametric steel connections for rapid, standards-compliant detailing
Advance Steel, developed by Autodesk, is a specialized 3D modeling software for detailing and fabricating steel structures. It allows users to create parametric models of complex steel frameworks, automatically generate fabrication drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and CNC machine files. Seamlessly integrated with AutoCAD and Revit, it streamlines the workflow from design to production for structural steel projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive steel connection library and parametric modeling
- Automated generation of shop drawings, BOMs, and NC files
- Strong integration with AutoCAD, Revit, and Autodesk ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-CAD users
- High subscription costs and resource-heavy performance
- Limited support for non-steel materials
Best For
Professional steel detailers and fabrication shops handling large-scale structural projects that need precise automation from model to manufacture.
Pricing
Subscription-based at approximately $2,310 USD per year (standalone); included in Autodesk AEC Collection for $3,575 USD/year.
TRUMPF TruTOPS
enterpriseModular software suite for nesting, part programming, and shop floor management in sheet metal fabrication.
Seamless, one-click NC programming directly from optimized nests to TRUMPF machine controls
TRUMPF TruTOPS is a specialized CAD/CAM/nesting software for sheet metal fabrication, optimized for TRUMPF machines like lasers, punch presses, and plasma cutters. It automates part nesting, generates NC programs, and manages production orders to minimize material waste and cycle times. The software supports true-shape nesting and integrates with TRUMPF's ecosystem for seamless machine communication and monitoring.
Pros
- Exceptional nesting algorithms that optimize material utilization up to 95% efficiency
- Deep integration with TRUMPF machines for error-free NC code generation and real-time production data
- Comprehensive workflow from CAD import to machine output, including batch management
Cons
- Primarily tailored to TRUMPF hardware, limiting flexibility for mixed machine shops
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and specialized interface
- High cost with pricing opaque without direct sales contact
Best For
Sheet metal fabricators with TRUMPF machinery who prioritize hardware-software integration and material efficiency over multi-vendor compatibility.
Pricing
Enterprise-level licensing; modular pricing starts at ~€10,000+ annually per workstation, with custom quotes required for full integration.
Bystronic BySoft Suite
specializedCAD/CAM software for design, automatic nesting, and CNC programming of sheet metal laser, punch, and bending machines.
BySoft Bend simulation for accurate virtual bending setup and clash detection directly from 3D models
Bystronic BySoft Suite is a comprehensive CAD/CAM and ERP software platform tailored for sheet metal fabrication, enabling efficient nesting, programming, production planning, and machine control. It integrates seamlessly with Bystronic's laser cutters, press brakes, and automation systems to optimize material usage and streamline workflows from design to delivery. Key modules like BySoft Nest, BySoft Cam, and BySoft ERP provide end-to-end management, including job scheduling and real-time monitoring.
Pros
- Advanced automatic nesting and true-shape nesting for superior material efficiency
- Deep integration with Bystronic hardware for reliable NC code generation and simulation
- Comprehensive ERP and production management covering the full fabrication process chain
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to modular complexity and specialized interface
- Higher cost structure, less ideal for small shops or non-Bystronic users
- Limited flexibility for third-party machines without custom adaptations
Best For
Mid-to-large sheet metal fabricators heavily invested in Bystronic machinery seeking an integrated end-to-end solution.
Pricing
Custom pricing upon request, typically modular licensing starting at €10,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and hardware integration.
StruMIS
enterpriseSpecialized ERP system for steel fabrication managing projects, procurement, production control, and delivery tracking.
StruM.I.S. Production Controller for real-time shop floor visibility and automated workflow orchestration
StruMIS is a comprehensive ERP and production management software tailored for the structural steel fabrication industry, covering the full lifecycle from estimating and tendering to design, nesting, manufacturing, and project delivery. It integrates with leading CAD platforms like Tekla Structures and SDS/2, offering modules for material optimization, shop floor control, and quality management. The platform emphasizes efficiency in complex steel projects, with real-time production tracking to minimize waste and delays.
Pros
- End-to-end integration from estimating to delivery
- Advanced nesting and material optimization tools
- Robust shop floor production control with real-time tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Pricing is custom and can be high for smaller firms
- Primarily optimized for structural steel, less flexible for general metal fab
Best For
Medium to large structural steel fabricators handling complex projects that require integrated ERP and production management.
Pricing
Custom modular pricing upon request, typically starting in the tens of thousands annually based on users and modules.
Conclusion
The review highlights three exceptional metal fabrication software solutions, with Lantek leading as the top choice for its integrated CAD/CAM, nesting, ERP, and production management suite, fostering end-to-end efficiency. While Lantek sets the standard, SigmaNEST shines with advanced true-shape nesting for material savings, and ProNest excels in cutting automation for diverse machinery—each a strong alternative tailored to specific operational needs.
For those seeking unmatched integration, Lantek is an ideal starting point, though exploring SigmaNEST or ProNest based on your unique priorities can also deliver outstanding results.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison