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Top 10 Best Structural Analysis And Design Software of 2026

Explore the top 10 structural analysis & design tools to enhance your projects. Compare features—find the best fit, start today!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Structural analysis and design software serves as the backbone of modern construction, enabling professionals to model, test, and optimize structures for safety, efficiency, and compliance. With a landscape ranging from BIM-integrated platforms to specialized finite element tools, selecting the right solution is critical—making this curated list essential for engineers and designers navigating diverse project needs.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: ETABS - Comprehensive software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.
  2. 2#2: STAAD.Pro - Versatile structural analysis and design tool supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures worldwide.
  3. 3#3: SAP2000 - General-purpose finite element analysis program for linear and nonlinear structural modeling and design.
  4. 4#4: Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional - BIM-integrated solution for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of all structure types.
  5. 5#5: Tekla Structural Designer - Integrated analysis and design software for steel and concrete frames with automated optimization.
  6. 6#6: RISA-3D - 3D structural analysis software offering intuitive modeling, analysis, and design for various materials.
  7. 7#7: Dlubal RFEM - Finite element analysis program for static, dynamic, and nonlinear structural calculations.
  8. 8#8: ProtaStructure - Integrated BIM software for building analysis, design, and detailing of reinforced concrete and steel structures.
  9. 9#9: SkyCiv Structural 3D - Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration with real-time solving.
  10. 10#10: SCIA Engineer - Advanced FEA software for multi-material structural analysis and design compliant with international codes.

Tools were ranked based on technical robustness (including multi-material and nonlinear analysis capabilities), adherence to global codes, user experience (intuitive modeling and workflow efficiency), and overall value to ensure a balanced mix of power and practicality.

Comparison Table

Structural analysis and design software is critical for modern construction projects, and this comparison table breaks down top tools like ETABS, STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional, Tekla Structural Designer, and more to help users identify the best fit. Readers will gain insights into each tool's key features, strengths, and typical applications to make informed decisions for their work.

1ETABS logo9.7/10

Comprehensive software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.8/10
2STAAD.Pro logo9.2/10

Versatile structural analysis and design tool supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures worldwide.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
3SAP2000 logo9.1/10

General-purpose finite element analysis program for linear and nonlinear structural modeling and design.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.3/10

BIM-integrated solution for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of all structure types.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10

Integrated analysis and design software for steel and concrete frames with automated optimization.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
8.2/10
6RISA-3D logo8.7/10

3D structural analysis software offering intuitive modeling, analysis, and design for various materials.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.1/10
Value
8.4/10

Finite element analysis program for static, dynamic, and nonlinear structural calculations.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.1/10

Integrated BIM software for building analysis, design, and detailing of reinforced concrete and steel structures.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10

Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration with real-time solving.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
9.0/10
Value
8.7/10

Advanced FEA software for multi-material structural analysis and design compliant with international codes.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
1
ETABS logo

ETABS

enterprise

Comprehensive software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.

Overall Rating9.7/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Building-story aware interface with automatic floor meshing and drift/acceleration checks tailored specifically for multi-story structures

ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is an industry-leading software for the integrated analysis, design, and detailing of building structures ranging from low-rise to super high-rise. It supports advanced modeling of floor systems, walls, frames, and foundations with automated meshing and story-based drafting tools. The software excels in performing linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, including response spectrum, time-history, and performance-based seismic design, while providing code-compliant design for steel, concrete, composite, and aluminum members per global standards.

Pros

  • Unmatched depth in building-specific analysis and design capabilities, including nonlinear P-Delta, pushover, and performance-based design
  • Extensive code libraries for international standards with automated design optimization and detailing
  • Seamless integration with BIM workflows via CSIxRevit and IFC export/import

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to extensive features and complexity
  • High system requirements and can be resource-intensive for large models
  • Pricing is premium and requires contacting sales for custom quotes

Best For

Professional structural engineers and firms specializing in multi-story commercial, residential, and high-rise building projects requiring advanced seismic and dynamic analysis.

Pricing

Subscription-based licensing; annual costs typically range from $5,000 to $25,000+ depending on modules and perpetual options available; contact CSI for quotes.

Visit ETABScsiamerica.com
2
STAAD.Pro logo

STAAD.Pro

enterprise

Versatile structural analysis and design tool supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures worldwide.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Physical and analytical modeling synchronization with eDrive for intuitive 3D model building and automatic code-based design optimization

STAAD.Pro, developed by Bentley Systems, is a leading structural analysis and design software used for modeling, analyzing, and designing complex structures including buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities with materials like steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum. It offers advanced finite element analysis (FEA), including linear/nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, buckling, seismic, and wind load simulations. The software provides automated design checks compliant with over 90 international codes and integrates with BIM tools like Revit and AutoCAD for seamless workflows.

Pros

  • Extensive support for 90+ international design codes and material types
  • Powerful FEA engine for handling large, complex models with nonlinear and dynamic analysis
  • Seamless integration with Bentley ecosystem and BIM platforms like Revit

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
  • High licensing costs may deter small firms
  • Graphical user interface feels somewhat dated compared to newer competitors

Best For

Professional structural engineers and firms handling large-scale, code-compliant projects like high-rises, bridges, and stadiums.

Pricing

Subscription-based; annual licenses start at approximately $6,000-$12,000 per user depending on modules, with custom quotes for enterprise use.

Visit STAAD.Probentley.com
3
SAP2000 logo

SAP2000

enterprise

General-purpose finite element analysis program for linear and nonlinear structural modeling and design.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Integrated nonlinear analysis with P-Delta, large displacement, and hysteretic behavior in a unified modeling environment

SAP2000 is an advanced structural analysis and design software developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), used for modeling, analyzing, and designing a wide range of structures including buildings, bridges, dams, and stadiums. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, pushover and time-history simulations, and automated design for steel, concrete, aluminum, and cold-formed steel per numerous international codes. The software features an intuitive object-based modeling environment with interactive design optimization and BIM integration.

Pros

  • Comprehensive multi-material analysis and design capabilities
  • Extensive code compliance and automated optimization
  • Powerful 3D modeling with real-time visualization and meshing

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • High licensing costs and resource demands
  • Limited cloud collaboration compared to newer tools

Best For

Experienced structural engineers handling complex, code-critical projects like high-rise buildings and bridges.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses range from $4,500 to $25,000+ depending on edition and modules; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost; subscription options available.

Visit SAP2000csiamerica.com
4
Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional logo

Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional

enterprise

BIM-integrated solution for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of all structure types.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Bidirectional integration with Revit for physical modeling, analysis, and design optimization in a true BIM environment

Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional is a comprehensive BIM-enabled software for structural engineers, enabling advanced analysis and design of buildings, bridges, and other structures. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, seismic and wind simulations, and automated code-based design checks for steel, concrete, timber, and more. Seamlessly integrated with Revit, it facilitates a unified workflow from modeling to verification and documentation.

Pros

  • Seamless BIM integration with Revit for bidirectional model exchange
  • Extensive support for international design codes and advanced analysis types
  • Robust tools for load generation, including wind, snow, and seismic

Cons

  • Steep learning curve, especially for users new to Autodesk ecosystem
  • Resource-intensive performance with very large or complex models
  • High subscription cost limits accessibility for small firms

Best For

Structural engineering teams in mid-to-large firms using Revit who require integrated BIM analysis and code-compliant design for complex projects.

Pricing

Included in Autodesk AEC Collection subscription (~$3,075/year); standalone annual subscription ~$5,000.

5
Tekla Structural Designer logo

Tekla Structural Designer

enterprise

Integrated analysis and design software for steel and concrete frames with automated optimization.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

Physical modeling approach that uses the design model directly for analysis, eliminating separate modeling or meshing steps

Tekla Structural Designer is a comprehensive software for 3D structural analysis and design of buildings, supporting steel, concrete, gravity systems, and timber in a single integrated model. It automates code-compliant designs, optimizes structures, and provides detailed drawings and reports directly from the model. The tool excels in BIM workflows, offering seamless interoperability with Tekla Structures and other platforms for collaborative project delivery.

Pros

  • Fully integrated analysis, design, and detailing in one physical model without meshing
  • Broad material and code support with automation for complex structures
  • Strong BIM integration and collaboration tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to extensive features
  • High cost unsuitable for small firms or simple projects
  • Performance demands powerful hardware for very large models

Best For

Structural engineering firms handling complex multi-material building projects requiring integrated BIM workflows.

Pricing

Subscription or perpetual licensing; contact vendor for quote, typically starts at $5,000+ USD per year for professional use.

6
RISA-3D logo

RISA-3D

specialized

3D structural analysis software offering intuitive modeling, analysis, and design for various materials.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.1/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Integrated multi-material design engine that performs code checks and optimization for steel, concrete, wood, and masonry within the same 3D model

RISA-3D is a powerful 3D structural analysis and design software developed by RISA, enabling engineers to model, analyze, and design complex steel, concrete, wood, masonry, and cold-formed steel structures. It supports a wide range of analysis types including linear static, dynamic response spectrum, time history, nonlinear, and pushover analyses, with integrated code-based design checks for major international standards like AISC, ACI, and Eurocode. The software excels in visualization, reporting, and integration with companion tools like RISAFloor and RISAFoot for a complete structural workflow.

Pros

  • Versatile multi-material support with automated design optimization per major codes
  • Advanced analysis capabilities including nonlinear and stability checks like Direct Analysis Method
  • Excellent integration with RISA ecosystem and strong 3D visualization tools

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for new users compared to more intuitive competitors
  • Resource-intensive for very large models on standard hardware
  • Limited native BIM interoperability without add-ons

Best For

Mid-sized engineering firms and consultants handling complex multi-story buildings requiring precise code-compliant analysis and design across multiple materials.

Pricing

Annual subscription starts at around $3,295 for a single user, with perpetual licenses and multi-user options available; includes maintenance and updates.

7
Dlubal RFEM logo

Dlubal RFEM

specialized

Finite element analysis program for static, dynamic, and nonlinear structural calculations.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Modular add-on ecosystem enabling automated, code-specific design optimization directly from FEM results without data transfer.

Dlubal RFEM is a sophisticated finite element analysis (FEM) software designed for the structural analysis and design of complex 2D and 3D structures, including buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities. It supports a broad range of materials such as steel, concrete, timber, masonry, and composites, with capabilities for linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, stability checks, and vibration simulations. The modular system allows seamless integration of specialized design add-ons compliant with international standards like Eurocode, AISC, and ACI.

Pros

  • Comprehensive FEM solver with advanced nonlinear and dynamic analysis capabilities
  • Extensive library of over 100 add-on modules for code-compliant design checks worldwide
  • Intuitive graphical modeling interface with efficient mesh generation and result visualization

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for users new to advanced FEM software
  • High upfront cost with additional expenses for modules and maintenance
  • Resource-intensive for very large models on standard hardware

Best For

Experienced structural engineers and engineering firms tackling intricate 3D projects like high-rises, bridges, and custom structures requiring precise analysis and multi-standard design.

Pricing

Perpetual base license starts at ~€5,000-€8,000; modules €1,000-€3,000 each; annual maintenance ~20%; network/subscription options available.

8
ProtaStructure logo

ProtaStructure

enterprise

Integrated BIM software for building analysis, design, and detailing of reinforced concrete and steel structures.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

ProtaRebar: Fully automated 3D rebar detailing with clash detection and fabrication-ready outputs

ProtaStructure is a comprehensive BIM-enabled software for structural analysis, design, and detailing of reinforced concrete and steel buildings. It integrates 3D modeling, advanced finite element analysis, automated design optimization, and rebar detailing into a single platform, supporting a wide range of international codes. The tool streamlines workflows from concept to construction documentation, making it efficient for multi-story projects.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of modeling, analysis, design, and automated detailing
  • Strong BIM interoperability with tools like Revit and IFC support
  • Fast analysis engine and support for numerous global design codes

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users without prior structural software experience
  • Windows-only platform with limited cloud/mobile options
  • Higher upfront cost may deter small firms or freelancers

Best For

Mid-to-large structural engineering firms handling complex RC and steel building projects that require end-to-end BIM workflows.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses start at around €4,500 with 18% annual maintenance; subscription plans from €1,200/year.

Visit ProtaStructureprotasoftware.com
9
SkyCiv Structural 3D logo

SkyCiv Structural 3D

specialized

Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration with real-time solving.

Overall Rating8.3/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
9.0/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Fully browser-based cloud solving engine that handles complex analyses scalably without hardware constraints

SkyCiv Structural 3D is a fully cloud-based structural engineering software that allows users to build, analyze, and design 3D models of beams, plates, frames, and trusses directly in a web browser. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, buckling, and plate bending, with automated design checks for steel, concrete, aluminum, and timber per major international codes like AISC, ACI, and Eurocode. The platform emphasizes collaboration, scalability, and integration with tools like Excel and BIM software, eliminating the need for local installations or high-end hardware.

Pros

  • Cloud-native with instant access from any device and real-time collaboration
  • Intuitive modern interface reducing learning curve for new users
  • Affordable pricing with a functional free tier for students and small projects
  • Fast cloud solving for large models without local compute limitations

Cons

  • Requires stable internet connection, limiting offline use
  • Fewer advanced modules compared to established desktop tools like ETABS or SAP2000
  • Design code support is comprehensive but not exhaustive for niche regional standards
  • Subscription model may add up for heavy, continuous usage

Best For

Small to medium engineering firms, freelancers, and students needing an accessible, cost-effective cloud platform for everyday structural analysis and design tasks.

Pricing

Free plan with model size limits; paid tiers start at $49/month (Basic), $119/month (Professional), and custom Enterprise plans with annual discounts available.

10
SCIA Engineer logo

SCIA Engineer

enterprise

Advanced FEA software for multi-material structural analysis and design compliant with international codes.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Physical Modelling technology for direct, object-based structural modeling without finite element meshing

SCIA Engineer is a powerful BIM-integrated structural analysis and design software developed by SCIA (part of the Nemetschek Group), specializing in the modeling, analysis, and optimization of complex steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures. It employs a unique Physical Modelling approach that allows intuitive input using real-world structural elements without manual meshing. The software provides automated code-compliant design checks for numerous international standards and supports seamless workflows from concept to construction documentation.

Pros

  • Comprehensive multi-material design (steel, concrete, timber, aluminum) in a single platform
  • Physical Modelling for intuitive, mesh-free structural input and analysis
  • Extensive code compliance with national annexes for global projects

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to advanced features and professional-grade interface
  • Higher cost compared to entry-level alternatives
  • Visualization and rendering tools lag behind some competitors like ETABS

Best For

Experienced structural engineers in mid-to-large firms tackling multi-material, code-intensive projects across Europe and beyond.

Pricing

Subscription from €4,500/year per user; perpetual licenses €12,000+ with 20% annual maintenance.

Conclusion

This review of top structural analysis and design software underscores a standout leader in ETABS, celebrated for its comprehensive modeling and design capabilities across multi-story and complex structures. Close behind are STAAD.Pro, versatile for diverse materials, and SAP2000, renowned for robust finite element solutions in linear and nonlinear scenarios. Each tool offers distinct strengths, ensuring flexibility to meet varied project requirements.

ETABS logo
Our Top Pick
ETABS

Ready to enhance your structural workflow? Dive into ETABS for a blend of power and precision that sets it apart as the ultimate choice for structural analysis and design.