Quick Overview
- 1#1: ETABS - Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building structures using finite element methods.
- 2#2: SAP2000 - Versatile finite element analysis and design software for bridges, buildings, and general structures.
- 3#3: STAAD.Pro - Comprehensive structural analysis and design application supporting international codes and standards.
- 4#4: Robot Structural Analysis Professional - BIM-enabled software for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of complex structures.
- 5#5: ANSYS Mechanical - Powerful FEA tool for linear and nonlinear structural analysis across industries.
- 6#6: Abaqus - Advanced finite element analysis software for realistic simulation of structural behaviors.
- 7#7: RFEM - Modular FEA program for analysis of frame, plate, shell, and solid structures.
- 8#8: midas Gen - 3D structural analysis and design software optimized for high-rise buildings.
- 9#9: SCIA Engineer - Cloud-enabled software for modeling, analysis, and design of steel, concrete, and timber structures.
- 10#10: SkyCiv Structural 3D - Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration.
Tools were chosen based on technical excellence (accuracy, code compliance), feature versatility (modeling, FEA, BIM integration), usability, and value, ensuring a comprehensive lineup for professionals and firms of all scales.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines popular structural analysis software tools, including ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, Robot Structural Analysis Professional, ANSYS Mechanical, and others. It breaks down key features, usability, and application focus to help users identify the right software for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ETABS Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building structures using finite element methods. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | SAP2000 Versatile finite element analysis and design software for bridges, buildings, and general structures. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | STAAD.Pro Comprehensive structural analysis and design application supporting international codes and standards. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Robot Structural Analysis Professional BIM-enabled software for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of complex structures. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | ANSYS Mechanical Powerful FEA tool for linear and nonlinear structural analysis across industries. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.8/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Abaqus Advanced finite element analysis software for realistic simulation of structural behaviors. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | RFEM Modular FEA program for analysis of frame, plate, shell, and solid structures. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | midas Gen 3D structural analysis and design software optimized for high-rise buildings. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | SCIA Engineer Cloud-enabled software for modeling, analysis, and design of steel, concrete, and timber structures. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | SkyCiv Structural 3D Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building structures using finite element methods.
Versatile finite element analysis and design software for bridges, buildings, and general structures.
Comprehensive structural analysis and design application supporting international codes and standards.
BIM-enabled software for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of complex structures.
Powerful FEA tool for linear and nonlinear structural analysis across industries.
Advanced finite element analysis software for realistic simulation of structural behaviors.
Modular FEA program for analysis of frame, plate, shell, and solid structures.
3D structural analysis and design software optimized for high-rise buildings.
Cloud-enabled software for modeling, analysis, and design of steel, concrete, and timber structures.
Cloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration.
ETABS
enterpriseIntegrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building structures using finite element methods.
Advanced performance-based seismic design with pushover and time-history analysis tailored specifically for building systems
ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is an industry-leading software for the structural analysis, design, and detailing of buildings ranging from low-rise to high-rise structures. It excels in 3D modeling, linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, and automated design optimization for steel, concrete, and composite materials per numerous international building codes. Widely adopted by professional engineers, it integrates seamlessly with CSI's SAFE for foundation design and SAP2000 for general-purpose analysis.
Pros
- Unmatched capabilities for multi-story building analysis including P-Delta effects and nonlinear behaviors
- Extensive support for global seismic, wind, and progressive collapse codes
- Integrated design and optimization modules that automate rebar detailing and member sizing
- Superior visualization and reporting tools for complex models
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to its professional-grade depth
- High licensing costs prohibitive for small firms or students
- Resource-intensive requiring powerful hardware for large models
- Limited flexibility for non-building structures compared to general tools like SAP2000
Best For
Professional structural engineers and firms specializing in high-rise, seismic-prone, or complex building projects demanding precise code-compliant analysis and design.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $20,000+ per seat with annual maintenance; subscription options from $5,000/year; volume discounts and quotes via csiamerica.com.
SAP2000
enterpriseVersatile finite element analysis and design software for bridges, buildings, and general structures.
Advanced nonlinear pushover and direct-integration time-history analysis for performance-based seismic design
SAP2000 is a premier finite element-based structural analysis and design software developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), widely used for modeling, analyzing, and designing civil engineering structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and stadiums. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, response spectrum, time-history, and pushover methods, with integrated design checks for steel, concrete, aluminum, and cold-formed steel per numerous international codes. The software excels in handling complex geometries and material behaviors in both 2D and 3D environments.
Pros
- Extensive analysis capabilities including nonlinear, dynamic, and seismic performance-based design
- Comprehensive libraries for materials, sections, and international design codes
- Robust integration with other CSI tools like ETABS, SAFE, and CSiBridge for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Outdated graphical user interface compared to newer competitors
- High licensing costs prohibitive for small firms or students
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling complex, code-compliant designs for multi-story buildings, bridges, and industrial structures.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$5,000 for basic versions and exceed $20,000 for full modules; annual subscriptions from ~$3,000-$10,000 depending on features.
STAAD.Pro
enterpriseComprehensive structural analysis and design application supporting international codes and standards.
Unmatched compliance with over 90 global design codes, enabling versatile analysis across regions without add-ons
STAAD.Pro, developed by Bentley Systems, is a leading structural analysis and design software used for modeling, analyzing, and designing steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures. It supports static, dynamic, nonlinear, and buckling analyses under various loading conditions, including seismic and wind loads. The software complies with over 90 international design codes and integrates seamlessly with BIM workflows and other Bentley tools for comprehensive project delivery.
Pros
- Extensive support for 90+ international design codes
- Powerful analysis capabilities including nonlinear and dynamic simulations
- Seamless integration with Bentley ecosystem for BIM and collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- High licensing costs for full functionality
- Graphical user interface feels somewhat dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling complex, code-compliant designs for large-scale buildings, bridges, and industrial structures.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Bentley CONNECT, starting at ~$3,500/year for base license; advanced modules and perpetual options add $5,000+ annually.
Robot Structural Analysis Professional
enterpriseBIM-enabled software for advanced structural analysis and code-based design of complex structures.
Direct Revit integration for push-button analysis of native BIM models without export/import hassles
Robot Structural Analysis Professional is a powerful BIM-enabled software from Autodesk designed for advanced structural analysis and design of buildings and infrastructure. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, seismic simulations, and wind load calculations across materials like steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum. The tool integrates seamlessly with Revit, enabling engineers to analyze intelligent models directly without data loss, and complies with over 90 international design codes.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Revit and Autodesk ecosystem for efficient BIM workflows
- Comprehensive analysis capabilities including nonlinear, seismic, and dynamic simulations
- Broad support for international design codes and material types
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and advanced features
- High subscription cost without flexible perpetual licensing options
- Occasional performance issues with very large models
Best For
Structural engineers in BIM-centric firms handling complex multi-material projects requiring code-compliant analysis.
Pricing
Subscription-based at approximately $2,550/year or $340/month; included in Autodesk AEC Collection.
ANSYS Mechanical
enterprisePowerful FEA tool for linear and nonlinear structural analysis across industries.
Advanced nonlinear contact and material modeling for simulating real-world structural failures under extreme conditions
ANSYS Mechanical is a leading finite element analysis (FEA) software suite designed for advanced structural simulations, including static, dynamic, nonlinear, and fatigue analysis of complex structures. It excels in handling multiphysics interactions like thermal-structural coupling and supports a wide range of materials and boundary conditions. Widely adopted in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy, it enables engineers to predict real-world performance and optimize designs before physical prototyping.
Pros
- Exceptionally robust and accurate solvers for linear/nonlinear statics, dynamics, and buckling analyses
- Extensive material library with advanced models including composites and hyperelasticity
- Seamless integration with CAD systems and ANSYS Workbench for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full utilization
- High licensing costs prohibitive for small businesses or freelancers
- Resource-heavy computations demanding high-end hardware for large models
Best For
Large engineering teams in aerospace, automotive, or heavy machinery sectors needing high-fidelity simulations for mission-critical designs.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription starting at $10,000+ per year per seat, with custom pricing for bundles and HPC add-ons; academic discounts available.
Abaqus
enterpriseAdvanced finite element analysis software for realistic simulation of structural behaviors.
Seamless integration of implicit and explicit solvers with generalized contact, enabling efficient simulation of highly nonlinear dynamic events like crashes or impacts.
Abaqus, developed by Dassault Systèmes (3ds.com), is a leading finite element analysis (FEA) software suite specialized in advanced structural simulations, including linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, buckling, and fracture mechanics. It supports complex material behaviors, contact interactions, and multiphysics coupling, making it suitable for demanding engineering applications. Widely adopted in aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering, Abaqus offers both implicit (Abaqus/Standard) and explicit (Abaqus/Explicit) solvers for versatile structural analysis workflows.
Pros
- Unmatched nonlinear and multiphysics simulation capabilities
- Extensive material library with advanced models like composites and hyperelasticity
- Robust general contact algorithms for complex assemblies
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High computational resource demands
- Expensive licensing with complex pricing tiers
Best For
Advanced structural engineers in aerospace, automotive, or heavy machinery industries handling complex nonlinear problems.
Pricing
Token-based or subscription licensing via 3DEXPERIENCE platform; annual costs start at $10,000+ for basic modules, scaling to $50,000+ for full suites depending on users and features.
RFEM
specializedModular FEA program for analysis of frame, plate, shell, and solid structures.
Advanced surface and solid modeling with automatic mesh refinement and precise nonlinear material/behavior simulation
RFEM, developed by Dlubal Software, is a sophisticated finite element analysis (FEA) program designed for the modeling, analysis, and design of 2D and 3D structures, including frames, plates, shells, and solids. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, stability checks, and form-finding for cable and membrane structures. With extensive add-on modules, it integrates seamlessly with RSTAB for beam structures and complies with numerous international design codes like Eurocodes, AISC, and ACI.
Pros
- Powerful FEM engine for complex geometries and advanced analyses including nonlinearities and dynamics
- Comprehensive module ecosystem for specialized tasks like buckling, vibration, and design code checks
- Strong BIM integration with tools like IFC, Revit, and AutoCAD, plus cloud collaboration options
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and modular structure
- High pricing model with additional costs for modules and annual maintenance
- Interface can feel dated compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Structural engineers and firms handling intricate 3D models, surface structures, or projects requiring strict adherence to European and international design codes.
Pricing
Base license starts at around €3,500 per workstation; modular add-ons range from €1,000–€5,000 each, with 15% annual maintenance fees.
midas Gen
specialized3D structural analysis and design software optimized for high-rise buildings.
Ultra-fast proprietary solver that analyzes massive models (millions of nodes) in minutes, outperforming many competitors in speed.
midas Gen is a powerful finite element analysis (FEA) software from MIDAS Information Technology, specialized for modeling, analysis, and design of steel and reinforced concrete structures in building projects. It excels in handling complex 2D/3D models with features like construction stage analysis, nonlinear time-history seismic analysis, and code-based design optimization. The software supports BIM integration via IFC and offers automated tools for efficient workflow in structural engineering.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast analysis engine for large-scale models
- Comprehensive modules for seismic, nonlinear, and construction sequence analysis
- Strong BIM interoperability and automated design checks
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High upfront licensing costs
- Less intuitive for non-building structures compared to general FEA tools
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling complex high-rise or industrial building designs requiring advanced dynamic analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $5,000-$15,000 depending on modules; annual maintenance and subscription options available—contact vendor for quotes.
SCIA Engineer
specializedCloud-enabled software for modeling, analysis, and design of steel, concrete, and timber structures.
Integrated signal-based modeling and pushover analysis for seamless physical-to-design workflows
SCIA Engineer is a comprehensive finite element analysis and structural design software developed for civil and structural engineers. It supports modeling, linear and nonlinear analysis, and automated design optimization for structures using steel, concrete, timber, composites, and aluminum. The software emphasizes BIM integration and compliance with major international codes, particularly Eurocodes, making it ideal for complex building and infrastructure projects.
Pros
- Advanced multi-material analysis and design in a single environment
- Excellent BIM interoperability with Revit, IFC, and Tekla
- Robust code compliance and automated optimization tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Higher pricing for full modular suite
- Less dominant in North American codes and markets
Best For
Mid-to-large structural engineering firms in Europe tackling multi-material projects like buildings and bridges with strong BIM needs.
Pricing
Modular perpetual licenses starting at €4,000-€6,000 per module; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost; subscription options available.
SkyCiv Structural 3D
specializedCloud-based platform for 3D structural analysis, design, and collaboration.
Browser-native 3D FEA with seamless real-time multiplayer collaboration
SkyCiv Structural 3D is a fully cloud-based structural analysis and design software that enables users to build 3D models, perform finite element analysis (FEA), and design steel, concrete, and timber structures directly in a web browser. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, plate/shell elements, buckling, and modal analysis for beams, frames, trusses, and plates. The platform emphasizes collaboration, with real-time model sharing and API integrations for automation.
Pros
- Cloud-based accessibility with no installation required and real-time collaboration
- Intuitive, modern web interface that's beginner-friendly
- Affordable pricing with a free tier for basic use
Cons
- Requires stable internet connection, limiting offline work
- Less comprehensive for highly complex or large-scale projects compared to desktop leaders
- Fewer third-party integrations and community resources
Best For
Freelance structural engineers or small firms needing an accessible, cost-effective tool for everyday analysis without heavy software setup.
Pricing
Free limited plan; Professional starts at $119/user/month (annual) or $149 monthly; Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The top tools highlight varied strengths, with ETABS leading as the best for integrated building structure modeling, analysis, design, and detailing. SAP2000, a close second, excels in versatility across bridges and buildings, while STAAD.Pro impresses with its support for international codes. Each top option caters to specific needs, but ETABS stands out as the most well-rounded.
Experience ETABS' comprehensive solution—start modeling, analyzing, and designing efficiently for your projects today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison