Quick Overview
- 1#1: ETABS - Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building systems in a single interface.
- 2#2: SAP2000 - Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for linear and nonlinear analysis of any structure.
- 3#3: STAAD.Pro - Comprehensive structural analysis and design software supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
- 4#4: Robot Structural Analysis Professional - BIM-integrated verification, analysis, and code-based design for any structure directly from Revit models.
- 5#5: ANSYS Mechanical - Advanced finite element analysis software for simulating structural strength, stiffness, and fatigue.
- 6#6: RISA-3D - Powerful 3D structural analysis software for frames, trusses, walls, and plates with seamless design integration.
- 7#7: RAM Structural System - Model, analyze, and design multi-story steel, concrete, and masonry buildings with physical modeling.
- 8#8: midas Gen - Integrated 3D structural design and analysis software for buildings, bridges, and general structures.
- 9#9: RFEM - Modular 3D FEA software for static, dynamic, and buckling analysis of any material structures.
- 10#10: SkyCiv Structural 3D - Cloud-native structural analysis software offering FEA, design checks, and real-time collaboration.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors such as advanced analytical capabilities, seamless integration with industry workflows, user experience, and value, ensuring they balance power, usability, and performance to meet the evolving needs of structural engineering.
Comparison Table
This comparison table provides a clear overview of leading structural design analysis software, featuring tools like ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, Robot Structural Analysis Professional, ANSYS Mechanical, and more. It outlines key capabilities, use cases, and performance metrics to help professionals select the right tool for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ETABS Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building systems in a single interface. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | SAP2000 Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for linear and nonlinear analysis of any structure. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | STAAD.Pro Comprehensive structural analysis and design software supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures. | enterprise | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | Robot Structural Analysis Professional BIM-integrated verification, analysis, and code-based design for any structure directly from Revit models. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | ANSYS Mechanical Advanced finite element analysis software for simulating structural strength, stiffness, and fatigue. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | RISA-3D Powerful 3D structural analysis software for frames, trusses, walls, and plates with seamless design integration. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | RAM Structural System Model, analyze, and design multi-story steel, concrete, and masonry buildings with physical modeling. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | midas Gen Integrated 3D structural design and analysis software for buildings, bridges, and general structures. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | RFEM Modular 3D FEA software for static, dynamic, and buckling analysis of any material structures. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | SkyCiv Structural 3D Cloud-native structural analysis software offering FEA, design checks, and real-time collaboration. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.0/10 |
Integrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building systems in a single interface.
Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for linear and nonlinear analysis of any structure.
Comprehensive structural analysis and design software supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
BIM-integrated verification, analysis, and code-based design for any structure directly from Revit models.
Advanced finite element analysis software for simulating structural strength, stiffness, and fatigue.
Powerful 3D structural analysis software for frames, trusses, walls, and plates with seamless design integration.
Model, analyze, and design multi-story steel, concrete, and masonry buildings with physical modeling.
Integrated 3D structural design and analysis software for buildings, bridges, and general structures.
Modular 3D FEA software for static, dynamic, and buckling analysis of any material structures.
Cloud-native structural analysis software offering FEA, design checks, and real-time collaboration.
ETABS
enterpriseIntegrated software for modeling, analysis, design, and detailing of building systems in a single interface.
Story-by-story modeling and automated meshing with seamless integration of 3D analysis, design, and code-based optimization in a single environment
ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is an industry-leading software for integrated building analysis and design, specializing in multi-story structures. It enables 3D modeling, static and dynamic analysis, and automated design optimization for steel, concrete, composite, and other materials per global codes. Renowned for handling complex seismic, wind, and nonlinear behaviors, it streamlines workflows from concept to construction documents.
Pros
- Comprehensive analysis capabilities including linear/nonlinear, modal, response spectrum, and pushover for seismic design
- Integrated design modules for numerous international codes with automated optimization and detailing
- Efficient BIM interoperability and story-based modeling tailored for high-rise buildings
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full proficiency
- High licensing costs with perpetual or subscription models
- Resource-intensive performance on very large or complex models
Best For
Professional structural engineering firms designing complex multi-story buildings requiring advanced code-compliant analysis and optimization.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses or annual subscriptions starting at ~$5,000–$25,000+ depending on modules; contact CSI for custom quotes and maintenance fees.
SAP2000
enterpriseVersatile finite element analysis and design tool for linear and nonlinear analysis of any structure.
Advanced nonlinear analysis engine supporting performance-based design and large-deformation effects in a single integrated environment
SAP2000, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is a comprehensive finite element analysis and design software for structural engineers, enabling modeling, analysis, and design of buildings, bridges, dams, and other complex structures. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, including response spectrum, time-history, and pushover methods, with integrated design for steel, concrete, aluminum, and cold-formed framing per global codes. The software's object-based modeling and intuitive interface streamline workflows from concept to construction documents.
Pros
- Versatile analysis capabilities including nonlinear, dynamic, and buckling for diverse structures
- Integrated design optimization for multiple materials and international codes
- Powerful 3D modeling with automated meshing and visualization tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High computational requirements for large-scale models
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Experienced structural engineering firms handling complex, multi-material projects like high-rises, bridges, and seismic designs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$4,500 for basic versions, up to $20,000+ for full modules; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost, with flexible node-locked or network subscriptions.
STAAD.Pro
enterpriseComprehensive structural analysis and design software supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
Unparalleled support for over 90 international design codes and standards
STAAD.Pro, developed by Bentley Systems, is a leading structural analysis and design software used for modeling, analyzing, and designing a wide range of structures including buildings, bridges, towers, and industrial facilities. It employs advanced finite element methods to perform static, dynamic, and nonlinear analyses while supporting steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum materials. The software excels in code compliance with over 90 international standards and integrates seamlessly with other Bentley tools for enhanced workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Vast library of over 90 international design codes for global compliance
- Powerful finite element analysis for complex static/dynamic simulations
- Strong integration with Bentley ecosystem like RAM and ProSteel
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High cost for licensing and maintenance
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Experienced structural engineers and firms handling large-scale, code-compliant projects like high-rises, bridges, and industrial structures.
Pricing
Subscription-based model starting at approximately $5,000/year per user, with perpetual licenses available; pricing varies by modules and requires Bentley quote.
Robot Structural Analysis Professional
enterpriseBIM-integrated verification, analysis, and code-based design for any structure directly from Revit models.
Seamless bidirectional link with Revit for real-time model updates and analysis results import
Robot Structural Analysis Professional is a powerful finite element analysis (FEA) software from Autodesk designed for structural engineers to model, analyze, and design complex structures including buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities. It supports advanced linear and nonlinear analysis, dynamic response, and buckling checks for materials like steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum. The software excels in BIM workflows through seamless integration with Revit and compliance with over 70 international design codes.
Pros
- Comprehensive FEA capabilities for static, dynamic, and nonlinear analysis
- Extensive support for international design codes and standards
- Bidirectional integration with Revit for efficient BIM workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- High hardware requirements for large models
- Subscription pricing can be costly for solo practitioners or small firms
Best For
Large engineering firms and multidisciplinary teams working on complex, code-compliant structural projects within Autodesk BIM environments.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at ~$2,325; included in Autodesk AEC Collection (~$3,000/year).
ANSYS Mechanical
enterpriseAdvanced finite element analysis software for simulating structural strength, stiffness, and fatigue.
Advanced nonlinear contact and material modeling with adaptive remeshing for realistic large-deformation simulations
ANSYS Mechanical is a leading finite element analysis (FEA) software for structural simulations, enabling engineers to predict stress, strain, deformation, vibration, fatigue, and failure in complex mechanical designs. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, buckling, thermal-stress coupling, and advanced contact modeling within the ANSYS Workbench environment. Widely used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy, it delivers high-fidelity results validated against physical tests.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with robust solvers for large-scale nonlinear analyses
- Comprehensive multiphysics integration and vast material database
- Seamless CAD interoperability and automation via ACT scripting
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High computational resource demands for complex models
- Premium pricing inaccessible for small teams or individuals
Best For
Enterprise engineering teams in high-stakes industries like aerospace and automotive needing precise, validated structural simulations.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription licensing; starts at ~$20,000/year per seat, scales with modules/users; academic versions available at lower cost.
RISA-3D
specializedPowerful 3D structural analysis software for frames, trusses, walls, and plates with seamless design integration.
Automated member optimization that resizes and rechecks designs in real-time to meet code requirements across multiple load combinations.
RISA-3D is a powerful 3D structural analysis and design software developed by RISA, used for modeling, analyzing, and designing buildings, bridges, and other structures with steel, concrete, wood, masonry, and cold-formed steel. It supports linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, response spectrum, time history, and pushover methods, along with automated code-based design checks for numerous international standards. The software excels in rapid iterative design workflows and integrates with BIM tools like Revit and other RISA products for comprehensive project delivery.
Pros
- Fast and efficient solver for large models
- Broad support for design codes and materials
- Seamless integration with RISA suite and BIM workflows
Cons
- Learning curve for advanced nonlinear features
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
- Pricing lacks transparency; quote-based only
Best For
Mid-sized structural engineering firms handling complex multi-material projects with a need for quick code-compliant designs.
Pricing
Annual subscription; typically $3,000–$6,000 per license depending on modules, with custom quotes for bundles and maintenance.
RAM Structural System
enterpriseModel, analyze, and design multi-story steel, concrete, and masonry buildings with physical modeling.
Physical modeling engine that automatically generates and updates analytical models from detailed 3D geometry
RAM Structural System by Bentley Systems is a comprehensive structural engineering software for 3D modeling, analysis, and design of steel, concrete, masonry, and foundation systems in buildings. It offers integrated static, dynamic, nonlinear analysis, and automated design per numerous international codes, streamlining workflows from physical modeling to construction documents. Widely used for multi-story and complex structures, it excels in handling gravity and lateral load systems with high accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive code compliance and material support
- Integrated physical-to-analytical modeling reduces errors
- Robust analysis for complex geometries and load cases
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- High subscription costs limit accessibility for small firms
Best For
Large structural engineering firms designing multi-story buildings and industrial structures requiring precise code-compliant analysis.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Bentley CONNECT; annual licenses typically $5,000–$15,000 per user depending on modules and firm size, with custom quotes.
midas Gen
enterpriseIntegrated 3D structural design and analysis software for buildings, bridges, and general structures.
Automated construction stage analysis with realistic load sequencing and material nonlinearity
midas Gen is a comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA) software from MIDAS Information Technology, designed for structural engineers to model, analyze, and design steel, reinforced concrete, and composite structures. It supports linear and nonlinear analyses, including dynamic, buckling, and construction staging simulations, with automated design checks per numerous international codes. Ideal for buildings, bridges, and industrial structures, it integrates 3D modeling with optimization tools for efficient workflows.
Pros
- Advanced nonlinear and construction stage analysis capabilities
- Broad support for international design codes and standards
- Integrated 3D modeling, analysis, and automated design optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High licensing costs and resource demands
- Limited customization in some reporting features
Best For
Experienced structural engineers and firms tackling complex, code-compliant designs for high-rise buildings and bridges.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $5,000-$25,000 based on modules; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
RFEM
specializedModular 3D FEA software for static, dynamic, and buckling analysis of any material structures.
Unified modeling and design environment for combined frame, surface, and solid elements with automated code-compliant checks
RFEM, developed by Dlubal Software, is a finite element method (FEM) software for structural analysis and design of frame, plate, shell, and solid structures. It supports static, dynamic, buckling, and nonlinear analyses, with integrated design checks for steel, concrete, timber, masonry, and other materials per numerous international codes like Eurocode, AISC, and ACI. The software excels in handling complex 3D models and integrates seamlessly with Dlubal's RSTAB for beam structures.
Pros
- Comprehensive FEM capabilities for plates, shells, and solids
- Extensive library of international design standards and modules
- Strong integration with RSTAB and BIM import/export options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High licensing costs with add-on modules
- Performance can lag on very large models without high-end hardware
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling complex 3D analyses for buildings, bridges, and industrial structures.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~€4,500 for base RFEM, plus €1,000+ per module; subscriptions from €1,500/year with maintenance.
SkyCiv Structural 3D
specializedCloud-native structural analysis software offering FEA, design checks, and real-time collaboration.
Cloud-native FEA solver that runs complex analyses on remote servers, bypassing local hardware limitations
SkyCiv Structural 3D is a fully cloud-based structural analysis and design software that allows engineers to build, analyze, and design 3D models directly in a web browser without any installation. It supports finite element analysis (FEA) for beams, plates, shells, and cables, along with design checks for steel, concrete, aluminum, and timber per various international codes like AISC, ACI, Eurocode, and AS. The platform emphasizes collaboration, real-time solving on cloud servers, and integration with tools like Excel and BIM software.
Pros
- Cloud-based with no installation and access from any device
- Intuitive web interface and real-time collaboration
- Affordable pricing with strong value for SMBs
Cons
- Requires stable internet connection
- Limited advanced features for highly complex projects
- Fewer supported design codes than desktop leaders like ETABS
Best For
Small engineering firms and freelance structural engineers seeking a cost-effective, collaborative cloud alternative to traditional desktop software.
Pricing
Free plan with limitations; paid plans start at $98/month (Basic) up to $398/month (Ultimate) for full analysis and design features.
Conclusion
The top 10 tools represent the pinnacle of structural design analysis software, with ETABS leading as the top choice for its integrated approach to modeling, analysis, design, and detailing. SAP2000 and STAAD.Pro stand out as equally robust alternatives, offering versatile and comprehensive solutions for diverse structural needs, ensuring there’s a tool suited to every professional’s workflow.
Explore the capabilities of ETABS to elevate your structural projects—its intuitive interface and all-in-one functionality make it a standout for anyone seeking reliability and efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison