Quick Overview
- 1#1: ETABS - Integrated software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.
- 2#2: SAP2000 - Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for bridges, dams, stadiums, and general structures.
- 3#3: STAAD.Pro - Comprehensive structural analysis and automated design for steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
- 4#4: Revit - BIM platform for structural design, modeling, documentation, and collaboration in building projects.
- 5#5: Tekla Structures - Advanced BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication, and construction management of steel and concrete structures.
- 6#6: Robot Structural Analysis Professional - Cloud-enabled analysis and design software for accurate simulation of structural behavior under various loads.
- 7#7: RAM Structural System - Integrated toolset for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story building systems.
- 8#8: RFEM - Powerful finite element analysis software for complex structures like frames, trusses, and shells.
- 9#9: MIDAS Civil - Advanced bridge and civil engineering design software with integrated analysis capabilities.
- 10#10: SkyCiv Structural 3D - Cloud-based platform for 3D structural modeling, analysis, and design with real-time collaboration.
Tools were ranked based on features, quality, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring they deliver robust performance, advanced capabilities, and accessibility for professionals across varied project sizes and structural types.
Comparison Table
Discover a detailed comparison of key structural engineer software tools, including ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, Revit, Tekla Structures, and additional options. This table outlines features, workflow efficiency, and project adaptability to guide readers in selecting the most suitable tool for their design needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ETABS Integrated software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | SAP2000 Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for bridges, dams, stadiums, and general structures. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | STAAD.Pro Comprehensive structural analysis and automated design for steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Revit BIM platform for structural design, modeling, documentation, and collaboration in building projects. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Tekla Structures Advanced BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication, and construction management of steel and concrete structures. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Robot Structural Analysis Professional Cloud-enabled analysis and design software for accurate simulation of structural behavior under various loads. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | RAM Structural System Integrated toolset for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story building systems. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | RFEM Powerful finite element analysis software for complex structures like frames, trusses, and shells. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | MIDAS Civil Advanced bridge and civil engineering design software with integrated analysis capabilities. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | SkyCiv Structural 3D Cloud-based platform for 3D structural modeling, analysis, and design with real-time collaboration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
Integrated software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.
Versatile finite element analysis and design tool for bridges, dams, stadiums, and general structures.
Comprehensive structural analysis and automated design for steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
BIM platform for structural design, modeling, documentation, and collaboration in building projects.
Advanced BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication, and construction management of steel and concrete structures.
Cloud-enabled analysis and design software for accurate simulation of structural behavior under various loads.
Integrated toolset for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story building systems.
Powerful finite element analysis software for complex structures like frames, trusses, and shells.
Advanced bridge and civil engineering design software with integrated analysis capabilities.
Cloud-based platform for 3D structural modeling, analysis, and design with real-time collaboration.
ETABS
specializedIntegrated software for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story buildings and complex structures.
Seamless end-to-end integration of 3D object-based modeling, multi-material nonlinear analysis, and iterative code-compliant design optimization in one environment.
ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is an industry-leading software for the structural analysis, design, and detailing of multi-story buildings. It offers a unified platform with an intuitive graphical interface for 3D modeling, static and dynamic analysis (including nonlinear and seismic), and automated design of steel, concrete, composite, and other materials per global building codes. Widely adopted by engineering firms worldwide, ETABS streamlines workflows from conceptual design to construction documentation, integrating seamlessly with BIM tools like Revit.
Pros
- Comprehensive modeling tools for complex geometries and building systems
- Advanced analysis capabilities including P-Delta, response spectrum, and performance-based design
- Extensive code compliance for steel, concrete, and masonry with automated optimization
- Strong integration with SAFE for foundation design and other CSI products
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite improved interface
- High licensing costs prohibitive for small firms or freelancers
- Resource-intensive, requiring powerful hardware for large models
Best For
Professional structural engineers and firms specializing in high-rise, commercial, and seismic-prone building projects demanding precise code-based analysis and design.
Pricing
Annual cloud-based subscriptions start at around $5,000-$18,000 depending on edition and modules; perpetual licenses with maintenance also available via quote from CSI.
SAP2000
specializedVersatile finite element analysis and design tool for bridges, dams, stadiums, and general structures.
Integrated bridge analysis and design module with automated load generation and staging for realistic superstructure-substructure modeling
SAP2000, developed by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI), is a premier structural analysis and design software used by engineers worldwide for modeling, analyzing, and designing complex structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and industrial facilities. It excels in both linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analysis, finite element modeling, and code-based design for steel, concrete, aluminum, and cold-formed steel. The software integrates advanced simulation tools with automated design optimization, making it suitable for multi-story buildings, long-span bridges, and seismic evaluations.
Pros
- Unmatched versatility in handling diverse structure types from buildings to bridges
- Robust nonlinear and dynamic analysis capabilities with pushover and time-history options
- Comprehensive design code compliance for global standards including AISC, ACI, Eurocode
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and dated interface
- High licensing costs prohibitive for small firms or students
- Resource-intensive for large models, requiring powerful hardware
Best For
Experienced structural engineers tackling complex, code-compliant projects like high-rise buildings or major bridges.
Pricing
Quote-based perpetual licenses starting around $5,000-$10,000 for basic versions, up to $25,000+ for full modules; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
STAAD.Pro
specializedComprehensive structural analysis and automated design for steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum structures.
Physical modeling environment that allows intuitive creation of realistic 3D models with automated meshing and code-based design optimization.
STAAD.Pro, developed by Bentley Systems, is a leading structural analysis and design software used by engineers worldwide for modeling, analyzing, and designing complex structures including buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities. It supports a wide range of materials like steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum, with finite element analysis for static, dynamic, and nonlinear behaviors. The software complies with over 90 international design codes and integrates seamlessly with BIM workflows and other Bentley tools for enhanced project delivery.
Pros
- Extensive library of international design codes and standards
- Powerful finite element analysis for complex structures
- Seamless integration with Bentley’s ecosystem including RAM and ProSteel
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Outdated graphical user interface compared to modern competitors
- High licensing costs for small firms
Best For
Mid-to-large structural engineering firms tackling multinational projects with diverse code requirements and complex geometries.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at around $5,000-$10,000 per user, with perpetual licenses and enterprise bundles available.
Revit
enterpriseBIM platform for structural design, modeling, documentation, and collaboration in building projects.
Bidirectional associativity ensuring model changes automatically update drawings, schedules, and analysis results
Revit, developed by Autodesk, is a comprehensive Building Information Modeling (BIM) software tailored for structural engineers to create intelligent 3D models of building structures including beams, columns, slabs, and connections. It supports parametric design, automated reinforcement detailing, and seamless integration with analysis tools like Robot Structural Analysis for load simulations and code compliance. Revit excels in generating construction documents, quantity takeoffs, and schedules directly from the model, facilitating collaboration across disciplines.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling and BIM integration for multi-disciplinary coordination
- Bidirectional link to analysis software for iterative design workflows
- Extensive libraries of structural families and automated detailing tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for complex customizations
- High computational demands on hardware for large models
- Expensive subscription model with limited standalone value for pure analysis tasks
Best For
Structural engineers on collaborative BIM projects involving architecture, MEP, and construction documentation.
Pricing
Annual subscription: ~$2,985 USD for Revit alone; ~$3,075 USD for AEC Collection (includes Revit + Robot Structural Analysis).
Tekla Structures
enterpriseAdvanced BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication, and construction management of steel and concrete structures.
Parametric, rule-based modeling that automatically updates drawings, schedules, and NC files with any design changes
Tekla Structures is a leading BIM software specialized for structural engineering, detailing, and fabrication of steel, concrete, and timber structures. It allows users to create intelligent 3D models that drive the generation of construction drawings, reports, and CNC files for manufacturing. Renowned for its precision in complex geometries and constructability checks, it's widely used in large-scale construction projects globally.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in 3D modeling and clash detection for complex structures
- Automated generation of fabrication drawings and CNC files streamlining production
- Robust integration with fabrication workflows and machinery
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High system resource demands and hardware requirements
- Premium pricing that may not suit small firms
Best For
Large engineering firms and fabricators handling intricate steel and precast concrete projects needing precise detailing and manufacturing outputs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; annual subscriptions typically $18,000-$30,000 per license depending on modules, with flexible perpetual and maintenance options.
Robot Structural Analysis Professional
specializedCloud-enabled analysis and design software for accurate simulation of structural behavior under various loads.
Bidirectional link with Revit enabling automatic model synchronization and analysis without data loss
Robot Structural Analysis Professional is a powerful finite element analysis (FEA) software from Autodesk designed for structural engineers to model, analyze, and design complex buildings and infrastructure. It supports a wide range of materials including steel, concrete, timber, and masonry, with compliance to numerous international design codes. The software excels in linear and nonlinear static/dynamic analyses, seismic simulations, and integrates seamlessly with Revit for BIM workflows.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Revit and Autodesk ecosystem for efficient BIM workflows
- Comprehensive support for international codes and advanced analysis types like nonlinear and pushover
- Robust handling of complex geometries and multi-material structures
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to FEA software
- High system resource demands for large-scale models
- Expensive subscription model limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Structural engineers in mid-to-large firms using Autodesk tools for analyzing and designing multi-story buildings and complex structures.
Pricing
Annual subscription at approximately $2,325 USD standalone, or included in Autodesk AEC Collection (~$3,000/year).
RAM Structural System
enterpriseIntegrated toolset for modeling, analysis, and design of multi-story building systems.
Integrated physical member modeling with automatic code-based design checks and optimization across steel, concrete, and foundations in a single environment
RAM Structural System by Bentley is a comprehensive 3D structural analysis and design software suite tailored for steel, concrete, and foundation systems in building projects. It enables engineers to model complex structures, perform advanced analyses including nonlinear and dynamic loading, and automate code-compliant designs per AISC, ACI, and international standards. The software integrates seamlessly with other Bentley tools for a full workflow from modeling to construction documentation.
Pros
- Extensive module library for steel, concrete, and foundations with automated design optimization
- Robust analysis capabilities including P-Delta, response spectra, and pushover
- Strong integration with RAM Connection for steel detailing and Bentley ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and workflow
- High licensing costs limit accessibility for small firms
- Less intuitive for non-building structures like bridges compared to specialized tools
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering firms handling multi-story commercial and industrial building designs.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at around $5,000-$15,000 per seat, depending on modules and CONNECT licensing.
RFEM
specializedPowerful finite element analysis software for complex structures like frames, trusses, and shells.
Advanced nonlinear material and geometric analysis with automatic combination of surface/solid elements and precise post-processing visualization
RFEM by Dlubal Software is a sophisticated 2D and 3D finite element analysis (FEA) program designed for structural engineers to model, analyze, and design complex structures including frames, plates, shells, and solids. It excels in handling nonlinear analyses, dynamic simulations, and stability checks, with seamless integration to RSTAB for beam and frame structures. The software supports a wide array of international design standards for steel, concrete, timber, and other materials.
Pros
- Extensive FEA capabilities for surfaces, solids, and nonlinear analysis
- Comprehensive library of international design codes and materials
- Strong integration with RSTAB and add-on modules for specialized tasks
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Outdated graphical user interface compared to modern competitors
- High modular pricing can be prohibitive for small firms
Best For
Experienced structural engineers tackling intricate, code-specific projects requiring advanced FEA beyond basic frame analysis.
Pricing
Modular licensing starts at ~€3,500 for base RFEM, with design modules adding €1,000–€5,000 each; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
MIDAS Civil
specializedAdvanced bridge and civil engineering design software with integrated analysis capabilities.
Advanced Construction Stage Analysis, which precisely simulates multi-stage construction processes including time-dependent effects like creep, shrinkage, and prestressing.
MIDAS Civil is a powerful finite element analysis (FEA) software developed by MIDAS IT for structural engineers focusing on bridges, buildings, and civil infrastructure. It provides comprehensive tools for 3D modeling, linear and nonlinear analysis, construction staging, and code-based design checks across international standards. The software excels in simulating complex behaviors like time-dependent material properties, seismic events, and construction sequences, making it ideal for large-scale projects.
Pros
- Exceptional capabilities for bridge and infrastructure analysis, including nonlinear and dynamic simulations
- Integrated construction stage analysis for accurate modeling of erection sequences
- Supports numerous international design codes with automated detailing and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive feature set
- High system resource demands, requiring powerful hardware for large models
- Premium pricing that may not suit small firms or general-purpose users
Best For
Experienced structural engineers working on complex bridge and civil infrastructure projects requiring advanced simulation and code compliance.
Pricing
Custom quotes for perpetual licenses or annual subscriptions starting around $5,000–$15,000 per seat, depending on modules; contact sales for details.
SkyCiv Structural 3D
specializedCloud-based platform for 3D structural modeling, analysis, and design with real-time collaboration.
Seamless cloud-based real-time collaboration allowing multiple engineers to work on the same model simultaneously
SkyCiv Structural 3D is a fully cloud-based structural engineering software that enables users to build, analyze, and design 3D models including beams, plates, cables, and frames directly in a web browser. It performs finite element analysis (FEA) for static, dynamic, buckling, and nonlinear loads, with automated design checks for steel, concrete, and timber per major codes like AISC, ACI, and Eurocode. The platform emphasizes accessibility, collaboration, and integration with tools like Excel and BIM software.
Pros
- No installation required; runs on any device with internet
- Real-time multi-user collaboration
- Affordable pricing with a functional free tier
- Strong API and Excel integration for automation
Cons
- Requires stable internet; potential lag on very large models
- Fewer advanced modules compared to desktop leaders like ETABS
- Limited customization in some design code implementations
- Free version restricts model size and exports
Best For
Freelance structural engineers or small firms needing quick, collaborative cloud-based analysis without software installation.
Pricing
Free tier for basic use; paid plans from $79/month (Basic) to $199/month (Professional), with annual discounts and enterprise options.
Conclusion
Among the top structural engineering tools, ETABS stands out as the top choice, offering integrated modeling, analysis, and design for multi-story and complex structures. SAP2000 follows closely, excelling in versatile finite element analysis for bridges, dams, and large venues, while STAAD.Pro rounds out the top three with robust automated design across steel, concrete, timber, and aluminum. Each tool caters to unique needs, but ETABS leads as the ideal all-in-one solution for streamlined, high-performance structural projects.
Elevate your next structural project by trying ETABS—the integrated power of its modeling, analysis, and design tools makes it the top pick for efficient, accurate results.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison