Top Inventor Alternatives & Competitors For 2024

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Looking for alternatives to Inventor? Many users crave user-friendly and feature-rich solutions for tasks like Platform Capabilities, Inventory Management, and Reports and Dashboards. Leveraging crowdsourced data from over 1,000 real Manufacturing Software selection projects based on 400+ capabilities, we present a comparison of Inventor to leading industry alternatives like E2 Shop System, MIE Trak Pro, Augury, and Onshape.

Inventor Software Tool
E2 Shop System Software Tool
MIE Trak Pro Software Tool

Product Basics

Inventor is a Windows-based CAD solution with mechanical 3D designing, documentation and product simulation modules. It intertwines parametric, direct and other design protocols in one centralized place. It enables collaboration with key players across the company with the ability to use any CAD tool.

It includes drawing creation, parametric modeling, sheet metal and instant frame design. It employs particular accessories needed for sheet metals, frame blueprints, tubing and piping. It can also merge with other modules to complete mechanical and BIM assignments.
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E2 Shop System is a solution that manages job shops and made-to-order, mixed-mode and job-based manufacturing. It is available in a cloud-based or on-premise deployment model and gives users the flexibility to handle job schedules and change customer due dates. Users can control their data, clock out and on jobs, and update their inventory from their mobile apps. 

It is suitable for assembly, fabrication, foam, mold, captive shops and more. It gives users real-time tracking insights into the manufacturing shop floor. It supports job tracking and costing and handles the complexities of printed circuit boards to keep production expenses low. 

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MIE Trak Pro serves make-to-order, contract and shop management facilities of all sizes. It automates operations while allowing flexibility to maintain changes and organization scalability. By applying advanced machinery, it can improve quality and productivity.

Quoting and estimating, work order, scheduling, inventory control, invoicing and accounting are some of its top appliances. Its deployment options include cloud and on-premise. It caters to small and mid-sized facilities and runs on Linux, Apple and Windows.
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Augury offers advanced software designed to optimize manufacturing processes by leveraging predictive maintenance and machine health insights. This solution is particularly well-suited for manufacturing companies aiming to minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency. By utilizing sophisticated algorithms and IoT sensors, Augury provides real-time diagnostics and actionable insights, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing unexpected equipment failures.

Key benefits include improved equipment reliability, extended machinery lifespan, and significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance. Popular features encompass continuous monitoring, detailed analytics, and seamless integration with existing systems. Users appreciate the intuitive interface and the comprehensive data it provides, which facilitates informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Compared to similar products, Augury is often praised for its accuracy and ease of use. Pricing details are typically customized based on the specific needs of the business, so it is advisable to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote. Payment structures may vary, including options for annual or monthly subscriptions.

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Onshape is a cloud solution that integrates CAD, data management, real-time collaboration and KPI management. It connects stakeholders, business executives, product designers and other key players in one centralized location to share updates seamlessly. It stores designs and tracks every change made.

It includes data management, workflow, parts, analytics and reporting. It establishes email and alert triggers. It offers concurrent BOM creating, managing and editing.
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$310
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Mobile
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Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
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Videos
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FAQ
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
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24/7 Live Support
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24/7 Live Support

Product Ranking

#36

among all
Manufacturing Software

#4

among all
Manufacturing Software

#159

among all
Manufacturing Software

#35

among all
Manufacturing Software

#26

among all
Manufacturing Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

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Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards
Inventory Management
Production Planning
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Platform Capabilities
Production Planning
Reports and Dashboards

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Inventor
E2 Shop System
MIE Trak Pro
Augury
Onshape
+ Add Product + Add Product
Bill of Materials (BOM) and Routing Computer-aided Design and Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAD and CAM) Management Engineering Change Control Inventory Management Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Mobile Capabilities Platform Capabilities Product Configuration Production Planning Production Scheduling Quality Management Recipe and Formula Management Reports and Dashboards Shop Floor Control Warehouse Management Work in Process (WIP) Work Order Management 48 42 44 91 58 60 77 50 85 67 69 16 64 40 36 64 65 0 25 50 75 100
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User Sentiment Summary

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Great User Sentiment 655 reviews
Great User Sentiment 130 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 4 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 595 reviews
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86%
of users recommend this product

E2 Shop System has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 86% when considering 655 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

87%
of users recommend this product

MIE Trak Pro has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 87% when considering 130 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

90%
of users recommend this product

Augury has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 4 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

90%
of users recommend this product

Onshape has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 595 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

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Awards

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User Favorite Award
User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Powerful Modeling: Inventor offers a robust set of tools for 3D mechanical design, including parametric, freeform, and direct modeling capabilities. This allows users to create complex parts and assemblies with a high degree of precision.
Comprehensive Documentation: Inventor excels in creating detailed 2D drawings and documentation directly from 3D models. This streamlines the design process and ensures that manufacturing has accurate information.
Integrated Simulation: Built-in simulation tools let engineers test their designs virtually for stress, strain, and other factors before any physical prototyping. This can save time and reduce costly errors.
Streamlined Workflow: Integration with other Autodesk products, like AutoCAD and Fusion 360, creates a unified ecosystem for design and manufacturing. This interoperability can significantly improve efficiency for businesses already invested in Autodesk solutions.
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Interface: Approximately 85% of users stated this program has a user-friendly interface with simple implementation procedures and helpful training material.
Customer Support: Precisely 87% of users said E2 Shop System has a resourceful and extremely helpful customer support team.
Performance: Of the users who mentioned overall performance, 57% said it has a robust database and easily tracks every aspect of their organization.
Functionality: Roughly 50% of users that mentioned the system’s functionality found that this solution has a suitable amount of features for their business.
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Customer Support: Approximately 93% of users who discussed support stated this solution has a knowledgeable customer support team that can quickly answer questions.
Accessories: Of the users who discussed this program's modules, 51% said they display real-time information.
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Predictive Maintenance: Anticipates equipment failures, enabling proactive maintenance to minimize downtime and reduce maintenance expenses.
User-Friendly Interface: Provides a user-friendly platform that seamlessly integrates with existing systems, simplifying implementation and daily operation.
Exceptional Customer Support: Offers a responsive and effective customer support team that promptly addresses user inquiries and provides guidance.
Accurate Data Insights: Delivers precise data and actionable insights through its sensors and analytics, empowering informed decision-making.
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Version Control: Eliminates the need for manual file management, ensuring everyone on the team is always working with the latest design iteration. This streamlines collaboration and prevents version conflicts.
Cloud-Based: Provides access to design files from any location with an internet connection, enabling remote work and collaboration. This is particularly beneficial for teams with members in different geographic locations or those who travel frequently.
Parametric Modeling: Allows for easy modification of designs by changing parameters, such as dimensions or features. This makes it simple to explore different design options and iterate quickly.
Collaboration Tools: Offers features such as real-time co-editing and commenting, which facilitate communication and collaboration among team members. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that feedback is incorporated efficiently.
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Steep Learning Curve: New users often find it challenging to learn and navigate Inventor's extensive feature set, requiring significant time investment for proficiency.
Performance Issues: Large and complex models can lead to sluggish performance, including slow opening times, lag, and occasional crashes, impacting productivity.
File Compatibility: Inventor's compatibility with non-Autodesk file formats is limited, potentially causing difficulties when collaborating with external partners or clients using different CAD software.
High System Requirements: Running Inventor effectively, especially with complex models, necessitates a powerful computer with high-end specifications, which can translate to increased hardware costs.
Subscription Costs: Inventor's subscription-based pricing model, while offering flexibility, can become expensive, particularly for small businesses or freelancers who may not require constant access to all features.
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Performance: Nearly 42% of users said the solution experiences glitches and occasionally shuts down, losing the progress of certain tasks.
Functionality: Of the users who discussed accessories, 49% stated the scheduling attribute is clunky, complaining that they have to input the entire serial number of a part in the search tool and the reporting appliance is difficult to master.
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Accessories: Roughly 48% of users who mentioned accessories in their reviews said the accounting module doesn't integrate well with their credit cards and bank accounts.
Performance: Approximately 61% of users that mentioned usability claimed MIE Trak Pro's performance is sluggish and has too many bugs, glitches and error messages.
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Implementation Complexity: The initial setup of Augury can be intricate, potentially causing hurdles for businesses with limited IT resources.
Cost Factor: Augury's pricing might be prohibitive for smaller manufacturing operations, impacting their ability to benefit from the platform.
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Limited Offline Functionality: Onshape's cloud-based nature presents challenges for users with unreliable internet access or those who require offline editing capabilities, hindering productivity in certain work environments.
Learning Curve and Complexity: Onshape's extensive feature set and unique approach to parametric modeling can lead to a steep learning curve for new users accustomed to traditional CAD software, potentially requiring additional time investment for proficiency.
Performance Considerations: While Onshape generally performs well, users with complex assemblies or resource-intensive operations may experience occasional performance lags or delays, particularly when working on lower-spec systems or with limited internet bandwidth.
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Can Inventor help users invent 3D models with ease, or will it leave them feeling lost in a digital labyrinth? User reviews from the last year suggest that Autodesk Inventor is a powerful and versatile 3D CAD software with a lot to offer, particularly for experienced users in mechanical engineering and related fields. Users consistently praise Inventor's robust feature set, highlighting its intuitive interface for solid modeling and assembly design. The software's ability to handle complex assemblies efficiently and generate detailed drawings is a significant plus. Additionally, its seamless integration with other Autodesk products, such as AutoCAD, is frequently cited as a major advantage, streamlining workflows for users already within the Autodesk ecosystem. However, there are some drawbacks. One common criticism is Inventor's steep learning curve, which can be intimidating for beginners. Some users have also reported occasional performance issues when working with very large or intricate models. Inventor's strengths lie in its professional-grade design and engineering solutions for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. Its comprehensive features and intuitive interface make it well-suited for experienced users in fields such as mechanical engineering, product design, and manufacturing. However, its complexity and the occasional performance hiccups might pose challenges for beginners or those working with massive, resource-intensive models.

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E2 Shop System is a job shop manufacturing program that streamlines production with a seamlessly easy interface and rapid implementation process. Its overall performance is satisfactory, although it experiences the occasional glitches. Its vast amount of features —such as inventory management, quality management, accounting and invoicing amongst others —is helpful in expediting tasks. However, some users found that the reporting, searching and scheduling modules have limitations. The customer support team is knowledgeable and quick to resolve issues. Overall, most users find E2 Shop System a helpful and sophisticated software.

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MIE Trak Pro is a hefty manufacturing ERP system with a wide assortment of features that showcase real-time information on multiple shop floor areas. The majority of users say the customer support team is knowledgeable and fast in responding to and resolving problems that may arise within the system. Other users say the accounting module isn't the best bookkeeping tool because it doesn't easily integrate with specific credit cards, bank accounts or payroll services. Users also complain that the overall performance is sluggish and has too many bugs, glitches and error messages. Generally, users find this program an effective ERP worth implementing into their routine manufacturing practices.

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Is Augury's software the manufacturing oracle you've been seeking? User reviews from the past year suggest Augury shines in its sophisticated machine health diagnostics, enabling businesses to anticipate and address potential issues before they snowball into costly downtime. This proactive approach, powered by AI and a vast library of machine data, is praised for its accuracy in pinpointing anomalies and providing actionable insights. Users particularly appreciate how Augury's software integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, streamlining maintenance operations and boosting overall equipment effectiveness. However, some users have pointed out that the initial setup can be a bit of a head-scratcher, particularly for those less familiar with industrial IoT solutions. Another recurring comment is the price tag, which some users, especially those representing smaller operations, find to be a bit steep. In a nutshell, Augury emerges as a robust solution for businesses eager to embrace a more predictive and proactive approach to maintenance. Its ability to foresee and avert potential machine hiccups, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity, makes it a particularly good fit for larger enterprises where even a few hours of stalled production can translate into substantial financial setbacks.

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Get ready to "shape" your perspective on product development software! Onshape has been making waves in the industry, but is it the right fit for your needs? Let's dive into what users have been saying over the past year. Onshape's cloud-based nature is a major draw, offering seamless collaboration and version control that outshines traditional desktop-based CAD software like SolidWorks. Users rave about the real-time updates and the ability to work on projects simultaneously without stepping on each other's toes. The parametric modeling tools are also a hit, allowing for easy design modifications and iterations. However, some users find the interface less intuitive than other CAD software, leading to a steeper learning curve. Additionally, Onshape's reliance on a stable internet connection can be a drawback for those working in areas with unreliable connectivity. So, who is Onshape perfect for? Teams that prioritize collaboration and real-time design updates will find Onshape to be a game-changer. Its cloud-based platform and parametric modeling capabilities make it ideal for fast-paced environments where agility and version control are crucial. However, individuals or teams who prefer a more traditional CAD experience or those with limited internet access may want to explore other options.

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