ETABS
Computers and Structures, Inc.
Analysis and design of building structures, widely used for multi-storey buildings.
- Runs on
- Windows
- Pricing
- Licence
Structure & performance
The tools used across the design process, from the first sketch to the final board. What each is for, what it runs on, how it's paid for, and whether students get it free.
Structure & performance
Structural design and climate, daylight and energy analysis.
SAP2000
Computers and Structures, Inc.
General structural analysis and design, from bridges to industrial structures.
- Runs on
- Windows
- Pricing
- Licence
STAAD.Pro
Bentley Systems
Structural analysis and design for steel, concrete, timber and more.
- Runs on
- Windows
- Pricing
- Subscription
Ladybug Tools
Ladybug Tools
Free Grasshopper plugins for climate, sun, daylight and energy analysis.
- Runs on
- Windows, Mac
- Pricing
- Free and open source
ClimateStudio
Solemma
Daylight, glare and energy simulation inside Rhino.
- Runs on
- Windows
- Pricing
- Subscription
Newer tools, from startups
Generative design, site analysis, estimating and more: see what startups are building for architects and builders.
See startups →Platforms, pricing and student access are from each maker’s website and can change; check there before you buy.