May 5, 2026 Reading Time: 8 minutes
The remains the industry standard for viewing native SOLIDWORKS files ( .sldprt , .sldasm , .slddrw ) without data loss.
If you are looking to update your free viewer to the latest version:
Dynamic cross-sectioning, measurement tools, exploded views, and native support for AR/VR.
The (available at no cost) runs in a browser and is always up-to-date because Dassault maintains the server-side conversion engine.
Disclaimer: All trademarks (SolidWorks, Dassault Systèmes, eDrawings, Autodesk, Onshape) are property of their respective owners. This guide is for informational purposes only. Features of free software are subject to change; always verify the "Free vs. Pro" comparison on the official website before installing.
In the fast-paced world of 3D design and engineering, sharing files is just as critical as creating them. For years, the industry standard has been SOLIDWORKS—a powerful, parametric modeling environment. However, not every stakeholder (client, machinist, or manager) has access to the expensive SOLIDWORKS license. Enter the .
Note: If you work on a corporate network, installing eDrawings with administrator privileges deploys it on a per-machine basis so all system users can run the single copy under their profiles. 2. Best Alternative Viewers: Online & Desktop
: You must ask the SolidWorks creator to export the file to a neutral format like STEP or IGES first. Feature Comparison Matrix Installation Required? Mac Compatible? Measures Geometry? Cloud Upload Needed? eDrawings Free Autodesk Viewer Onshape Free Yes (Public Only) FreeCAD Critical Safety Warning: Avoid "Cracked" Software
Before diving into the "upd" (update), let's clarify the tool. A SOLIDWORKS viewer allows users to open, zoom, rotate, pan, and measure within .sldprt (part), .sldasm (assembly), and .slddrw (drawing) files without owning a license.
To maximize your efficiency when using a free SolidWorks viewer, follow this structured review workflow: Step 1: Model Orientation and Inspection