These tool profiles explicitly list STEP/STP in fileFormats[]. Compare who opens,
edits, or exports the format, how much support is documented, and whether the catalog tags the tool as free or paid.
Last updated 2026-07-18.
Need the full import x export matrix? Open the formats hub. Need the same slice inside the category x sector grid? Open the STEP/STP filter on the landscape map.
Need the same slice inside the full catalog grid? Open the STEP/STP filter on the landscape map.
| Tool | Price signal | Direction | Support | Score | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud-based parametric CAD/CAM platform with integrated design automation (Python API, Design Automation cloud), generative design, electronics design (PCB), sheet-metal and manufacturing workflows, and cloud collaboration. | Free viewer | Opens + exports | Full | 4.2/5 | worth-it |
| A DWG-native CAD platform (Lite/Pro/BIM/Mechanical/Ultimate editions) positioned as a cost-effective AutoCAD alternative with both subscription and perpetual options. | Paid / subscription | Listed | Unknown | 4.2/5 | worth-it |
| Professional NURBS surface modeler used for complex massing, parametric design via the bundled Grasshopper visual-scripting environment, and computational architecture; one-time license with native DWG, DXF, and IFC export. | Paid / one-time | Opens + exports | Partial | 4.2/5 | worth-it |
| Autodesk's stripped-down, single-user version of Revit for 3D architectural BIM modeling and documentation without the multidisciplinary and worksharing features of full Revit. | Paid / subscription | Listed | Unknown | 3.8/5 | solid |
| Dassault Systemes' AutoCAD-like 2D CAD tool for creating and editing DWG files at a lower price than AutoCAD. | Paid / subscription | Listed | Unknown | 3.8/5 | solid |
| A free, open-source parametric 3D modeler whose built-in BIM workbench provides architectural elements (walls, windows, structure) and clean IFC export. | Free | Listed | Unknown | 3.8/5 | solid |
| ZWSOFT's DWG-compatible 2D/3D CAD application marketed as a faster, cheaper AutoCAD alternative. | Paid / one-time | Listed | Unknown | 3.8/5 | solid |
| Parametric 3D mechanical CAD platform with assembly modeling, sheet-metal and manufacturing design, CAM integration, simulation, and interoperability with Revit, Civil 3D, and neutral CAD formats (STEP, IGES). | Free viewer | Opens + exports | Full | 3.4/5 | solid |
| Free, open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler with a dedicated BIM Workbench that reads and writes IFC, STEP, and DXF; scriptable via Python; suitable for budget-constrained solo architects who need IFC interoperability without a subscription. | Free | Listed | Unknown | 3.4/5 | solid |
| Direct-modeling CAD tool built for iPad and Apple Pencil with Windows and Mac desktop apps; exports STEP, DWG, OBJ, and FBX for AEC handoff; suited for conceptual solid modeling and client presentations on the go. | Freemium | Listed | Unknown | 3.0/5 | solid |
| Constructible structural BIM software from Trimble for steel, concrete, precast, and timber detailing -- produces fabrication-ready shop drawings, rebar detailing, and CNC/DSTV output directly from the 3D model. | Paid / quote-only | Opens + exports | Partial | 3.0/5 | solid |
| Survey CAD software for processing field data from GNSS, total stations, laser scanners, drones, and mobile mapping into high-quality deliverables, with specialized modules for mining, monitoring, tunneling, bridge, and GIS workflows. | Paid / subscription | Opens | Full | 3.0/5 | solid |
| Computer-aided design software for creating geospatially enabled 2D and 3D infrastructure drawings. Supports multi-discipline BIM authoring workflows across transportation, water, energy, and municipal infrastructure sectors with native support for DGN format and interoperability with DWG, IFC, and point clouds. | Paid / subscription | Opens + exports | Unknown | 2.8/5 | situational |
| AutoCAD-based BIM authoring toolset with architectural objects (walls, doors, windows, stairs), parametric wall systems, schedule generation, and IFC interoperability for single-discipline architectural design and documentation. | Paid / quote-only | Exports | Partial | 2.6/5 | situational |
| Cloud-accessible structural analysis and design software combining model-based design with analysis capabilities, featuring seismic design, portal frame design, and AI-assisted workflows for structural engineers. | Paid / quote-only | Opens | Partial | 2.6/5 | situational |
For broader category context, compare the same format against the rest of the AEC catalog on the landscape map.