RISA-3D
Subscription-based 3D finite element analysis software for buildings and industrial structures, covering steel, concrete, wood, masonry, aluminum, and cold-formed steel design.
3.8 /5 composite score
The most transparently priced desktop FEA with a free 10-day trial -- multi-material capability (steel, concrete, wood, masonry, aluminum all in one tool) makes it versatile for a solo engineer with varied project types.
Rubric Scorecard
| Criterion | Score | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Maturity | 4/5 | Version 23 in active development; BIM integration with Revit, Tekla Structures, Archicad, and SDS2; complemented by RISAFloor, RISAFoundation, and RISAConnection suite tools. |
| AEC Specificity | 4/5 | Covers multi-material structural member design with P-Delta, eigenvalue, response spectra, time history, and seismic code checks -- broader than a pure calculation-sheet tool. |
| Integration | 4/5 | Native BIM imports from Revit, Tekla Structures, Archicad, and SDS2; color-coded result graphics and animated deflection; spreadsheet-based inputs export cleanly. |
| Value / Pricing | 3/5 | Approximately $2,290/year subscription with a 10-day free trial -- SourceForge lists a starting price of $1,970/year; transparent and no sales call required. |
| Evidence | 4/5 | Capterra confirmed live listing explicitly noting suitability for freelancers and small businesses; SourceForge listing independently confirms pricing range. |
How we verified this: we checked RISA-3D against its live site and an independent source — capterra.com. Nothing on this page is listed from memory. See how we review.
Alternatives in Structural Analysis & Design
Standards-aligned structural calculation platform with 200+ inspectable, code-referenced calculators for beam, column, frame, shear wall, retaining wall, and wind/seismic design.
4.2/5
Cloud-based structural analysis and design platform covering 3D FEA, member design, connection design, and foundation design -- no installation required.
4.0/5
Professional finite element analysis software with member, plate, shell, and solid elements; linear and nonlinear analysis; and modular add-ons for concrete, steel, timber, and glass design.
4.0/5
Structural calculation automation tool that generates compliant, auditable calculation sheets for beam, column, connection, and foundation design across multiple international codes.
3.6/5
Get the AEC AI update
New tools in Structural Analysis & Design and rubric updates -- no vendor content.
Powered by Buttondown. Unsubscribe any time.