| Feature | Free eDrawings | Paid eDrawings Pro | |---------|----------------|---------------------| | View native SLDPRT/SLDASM/SLDDRW | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | | Measure geometry | ✅ Limited (no mass properties) | ✅ Full | | Markup & redline | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | | Export to 3D PDF | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | | Save as STL/IGES | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | | Real-time updates for new SolidWorks versions | ✅ (basic compatibility) | ✅ (plus advanced features) |
The 2026 "upd" is automatic. Simply go to https://www.solidworks.com/3d-viewer and log in with a free 3DEXPERIENCE ID. The update happens server-side.
Date: April 21, 2026
Subject: Analysis of free software tools for viewing SolidWorks (SLDPRT, SLDASM, SLDDRW) files, with a focus on update frequency and long-term accessibility.
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 SOLIDWORKS Viewer.
With the latest free update (upd) released in early 2026, Dassault Systèmes has fundamentally changed what you can do without a paid subscription. If you search for a "SOLIDWORKS viewer free upd," you are likely looking for the newest features, security patches, and performance boosts for the eDrawings viewer or the new Web-based Viewer. solidworks viewer free upd
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the latest free update, including new features, installation tips, and why this specific update matters for your workflow.
The primary free software for viewing SOLIDWORKS files is eDrawings Viewer
, developed by Dassault Systèmes. It is a lightweight, widely-used tool that allows you to view, print, and review 2D drawings and 3D models without a full SOLIDWORKS license. Top Recommended Free Viewers eDrawings Viewer (Official) : The most compatible option for
: View 3D models, rotate, zoom, and see simulation results. It also supports neutral formats like STEP, IGES, and DWG. Availability : Free download for official eDrawings site Autodesk Viewer (Online) : A web-based alternative that requires no installation. | Feature | Free eDrawings | Paid eDrawings
: Supports over 80 file types, including SOLIDWORKS files, directly in your browser.
: Quick viewing and online collaboration without downloading software. Glovius SolidWorks Viewer : A modern viewer focused on analysis. : Offers a 15-day free trial
for advanced tools like measuring, sectioning, and file comparison.
: Users who need temporary access to deeper interrogation tools like wall thickness or draft analysis. Comparison of Key Features Download eDrawings Date: April 21, 2026 Subject: Analysis of free
* MySolidworks. * View. View. Share. Share. Products. Products. Support. Support. MySolidworks. eDrawings Viewer
There are two primary official tools provided by Dassault Systèmes (the makers of SOLIDWORKS) for viewing files without a license.
| Viewer | Native SW files? | Measure | Markup | Export STL | Platform | |--------|------------------|---------|--------|------------|----------| | eDrawings (SW official) | ✅ Yes | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Win/Mac/iOS/Android | | Fusion 360 (free personal) | ❌ No (imports STEP) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Win/Mac | | FreeCAD | ⚠️ Via addon (buggy) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | Cross-platform | | Autodesk Viewer (web) | ⚠️ Via upload (slow) | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Browser | | Onshape Free | ❌ No (import only) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Browser |
Winner for pure SW viewing: eDrawings, by a large margin.
Best for: Users who cannot install software (work computers with admin restrictions) or Mac users.
Modern web technology now allows you to view 3D CAD files directly in your browser without downloading a viewer.
