Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

RAM Elements VS ClearCalcs

Compare RAM Elements VS ClearCalcs and see what are their differences

RAM Elements logo RAM Elements

Structural Analysis and Design

ClearCalcs logo ClearCalcs

Online structural design software. Calculation tools for shear force, bending moment, cantilever deflection, steel beam calculations, wood, concrete and more.
  • RAM Elements Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-05
  • ClearCalcs Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-29

RAM Elements features and specs

  • Comprehensive Analysis Tools
    RAM Elements offers a wide range of structural analysis capabilities, supporting various structural components like steel, concrete, and masonry. This makes it versatile for different project needs.
  • Integrated Design Codes
    The software supports multiple international design codes, simplifying the process of ensuring compliance with regional standards.
  • Interoperability
    RAM Elements is part of the Bentley Systems ecosystem, allowing easy integration with other Bentley products for a streamlined workflow across different project stages.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software features an intuitive user interface that makes it accessible for both novice and experienced structural engineers.
  • Advanced Reporting
    It provides detailed reporting features that help engineers in documenting and sharing their analysis and design choices effectively.

Possible disadvantages of RAM Elements

  • High Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While basic functions are user-friendly, mastering advanced features can require significant learning and experience.
  • Cost
    As a professional-grade tool, RAM Elements can be cost-prohibitive for smaller businesses or individual practitioners.
  • System Requirements
    The software requires a powerful system to run efficiently, which might necessitate additional hardware investment.
  • Occasional Bugs and Glitches
    Users have reported occasional bugs and glitches, which can disrupt workflow during critical project phases.
  • Limited Customization
    There can be limitations in customizing certain aspects of the software to suit highly specialized engineering needs.

ClearCalcs features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    ClearCalcs offers an intuitive user interface that is easy to navigate, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
  • Cloud-Based
    Being cloud-based, ClearCalcs allows users to access their projects from any device with an internet connection, enhancing flexibility and collaboration.
  • Comprehensive Calculations
    The platform supports a wide range of engineering calculations, catering to various disciplines such as structural, civil, and mechanical engineering.
  • Real-Time Collaboration
    Multiple users can collaborate on the same project simultaneously, which enhances teamwork and reduces project turnaround time.
  • Regular Updates and Support
    ClearCalcs frequently updates its software with new features and improvements, and offers responsive customer support to assist users with any issues.

Possible disadvantages of ClearCalcs

  • Subscription Cost
    The subscription model might be costly for small businesses or individual users who might not fully utilize all features of the platform.
  • Internet Dependency
    As a cloud-based service, ClearCalcs requires a stable internet connection, which might be a limitation in areas with unreliable internet.
  • Limited Offline Capabilities
    Because it is primarily designed as a cloud service, offline access and functionality are limited, impacting users who prefer working without an internet connection.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While basic features are user-friendly, advanced functionalities may require a bit of a learning curve, particularly for users new to engineering software.
  • Specificity to Engineering Fields
    ClearCalcs is tailored towards engineering disciplines, which might not be suitable for professionals in other industries looking for similar computational tools.

RAM Elements videos

4. RAM Elements Basics

More videos:

  • Review - RAM Elements
  • Review - 04 RAM Elements V8i - Detailing Modules

ClearCalcs videos

Tutorial | Steel Beam Design to AS4100 1998 using ClearCalcs

More videos:

  • Review - Webinar | Timber Design to AS1720.1 (+Amdt 3, 2010) - ClearCalcs
  • Review - ClearCalcs - Easy to use online structural design software

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to RAM Elements and ClearCalcs)
Technical Computing
57 57%
43% 43
Software Engineering
56 56%
44% 44
FEA
59 59%
41% 41
Simulation
50 50%
50% 50

User comments

Share your experience with using RAM Elements and ClearCalcs. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, ClearCalcs seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 4 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

RAM Elements mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of RAM Elements yet. Tracking of RAM Elements recommendations started around Mar 2021.

ClearCalcs mentions (4)

  • User Research - Structural Engineering
    It would be extremely helpful if anyone who fits the criteria could join us! In order to compensate for their time we would like to reward each participant with US$50 Gift Card + 3 month free access to ClearCalcs Basic Plan worth US$237 +  1 on 1 session with one of ClearCalcs structural design experts! Source: over 2 years ago
  • Join our usability testing interview and get a US$50 gift card!
    Engineers often face the challenges of using multiple design tools when working on structural design and analysis projects. At ClearCalcs, we want to help make your job easier, faster, and more efficient by making sure you can design, validate, and prepare your structural package with your team all in one place. Source: over 2 years ago
  • With Enercalc changing their price model, we are exploring other simple design software options. Does anyone have good experience with similar software that can be used to verify calcs for low-rise residential/commercial structures?
    I just started looking into using ClearCalcs today after getting fed up with Enercalc's glitches and their recent price hike. https://clearcalcs.com/. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Forte Web Lockout Problem
    That being said, I have been using ClearCalcs lately (paid subscription, but is a really good program). They've been building up their catalog of materials and I think will be adding i-joists and other similar manufactured products soon. They already have LVL and LSL type materials, but they're continually updating their catalog. I really only use Forte web for i-joist calculations now. Source: about 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing RAM Elements and ClearCalcs, you can also consider the following products

Robot Structural Analysis Professional - Structural Analysis and Design

SkyCiv Structural 3D - SkyCiv Structural 3D is a powerful structural analysis and design software on the cloud.

midas Gen - Structural Analysis and Design

STAAD.Pro - Structural Analysis and Design.

Space Gass - Structural Engineering Software

Abaqus Unified FEA - Finite Element, Multiphysics, and Simulation Software