Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

UMLGraph VS SolidWorks

Compare UMLGraph VS SolidWorks and see what are their differences

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UMLGraph logo UMLGraph

UMLGraph is a professional automated drawing tool that allows the designers the declarative specification and drawing of UML class and sequence diagram.

SolidWorks logo SolidWorks

Dassault Systรจmes SolidWorks Corp. develops and markets 3D CAD design software, analysis software, and product data management software. SolidWorks is the leading supplier of 3D CAD product design engineering software.
  • UMLGraph Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-25
  • SolidWorks Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-15

UMLGraph features and specs

  • Automated Diagrams
    UMLGraph allows for the automatic generation of UML diagrams directly from Java source code, which can save a significant amount of time and reduce the likelihood of errors introduced by manual diagram creation.
  • Integration with Javadoc
    UMLGraph integrates seamlessly with Javadoc, enabling the generation of both class documentation and UML diagrams in a unified process.
  • Text-Based Configuration
    Diagrams are configured using textual annotations in the source code, which makes version control easier and allows developers to maintain diagrams alongside the source code.
  • Extensible and Customizable
    The tool is highly customizable, allowing users to define the appearance and layout of UML diagrams to meet specific project needs.
  • Open Source
    Being an open-source tool, UMLGraph is freely available for use and modification, promoting community involvement and continual improvement.

Possible disadvantages of UMLGraph

  • Learning Curve
    There is a learning curve associated with mastering the use of UMLGraph and its annotations, which may create an initial barrier to entry for new users.
  • Java-Centric
    UMLGraph is designed specifically for Java, which limits its utility for projects that are developed in other programming languages.
  • Limited Dynamic Diagram Support
    The tool primarily focuses on static diagrams and may have limited functionality for generating dynamic diagrams such as sequence or activity diagrams.
  • Dependence on Graphviz
    UMLGraph relies on Graphviz for rendering diagrams, which introduces an additional dependency that must be installed and maintained.
  • Manual Configuration for Complex Diagrams
    For complex diagrams, significant manual configuration may be required, which can negate some of the time-saving benefits.

SolidWorks features and specs

  • Comprehensive Toolset
    SolidWorks offers a robust suite of tools for 3D CAD, simulation, manufacturing, and data management, making it suitable for a wide range of engineering and design tasks.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    SolidWorks is known for its intuitive UI that makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. This reduces the learning curve significantly.
  • Extensive Community and Support
    With a large user base and active forums, finding solutions to problems and gaining insights is relatively easy. SolidWorks also provides thorough documentation and customer support.
  • Frequent Updates
    The software continually gets updated with new features and improvements, ensuring users have access to the latest technologies and capabilities.
  • Integration with Other Tools
    SolidWorks integrates well with numerous other software applications, enhancing workflow efficiency and enabling seamless transitions between different stages of design and manufacturing.

Possible disadvantages of SolidWorks

  • High Cost
    SolidWorks is relatively expensive, which can be a barrier for small businesses and individual users. Licensing and subscription fees can add up quickly.
  • Hardware Demands
    The software requires a powerful computer with ample RAM and a high-performance graphics card, leading to higher hardware costs.
  • Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While basic functionalities are easily graspable, mastering advanced features and tools can take significant time and effort.
  • Limited Mac Support
    SolidWorks primarily supports Windows, with limited options for Mac users unless they run a Windows OS via Bootcamp or similar solutions.
  • Occasional Software Bugs
    Like any complex software, SolidWorks may encounter bugs or stability issues, which can disrupt work and reduce productivity.

Analysis of UMLGraph

Overall verdict

  • UMLGraph is generally considered a good tool for generating UML diagrams, especially for those who are comfortable with using Javadoc and prefer a textual approach to diagram specification over a graphical one. It excels in environments where automated documentation is a priority and where integration with Java projects is necessary.

Why this product is good

  • UMLGraph is a tool that allows the declarative specification and drawing of UML class and sequence diagrams. It is highly regarded for its ability to generate diagrams from Java source code using Javadoc comments, which is particularly useful for developers who want to maintain up-to-date documentation within their codebase. Its integration with Javadoc and automated nature makes it efficient for projects that require regular documentation updates.

Recommended for

  • Java developers looking for an integrated solution to generate UML diagrams from source code.
  • Teams that prefer declarative documentation methods and want to keep their diagrams in sync with their codebase.
  • Projects that require frequent updates to documentation as part of their development lifecycle.

Analysis of SolidWorks

Overall verdict

  • Yes, SolidWorks is considered good, particularly for engineering and product design professionals who require sophisticated modeling capabilities. Its extensive features, reliability, and widespread use in the industry make it a solid choice for professionals.

Why this product is good

  • SolidWorks is widely regarded as a leading choice for computer-aided design (CAD) due to its robust set of features, user-friendly interface, and comprehensive support for 3D modeling. It offers a variety of tools for both simple and complex design needs, making it a versatile option for many industries. In addition, it is widely used in educational settings, which contributes to a large, skilled user base familiar with the software. The integration with other tools, enhanced simulation capabilities, and ongoing updates further enhance its reputation.

Recommended for

  • Mechanical Engineers
  • Product Designers
  • Manufacturing Professionals
  • Engineering Students
  • Architects needing 3D CAD capabilities

UMLGraph videos

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SolidWorks videos

First Look at SOLIDWORKS Software - SOLIDWORKS

More videos:

  • Review - SOLIDWORKS 2018 Overview
  • Review - SOLIDWORKS 2019 - Large Design Review Mode

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to UMLGraph and SolidWorks)
Diagrams
100 100%
0% 0
3D
0 0%
100% 100
Flowcharts
100 100%
0% 0
Architecture
0 0%
100% 100

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Reviews

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SolidWorks Reviews

10 Best Cinema 4D Alternatives for 3D Animation in 2024
An expert 3-D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software program that is specially designed for product design, engineering, and mechanical modelling. SolidWorks is known for its parametric modelling capabilities, engineering evaluation equipment, and ability to generate manufacturing-ready drawings.
7 Best 3D Modeling Programs Like SketchUp | EASY RENDER
If itโ€™s flexibility and modeling capability youโ€™re looking for, you could do a lot worse than SolidWorks. Not only is it probably the best 3D modeler on this list, it has been a mainstay in the visualization industry for decades, and has been constantly developed to be more powerful and easier to use. SolidWorks is most commonly used by mechanical and industrial designers,...
Best SolidWorks rendering software [2020 Guide]
There are numerous SolidWorks rendering programs available but we have compiled the very best below in terms of functionality.
Looking for a SketchUp alternative? Check out the 10 best options
SolidWorks is another popular CAD software on par (and arguably above) the likes of Autodesk Inventor or Fusion 360. Though definitely harder to learn than SketchUp, SolidWorks is packed with advanced features that companies use to design and manufacture products. All this functionality certainly doesnโ€™t come cheap, however โ€“ youโ€™ll have to contact their site to get a quote...
Source: all3dp.com
Top 10 of the best 3D modeling software for architecture
Solidworks is a 3D modeling software mainly used by engineers. It can be a great solution if you need a 3D software for a project, and you just want to create a quick design. You canโ€™t do complex rendering, with a lot of material or texture as it is not a CAD program dedicated to architecture. But it is possible to design a building and get a good overview of your...

What are some alternatives?

When comparing UMLGraph and SolidWorks, you can also consider the following products

draw.io - Online diagramming application

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

yEd - yEd is a free desktop application to quickly create, import, edit, and automatically arrange diagrams. It runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Unix/Linux.

SketchUp - 3D for Everyone

Dia - Dia is a GTK+ based diagram creation program for GNU/Linux, MacOS X, Unix, and Windows, and is released under the GPL license.

Blender - Blender is the open source, cross platform suite of tools for 3D creation.