What is the best BIM Software: Revit or Vectorworks?

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Through the design and life cycle of the building, BIM software has been used by all stakeholders, including architects, contractors, and engineers. A good workflow and collaboration between stakeholders require the right software.

Uses of Revit and Vectorworks

Uses of Vectorworks

The Nemetschek company's Vectorworks is a complete 3D modelling and BIM programme. It has reigned as a potent programme with capabilities ranging from 2D and 3D modelling to BIM, making it especially valuable for modelling.

Each product is optimised for a different scope; the Vectorworks Design Suite includes all the features of Vectorworks Architect, Landmark, and Spotlight. Vectorworks software can analyse the data, quantify it, provide schedules, and compute expenses as early as the schematic design phase. It offers the chance to give precise documentation while boosting productivity and unwavering creativity.

Uses of Revit

Among the most widely used BIM software worldwide, Autodesk Revit can be used at every stage of the design process. Contrary to Vectorworks, Revit's features can be categorised according to the industry - Architecture, Structural, MEP, and Construction. Vectorworks Architect and Revit architecture are similar in use here.

Both parametric and non-parametric architectural modelling with embedded data is supported by Revit, which also generates project timelines and other documentation. Also, one of Autodesk's software's advantages is its team communication tools for efficient productivity.

Varieties of Plugin

Vectorworks Plugin

For Vectorworks, third-party developers offer plugins and add-ons similar to those for Revit. You can create photorealistic renderings and animations with plugins such as Enscape and Lumion. Furthermore, Cove.tool allows different simulations and analyses of building performance.

Revit Plugin

Revit is one of those apps that has the most number of plugins which are available from both Autodesk and third-party developers. Both Autodesk and other developers provide a wide range of Revit plugin possibilities. These add-ons improve the software's usability by making it easier to model, record, and do analyses as well as to perform visualisations. Rhino is a notable plugin within Revit.

There is no doubt that this program offers even more flexibility when it comes to parametric modelling than Rhino or even Grasshopper. There are more powerful rendering engines available for Revit, such as Vray and Twinmotion, which can be used instead of the Revit rendering engines if the user is not satisfied with their performance.

Compatibility

Compatibility of Vector

Users of Vectorworks software can communicate with one another and synchronise the work process using shared cloud services. Along with supporting a wide range of file formats, such as openBIM and IFC, it also makes it simple to import and export data to and from other programmes. These programmes include Revit, Rhino, Sketchup, and Autocad, among others.

Moreover, it has made it possible to easily integrate new technologies like point clouds, AR & VR, and cloud services. When a file containing georeferencing data is imported, it is not lost since Vectorworks can read georeferencing data encoded in a file format, even if it is in an a.dwg file.

Compatibility of Revit

The interoperability of Revit software with other Autodesk applications is undeniable. When used in parallel, BIM 360 provides a cloud-based platform for managing data and collaborating with other team members.

Pricing

Vectorworks

Two options are available for purchase in Vectorworks. You can purchase a perpetual license for $3045 for lifetime access, or you can subscribe for $153 per month ($127 per month) or $1530 per year ($127 per month).

It costs $198 per month and $1980 per year to subscribe to the Design Suite with Architect, Landmark, and Spotlight functionality. An individual copy of Vectorworks Design Suite is available to students and academicians for free. Vectorworks offers both Windows and Mac OS compatibility, which makes it an advantage over Revit.

Revit

Students and academicians have free renewable access to Revit's educational resources. There are three subscription-based licences available for purchase: $335 per month, $2675 per year, and $7625 for three years.

Uses in the AEC Sector

Vectorworks

In addition to architects and landscape designers, these stakeholders may also include artists. There are 10 different language options available on the site, so it attracts users from around the world. It is a good tool to learn for beginners to do 2D and 3D modelling as Vectorworks modelling has intuitive and flexible tools that make 3D modelling easy.

Revit

In terms of team collaboration, Revit is superior to Vectorworks as it is an Autodesk product, offering ease of communication regardless of the AEC field. Revit can be used by architects, contractors, structural engineers, and electrical consultants at any stage of the project. Overall, Revit is a suitable tool for professionals in all areas of AEC where BIM is applicable.

Which one is the better choice?

Both the software, like everything in the world, has both advantages and disadvantages. Prior to making a decision, it is important to carefully consider each option.

With its convenient tools and features, Vectorworks software is generally great for modelling with integrated BIM workflows. Due to Revit's various functions and features for different AEC disciplines in a single work environment, mastering the software may require more time.

Using Revit in a team will surely result in more effective and productive processes. The correct software is only the beginning; if you work for an organization, the entire team should utilize the same software, otherwise, the project may have broken links and missing data.

To get online demonstration, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: inspirationTuts CAD

However, the statistics indicate that Revit as a BIM workflow tool is far more popular among the AEC firms than other common design software available for this purpose.

Despite its difficulty in learning, Revit software has a good return on investment. Revit is now used by many companies worldwide and more are following suit. It is more important than ever for BIM professionals to be present in this evolving industry. Having Revit and BIM knowledge and skills will put one at an advantage over those without these skills.