MicroStation vs Revit: What Program to Choose?

Can't determine the winner in the MicroStation vs Revit battle? Do you doubt which program has more powerful tools for design and modeling? Both programs were developed for architects, designers and engineers. An important difference is that MicroStation is more complex and more difficult for beginners than Revit.

MicroStation contains tools for 2D design, 3D object modeling, and quick engineering drawings production. This software allows working with various infrastructure objects (for example, airports, roadways, utility networks, hospitals, etc.)

Revit includes an amazing package of features to make design, furnish and create renderings or walkthroughs without using any other software. Smart object import and parametric modeling are also available. Using this program, designers and architects have less repetitive drafting work. It's great for creating render models, floor plans, and more. This software is a fantastic variant for small projects.

What Is MicroStation?

microstation logo

Many construction and architectural firms use MicroStation for engineering, architectural, infrastructure, and construction tasks. This 3D modeling software allows you to create visualizations, 3D models, manage components, and manage CAD drawing and design. The program is suitable for joint work on complex projects.

This software has enough tools to handle all design stages. While the use of cloud storage is optional, you can increase your competitiveness and productivity with it. Consider this factor when comparing MicroStation vs Revit.

MicroStation supports many import and export file formats. This means that team members working on different components of a project can easily integrate their results into the overall model. Plus, you can make direct changes to DWG files that contain 3D and 2D geometry.

With clipping functionality, you can edit several reference files at the same time. The “out-of-order undo” feature allows you to monitor and cancel all the changes made at any level of design process.

You can also use this architectural design software for preparing compliance reports. You will need them to get better models and deliverables. You can be sure of the safety of your intellectual property as the program has reliable support of digital signatures. This also makes it easier to authorize digital products.

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    MicroStation: Pros and Cons

    Powerful tools for top-notch 3D visuals. The program includes an amazing package of CAD drafting tools to create high-end 3D models of your architectural projects. It also contains some practical functions. For example, annotations include useful construction instructions related to the equipment and material needed to implement a project.

    Automated CAD workflows. A bunch of automated features makes your 3D drafting workflow easier and faster. When your drawings are ready, the program carefully checks if lines, dimensions, and symbols are consistent with established building standards and practices.

    Tools for creating complex models. Availability of 3D parametric modeling capabilities can be an important factor when deciding which is better – MicroStation or Revit. MicroStation allows you to work out the smallest details including textures and surfaces. As a result, you get the most realistic model and visualization of how your project will look in real life.

    Customized workflow. You can make changes to the interface according to your needs and preferences. You can customize the work environment by modifying the product's backend code. This option is possible because the software supports Microsoft (VBA), .NET, and C ++ programming languages. You can improve your efficiency, organize your schedule and budgets with the program.

    Team work option. The possibility to collaborate with other team members is another important aspect to mention in this MicroStation vs Revit comparison. Specialists can track all stages of work with 2D drawings and 3D CAD builds in real-time. Thus, all participants can discuss the necessary adjustments to achieve the best results.

    Learning curve. Some users find this software too complicated and it took them a long time to understand all the tools and functions.

    High price.

    What Is Revit?

    revit logo

    Many architects, structural engineers, MEP service providers, and constructions companies use Revit as their BIM software. The program has a full package of tools to manage designs, create 3D visualizations, perform analysis, and more.

    Like its competitor in this MicroStation vs Revit battle, the program is great for group projects as it has powerful communication management tools. Team members from different departments have access to the shared space and can add annotations and notes to a project. Construction coordination, 2D sheets import/export, process design and documentation, fabrication management and other features are included in the package.

    Support for multiple project contributors is another advantage. This means that all specialists working on a project can access any files they need. This feature makes the workflow smoother and more coordinated.

    What's more, Revit allows engineers to create floor plans, elevations, 3D views, and other model-based designs. Through integration with the Autodesk Insight 360 app, users can track information about operations and utilization of resources and manage energy and environmental performance within the entire process. Revit acts as a central repository for project data, storing information about building elements, materials, quantities, and more. It enables seamless data exchange with other software applications, promoting interoperability and facilitating efficient workflows throughout the entire project lifecycle.

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      Revit: Pros and Cons

      Provides immersive models. You can create mind-blowing presentations to convey your ideas to clients in the best way. Using the one-click 3D modeling tool, you can turn your flat design into stunning realistic visualizations in a matter of minutes.

      Creates detailed visualizations. Revit allows everyone involved in the construction process (engineers, architects, and the construction team) to keep tabs on the finest details of the project. Thanks to compatibility with Autodesk solutions, you can provide more informative models for future construction.

      Ability to make documented images. The creation of detailed documentation along with your model is another advantage I would like to mention in this MicroStation vs Revit review. Thus, you can deliver important information about the specifications of various model components for smooth and effective collaboration within the team.

      Interoperable platform. The program supports file formats of other software. Users can work with IFC, DWG, and DGN. Team members can work with different programs but use the same file extensions.

      Cloud rendering. You can create visualizations without using special rendering hardware or tying up your desktop.

      Slow operation when you are working on a heavy file. You need to use the best laptop for Revit to handle tasks at a high speed, especially when it comes to bulky projects.

      Expensive.

      MicroStation vs Revit: Price

      microstation vs revit price

      MicroStation is a paid program. However, you can test it without any payments for two weeks. Then you should choose one of three available plans. Regardless of the package, the license is valid for 12 months.

      MicroStation Virtuoso - Annual license costs $1995. It is a good option for small and medium-sized businesses. You will receive a named-user license, training via Virtuosity Keys.

      MicroStation on Select – The price is $1208 per year. Besides, you can buy a lifetime license for $6 386. It is suitable for large enterprises interested in teamwork on projects. The package includes license pooling, free software upgrades, and open access to Bentley's entire portfolio.

      MicroStation in Enterprise 365 - To find out the price, you need to contact the company. This option is good for large and global enterprises. You will receive unlimited portfolio access and users, daily rates, and success Blueprints.

      Revit developers don’t offer a free version, but you can still test the program for free within a predefined timeframe. The minimum price is $320 per month. Revit yearly plan costs $2545. You can also pay $6870 for Revit 3-year plan. By opting for a one-year or three-year subscription, you can get some discounts.

      MicroStation vs Revit: Who Wins?

      You should choose MicroStation if you plan to create realistic 3D models with many details for your construction projects. A practical automation toolkit and real-time collaboration tools are other strong arguments in favor of this program. Plus, its customization capabilities suit many users.

      If you are looking for 3D modeling software for beginners, then Revit is a good fit. This reliable software allows you to work on design, furnish and renderings/walkthroughs without using additional programs. However, Revit is not an ideal option if you need to create a complex geometrical model or any model with lots of curves.

      There are no advanced performance analysis tools in the Revit suite. Its own add-ons don’t provide the desired precision of results. To get the energy analysis, you need to use another program.

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