Best On-Premises Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Software

Compare the Top On-Premises Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Software as of January 2026

What is On-Premises Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) Software?

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software is used by engineers to analyze and simulate the performance, behavior, and characteristics of designs in a virtual environment. CAE software enables engineers to perform various types of analysis, including structural, thermal, fluid dynamics, and electromagnetics, helping to ensure that products are optimized for functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness before physical prototypes are created. It includes tools for finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), multibody dynamics (MBD), and optimization studies. CAE software is widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing to improve product designs, reduce material usage, and shorten development cycles. Compare and read user reviews of the best On-Premises Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software currently available using the table below. This list is updated regularly.

  • 1
    MATLAB

    MATLAB

    The MathWorks

    MATLAB® combines a desktop environment tuned for iterative analysis and design processes with a programming language that expresses matrix and array mathematics directly. It includes the Live Editor for creating scripts that combine code, output, and formatted text in an executable notebook. MATLAB toolboxes are professionally developed, rigorously tested, and fully documented. MATLAB apps let you see how different algorithms work with your data. Iterate until you’ve got the results you want, then automatically generate a MATLAB program to reproduce or automate your work. Scale your analyses to run on clusters, GPUs, and clouds with only minor code changes. There’s no need to rewrite your code or learn big data programming and out-of-memory techniques. Automatically convert MATLAB algorithms to C/C++, HDL, and CUDA code to run on your embedded processor or FPGA/ASIC. MATLAB works with Simulink to support Model-Based Design.
  • 2
    RunMat

    RunMat

    Dystr

    RunMat (by Dystr) is a fast, free, open-source alternative for running MATLAB code. Users can run their existing MATLAB code with complete language grammar and core semantics. No license fees, no lock-in. RunMat is built with a modern compiler, which enables blazing-fast calculations. It boots in 5 milliseconds, GPU optimization is enabled by default, and it's a single, compact, cross-platform binary. Typical engineering use cases - Controls/signal processing & numerics: accelerate MATLAB-style loops plus heavy linear algebra; enjoy faster iteration due to instant startup and tiered JIT. - Batch/CI & serverless jobs: snapshots + compact binaries make it easy to run .m workloads in containers or ephemeral runners at scale. - Plot-heavy workflows: interactive GPU plots for exploratory analysis and reportable exports for stakeholders. - Education: remove license friction and start labs instantly; Jupyter kernel supports reproducible worksheets.
    Starting Price: $0
  • 3
    Adams

    Adams

    Hexagon

    Adams helps engineers to study the dynamics of moving parts, and how loads and forces are distributed throughout mechanical systems. Product manufacturers often struggle to understand true system performance until very late in the design process. Mechanical, electrical, and other subsystems are validated against their specific requirements within the systems engineering process, but full-system testing and validation comes late, leading to rework and design changes that are riskier and more costly than those made early on. As the world's most famous and widely used Multibody Dynamics (MBD) software, Adams improves engineering efficiency and reduces product development costs by enabling early system-level design validation. Engineers can evaluate and manage the complex interactions between disciplines including motion, structures, actuation, and controls to better optimize product designs for performance, safety, and comfort.
  • 4
    CypNest

    CypNest

    Friendess

    CypNest is a nesting software designed for CypCut/HypCut sheet laser cutting system. It integrates advanced functions of drawing modification, quick nesting, toolpath generation, analysis report and more to meet your production needs.
  • 5
    ENCY

    ENCY

    ENCY Software

    ENCY is a CAD/CAM for a new generation that combines advanced CAM technology with an intuitive user interface and natural workflow. It supports multi-axis machining, G-code generation, and 2D and 3D CAD modeling, with applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Core Features: - Advanced Toolpath Calculation: Customized toolpaths maximize machine capabilities and safety - High-Resolution Simulation: Realistic solid and voxel simulations for material removal, collision checking, additive, and painting processes - Seamless integration with ENCY Tuner and ENCY Clouds Highlights: - Modern interface with a dark theme - Extensive technological capabilities - Powerful Multiaxis Milling, Mill-Turn and Swiss Turning - Additive and Hybrid manufacturing - Machine-Aware Technology: toolpath calculation considering the digital twin of the machine - Direct toolpath editing - State-of-the-art simulation - Postprocessor generator
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