How to view a SolidWorks file on Mac?

1. Using eDrawings Viewer

One of the most accessible ways to run SolidWorks on macOS is by using the eDrawings Viewer. This tool, developed by SolidWorks, is specifically designed for viewing, printing, and reviewing CAD files, including SolidWorks parts, assemblies, and drawings. While eDrawings is available natively for Windows, there is also a Mac version that supports SolidWorks files. eDrawings is available as a free download.

Steps to use eDrawings Viewer on Mac:

• Download the eDrawings Viewer from the official website.
• Install the application on your Mac.
• Open the application and navigate to "File" > "Open" to load the SolidWorks file you wish to view.

eDrawings supports various file formats such as .sldprt, .sldasm, and .slddrw, making it a versatile tool for Mac users (read more about Solidworks formats in our article).

2. Using Parallels Desktop

Imagine running SolidWorks on your Mac as smoothly as if it were on a Windows PC. That's the magic of Parallels Desktop - a powerful virtualization software that allows you to bring the best of both worlds together. With Parallels, you don't just view SolidWorks files - you dive in and use every feature as if you were on a dedicated Windows machine. This is the ultimate way to combine the Mac experience with all the capabilities of SolidWorks without leaving your favorite device behind.

Steps to use Parallels Desktop:

• Purchase and download Parallels Desktop from the Parallels website. The minimum price is €99.99/yr.
• Install Parallels on your Mac and set up a Windows virtual machine.
• Install Windows on the virtual machine.
• Download and install SolidWorks within the Windows environment.
• Use SolidWorks normally, including opening and editing files.

This approach is a bit more demanding on resources, so you might want to have a Mac with some serious muscle—think plenty of processing power and memory.

3. Using Boot Camp

Boot Camp is a utility provided by Apple that allows you to install Windows on your Mac. Unlike Parallels, which runs Windows in a virtual machine, Boot Camp enables you to boot your Mac directly into Windows, offering better performance for resource-heavy applications like SolidWorks. The Boot Camp tool itself is free, but when you install Windows on it, you do need a valid Windows license.

Steps to use Boot Camp:

• Open Boot Camp Assistant on your Mac and follow the prompts to create a Windows partition.
• Install Windows using a Windows ISO file or installation disk.
• After installation, boot your Mac into Windows by holding the Option key during startup and selecting Windows.
• Install SolidWorks on the Windows partition and use it as you would on a native Windows machine.

This method is perfect if you need the full power of SolidWorks and don’t mind carving out a little Mac storage to make room for Windows.

More info on this method in the Boot Camp Assistant guide.

4. Using Online File Converters

If you just need to peek at those SolidWorks files—without diving into full-blown CAD software—online file converters can be the best choice. These handy tools let you transform those SolidWorks files into more Mac-friendly formats like PDF, STL, or STEP. Once converted, you can view them using a variety of apps on your Mac.

Popular online file converters include:

• Zamzar (https://www.zamzar.com/): Supports conversion of .sldprt, .sldasm, and .slddrw to formats like PDF and STL.
• AnyConv (https://anyconv.com/): Offers similar services with a user-friendly interface. AnyConv is only $19.90 and includes a lifetime license.

Steps to use an online converter:

• Visit the converter’s website.
• Upload the SolidWorks file.
• Choose the desired output format and convert the file.
• Download the converted file to view it using appropriate software on your Mac.

While this method is convenient, it might not always capture every nuance and detail of your original SolidWorks file—especially when dealing with those intricate, complex assemblies.

5. Using a Remote Desktop

If you have a Windows PC with SolidWorks installed, you can use a remote desktop application such as Microsoft Remote Desktop or TeamViewer to access that PC from your Mac. This approach allows you to use SolidWorks and view files as if you were directly working on the Windows machine.

Steps to use Microsoft Remote Desktop:

• Set up Remote Desktop on the Windows PC by allowing remote connections in the system settings.
• Install Microsoft Remote Desktop from the Mac App Store.
• Connect to the Windows PC using the appropriate IP address or hostname.
• Open SolidWorks on the remote Windows machine and view or edit your files.

This method is useful for users who need to collaborate with colleagues who use Windows or for those who have a powerful Windows workstation but prefer to work on a Mac.

6. Using Sibe.io - specially created 3D collaboration software

If you want to find an easy and comprehensive way to access Solidworks files, then you should definitely try Sibe. This cloud-based platform doesn't require installation and supports .sldprt, .sldasm, .sldr, as well as other file formats like .step,.gltf,.obj,.collada,.3mf,.now, and .still files. Sibe allows you to upload files up to 2GB instantly and there are no limits on the number of files you can upload.

Steps to use Sibe:

• Sign up to Sibe by clicking Free access button on any website page
• Upload the SolidWorks file.
• Enjoy!

Sibe is the ultimate companion for Mac users. Say goodbye to limitations and embrace the seamless blend of Mac usability with SolidWorks functionality—all wrapped up in a handy, free tool.

Conclusion

SolidWorks doesn’t come with built-in support for macOS, but don’t worry—Mac users still have a few tricks up their sleeves for handling SolidWorks files. Whether you’re looking to view files or dive deeper with full access, you’ve got options. Whether you require full access to SolidWorks or simply need to view and share files, the solutions outlined in this article can help you work with SolidWorks files on a Mac effectively.