How to Build Your Own Onshape
Replace Onshape with a custom build. The Fastest Growing CAD & PDM System Worldwide
Build Difficulty: 4/5
A few focused days to build a solid replacement
Estimated Timeline
Based on 67 features at Few Days difficulty, expect about 3-5 days with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 67 features
Collaboration(9 features)
Create temporary guest accounts with controlled access duration
Annotate and visually communicate design changes on 3D models and drawings
Multiple designers can work on the same CAD model simultaneously
Create, manage and share technical packages including designs and drawings
Live commenting and discussion directly on CAD models and drawings
+4 more in this category
Administration(8 features)
Keeps company data completely separate and prevents unauthorized use
Centralized dashboards for user access control, permissions, and activity monitoring
Company retains all design data when users are removed
Custom domain URL for enterprise login (e.g., my-enterprise.onshape.com)
Simplified financial administration with centralized billing for multiple users
+3 more in this category
Data Management(8 features)
Define part-numbering patterns with sequential numeric increments
Complete record of parts, assemblies, and materials with real-time management
Integrated product data management with version control and branching/merging
Make non-geometric items like adhesives and paints available for designs
Build and share company-specific metadata across the organization
+3 more in this category
Design(7 features)
Advanced revolve feature options for 3D modeling
Improved hole annotation and callout features
Connect part studio context with assembly positioning
Advanced sheet metal design capabilities
Feature for creating offset planes using curves
+2 more in this category
Integration(5 features)
Integration with Arena PLM for product lifecycle management
Seamless integration between electrical and mechanical CAD data
Third-party extensions for design, data management, simulation, and manufacturing
REST API for automating Onshape and integrating with business processes
Connect to Slack to view comments, reply to tasks, and receive release notifications
Education(4 features)
Education resources for classes and student assignments
One-hour personalized session with experts for CAD optimization
Comprehensive online hub of tutorials, courses, and best practices
Self-paced tutorials and instructor-led training courses
Manufacturing(4 features)
Advanced CAM cutting strategies and options
Plan, visualize, and simulate machining processes from 2.5-axis through 5-axis machines
Improved selection of holes for CAM operations
Capture and communicate manufacturing intent with PMI embedded in 3D models
Security(3 features)
Strong authentication and authorization for intellectual property protection
Track intellectual property with full history of user actions, exports, and access
Configure company SSO and enforce two-factor authentication
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying Onshape
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 67 features at easy complexity.