Best Cloud Desktops for SolidWorks Users 2025
GPU virtualization finally caught up with CAD. With NVIDIA RTX-class GPUs available as virtual resources, low-latency display protocols, and SSD-backed storage, SolidWorks behaves like it is local when the environment is built correctly. Teams gain secure access, simpler upgrades, and easier collaboration without shipping workstations around. The misconception that cloud is always slower persists. In practice, we routinely see responsive modeling and assemblies when latency sits near 20 to 40 ms and the GPU tier matches the dataset. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform also opens a browser-based route for many workflows. Your decision comes down to three things. Proximity to a GPU data center. The right instance class. Clean integration with licensing and PDM.
The best cloud desktops for SolidWorks right now
We evaluate providers on GPU class, protocol quality, regional coverage, and CAD-friendly management. Below are options we deploy most often for SolidWorks users, plus a browser alternative where it fits.
AWS WorkSpaces and EC2 with NICE DCV
Strong for performance and global reach. EC2 G5 and G6 deliver RTX A10G and L40S GPUs. Pair with NICE DCV for smooth 60 fps and efficient bandwidth. Typical spec for SolidWorks: 8 vCPU, 32 GB RAM, 1 GPU, NVMe SSD. Choose regions within 500 miles for snappy sketching and mates.
Azure Virtual Desktop on NVads A10 v5
Excellent Windows management and identity integration. NVads A10 v5 gives predictable RTX performance and broad regional coverage. HDX 3D Pro or RDP Shortpath is common. We size most engineers at 8 to 16 vCPU, 32 to 64 GB RAM, and A10 GPU slices to match assemblies.
Google Cloud with RTX vWS on L4
Google’s L4 GPUs with NVIDIA RTX Virtual Workstation licensing deliver solid viewport performance. Protocol choices include NICE DCV and PCoIP. Good fit where Google regions are closest to users or where teams already standardize on Google operations.
Specialized DaaS: Workspot, Nutanix Frame, Paperspace
These platforms simplify VDI for CAD by abstracting cloud plumbing. We lean on them for fast rollouts and centralized control. Protocols include PCoIP and WebRTC. Validate SpaceMouse and Wacom redirection during pilot, since peripheral support varies by platform.
3DEXPERIENCE platform as a browser-based path
For teams prioritizing collaboration and cloud PDM, 3DEXPERIENCE lets you access SolidWorks-connected apps in a browser. It reduces client management and keeps files centralized. Heavy rendering or complex assemblies may still benefit from a full GPU desktop.
Performance and compatibility that actually matter
Specs. Minimums rarely cut it for CAD. We recommend multi-core CPU, 32 GB RAM, an RTX-class virtual GPU, and NVMe SSD. For small assemblies, 16 GB can work, though it tends to limit multitasking and Simulation. SolidWorks Visualize benefits from higher GPU tiers.
Display protocol. NICE DCV, PCoIP, and HDX 3D Pro handle CAD viewports well. DCV usually wins on responsiveness per Mbps. Target 60 fps at 1080p. For dual 4K monitors, provision more bandwidth and keep codec quality high.
Latency and bandwidth. Under 40 ms feels local. 60 to 80 ms is workable for modeling, less ideal for freehand sketching. Plan 10 to 20 Mbps per 1080p monitor, 30 to 50 Mbps for 4K. Place desktops and the PDM vault in the same region or VNet. Never split them across distant regions.
Peripherals and drivers. Test 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse with USB redirection. Keep “Use Software OpenGL” off so SolidWorks uses the virtual GPU. Lock power plans to High Performance. Verify printer and plotter mappings. Map network drives via GPO to keep paths consistent across sessions.
PDM and storage. SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional wants low latency to SQL. Put the archive and database next to the VDI hosts, then publish access through a bastion or private endpoint. Use NVMe for working directories and a separate capacity tier for archives, with snapshots for rollbacks.
User experience. Across client pilots, we see fewer viewport crashes on GPU desktops compared to underpowered laptops. Session start times are faster when golden images are patched monthly and kept lean.
Cost, security, and deployment decisions
Cost reality. A GPU desktop typically runs 1.20 to 2.50 USD per hour. A 160 hour month lands around 190 to 400 USD per user. Scheduling and autoscaling matter. Many clients cut runtime 30 percent by powering down after hours. Three year workstations often cost 3,000 to 4,500 USD plus support, so cloud is competitive when you value elasticity and centralized management.
Simple framework. If usage is steady and offline needs are high, buy workstations. If workloads spike, teams are distributed, or contractors rotate in and out, virtual desktop infrastructure wins.
Security. Enforce MFA, conditional access, and device posture. Keep data in the VDI plane with clipboard, USB, and print controls. Encrypt at rest with customer managed keys and in transit with TLS 1.2 or higher. Use private endpoints for PDM and license servers. Run quarterly security reviews and CIS benchmarks.
Licensing. For SolidWorks desktop, use SNL or online licensing. If using SNL, host the server in the same cloud network as desktops, open port 25734 and the vendor daemon port, and add DNS entries so clients resolve consistently. For 3DEXPERIENCE, align roles to users, then test check in and lifecycle states against your governance model.
Case snapshot. A 24 seat industrial equipment firm moved to Azure NVads A10 v5 with AVD. Latency averaged 28 ms for US users, 52 ms for EU. They shut down nonactive hosts nightly and saved 27 percent. Engineering review cycles shortened about 30 percent once everyone worked from the same cloud vault.
What we recommend as your next step
Pilot five users for two weeks on the GPU tier you believe fits. Measure latency, open your largest assembly, and validate SpaceMouse, plotting, and PDM workflows. If numbers line up, scale in phases and lock operating procedures. Organizations that work with specialists during this phase reach stable, cost controlled operation faster and with fewer surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best cloud desktops for SolidWorks users?
AWS G5 or G6 with NICE DCV, Azure NVads A10 v5, and Google L4 with RTX vWS are top picks. They pair RTX-class GPUs with low-latency protocols. Choose the region closest to your engineers. Validate SpaceMouse, dual 4K, and PDM latency during a two-week pilot.
Q: How do I size a cloud desktop for SolidWorks?
Start at 8 vCPU, 32 GB RAM, RTX-class GPU, and NVMe storage. Heavier assemblies or Simulation benefit from 16 vCPU and 64 GB RAM. Keep Software OpenGL off. Target 60 fps at 1080p and place PDM in the same region to avoid file operation stalls.
Q: How does latency affect SolidWorks performance in the cloud?
Under 40 ms feels local, 60 to 80 ms is workable, above that modeling feels laggy. Distance to the data center dominates latency. Keep desktops and the PDM vault co-located. Budget 10 to 20 Mbps per 1080p monitor and bump quality for 4K setups.