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Head-to-head · 3D Architecture Software

OpenBuildings Designer vs Autodesk Forma Build

  • Updated Oct 2026
  • Both researched from official sources
  • 1 check side by side
Higher score OpenBuildings Designer #5 in 3D Architecture Software 8.6/10 Paid ✓ 0 of 3 features Visit OpenBuildings
Autodesk Forma Build #6 in 3D Architecture Software 7.9/10 Pricing on request ✓ 0 of 3 features Visit Autodesk

OpenBuildings Designer leads on 0 checks, Autodesk Forma Build on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.

Our verdict

  • Highest scoreOpenBuildings Designer · 8.6/10

OpenBuildings Designer scores higher on our rubric for 3d architecture software: 8.6 against 7.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #5 and #6.

OpenBuildings Designer is the better fit for large multidisciplinary projects needing analysis. Autodesk Forma Build is the better fit for construction teams managing delivery, not BIM.

  • OpenBuildings Designer fits best

    Large multidisciplinary projects needing analysis

  • Autodesk Forma Build fits best

    Construction teams managing delivery, not BIM

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Side by side

Feature OpenBuildings Designer 8.6/10 Visit ↗ Autodesk Forma Build 7.9/10 Visit ↗
At a glance
Editor score 8.6 7.9
Ranking #5 in 3D Architecture Software #6 in 3D Architecture Software
Best for Large multidisciplinary projects needing analysis Construction teams managing delivery, not BIM
Pricing model Paid Paid
Starting price $3,844/yr Pricing on request
Free plan — Not checked yet
Free trial — —
Deployment Cloud, Desktop Cloud, Mobile
Platforms Windows Web, iOS, Android
Support Phone, Tickets, Community, Docs · 24/7 Community, Docs
Integrations 10 integrations 400+ integrations
Built for Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise
Features OpenBuildings Designer 0/3 · Autodesk Forma Build 0/3
BIM tools Not checked yet Not checked yet
2D floor plans Not checked yet Not checked yet
Team collaboration Not checked yet Not checked yet
Specs
Rendering Not checked yet Not checked yet
Supported platforms Not checked yet Not checked yet
File formats Not checked yet Not checked yet
Our review
Pros
  • Covers architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical modeling
  • Combines clash detection, quantities, documentation, and energy analysis
  • Exchanges IFC, COBie, DWG, RFA, and SketchUp data
  • Links documents, schedules, RFIs, submittals, and cost workflows
  • Mobile field access includes offline support, forms, reports, and markups
  • Offers Gantt and list schedule views plus analytics and AI-supported risk insights
Cons
  • Windows-only application with no mobile access
  • Annual license is listed at $3,844 per license
  • Breadth may exceed the needs of single-discipline projects
  • Does not establish 3D architectural modeling capabilities
  • Pricing is quote-based rather than shown as a public amount
  • Support channels are community and documentation, without 24/7 support
Our verdict

OpenBuildings Designer is multidisciplinary BIM software for architects, structural engineers, mechanical and electrical designers, and construction teams. Its Windows application supports 3D building modeling, coordinated drawings,…

Read the review →

Autodesk Forma Build is cloud-based construction management software for owners, general contractors, specialty contractors, and other construction professionals. It connects office and jobsite work around project documents, schedules,…

Read the review →
  1. OpenBuildings Designer3D Architecture Software 8.6Paid
  2. Autodesk Forma Build3D Architecture Software 7.9Pricing on request

Strengths and trade-offs

  • OpenBuildings Designer — where it wins

    • Covers architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical modeling
    • Combines clash detection, quantities, documentation, and energy analysis
    • Exchanges IFC, COBie, DWG, RFA, and SketchUp data

    Where it doesn't

    • Windows-only application with no mobile access
    • Annual license is listed at $3,844 per license
    • Breadth may exceed the needs of single-discipline projects

  • Autodesk Forma Build — where it wins

    • Links documents, schedules, RFIs, submittals, and cost workflows
    • Mobile field access includes offline support, forms, reports, and markups
    • Offers Gantt and list schedule views plus analytics and AI-supported risk insights

    Where it doesn't

    • Does not establish 3D architectural modeling capabilities
    • Pricing is quote-based rather than shown as a public amount
    • Support channels are community and documentation, without 24/7 support
  • OpenBuildings Designer8.6/10 · Paid

    Multidisciplinary BIM with analysis and coordination, priced for larger project teams.

    Visit OpenBuildingsFull verdict →
  • Autodesk Forma Build7.9/10 · Pricing on request

    Construction delivery workflows for teams that need project coordination, not 3D modeling.

    Visit AutodeskFull verdict →

More comparisons

All 3D architecture software comparisons → · Full ranking →

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Last updated · How we research and update