ETABS review
Building-focused structural modeling, code design and dynamic analysis at a high one-time cost.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
ETABS is building-focused structural analysis and design software from Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI). It brings structural modeling, analysis, design and reporting into a graphical interface, with tools for steel and concrete frames, slabs, shear walls, composite members and steel joists. Engineers working on building structures who need code-based design and dynamic analysis are its clearest audience. Its civil design focus and desktop deployment make it less suited to teams seeking a general-purpose, cloud-based design workspace.
Analysis depth is a central reason to consider ETABS. It includes eigenvector and Ritz-vector analysis, response-spectrum analysis, and linear or nonlinear time-history analysis. Code-based design covers steel, concrete, cold-formed steel and aluminum frames, while model data can be edited interactively in database tables. An API supports programmatic modeling and automation. This range may suit projects that require multiple structural systems and analysis methods in one application; teams needing only basic drafting or a narrower structural workflow may find the scope and cost harder to justify.
The published plans show perpetual licenses at $7,439 for Plus, $11,903 for Nonlinear and $17,855 for Ultimate. Ultimate is also offered as a three-month lease for $2,289, including maintenance and upgrades for the lease duration. The product has no free plan. File exchange includes Revit, Tekla Structures, AutoCAD, IFC and other formats, and listed integrations include BricsCAD, STAAD and STRUDL. ETABS is available for Windows as desktop software, with phone and email support but no 24/7 support. Choose it when advanced building analysis and structural design justify the license cost; consider alternatives if you need a free option, another operating system or round-the-clock support.
ETABS pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Combines structural modeling, analysis, design and reporting in one interface
- Supports steel, concrete, slabs, shear walls and composite member design
- Exchanges files with Revit, Tekla Structures, AutoCAD and other formats
- Where it doesn't
- No free plan; perpetual licenses start at $7,439
- Desktop deployment is limited to Windows
- Support is not available 24/7
ETABS fact sheet, pricing and score →
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