MSC Actran
MSC Actran: A focused desktop suite for acoustic, vibro-acoustic and aero-acoustic engineering. Ranked #8 of 18 in Simulation & CAE Software by our editors (8.3/10); pricing: Pricing on request; best for acoustic and vibro-acoustic analysis teams.
At a glance
- Editor score8.3 / 10
- PricingPricing on request
- Best forAcoustic and vibro-acoustic analysis teams
- Free planNo
- Cloud accessDesktop
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Models turbulent-flow noise and its interaction with vibrating structures
- Supports duct propagation with shear and swirl flow effects
- Works with Nastran structural models and modal bases
Where it doesn't
- Specialized scope may not suit broader simulation needs
- Requires an on-premises installation on Windows or Linux
- Pricing requires contacting sales
Our verdict on MSC Actran
MSC Actran is Hexagon’s licensed software suite for acoustic, vibro-acoustic and aero-acoustic modeling. It is aimed at engineering teams analyzing sound, vibration-related acoustics and noise prediction, with applications described for automotive and aircraft engineering, audio devices, consulting and research. The product is a desktop installation for Windows and Linux, rather than a cloud-access service, and is positioned for mid-market and enterprise organizations.
Its strongest fit is work that depends on detailed acoustic behavior. Actran supports analysis of turbulent-flow noise and interactions between aeroacoustic sources and vibrating structures. Teams can also model absorbent materials and acoustic traps such as resonators, analyze duct propagation with shear and swirl flow effects, and use a radiosity solver. The range makes it relevant when acoustic or vibro-acoustic modeling is central to a project; teams seeking a broad, general-purpose simulation environment may find this specialized scope a poor match.
The Nastran connection is useful for structural-model workflows: Actran can convert Nastran structural models or use Nastran modal bases, and MSC Nastran is its listed integration. The Actran VI graphical interface provides a dedicated interface for working with the software. Deployment is on-premises, so prospective teams should account for installing and maintaining desktop software on supported Windows or Linux systems. Hexagon directs buyers to contact sales for licensing, rather than publishing a price. Choose Actran when acoustic, vibro-acoustic or aero-acoustic analysis and Nastran-based structural workflows align with the work; consider alternatives if cloud access or a wider simulation remit is essential.
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MSC Actran pricing
MSC Actran fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Simulation types | Acoustic, vibro-acoustic, aero-acoustic |
| Solver types | Radiosity |
| Cloud access | Desktop |
| Supported platforms | Windows, Linux |
| CAD file formats | Not verified |
| Deployment options | On-premises |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Support | Tickets, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 1 integrations: MSC Nastran |
| Pricing | Pricing on request |
| Website | hexagon.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
MSC Actran integrations
MSC Actran lists 1 integrations on its own site.
- MSC Nastran
Alternatives to MSC Actran
- COMSOL MultiphysicsA broad desktop CAE environment for coupled physics, optimization, and custom simulation apps.9.3
- SimScaleBroad browser-based CFD, FEA, thermal, and electromagnetics simulation with a free Community plan.9.1
- MSC MarcA nonlinear FEA solver for complex structural, durability and manufacturing analysis.8.8
See all MSC Actran alternatives →
MSC Actran vs the competition
- MSC Actran vs COMSOL Multiphysics
- MSC Actran vs SimScale
- MSC Actran vs MSC Marc
- MSC Actran vs Autodesk Moldflow
- MSC Actran vs Adams
- MSC Actran vs SIMULIA Tosca
Compare MSC Actran with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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