Glossary October 20, 2023
Updated 18 January 2024 by James Ocean
Share this:

Vectorworks vs Revit vs Revizto

Table of Contents

Introduction

Numerous global industries have experienced substantial transformations as a result of technological advancements. A prime illustration can be found in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector. The integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software has revolutionized various procedures within this domain, rendering them more streamlined, precise, and user-friendly.

The rather popular term “architectural software” encompasses a diverse array of solutions and instruments that aid in the development of construction projects in various capacities. It’s often referred to as an “umbrella term” since it encompasses a vast assortment of tools, including extensive CAD software, advanced BIM (Building Information Modeling) utilities, as well as applications designed to forecast the impact of sunlight on a structure in the years to come.

BIM and CAD software share many similarities, yet they also exhibit notable distinctions. With the current AEC software industry landscape inundated with a plethora of options, it can be quite demanding trying to identify a solution tailored to exceedingly specific use cases.

Our goal is to mitigate the effects of this situation by conducting a direct comparison of various AEC software instances, accentuating their advantages, drawbacks, and feature sets. This method simplifies the process for prospective clients in discerning the unique offerings of each solution in contrast to similar software options. In this particular instance, our aim is to compare Vectorworks vs Revit vs Revizto.

Vectorworks

Technically speaking, Vectorworks is a software developer that offers several different solutions in the AEC field, while also covering the entertainment and landscaping industries. Vectorworks can offer solutions such as Architect, Landmark, Spotlight (these three options are also available in a single package called Design Suite), Vision, Braceworks, and more. However, most mentions of Vectorworks in this field talk specifically about Vectorworks Architect – and it will also be the main focus here.

Vectorworks Architect is a sophisticated product that offers a wide range of architecture-related capabilities. It can offer design modification, collaboration, rendering, documentation, and more. Vectorworks Architect combines effective 2D graphics solutions, 3D modeling capabilities, and a competent BIM feature set in a single package, creating a powerful piece of software with a good balance of efficiency and creative expression.

Vectorworks Main Features

  • The ability to create attractive highly-detailed project models that are easy to read and also aesthetically pleasing – Vectorworks Architect achieves this by combining models, images, and colors in a convenient manner.
  • The overall convenience of using Vectorworks Architect is another significant advantage of this particular software, and it is also extremely good when it comes to accepting and implementing user suggestions.
  • Useful combination of 2D planning, 3D modeling, and BIM capabilities in a single package is a massive advantage for most companies – it may not be as thorough and feature-rich as something like Revit, but the solution in question is still quite competitive in its own right.

Vectorworks Technical Details

  • Vectorworks 2024 can work on Windows or macOS devices – and other Vectorworks modules may have requirements that are higher than others (such as the addition of an advanced graphics card for Vision).
  • Vectorworks has a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices that mostly specializes in on-the-go design overview capabilities.

Vectorworks Price

  • Vectorworks Architect uses a worldwide network of global distributors to deliver its products across the globe. Unfortunately, that means there is little to no public information available about the pricing of Vectorworks Architect, but it should significantly vary depending on the location.

Vectorworks Customer Ratings

  • Capterra4.4/5 stars based on 48 customer reviews
  • G24.3/5 stars based on 110 customer reviews

Vectorworks Benefits

  • Vectorworks Architect is not a very complex solution – it is a lot easier to get into than most BIM/CAD software on the market, creating a huge advantage in the field that is known for its software complexity.
  • Vectorworks’ rendering capabilities are rather impressive, offering a quick and detailed representation of any project at its current stage of development.
  • The combination of the accessibility and the feature set of Vectorworks makes it a much more friendly solution to the SMB clientele than most of the competition, be it because of its complexity or price.

Vectorworks Shortcomings

  • Despite the fact that Vectorworks Architect uses BIM capabilities as a significant part of its marketing, the solution’s BIM-related features are somewhat limited when compared with other full-fledged BIM software.
  • The solution in question is constantly developing and introducing new features, but this also adds an issue of compatibility between newer and older versions of the software due to missing features, serving as a potential issue in collaboration and communication.
  • Software slowdowns under heavy load are a well-known and rather widespread issue of the CAD/BIM software market as a whole, and Vectorworks Architect also has this particular problem, experiencing frequent performance issues when dealing with larger and more complex project files.

Revit

Autodesk’s Revit stands as a robust instrument for construction endeavors. It not only facilitates the creation of superior and more resource-efficient structures, but also plays a pivotal role in minimizing wastage and errors. Revit is proficient in managing various dimensions of a project, encompassing architectural design, structural engineering, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems.

Functioning as a Building Information Modeling (BIM) solution, Revit relies on intricate project models that house data pertinent to all stakeholders involved in the project. This feature simplifies decision-making, enhances collaboration, and elevates the construction’s overall quality. The models generated within Revit consistently maintain precision, serving as a dependable repository of the project’s real-time status. This, in turn, mitigates misunderstandings and diminishes the necessity for rework, among other advantages.

Revit Main Features

  • Revit leverages a unified project model that maintains perpetual consistency and accuracy, providing ample collaborative opportunities for all participants.
  • Models themselves exhibit exceptional precision and accuracy, providing a superb preview of the forthcoming project’s visuals.
  • There is also a remarkable array of project management utilities, permitting the alteration of schedules, plans, sheets, and more.

Revit Technical Details

  • Autodesk Revit works with two of the most recent Windows versions – Windows 10 and Windows 11.
  • Autodesk Revit does not have a dedicated mobile version of the software.

Revit Price

  • Autodesk Revit can offer two different pricing models – a subscription-based one and Autodesk Flex.
  • Autodesk Revit subscription can be purchased in three different packs:
    • $350 for one month
    • $2,805 for one year
    • $8,415 for three years
  • Autodesk Flex is a pay-as-you-go pricing model that uses tokens to provide access to some of Autodesk’s features, including Autodesk Revit. Autodesk Revit’s price in tokens is 10 tokens per day, and there are several different token packages that a user can purchase on Autodesk website:
    • $300 for 300 tokens
    • $1,500 for 1500 tokens
    • A custom token amount

Revit Customer Ratings

  • Capterra4.6/5 points rating based on 384 customer reviews
  • TrustRadius8.7/10 points rating based on 189 customer reviews
  • G24.5/5 points rating based on 795 customer reviews

Revit Benefits

  • Delivers remarkable precision in both renders and animations, courtesy of its exceptional project visualization capabilities, producing project models that closely resemble their real-world counterparts.
  • Integrates seamlessly with a diverse range of other Autodesk products, including Navisworks and AutoCAD.
  • Offers a broad spectrum of features in the base package, while also having the ability to expand its functionality through a system of add-ons.

Revit Shortcomings

  • The inherent complexity of most Building Information Modeling (BIM) solutions implies substantial hardware requirements right from the start, and Revit is no exception. Users often need relatively expensive workstations to ensure the smooth operation of the software.
  • While Revit offers an extensive range of features, it’s not known for its user-friendliness. There’s a notable learning curve, and most customers require months to master its numerous functionalities.
  • Revit primarily caters to large-scale businesses and enterprises. Autodesk solutions, in general,has been positioned at the higher end of the market for quite some time, making it challenging for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to afford Revit in the first place.

Revizto

Revizto, as a BIM solution, places a strong emphasis on simplifying collaboration within project teams. It serves as a central repository for project data, effectively reducing errors, enhancing communication, and minimizing conflicts among team members. Notably, Revizto offers the capability to utilize Virtual Reality for design reviews, issue identification streamlining, design validation, and other tasks in the virtual environment.

Issue tracking and clash detection are two of the biggest fields of specialization for Revizto, ultimately fostering improved collaboration. It harmonizes seamlessly with various architectural tools, making it invaluable for engineers, contractors, architects, and other professionals. Additionally, it showcases its versatility by supporting a variety of data formats, ensuring smooth collaboration with companies using different BIM/CAD software.

Revizto Main Features

  • Optimizing collaboration procedures, streamlining the handling of clashes and issues, and implementing enforceable accountability mechanisms collectively contribute to the overarching goal of augmenting project management efficiency.
  • Integration of extensive automation features, such as automated reporting, model distribution, version control, and continuous real-time monitoring of project status, all of which lead to increased operational efficiency in all project aspects.
  • Improved communication with project stakeholders at every project stage, coupled with uninterrupted access to crucial project information, it simplifies the task of keeping stakeholders well-informed about past and current project developments.

Revizto Technical Details

  • Revizto works with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
  • Revizto offers three mobile applications to its users – an older Android tablet app, a new Android smartphone app, and a dedicated iPad app.

Revizto Price

  • There is no official pricing information available on the official Revizto website, with the only possible option being a demo request

Revizto Customer Ratings

  • Capterra4.3/5 points rating based on 31 customer reviews
  • G24.2/5 points rating based on 21 customer reviews

Revizto Benefits

  • Swift and accurate 3D rendering enables the rapid development of highly detailed environments with ease.
  • The ability to work as an intuitive, cloud-based issue tracking tool that boosts project efficiency and fosters seamless collaboration among team members.
  • The capability to assign clashes and issues to designated team members not only establishes accountability, but also facilitates efficient workload distribution, ultimately enhancing overall performance.

Revizto Shortcomings

  • While Revizto does offer integration with a range of third-party BIM/CAD software, it’s essential to acknowledge that some of these connections are relatively basic and may be quite basic in terms of the feature set.
  • Given that Revizto primarily focuses on 3D visualization and virtual reality, its 2D interface is not the most user-friendly, which is somewhat expected.
  • Revizto may also experience performance issues when it comes to working with complex large-scale project models – a fairly common problem for the industry as a whole.

Vectorworks vs Revit vs Revizto

As we now have plenty of information about each of these solutions, it is as good a time as any to figure out why you may want to choose each solution on its own merit.

Why Vectorworks?

Vectorworks Architect is a versatile and convenient solution suitable for a large variety of architecture-related tasks, including 2D planning, 3D modeling, and BIM. It is a comprehensive architectural solution that improves project efficiency without dampening the creative expression of the user. Vectorworks has a very positive reputation when it comes to its user-friendliness, with plenty of users claiming that it is easy to get into without too many issues. It may not be as feature-rich in every specific field it works in, but the combination of a massive number of features in a single unified solution is a great advantage in itself.

Why Revit?

Autodesk Revit stands as a potent Building Information Modeling tool, offering a rich set of features tailored to a diverse array of tasks and applications. Its capabilities cover streamlining collaboration, generating detailed and information-rich models, enhancing teamwork, minimizing conflicts and errors, and ultimately elevating overall project efficiency. While it may initially appear as a significant investment, its comprehensive feature set, inclusive of integrations and add-ons, renders it a worthwhile choice for professionals within this industry.

Why Revizto?

Revizto is a specialized BIM solution dedicated primarily to enhancing collaboration and teamwork through simplified and automated issue tracking and clash detection. However, its feature set goes beyond these functionalities, encompassing the capability to facilitate virtual tours using VR equipment and a variety of other innovative capabilities. With its adaptability and robust set of features, Revizto proves to be an optimal choice for its intended purpose, and it exhibits very few drawbacks within this context.

VectorworksRevitRevizto
DescriptionA comprehensive and powerful solution that offers a combination of 2D/3D modeling and BIM capabilities.A dedicated BIM solution that can both interact with 3D project models and improve various collaboration-related topics.A BIM data aggregator with issue tracking and clash detection capabilities aims to improve cooperation and collaboration.
Initial release1985 (as MiniCAD)19972011
OS compatibilityWindows, macOSWindows, macOSWindows, macOS
Software typeBIM/CAD softwareBIM softwareVisual collaboration software
Official websitevectorworks.netautodesk.com/products/revit/overviewrevizto.com
File formatsDWF, DXF, DWG, 3DM, FBX, PDF, EPSF, SAT, STL, MVR, IFC, etc.RVT, RFA, DGN, DWG, DXF, PG, HTML, TXT, etc.OBJ, RVM, FBX, IFC, FWS, RCS, LSPROJ, LAS, 12DXML, etc.

Use cases for each solution

Vectorworks Architect is a feature-rich BIM/CAD platform that excels at offering a wide array of architecture-related features in a single package. It is one of the very few solutions on the market that is suitable for SMBs for both its pricing and its accessibility. All of Vectorworks’ products are known as user-friendly and convenient, making model creation and design processes a lot easier than ever before. It may have some compatibility issues with older product versions, and its feature set is not able to rival a solution such as Revit, but the overall package that Vectorworks offers is still very convenient for the end user.

Revit, developed by the renowned software provider Autodesk, stands as a highly advanced tool catering to proficient users in the industry. It offers a comprehensive set of core functions while allowing users to expand its capabilities by integrating various add-ons. Additionally, Revit seamlessly integrates with other Autodesk products such as AutoCAD and Navisworks, making it one of the most all-encompassing solutions accessible to companies seeking a complete BIM solution with a diverse range of features.

Revizto may not offer the extensive feature set of a solution like Revit, but it should not be underestimated, either. Revizto as a solution proves to be extremely valuable for data management, especially when it comes to BIM features such as issue tracking and clash detection. A tool like Revizto can serve as a significant asset to nearly any company operating within the architecture industry, bolstering collaboration, reducing conflicts and rework, and even introducing unique features like VR walkthroughs. These functions are executed using a dedicated centralized data model accessible to all project participants at all times.

Conclusion

The architecture industry as a whole is a rather complicated field of work, which is one of the reasons why finding a good architecture solution for a very specific use case can be very difficult. In these cases, it is always a good idea to try and analyze your company’s required feature set to see what capabilities are needed most. For example, a company that first and foremost requires issue tracking and clash detection capabilities can choose Revizto as the best possible option, while also reaping the benefits of improved collaboration and higher project efficiency.


About the author
James Ocean

BIM/VDC Specialist. James Ocean is Head of BIMspiration at Revizto and keeps everything moving onwards and upwards. From supporting and teaching our internal team as well as our clients, James shows us the ins-and-outs and how to best leverage Revizto to maximize workflows, cut costs, and get all types of projects through the finish line.

Share this:
Vectorworks vs Revit vs Revizto The AEC industry is well-known for its complexity, and the software in this industry is no exception. There are plenty of different options to choose from when it comes to such software, including plenty of overlap between BIM solutions, CAD solutions, and so on. Most of the information about the software in question is also located on multiple web pages or even different websites. Our goal is to simplify this process by providing a detailed comparison of three different AEC solutions – Vectorworks vs Revit vs Revizto. 2024-01-18
Revizto
World Trade Center Lausanne Avenue de Gratta-Paille 2 1018 Lausanne, Switzerland
+41 21 588 0125
logo
image