---
description: Compare FEM Design vs Lightwave3D to learn about each of the product's price, benefits and disadvantages. Choose the best software for your business in New Zealand.
image: https://gdm-localsites-assets-gfprod.imgix.net/images/capterra/og_logo-e5a8c001ed0bd1bb922639230fcea71a.png?auto=format%2Cenhance%2Ccompress
title: FEM Design vs Lightwave3D Comparison - Capterra New Zealand 2026
---

Breadcrumb: [Home](/) > [3D CAD Software](/directory/31236/3d-cad/software) > [FEM Design \<span\>vs\</span\> Lightwave3D](https://www.capterra.co.nz/compare/187648/201852/fem-design/vs/lightwave3d)

# Compare FEM Design vs Lightwave3D

Canonical: https://www.capterra.co.nz/compare/187648/201852/fem-design/vs/lightwave3d

> Detailed comparison between FEM Design and Lightwave3D. Check ratings, reviews, pricing, and features to make the best decision for your business.

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## At a Glance

| Metric | FEM Design | Lightwave3D |
| **Overall rating** | 2.5/5 | 3.8/5 |
| **Total Reviews** | 2 | 4 |
| **Starting Price** | - | A$995.00 |
| **Free Trial** | Yes | Yes |
| **Free Version** | No | No |
| **Deployment** | Cloud, SaaS, Web-based, Windows (Desktop) | Mac (Desktop), Windows (Desktop) |
| **Support** | - | - |
| **Training** | - | - |

## Best for

### FEM Design

\- Structural Analysis&#10;- Civil Engineering &#10;- Design &#10;- Precast Industry&#10;- Concrete Design &#10;- Steel Design&#10;- Timber Design

### Lightwave3D

Designed for entertainment, mass media, mechanical, aerospace, and other industries, a 3D computer graphics solution that helps with tone mapping, environment lighting, subsurface scattering, etc.

## Key features

### FEM Design

- Collaboration Tools
- Data Import/Export
- Modeling & Simulation

### Lightwave3D

- Animation
- Collaboration Tools
- Component Library
- Data Import/Export
- For 3D Printing
- For Architects

## Links

- [View FEM Design Profile](https://www.capterra.co.nz/software/187648/fem-design)
- [View Lightwave3D Profile](https://www.capterra.co.nz/software/201852/lightwave3d)
- [View Original Comparison](https://www.capterra.co.nz/compare/187648/201852/fem-design/vs/lightwave3d)

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