SOLIDWORKS 2026 will be officially released in Fall 2025. Customers on active subscription will have access to download and install the new version as soon as it becomes available.

Older advice suggested waiting until Service Pack 3 (typically Spring of the following year) before upgrading. That recommendation is outdated. Today, SOLIDWORKS releases are thoroughly tested and maintained with regular service packs. The best time to upgrade is once you’ve validated compatibility with your hardware, add-ins, and workflows. GoEngineer can help you plan and execute an upgrade strategy that fits your schedule.

It depends on the type of add-in:

• SOLIDWORKS PDM: You must upgrade PDM to remain compatible with SOLIDWORKS CAD. PDM Professional can be up to two versions ahead of CAD, and we generally recommend upgrading PDM first before moving your CAD clients forward.
• SOLIDWORKS Native Add-ins (Electrical, CAM, Simulation, etc.): These products have their own installers and upgrade processes. To maintain compatibility, they should be upgraded at the same time as your SOLIDWORKS CAD environment.
• Third-Party Add-ins and Custom Tools: Most certified third-party add-ins release updates shortly after a new version of SOLIDWORKS is available. Custom macros and scripts may require testing before deployment.

GoEngineer can help you review your add-in environment, confirm compatibility, and determine the right upgrade sequence to minimize disruption.  Contact us for more information

Any customer with an active SOLIDWORKS subscription has access to the latest release, including SOLIDWORKS 2026, at no additional cost. If your subscription has lapsed, we can help you reinstate it so you can take advantage of the new version.