COMSOL Multiphysics vs Calculix

Struggling to choose between COMSOL Multiphysics and Calculix? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

COMSOL Multiphysics is a Science & Engineering solution with tags like multiphysics, finite-element-analysis, electromagnetics, fluid-flow, heat-transfer, structural-mechanics.

It boasts features such as Finite element analysis, Multiphysics coupling, CAD import, Parametric sweeps, Optimization, LiveLink products, Application-specific modules and pros including Very powerful and versatile physics simulation, Handles multiphysics problems well, Large material property library, Detailed documentation and tutorials, Scriptable via COMSOL Script or Java API.

On the other hand, Calculix is a Science & Engineering product tagged with fea, structural-analysis, solver.

Its standout features include Linear and non-linear structural analysis, Implicit finite element solver, Sparse matrix technology, Pre- and post-processing with CGX, Thermal analysis, Coupled thermo-mechanical analysis, Shape optimization, Buckling analysis, and it shines with pros like Free and open source, Wide range of analysis capabilities, Good performance for large models, Integrated pre- and post-processing.

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of these two products, delving into their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more. Get ready to explore the nuances that set them apart and determine which one is the perfect fit for your requirements.

COMSOL Multiphysics

COMSOL Multiphysics

COMSOL Multiphysics is simulation software for various physics and engineering applications, especially coupled phenomena or multiphysics. It allows you to build simulations by adding physics interfaces and setting up models with equations and materials.

Categories:
multiphysics finite-element-analysis electromagnetics fluid-flow heat-transfer structural-mechanics

COMSOL Multiphysics Features

  1. Finite element analysis
  2. Multiphysics coupling
  3. CAD import
  4. Parametric sweeps
  5. Optimization
  6. LiveLink products
  7. Application-specific modules

Pricing

  • Subscription-Based

Pros

Very powerful and versatile physics simulation

Handles multiphysics problems well

Large material property library

Detailed documentation and tutorials

Scriptable via COMSOL Script or Java API

Cons

Very expensive

Steep learning curve

Requires high-performance hardware for large models


Calculix

Calculix

Calculix is an open-source finite element analysis application designed for linear and non-linear structural applications. It utilizes an implicit finite element solver with sparse matrix technology for computing structural deformations, stresses, and strains.

Categories:
fea structural-analysis solver

Calculix Features

  1. Linear and non-linear structural analysis
  2. Implicit finite element solver
  3. Sparse matrix technology
  4. Pre- and post-processing with CGX
  5. Thermal analysis
  6. Coupled thermo-mechanical analysis
  7. Shape optimization
  8. Buckling analysis

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Wide range of analysis capabilities

Good performance for large models

Integrated pre- and post-processing

Cons

Steep learning curve

Limited documentation and support

Not as user friendly as commercial alternatives