Having seen the original AutoCAD 1.x and the somewhat ready for prime time 2.5x, and using AutoCAD to make a living since Release 9 through AutoCAD 2004; I have seen Autodesk become more money grubbing with each new release. Although I no longer make a living as a CADD Dweeb on a regular basis, I still keep my software current because the new seat cost is prohibitive. Autodesk pretty much forces one to use their subscription program as they have timed new releases in such a manner to make the subscription semi-attractive. I've seen small firms put off upgrading and they get sticker shock when Autodesk no longer supports a specific release and earlier forcing companies to pay full freight for each new seat instead of the upgrade price when upgrade time does come around. Like the Fram man says, "You can pay me now, or pay me later."
Just as AutoCAD became the de facto CADD program and format standard for general drafting; it appears that SolidWorks has become the de facto standard for machine parts and similar design work. I know Autodesk has had Inventor out for some years now; but I don't know if they've been able to dent SolidWorks commanding market share in the MCAD (Mechanical CAD) field.
Also Autodesk purchased a company called Revit a few years back and they seem to be pushing that program for the architectural and building disciplines. Again, I don't know how successful that push is going for them.
I do use AutoCAD's (2008) 3D capabilities, and although they have improved; there is still limited solid editing capabilities, which makes it difficult to make changes to a design as it evolves.
Since I've been away from the business, I don't know if the MCAD companies that made SolidEdge and IronCAD are still around. If one is just goofing around with a CADD program with or without 3D capability, then a low cost or freebie program is probably OK. But if one makes a living using design software, I truly suggest sticking with a name brand product with a track record. There is nothing worse than committing to a CADD product that is orphaned because the company that made it went belly up and you can't import your CADD files into a different program.
I started with CADD in 1979 using Auto-Trol GS-100 through their Series 5000 software. I've seen and briefly used the long defunct Terak software back in the early 80's that was a knock off of Auto-Trol. Auto-Trol is still in business; but not as a CADD hardware/software manufacturer. I've used AutoCad since R9, and seen demos of Solidworks and Pro-Engineer. I've used Intergraph/Microstation through V3 and hated every moment of working with that software. Microstation is at V8 I believe. As I recall Autodesk bought TurboCad many years ago. I've also messed around with 3DS MAX from Autodesk. I could ramble on; but I've done enough for now.
