If you are exporting from SolidWorks for manufacturing, vendor quoting, or downstream CAD review, the most common format question is: STEP vs IGES - which one should we send?
In most modern workflows, STEP is the safer default. IGES still appears in legacy environments, but STEP is usually the better choice for reliable geometry exchange and fewer surprises downstream.
Quick Answer: STEP Usually Wins
- Use STEP when your vendor or downstream system supports it.
- Use IGES only when specifically requested or when working with older legacy tooling.
- If unsure, ask the receiver which version/format they import most reliably.
Why STEP Is Usually Better for SolidWorks Exports
STEP is widely used for 3D model exchange and is generally a better fit for modern CAD interoperability. Teams often prefer it because it tends to preserve model geometry more consistently than older exchange formats.
That is why the conversion workflow here focuses on SolidWorks to STEP output: it matches what many manufacturing, quoting, and CAD review pipelines expect.
When IGES Still Shows Up
- Legacy CAM/CAD systems with limited STEP support.
- Older vendor requirements that have not been updated.
- Historic workflows where IGES is baked into templates or SOPs.
If a vendor requests IGES out of habit, it can be worth asking whether STEP is also accepted. A quick format check can reduce downstream cleanup and shorten turnaround time.
Practical Export Tips Before Sending to a Vendor
- Confirm whether they want a part-level file or a full assembly export.
- For assemblies, send a complete ZIP bundle before conversion to avoid missing parts.
- Validate the exported STEP in a viewer if the project is high value.
- Keep the original source files and export metadata for traceability.
Related Guides
Start with the SolidWorks to STEP converter guide if you need a reliable upload workflow. If the issue is assembly-specific, use the SLDASM troubleshooting checklist.
Ready to test? Open the converter and run a sample export.