BIM Viewer

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a widely adopted practice in the construction sector. Projects develop around a digital model that allows each stakeholder concerned (manufacturers, engineers, architects, contractors, developers) to have the latest updated information. In this complex process, the BIM viewer is an essential tool.

What are its standout features? What are the best viewers on the market? Kroqi shares its expertise of the BIM sector.

What is a BIM viewer?

Definition and role in the BIM approach

The BIM viewer is a category of BIM solution in its own right. Where traditional software offers a multitude of features (model visualization, collaboration, clash detection, etc.), the viewer, as its name suggests, focuses exclusively on model visualization. The objective of these tools is simple: deliver optimal 3D BIM visualization.

Difference between a full BIM software and a viewer

Full BIM software integrates all the features needed to carry out construction projects following BIM methods. It contains a visualization component, but enriched with many other applications such as advanced 3D modeling, time planning (4D), cost estimation (5D), document management or automatic clash detection.

The viewer is a lighter tool that focuses exclusively on the digital representation of the building. It generally offers the possibility of commenting on BIM models and communicating between project participants, but rarely more.

Why use a viewer rather than a full business software?

The main advantage of the viewer over full business software is its ease of use. It can be consulted by all project participants and not only by modeling experts.

It also offers an economic benefit. It is much more accessible than a full BIM software license, and is sometimes even offered for free.

Finally, the viewer offers optimized performance thanks to its lightweight files. Loading is faster, even on mobile devices (tablets, phones).

A practicality not found on traditional BIM software.

What is a BIM viewer used for?

Exploring 3D models without modifying the data

With the BIM viewer, users navigate, zoom and isolate specific components without needing technical skills. Thanks to read-only consultation, there is no risk of data alteration.

Easing communication between project stakeholders

Via the interactive 3D model, clients, architects, engineering offices and contractors share a common view of the project. Discussions are thus based on the same updated information, which limits the risk of error.

Performing checks, measurements and comments

Most BIM viewers include functions for checking dimensions or calculating areas. But the most useful feature of the BIM viewer remains markup. Users comment and annotate directly on the 3D model to guarantee rigorous traceability of exchanges.

What are the types of BIM viewers?

Online viewers vs desktop applications

Online (or Cloud) viewers are available with a simple internet connection. No installation, everything is directly accessible online. However, you are subject to the performance of a server and the quality of the connection. The desktop application is more powerful and complete, but requires digital storage space and regular updates.

Open source viewers vs proprietary solutions

Open source BIM viewers are free and 100% customizable. If you have teams of BIM software experts, it is a solution to consider for creating a tailored modeling environment. But in most cases, proprietary solutions are more suited to professional use. They are paid (while remaining accessible), but offer much more attractive interfaces and richer features. You also have professional support from the vendor.

Compatibility with IFC, RVT, DWG formats and more

The IFC format is the universal standard in BIM interoperability. But there are others, such as proprietary formats (RVT for Revit and DWG for AutoCAD) and more traditional CAD formats such as DGN or DXF. Viewers are not all compatible with these standards. So stay alert when choosing.

Comparison of the most widely used BIM viewers

BIMcollab Zoom

BIMcollab Zoom offers more features than basic viewers. It is a tool to consider for having several BIM applications without investing in CAD (computer-aided design) modeling software. BIMcollab Zoom is particularly effective at issue management thanks to its efficient collaboration system (comments, attachments, etc.). The viewer integrates seamlessly with the BIMcollab Cloud suite and is available in a free basic version.

Solibri Anywhere

Solibri Anywhere is mainly aimed at users of the Solibri suite. It is an effective, intuitive viewer that takes the form of a collaborative platform. It handles BIM issues well and supports the IFC and DWG formats. A good solution, but limited to basic features.

Trimble Connect

The strength of Trimble Connect (formerly Tekla BIMsight) is its ability to exchange information thanks to a dedicated platform. However, its interface remains not very intuitive, which can limit its use by people without experience.

BIMvision

BIMvision is a free software for viewing IFC models. It is developed by Datacomp IT and offers features for visualizing, interacting with and analyzing BIM models. It is compatible with the IFC 2x3 and 4.0 formats and offers 3D visualization, clash detection, sectioning, measurement and navigation features. It stands out for its plugin system that allows you to enrich your BIM models.

Autodesk Viewer

Autodesk Viewer benefits from Autodesk’s expertise and a perfect integration with the other products of its ecosystem (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.). The benefit of this viewer lies in its multi-format compatibility (DWG, STEP, DWF, RVT and SolidWorks). Accessible from any device with a web browser, Autodesk Viewer is a practical, accessible solution.

Kroqi BIM viewer: the high-performing, practical alternative

If you are looking for the perfect combination of ease of use and feature variety, discover the Kroqi BIM viewer. Perfect for multidisciplinary projects, it allows the overlay of several models (structure, architecture, HVAC, electrical) and the creation of custom trade-specific views. It also makes collaborative exchanges easier thanks to its advanced measurement and section tools and its native BCF format handling. The Kroqi viewer automatically generates 2D drawings from 3D models to guarantee up-to-date technical documents. A high-performing, complete tool, but one that remains intuitive.

Criteria for choosing the right BIM viewer

Supported formats

Not all viewers support the same formats. The most widespread unified standard to date remains IFC (Industry Foundation Classes). In fact, people often talk about an IFC viewer. However, since the technology remains new, software vendors tend to use proprietary formats that are incompatible with others. To avoid compatibility issues, favor viewers that support multiple standardized file formats.

Available features (comments, clashes, measurements)

If you want to do more than visualize a modeled 3D drawing, opt for a solution that has additional features. We recommend at least comment, measurement and conflict management options.

User experience and ergonomics

If your BIM visualization tool is primarily intended for a multidisciplinary team not well versed in BIM processes, bet on UX. Make sure that a novice can easily handle the software without prior training.

Cost, license and subscription model

This aspect must enter into your thinking for the acquisition of any kind of software. What budget are you willing to dedicate to the solution? Do you want to purchase a full license or opt for a subscription model? It all depends on your frequency of use of the software and your needs for technical support.

How to use a BIM viewer?

The architect designs a 3D model on a modeling tool, then, in a few clicks, imports it into the viewer.

To do this, they generally have two options: drag and drop the file or click the “import” button.

The viewer processes the data and displays the 3D model in this new environment. The operation can last a few minutes, depending on the complexity of the data to be integrated.

The BIM manager, or coordinator, then gives access to the 3D drawing to all employees via a sharing link. Everyone can then study the model and make comments directly on it.

The project owner then validates each change made after consultation with the stakeholders concerned (architect, electrician, engineer, etc.).

Each update generates a notification to inform stakeholders in real time.

BIM viewer FAQ

What is the best free BIM viewer?

Our Kroqi BIM viewer is available in a free version. It ensures you have a thorough understanding and effective management of your construction projects. If you are looking for 100% free BIM viewers, we recommend the solutions in our comparison. However, you must be aware that their performance will be more limited.

Can you use a BIM viewer on mobile or tablet?

Yes, that is precisely the advantage of BIM viewers over more complete BIM software. Their lightweight configuration allows high-performing on-the-go use, even on a tablet or smartphone. No risk of slowdown or freeze.

Do viewers allow you to annotate a model?

It all depends on the viewer you choose. Our Kroqi tool allows you to exchange information and comments directly on BIM models thanks to the BCF format.

Do you need training to use a BIM viewer?

BIM viewers are designed to be usable by non-experts. Intuitive, they can be consulted by all project stakeholders. This accessibility is their main strength.

Are there any free BIM viewers?

Yes, a large portion of BIM viewers on the market are available free of charge. With our selection, you have a particularly interesting offering of free solutions.