When working with SOLIDWORKS, having the right graphics settings can make a huge difference in performance, model visualization, and overall user experience. Whether you're designing simple parts or complex assemblies, a properly configured system ensures smoother workflows and fewer visual glitches.
Let’s dive into the key settings you should know!
Why Graphics Settings Matter
- 3D modeling relies heavily on your GPU (graphics processing unit). Incorrect settings can cause:
- Lag when rotating or zooming models.
- Visual artifacts (like jagged edges or flickering)
- Poor shading and rendering quality.
- Slow performance with large assemblies
- Tuning your settings means better productivity — and fewer headaches.
Recommended Hardware
Before tweaking software settings, ensure your hardware is ready:
GPU: Certified graphics cards (like NVIDIA Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro) are strongly recommended. You can find Solidworks certified Graphics Card below.
Drivers: Always use the latest SOLIDWORKS-certified drivers (you can check via SOLIDWORKS Rx or the SOLIDWORKS website).
RAM & CPU: Having at least 16GB RAM and a fast CPU (high clock speed) helps, especially with large assemblies.
Key Graphics Settings Inside SOLIDWORKS
There are 2 ways to carryout Graphics setting for Solidworks.
- Nvidia Control Panel Settings
- System Graphics Settings
1. Nvidia Control Panel Settings
By clicking right click on windows home screen you will see NVIDIA Control Panel in pop-up menu.
Clicking on it will open the window of NVIDIA Control Panel where you can setup for graphics setting.
Click on Manage 3D Setting in Left upside corner.
Go to Program setting.
Select Solidworks app and select NVIDIA GPU in preferred graphics processor.
Also, setup following setting in “Specify setting for this program”.
- Antialiasing FXAA – On
- Antialiasing Mode – Application Controlled
- OpenGL rendering GPU – Select installed dedicated Graphics card.
- Power management mode – Prefer maximum performance
2. System Graphics Settings
Search settings in Windows search bar > Systems > Display > Graphics Settings.
Browse the SOLIDWORKS.exe file.
For Solidworks, path is “C:\Program Files\SOLIDWORKS Corp\SOLIDWORKS\SLDWORKS.exe”
For 3DExperience Solidworks path “C:\Program Files\Dassault Systemes\SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE\SOLIDWORKS\SolidWorks.exe”
Click on option and select high performance and click save.
3. 3DExperience Solidworks Setting
After doing NVIDIA Graphics Stetting and System Graphics Setting, go to option > Performance in 3DExperience Solidworks.
At Bottom tick Enhanced graphics performance & Hardware Accelerated Silhouette
Click OK to save.
Final Thoughts
3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS blends cloud-connected tools with powerful local processing — but graphics performance still depends heavily on local hardware and settings. Spend a little time optimizing it, and you’ll enjoy a much smoother and visually richer design experience!
