The application of BIM software in China primarily revolves around Revit, with Bentley software gaining popularity in recent years. However, many people still have a limited understanding of these tools. Today, I will discuss the key differences between Revit and Bentley software.
Before diving in, it’s important to clarify that this comparison focuses on the software’s functionalities rather than their application scopes or the complete list of software within each suite. For a broader overview, you might want to check out “What software does BIM include? What are the commonly used ones?”. This article won’t cover that in detail.
1. Revit Software
Autodesk’s BIM design solution is centered on Revit, which covers architecture, structure, and MEP disciplines (Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, Revit MEP). When modeling in Revit, files are saved with the .rvt extension.
Model Publishing Format: Revit models can be published as .nwc files. These are read-only view files that include the visual representation of the model and the property data of its components.
Review Process: Autodesk offers NavisWorks as its BIM review software. NavisWorks can open .nwc files to view the 3D model and all associated attribute data. Actions performed during review—such as adding comments, running clash detection, saving viewpoints, or segmenting the model—are saved in a separate .nwf file. Note that the .nwf file does not contain the model itself; instead, NavisWorks automatically links the review file (.nwf) to the model file (.nwc) based on their folder location.
Model Proofreading: After receiving the published .nwc file from the designer, reviewers perform their checks and generate a .nwf review file containing their comments. When the designer opens this .nwf file, they can easily see the reviewer’s annotations and make appropriate changes.
2. Bentley Software
Bentley’s BIM design software is primarily AECOsim Building Designer, which also includes modules for architecture, structure, and MEP. AECOsim files use the .dgn format.
Model Publishing Format: AECOsim models can be published as .i.dgn files. These are read-only view files preserving the model’s appearance and component attribute data.
Review Process: Bentley’s review software, called Navigator, functions similarly to NavisWorks. Navigator reads .i.dgn files to access the 3D model and review data but does not allow modifications to the model itself. Any review actions—such as annotations, clash detection, viewpoint storage, model partitioning, or adding auxiliary pixels—are saved in a separate .overlay.dgn file. Like with Revit, this review file does not contain the model but is linked to the original .i.dgn file by the software, based on their folder location.
Model Proofreading: After receiving the .i.dgn file from the designer, reviewers generate an .overlay.dgn file with their comments. Designers can then open this review file to see where feedback has been added and update the model accordingly.
So, that covers the main differences between Revit and Bentley software. I hope this article helps clarify these tools for you!
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