Graphisoft BIMx

Overview

Graphisoft BIMx brings building layouts, 3D models, and BIM data into a single .bimx file for architects, engineers, construction teams, and clients. It is best for people who need to inspect a model alongside its documentation or present it to stakeholders. The free viewer is capable, but app access requires a Graphisoft ID and private Hyper-model sharing is limited to eligible Graphisoft users.

Key features

Game-like 3D navigation and links from Hyper-models to project documentation make BIMx more than a model display: users can move between the building and related drawings. It also shows building-element data, including fire ratings and manufacturer-specific properties, useful when reviewers need to inspect model information rather than simply view geometry.

BIMx Issues supports markup on 2D and 3D views, with BCF-compliant issues, and measurement tools are included. This gives project teams a way to annotate views and communicate coordination feedback in context. Presenter and Gallery support live presentations and client exploration on their own time, while the Web Viewer can be embedded in a website.

Models can be shared through a BIMx Model Transfer web link. Private Hyper-model sharing is reserved for Graphisoft Subscribers, SSA, and Forward users, which may complicate controlled distribution for teams without those relationships. Graphisoft says owners and facility managers can integrate maintenance databases with the BIM model, extending its potential use beyond design and construction.

Pricing

BIMx: free. The plan includes the free app and browser viewer, with no free trial needed. It is a strong fit for occasional model review, client exploration, and teams comfortable sharing through links. It gives up private Hyper-model sharing unless users have Graphisoft Subscriber, SSA, or Forward status. Opening projects on iOS, Android, or desktop requires a registered Graphisoft ID; without signing in, users can access sample content and one additional custom model.

After sign-in, BIMx can remain authenticated for up to one year with occasional online access, or up to seven days while offline. That allows some offline use, but teams that rely on longer stretches without connectivity should account for the seven-day offline window.

Platforms

BIMx supports web, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, and supports .bimx files. Graphisoft lists Windows 11 and macOS 26 or macOS 10.15 as desktop operating systems, and iOS 15 or Android 11 as minimum mobile requirements. The browser viewer offers a route for clients who do not need the installed app.

Who it's for

BIMx is a practical choice for architects, engineers, construction teams, and clients who need model and documentation access in one viewer, plus markup, measurement, or presentation tools. It also suits owners and facility managers when integrating a maintenance database with BIM data is part of their workflow. It is less suitable for teams that require private Hyper-model sharing but lack the qualifying Graphisoft status, or for people unwilling to register an account to open projects in the apps.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Links between 3D Hyper-models and project documentation keep model inspection connected to drawings.
• Pro: BCF-compliant markup on 2D and 3D views and measurement tools support coordination review without leaving the viewer.
• Pro: Presenter, Gallery, and an embeddable Web Viewer support both meetings and client self-service.
• Con: A Graphisoft ID is required to open projects in mobile and desktop apps; unsigned users are limited to sample content and one extra custom model.
• Con: Private Hyper-model sharing requires Graphisoft Subscriber, SSA, or Forward status, restricting distribution options for other teams.

Alternatives

BIMx Web Viewer is the focused alternative when browser viewing is the priority; its free plan covers browser viewing, while BIMx Pro features on Model Transfer require eligible-company membership and Graphisoft ID sign-in. Choose BIMx Desktop Viewer if a free Windows or macOS desktop viewer is all you need.

Sketchfab may suit broader cross-platform model viewing; its free Basic plan caps each model at 50MB, while Pro is $15 a month billed yearly. For teams that need a free IFC viewer on Linux, macOS, or Windows, Open IFC Viewer is a narrower alternative.

Dalux, Marmoset Viewer, Nanome, and OmniView 3D are other options to compare.

Browse more choices in 3D Model Viewer Software or Architecture Software.

Verdict

Choose BIMx if your project participants need a free, multi-platform way to explore building models alongside documentation, annotate views, and present work. Its main advantage is the combination of model navigation, project links, and coordination tools; look elsewhere if private Hyper-model sharing is essential and your team does not qualify for Graphisoft’s restricted access.