Fusion 360 vs SolidWorks: What is the Difference

Fusion 360 and SolidWorks are 3D parametric computer-aided design and development tools. But both have different features, user interfaces, and types of users. This article focuses on the difference between Fusion 360 vs SolidWorks. Click this link to know the difference between AutoCAD vs SolidWorks.

Autodesk Fusion 360

Autodesk Fusion 360 - Free Cad Software for Students and startups

Fusion 360 was first launched in 2013 to offer a compressive product development system. It has solutions from concept design, detailed part & assembly design, simulation, manufacturing to data management. 

In this way, Fusion360 offers complete product development CAD CAM and CAE solutions to their customers.

SolidWorks

This image shows an example of Solidwork Parametric Modeling

Solidwork’s first launch was in 1995 to make the 3D CAD market accessible, affordable, and available for Windows desktop users. Solidworks with several add-in modules offers solutions from concept design, detailed part & assembly design, manufacturing to data management.

Solidworks started as a CAD tool, but now it offers complete product design and development (CAD-CAM and CAE) solutions.

Fusion 360 vs SolidWorks : What is the Difference?

The main difference between Fusion360 and SolidWorks is Fusion360 is a cloud-based software. Whereas Solidworks "EXPERIENCE WORKS" is the new entrant in the cloud-based market. Following is the list of the comparison of Fusion 360 vs SolidWorks features.

FeaturesFusion 360Solidworks
CAD TypeCloud BasedNeed Installation
InterfaceUser FriendlyUser Friendly
3D Design and Modeling
SketchingYesYes
Direct ModelingYesBasic
Parametric ModelingIntermediateAdvanced
Surface ModelingYesYes
Mesh ModelingYesYes
Photo Realistic RenderingYesYes
PCB Design IntegrationWith Autodesk EAGLEWith Altium
Sheet Metal ModuleYesYes
Assembly ModuleYesYes
Other Features
ManufacturingAdvancedBasic
Additive ManufacturingYesNot Available
Generative DesignYesNot Available
Structure SimulationYesYes
Electronics Cooling ModuleYesYes
Tolerance Stackup AnalysisNot AvailableYes
Topology ImprovementYesYes
CollobrationTeams can effectively collobrateBasic
DocumentationYesPlugin Required
Cable RoutingYesYes
Sustainability AnalysisNoYes
Mobile AppsYes : Data can be accessed from any browserNo : But eDrawing can be used to view 3D CAD data.

Which Software is Best SolidWorks or Fusion 360?

Both SolidWorks and Fusion 360 have their advantages and limitations. They have intuitive user interfaces and solve complete product design cycle problems.

If you are a new startup, Fusion360 is a good choice. Because Autodesk Fusion360 does not require investment in costly hardware and it is free for new startups.

Whereas if your company is already using Solidworks. Moving from Solidworks to fusion360 requires lots of brainstorming because both software offers almost similar features. Fusion360 has the disadvantage of limited human resources available in the market. Therefore human resources will require training if you shift to fusion360 from Solidworks. We suggest you also read this article on how to select the best cad software for your company?

The above Solidworks and Fusion 360 comparison is the best of our knowledge. We are ready to modify data if you provide a valid reason. We will keep adding more information on Fusion360 vs Solidworks. Add your suggestions, comments, or questions in the comment box.

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