COMPARE Autodesk Fusion VS. SOLIDWORKS

Autodesk Fusion vs. SOLIDWORKS

See how an integrated CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software platform delivers unprecedented value to designers, engineers, and manufacturers.

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Data source: G2 Comparison Guide

Autodesk Fusion vs. SOLIDWORKS usability

Autodesk Fusion is a comprehensive cloud-based software solution, that works natively on both Windows and Mac.

Autodesk Fusion features a quick installation process, professional grade tools, and an easy to navigate user interface – allowing teams to easily collaborate, onboard new users, and manage data on a common platform.

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Data source: G2 Comparison Guide

Autodesk Fusion vs. SOLIDWORKS functionality

Autodesk Fusion integrates CAD, CAM, CAE, PCB, and data management, allowing for streamlined design to manufacture workflows in a single cloud-based platform.

Reduce the need for multiple software tools and facilitate a smoother, more connected product development process.

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Increase product development speed with Autodesk Fusion

Automated drawings

Streamline design documentation to enable quick and precise 2D drawings from 3D models, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

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Bill of materials (BOM)

Collaborate and share product information between engineering and consumers of engineering data upstream and downstream.

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Configurations

Make data-driven decisions to help reduce prototyping and manufacturing time while accelerating time-to-market.

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Collaboration

Cloud-based collaboration enables teams to work together simultaneously, without the need for multiple, disconnected tools.

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See the top 5 reasons why users make the switch to Autodesk Fusion

Autodesk Fusion is more than just CAD. It's the future of design and manufacturing, combining CAD, CAM, CAE, PCB, data management and collaboration into a single integrated cloud software platform.

Let's take a look at the top 5 reasons you need to switch to Autodesk Fusion so you can start bringing better products to market, faster.

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"With Autodesk Fusion, we can execute several different functions within one package, and that has been the most important thing for us. We don't have to use Rhino for sculpting, or SOLIDWORKS for mechanical design. We can do that with the same software and actually all work on the same file at the same time."

– Carl Budd, Engineering Manager, Moose Toys

Autodesk Fusion vs. SOLIDWORKS

See how Autodesk Fusion and extensions compare against SOLIDWORKS offerings. Last updated 8/19/24.

Autodesk Fusion^®

SOLIDWORKS^® Standard

Design and 3D Modeling

Direct modeling
Parametric modeling
Surface modeling
Assemblies
Mesh modeling
Automated modeling
CAD assembly concurrent collaboration
Detailed concept renderings		SOLIDWORKS Professional
Edit scans with raster and vector tools		SOLIDWORKS Premium
Freeform modeling		Add-in required
Generative design	Simulation Extension
Volumetric latticing	Design Extension

Drawings

Geometric dimensions & tolerances (GD+T) standards
Print batches of drawings
Cloud commenting and markups 2D drawings		Subscription Services required
Cloud public shared viewing 2D drawings		Subscription Services required

Manufacturing


Mill-turn toolpaths
Water jet, laser cutter, plasma cutter toolpaths
Setup probing
Comprehensive cloud libraries
Machine simulation
2.5 & 3-axis milling		Subscription Services required
3+2 milling (5-axis positional)		Add-in required
Adaptive clearing		Add-in required
Turning		Add-in required
Advanced nesting and fabrication	Manufacturing Extension
Automated 3 axis machining and 3+2-axis milling	Manufacturing Extension
4-axis & 5-axis machining	Manufacturing Extension
Toolpath modification	Manufacturing Extension
Surface inspection	Manufacturing Extension
Collision avoidance	Manufacturing Extension
Rotary toolpaths	Manufacturing Extension

Additive Manufacturing

Cloud libraries
Automatic and manual part orientation
2D and 3D part arrangement
Support generation (FFF, SLA, DLP)
Additive toolpath generation / simulation
Machine file generation (Gcode, CLI, SLC, etc.)
Additive technologies (MPBF, DED)	Manufacturing Extension
Support generation (MPBF and metal binder jetting)	Manufacturing Extension
Process simulation (MPBF)	Manufacturing Extension
Machine file generation (ILT, MTT, Openjz, SLM, etc.)	Manufacturing Extension

Simulation

Cloud solve
Assembly linear static		SOLIDWORKS Premium
Modal frequency	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Non-linear static stress	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Structural buckling	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Thermal stress	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Shape optimization	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
ECAD Cooling	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Quasi-static event simulation	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Injection molding simulation	Simulation Extension	Add-in required
Generative design	Simulation Extension

Electronics

3D ECAD libraries
Comprehensive electronics and PCB design tools		Add-in required
Signal integrity simulation	Signal Integrity Extension

Collaboration

Multi-user management
Cloud commenting and markups
Device independence
Revision control	Manage Extension

Usability

Import, export blocks
Import, export drawings
Import, create, prepare, modify point clouds

Technical Support

In-product chat

This comparison chart is provided for informational purposes only, created using publicly available information, and current as of the date above. The features and capabilities of each company’s software are subject to change at any time. As a result, you should contact each company for a detailed explanation of the current features and capabilities of each company’s software.

SOLIDWORKS Subscription Services provides live technical support supplied by a local authorized VAR. SOLIDWORKS add-ins are developed and distributed by SOLIDWORKS.

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Autodesk Fusion resources

Getting Started Guide

Getting started with Autodesk Fusion? Get an overview of the platform, toolsets, and functionality.

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SOLIDWORKS to Autodesk Fusion Video Tutorials

Learn how to accelerate your design workflows for users coming from SOLIDWORKS.

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Product documentation

Explore technical documentation and step-by-step guides.

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Autodesk Fusion vs SOLIDWORKS frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is Autodesk Fusion a SOLIDWORKS alternative?

Yes, Autodesk Fusion is a similar alternative to SOLIDWORKS, offering comprehensive CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) capabilities for design to manufacturing workflows.

Is Autodesk Fusion a free SOLIDWORKS alternative?

Autodesk Fusion offers a free alternative to SOLIDWORKS with Autodesk Fusion for personal use, a limited and free version that provides basic CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) capabilities for hobbyist and non-commercial use.