Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Autodesk Fusion 360 VS SimFlow

Compare Autodesk Fusion 360 VS SimFlow and see what are their differences

Autodesk Fusion 360 logo Autodesk Fusion 360

Integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE featuring collaborative editing and cloud-based computation.

SimFlow logo SimFlow

SimFlow is a powerful CFD software, focused on engineering and science.
  • Autodesk Fusion 360 Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-27
  • SimFlow Landing page
    Landing page //
    2018-11-23

SimFlow is a desktop-based Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation software for Windows and Linux. SimFlow is easy to learn and intuitive interface based on well known OpenFOAM libraries. You can download a free version from our website and try it right now.

Autodesk Fusion 360

Pricing URL
-
$ Details
-
Platforms
-
Release Date
-

SimFlow

$ Details
freemium $8000.0 / Annually
Platforms
Windows Linux
Release Date
2012 July

Autodesk Fusion 360 features and specs

  • Integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE
    Fusion 360 offers a unified platform for computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and computer-aided engineering (CAE), streamlining the workflow for engineers and designers.
  • Cloud-Based Collaboration
    Being a cloud-based tool, it allows for seamless collaboration and version control, enabling teams to work together from different locations and devices.
  • Parametric Modeling
    Fusion 360 supports parametric modeling, allowing users to create models based on parameters and relationships, which makes design modifications more efficient.
  • Cost-Effective
    With a competitive pricing structure, including a free tier for startups and enthusiasts, Fusion 360 is accessible to smaller businesses and individual designers.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Fusion 360 has an intuitive and user-friendly interface that makes it easier for newcomers to get started and for experienced users to enhance their productivity.
  • Rich Libraries and Templates
    It offers extensive libraries and predefined templates that can significantly speed up the design process and provide useful starting points for various projects.

Possible disadvantages of Autodesk Fusion 360

  • Internet Dependency
    Being predominantly cloud-based, Fusion 360 requires a stable internet connection for full functionality, which can be a limitation in regions with poor connectivity.
  • Performance Issues
    There can be performance lags and delays, especially with larger, more complex models, which may impact workflow and productivity.
  • Limited Offline Capabilities
    While it does offer some offline capabilities, most advanced features require an internet connection, which can be a disadvantage during travel or in remote locations.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, Fusion 360 has a steep learning curve due to its extensive features and tools, requiring significant time investment to master.
  • Subscription-Based Pricing
    While the pricing is competitive, the subscription-based model may not be ideal for all users, particularly those who prefer a one-time purchase option.
  • Occasional Software Bugs
    Like any software, Fusion 360 is not immune to bugs and glitches, which can sometimes disrupt work and require troubleshooting or technical support.

SimFlow features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    SimFlow offers an intuitive GUI that simplifies the process of setting up and running simulations, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
  • Integration with OpenFOAM
    SimFlow is built on top of OpenFOAM, leveraging its robust computational fluid dynamics (CFD) capabilities while providing enhanced usability and visualization tools.
  • Comprehensive Post-Processing
    The software includes advanced post-processing features for detailed analysis and visualization of simulation results, supporting better decision-making.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    SimFlow is available for multiple operating systems including Windows and Linux, providing flexibility for users working in different environments.
  • Affordability
    Compared to other CFD software, SimFlow is relatively cost-effective, offering substantial features without the high price tag.

Autodesk Fusion 360 videos

Fusion 360 Tutorial for Absolute Beginners (2020)

SimFlow videos

CFD Tutorial - von Karman Vortex Street | simFlow CFD

More videos:

  • Tutorial - CFD Simulation Tutorial - Cylinder Cooling | simFlow CFD

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Autodesk Fusion 360 and SimFlow)
3D
100 100%
0% 0
Numerical Computation
35 35%
65% 65
Architecture
100 100%
0% 0
CFD
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Autodesk Fusion 360 and SimFlow

Autodesk Fusion 360 Reviews

Top 13 Picks for Maxon Cinema 4D Alternatives in 2024
A product of Autodesk, Fusion 360 comes to us as an integrated, cloud-based platform for design, engineering, electronics, and manufacturing. Released in September 2013, it proves its versatility with compatibility across Windows, macOS, web browsers, Android, and iOS. It’s not only a multilingual tool but also an amalgamation of CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB design capabilities.
Source: aircada.com
15 Best Sketchup Alternatives 2022
Out of the list, Fusion 360 from Autodesk stands out as the most recommended. When you look at its features, both platforms are not too dissimilar. But, Fusion 360 works faster as it is cloud-powered, and it is relatively more comfortable to use.
Alternatives to SketchUp: Check out 10 free programs
Created by software giant AutoDesk, Fusion 360 is a cloud-based program. It integrates Computer-Aided Drawing (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) softwares, which makes it a unified platform. Regarding the CAD software, Fusion 360 is a parametric modeling system that allows some more powerful tools, being one of the greatest...
Source: solidface.com

SimFlow Reviews

We have no reviews of SimFlow yet.
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Autodesk Fusion 360 and SimFlow, you can also consider the following products

Blender - Blender is the open source, cross platform suite of tools for 3D creation.

ANSYS Fluent - ANSYS engineering simulation and 3D design software delivers product modeling solutions with unmatched scalability and a comprehensive multiphysics foundation.

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

OpenFOAM - OpenFOAM® - Official home of The Open Source Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Toolbox.

Inventor - Inventor is a 3D CAD software that lets you quickly create 3D models with embedded intelligence, intuitive workflows, and optimized performance.

CFDTool - An Easy to Use MATLAB Computational Fluid Dynamics CFD Simulation GUI Toolbox