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SolidWorks Simulation VS Autodesk Fusion 360

Compare SolidWorks Simulation VS Autodesk Fusion 360 and see what are their differences

SolidWorks Simulation logo SolidWorks Simulation

Simulation solutions for SOLIDWORKS® provide an easy-to-use portfolio of analysis tools for predicting a product’s real-world physical behavior by virtually testing CAD models.

Autodesk Fusion 360 logo Autodesk Fusion 360

Integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE featuring collaborative editing and cloud-based computation.
  • SolidWorks Simulation Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-07-27
  • Autodesk Fusion 360 Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-27

SolidWorks Simulation features and specs

  • Integration
    Seamlessly integrates with SOLIDWORKS CAD, allowing for easy transition from design to simulation without requiring data translation or additional file handling.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    SolidWorks Simulation features an intuitive interface with comprehensive help documentation and tutorials, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
  • Wide Range of Analysis Types
    Supports various analysis types including static, dynamic, thermal, fatigue, and fluid flow, among others, providing versatility for different engineering needs.
  • Parametric Optimization
    Allows users to perform parametric optimization studies, facilitating design improvements and innovation by evaluating multiple design scenarios efficiently.
  • Robust Validation Tools
    Equipped with tools to validate and verify simulations against empirical data, aiding in the credibility and accuracy of the simulations.

Possible disadvantages of SolidWorks Simulation

  • Cost
    SolidWorks Simulation can be expensive, with high licensing fees that might not be affordable for small businesses or individual users.
  • Hardware Requirements
    Requires high-performance hardware to run complex simulations efficiently, potentially necessitating additional investment in computing resources.
  • Learning Curve
    Although user-friendly, mastering the full suite of tools and capabilities requires time and effort, especially for those new to simulation software.
  • Complex Simulations Limitations
    Some users report limitations when dealing with extremely complex simulations or very large assemblies, which may require supplementary specialized software.
  • Limited Mac Compatibility
    SolidWorks Simulation is primarily designed for Windows-based systems, resulting in limited compatibility and support for macOS users.

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.

SolidWorks Simulation videos

What's New SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021

More videos:

  • Review - SOLIDWORKS Simulation Step-Up Series: Accuracy and Convergence

Autodesk Fusion 360 videos

Fusion 360 Tutorial for Absolute Beginners (2020)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to SolidWorks Simulation and Autodesk Fusion 360)
3D
21 21%
79% 79
Technical Computing
27 27%
73% 73
Architecture
0 0%
100% 100
CAD
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

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

SolidWorks Simulation Reviews

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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

What are some alternatives?

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

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

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

MATLAB - A high-level language and interactive environment for numerical computation, visualization, and programming

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

Solid Edge - Solid Edge is an industry-leading mechanical design system with exceptional tools for creating and...

SimScale - SimScale makes high-fidelity engineering simulation truly accessible. From anywhere. At any scale. In the cloud.