Short Verdict
Fusion 360 and Onshape are both excellent CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software tools, with different strengths and weaknesses. Fusion 360, developed by Autodesk, is a versatile tool that offers powerful design, simulation, and manufacturing features. It has a robust library of pre-built components and a vast community of users that provide support and tutorials. However, it requires a desktop installation and has limited collaboration features.
Onshape, on the other hand, is a cloud-based software tool that is entirely web-based and accessible from any device with an internet connection. It has robust collaboration features, version control, and real-time collaboration options. However, it has a steeper learning curve and is less feature-rich than Fusion 360.
Ultimately, choosing between Fusion 360 and Onshape depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value collaboration and access from anywhere, Onshape may be the better choice. However, if you need more robust design and manufacturing features and are willing to work on a desktop installation, Fusion 360 may be the better choice.
What is Fusion 360?
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D modeling software program designed for small and medium-sized businesses and startups. It offers a range of features such as parametric modeling, sheet metal design, and simulation, as well as cloud-based collaboration tools that allow multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. Fusion 360 also offers advanced manufacturing capabilities such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) integration
What is Onshape?
Onshape is a cloud-based Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software tool used for 3D modeling and collaboration. It was developed by the same team that created SolidWorks and was launched in 2015. Unlike traditional CAD software that requires a desktop installation, Onshape is entirely web-based, meaning that users can access their designs from anywhere with an internet connection. It offers a range of design tools, including sketching, surface modeling, and assemblies, and has robust collaboration features, including real-time collaboration, version control, and commenting. Onshape is widely used in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, and product design.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fusion 360 and Onshape
Advantages of Fusion 360
- Robust design and manufacturing features: Fusion 360 is a versatile CAD software tool developed by Autodesk, known for its robust design and manufacturing features. It offers a comprehensive set of design tools, including sketching, surface modeling, assemblies, and sheet metal design. Fusion 360 also provides simulation capabilities, such as stress analysis and thermal analysis, and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) functionality for creating tool paths for CNC machines. This makes it a suitable choice for more complex designs and manufacturing processes.
- Large library of pre-built components and a vast community of users: One of the major advantages of Fusion 360 is its large library of pre-built components and vast community of users. This makes it easy for users to find and use standard components, as well as share their designs and collaborate with others. Additionally, Fusion 360 integrates with other Autodesk tools, such as AutoCAD and Inventor, which allows users to work seamlessly between different software applications.
- Affordable pricing options: Another advantage of Fusion 360 is its affordable pricing options. It offers both individual and business plans, with a range of pricing options to fit different budgets. This makes it accessible to smaller companies or individuals who may not have the budget for more expensive software.
Disadvantages of Fusion 360
- The steep learning curve for beginners: While the software is powerful, it can be difficult for new users to navigate and learn all of the features. This can result in a longer learning curve and may require additional training.
- Limited collaboration features compared to Onshape: Fusion 360 has limited collaboration features compared to Onshape. It can be difficult for multiple users to work on the same design simultaneously, and version control can be challenging. This can be a major disadvantage for teams working on a project together.
- Occasional performance issues with large assemblies: Fusion 360 can be resource-intensive on lower-end hardware, which may result in slower performance when working on larger assemblies. This can be a major disadvantage for users who frequently work on large designs.
Advantages of Onshape
- Cloud-based, accessible from any device with an internet connection: Onshape is a cloud-based CAD software tool developed by the team that created SolidWorks. Unlike Fusion 360, Onshape is entirely web-based, meaning that users can access their designs from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it a convenient choice for users who need to work on their designs on the go.
- Robust collaboration features: One of the major advantages of Onshape is its collaboration features. Users can work on the same design simultaneously, and changes are updated in real-time. Additionally, Onshape has strong version control capabilities, which allow users to track changes and revert to previous versions easily. This makes it a suitable choice for teams working on a project together.
- Secure data management with automatic backups and version control: Onshape also has secure data management, with automatic backups and version control, which reduces the risk of data loss or corruption. This can be a major advantage for users who need to ensure that their data is safe and secure.
Disadvantages of Onshape
- Limited design features compared to Fusion 360: While it is a capable CAD tool, Onshape may not be suitable for more complex designs or manufacturing processes. It has limited design features compared to Fusion 360, which may limit its capabilities for certain users.
- Higher pricing options for business use: Onshape has higher pricing options for business use, which may make it less accessible to smaller companies or individuals. This can be a major disadvantage for users who have limited budgets or who are just starting.
- Limited offline functionality: Onshape is entirely cloud-based, which means that it requires an internet connection to access its features. This can be a disadvantage for users who work in areas with limited connectivity or who prefer to work offline. While Onshape does offer some limited offline functionality, it may not be sufficient for all users.
How do both these Programs Work?
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software has become a crucial tool for designers and engineers across various industries. Two of the most popular CAD tools in the market today are Fusion 360 and Onshape. Both tools offer powerful design capabilities, but they differ in how they work.
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a desktop-based software tool developed by Autodesk, a leading software company in the design and engineering industry. The software is available for Windows and Mac platforms, and users can download and install it on their local machine. Once installed, users can access a wide range of design and manufacturing features to create their 3D models and designs.
Fusion 360 offers an array of design tools, including sketching, surface modeling, assemblies, and sheet metal design. Users can start by creating a sketch, which they can then use to create a 3D model. The sketching tools allow users to create 2D drawings and then extrude them to create 3D models. This approach makes it easy for designers to create complex shapes and models quickly.
One of the key features of Fusion 360 is its parametric modeling capabilities. Parametric modeling allows users to define parameters, such as dimensions and angles, and then manipulate them to make changes to the design. This approach makes it easy for designers to make changes to their designs and see the effects of those changes in real-time.
Fusion 360 also provides simulation capabilities, such as stress analysis and thermal analysis, to test the design’s performance before manufacturing. This feature helps designers identify and address potential design flaws early in the design process, reducing the risk of costly errors during manufacturing.
In addition, to design and simulation features, Fusion 360 also offers Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) functionality. This feature allows users to create tool paths for CNC machines, which can then be used to manufacture the designed parts. The integration of design and manufacturing features in Fusion 360 makes it a powerful tool for the entire product development process.
Onshape
Onshape is a cloud-based CAD tool developed by PTC, a leading software company in the engineering and design industry. Unlike Fusion 360, Onshape is entirely web-based, which means that users do not need to download or install any software on their local machine. Instead, they can access the tool through a web browser from any device with an internet connection.
One of the key advantages of a cloud-based tool like Onshape is that it enables real-time collaboration between team members. Multiple users can work on the same design simultaneously and track changes made by others in real-time. This feature makes Onshape an ideal tool for remote teams and distributed design projects.
Onshape offers a range of design tools similar to those in Fusion 360, including sketching, surface modeling, and assemblies. However, Onshape does not have advanced features like sheet metal design or simulation capabilities. The tool’s focus is on collaboration and accessibility, making it easy for users to work on designs from anywhere with an internet connection.
Like Fusion 360, Onshape uses parametric modeling to create designs. Users can define and manipulate parameters to create 3D models and make changes to the design quickly. Onshape also offers version control features that allow users to track changes made to the design over time and revert to previous versions if necessary.
Another significant advantage of Onshape is that it offers a range of integrations with other tools and services commonly used in the design and engineering industry. For example, users can integrate Onshape with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, and other software applications to streamline the product development process.
Comparing the Features of Fusion and Onshape
Price
Fusion 360 offers a free version for non-commercial use and is relatively cheaper than Onshape, making it the winner in terms of price. The free version of Fusion 360 is particularly attractive for hobbyists, students, and small businesses with limited budgets.
Learning Curve
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape require practice and training to master, but they have taken different approaches to their online learning. Fusion 360 offers a comprehensive library of online tutorials and a structured learning path, while Onshape provides a community-driven learning platform with user-generated content. The article considers it a tie regarding the learning curve but notes that Onshape is more geared towards advanced features and experienced users.
User Interface
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape have a simple and intuitive user interface with contextual menus, making it easy to navigate and use the software. As a result, the comparison is a tie in terms of the user interface.
Cloud Service
Fusion 360 is the winner in terms of cloud service because it offers an offline mode, which allows users to work without an internet connection. Onshape, on the other hand, requires a constant internet connection to work.
Modeling
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape are capable of producing high-quality 3D models and designs, and it’s a tie in terms of modeling capabilities.
Help & Support
Fusion 360 and Onshape offer similar help and support options, such as community forums, online documentation, and email support. However, the article notes that Fusion 360’s in-app help menu is considered more helpful, giving it a slight edge over Onshape in this category.
Materials Library
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape can simulate all biological material quantities and allow customization, making it a tie in terms of materials library.
Standard Parts Library
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape offer a library of standard parts, such as nuts, bolts, and bearings, which can save time and streamline the design process. As a result, the comparison is a tie in terms of the standard parts library.
Animation
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape are capable of simulating mechanical motion, allowing designers to visualize how their designs will move and interact with the environment. As a result, it’s a tie in terms of animation capabilities.
Stress Simulation
Fusion 360 is the winner in terms of stress simulation capabilities as it has built-in simulation tools that can analyze and test the strength of parts and assemblies. Onshape, on the other hand, requires an additional fee to use stress simulation apps from their app store.
Winner: Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is the winner in this comparison for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a free version for non-commercial use, making it more accessible for hobbyists and startups. Additionally, Fusion 360 has a built-in stress simulation capability, a valuable feature for engineers designing mechanical parts and assemblies. Onshape, however, requires an additional fee to use stress simulation apps from their app store. Another key advantage of Fusion 360 is its offline mode, which allows users to work on their designs without an internet connection. This is particularly important for those who may not always have access to reliable internet service. Finally, while both Fusion 360 and Onshape have similar user interfaces and learning curves, Fusion 360’s in-app help menu is considered more helpful by users. While both software programs have their strengths, Fusion 360 comes ahead in this comparison due to its affordability, stress simulation capabilities, offline mode, and user-friendly help menu.
Conclusion
Both Fusion 360 and Onshape have their respective strengths and weaknesses, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Summary
Fusion 360 and Onshape are two popular computer-aided design (CAD) software used for 3D modeling and product design. Fusion 360, developed by Autodesk, is a comprehensive CAD/CAM software that offers features such as parametric modeling, simulation, and rendering. It is widely used in industries such as engineering, manufacturing, and product design. Fusion 360 is also known for its collaborative features, allowing teams to work together on the same design in real time. Onshape, on the other hand, is a cloud-based CAD software that emphasizes collaboration and accessibility. It is entirely web-based, so it requires no installation or downloads, and it can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. Onshape’s features include parametric modeling, version control, and real-time collaboration. Both software has their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the specific needs of the user or organization. However, Fusion 360 may be better suited for larger teams and more complex projects, while Onshape may be more accessible and user-friendly for smaller teams or individual users.