Autodesk Fusion vs. SolidWorks: Which is the Best Tool to Accelerate Product Development?

Any seasoned designer knows how complicated it is to handle a product development cycle with all its tools and moving parts. Product development often involves multiple software, where each is built for a specific phase but rarely works seamlessly together. Moving a design from concept to production requires software for design, simulation, manufacturing, and collaboration. Unfortunately, each handoff between these systems can introduce errors and slow progress.

If you find yourself stuck in this inefficient cycle, it might be time to ask yourself if your tools are helping you move faster or holding you back.

SolidWorks has long been a CAD powerhouse that design experts trust. Built on the principle of parametric design, the platform offers reliable features for experienced users who need an assembly-focused program. However, as product development evolves, so does the requirement for tools that streamline workflows, including overcoming steep learning curves for various user levels. Autodesk Fusion® is a modern solution to address these shifting design and manufacturing needs.

Autodesk Fusion is a cloud-based 3D modeling, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), and Printed Circuit Board (PCB) software platform for design and manufacturing. It is the first CAD, CAM, CAE, PCB, collaboration, and data management software developed by Autodesk that allows users to:

• create and engineer products with precise control over form, fit, and function;
  

• develop and prototype advanced electronics and PCBs; and
  

• simplify workflows to cut production time and costs while delivering quality parts quickly.
  

Here are five reasons why Autodesk Fusion could be the better choice for accelerating your path to market if you’re considering a switch for your product development team.

Work from Anywhere with a Cloud-Based Platform

Gone are the days of being tied to a desk or specific location when designing or collaborating. Autodesk Fusion’s cloud-based nature means your team can access projects anytime, anywhere.

Cloud-based software like Autodesk Fusion improves collaboration across departments or with external partners while avoiding file transfer delays and concerns about version control.

SolidWorks is a reliable choice for many teams, especially those familiar with its local installations. However, enabling cloud capabilities often requires additional software that can make collaboration more complex. Autodesk Fusion's built-in cloud features can help simplify these processes, especially for distributed teams.

Autodesk Fusion vs. SolidWorks Figure 1. Autodesk Fusion provides more intuitive capabilities and cloud-enabled collaboration

Team Collaboration Made Easy

Did you know that your team can save $33,000 per design launch when you implement cross-domain collaboration?

Autodesk Fusion excels at redefining collaboration across all stakeholders. Because it’s cloud-based, the team can work on the same file simultaneously, with all changes synced in real-time. Autodesk Fusion's all-in-one platform removes the need for multiple software programs to create a more streamlined workflow from design to production.

Teams using SolidWorks often manage files locally or rely on additional software, such as PDM (Product Data Management) systems.

One Tool for Design, Simulation, and Manufacturing

Autodesk Fusion is an all-in-one solution that integrates CAD, CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design into a single platform.

Autodesk Fusion eliminates the need for multiple software programs and simplifies the workflow from design to manufacturing.

SolidWorks is a reliable tool for many design needs, but advanced capabilities like simulation, manufacturing, or PCB design commonly require add-ons or separate software. While these add-ons provide powerful functionality, they may introduce additional steps and increase costs compared to Autodesk Fusion's integrated model.

Autodesk Fusion vs. SolidWorks Figure 2. Autodesk Fusion offers advantages in functionality and CAD integration

Modern Workflow Efficiency

SolidWorks provides powerful simulation packages and 3D modeling tools for experienced users, and its learning curve rewards those who master it. Autodesk Fusion, in contrast, features an intuitive assembly interface that is versatile and easy to use. With its intuitive design, Autodesk Fusion becomes accessible across various applications and experience levels.

Autodesk Fusion features drawing automation that generates quick and accurate drawings with minimal manual effort. The platform also features fully integrated Bills of Materials (BOM) capabilities to document, track, and review all product components.
SolidWorks, while strong in similar areas, often involves more manual effort and may require additional tools to match the efficiency level Autodesk Fusion provides.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Autodesk Fusion is designed to be accessible regardless of your operating system, be it Mac or Windows. Cross-platform functionality means fewer challenges and smoother integration for teams with mixed platforms.

SolidWorks, on the other hand, is primarily a Windows-based program. There are workarounds to get SolidWorks running on a Mac through Parallels virtual machine, but Autodesk Fusion's native cross-platform support offers a simplified option for teams with mixed operating systems.

Autodesk Fusion Delivers Modern CAD Solutions for Modern Needs

SolidWorks is a powerful tool for precise design ideal for expert users. However, if your focus is on team collaboration, speeding up time to market, and benefiting from an advanced, intuitive, and integrated design environment, Autodesk Fusion is a solid choice.

This comparison chart highlights some key features of Autodesk Fusion and SolidWorks. It helps you weigh the strengths of each tool and make an informed decision based on your product development requirements.

If you're looking for a fast, flexible CAD solution ready for the future, Autodesk Fusion might be the solution for your business.

You can take advantage of Autodesk Fusion’s cloud-based platform, all-in-one toolset, and real-time collaboration capabilities to create market-ready designs quickly and efficiently.

Hagerman & Company can help you maximize Autodesk Fusion's potential. As a trusted Autodesk partner, we offer customized solutions, training, and on-demand webcasts, as well as expert support to help you optimize your product development processes and get the most from your software investment.

"Having local support is very helpful vs. using 1-800 numbers that are outsourced. Hagerman uses industry professionals who have experience and can solve problems much faster. Global Tech Support groups do not provide the same speed."

-Robert, CAD Administrator

The future of design is fast, flexible, and limitless with Autodesk Fusion. Connect with Hagerman & Company today to maximize the potential of Autodesk Fusion for your product development.