5 differences Fusion 360 vs SketchUp, Which is Better? – The Fusion 360 vs SketchUp choice isn’t an easy one, as they’re both great planneds. Read on to compare and decide which is best for you!
Table of Contents
5 differences Fusion 360 vs SketchUp, Which is Better?
Before discussing the two further, let’s look at the story of the two programs first, namely Fusion 360 vs SketchUp and determine which is better between Fusion 360 vs SketchUp
A Tale of Two Programs
The world of 3D simulate application is vast and diverse. And while Fusion 360 and SketchUp might not be the most traditional options, they sure are popular.
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD tool that combinings parametric, direct, and surface modeling implements all into one planned. Yet, it also raises functionalities besides 3D layout as core aspects, including manufacturing( CAM ), yielding, simulation, 2D sucking, and even 3D publishing application. This versatility has made Fusion very popular with beginners and professionals alike.
SketchUp, in oppose, concentrating on 3D modeling realise simple. Its clean UI and intuitive toolset provide a fast-paced learning environment for non-CAD consumers. Its easy of use, however, is not at the expense of functionality: SketchUp is a particularly capable tool, and third-party plug-ins and propagations supply additional tools for more complex modeling or improved usability. The platforms a popular choice among designers and interior designers.
These planneds might glance the opposite at a first glance, but they do overlap in many works. Lets find out more about each one and better understand their differences.
UI& Layout
First thing, let’s talk about overhead layout. Both Fusion 360 and SketchUp have a different seek though they both have the same function. Fusion 360′ s layout resembles traditional 3D CAD and for SketchUp is user friendly.
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 s user interface resembles traditional 3D CAD layouts: a grid structure, different attitude modes, responsibility indices, scheme record, and a classic ribbon-style toolbar.
The design workspace implements are organized in different invoices, namely Solid, Surface, Sheet Metal, and Tools. Each invoice braces its own toolbar with specific features, giving the use of large-hearted icons without accommodation screen space.
Finally, right-clicking the design background brings out a waft menu that displays a few basic tools, recently expended aspects, and favorite tools.
SketchUp
In comparison, SketchUps layout is action much simpler. All buttons are contained in the top toolbar, with the most popular implements displayed in bigger icons. Some tools, upon selection, launch pop-up floating windows with added adjusts and options.
All implements, windows, and belief modes can be accessed via the dropdown menu at the top. Besides toolbar customizations, theres nothing more the user can do with regard to the UI and layout. Its this kind of simplicity and straightforwardness that performs SketchUp particularly user-friendly.
Prices& Licensing
The second, lets talk about cost. Both Fusion 360 and SketchUp have different licensing options, straddling from free to monthly charged licenses.
Fusion 360
- Personal license: Free for personal and non-commercial gives, but with limited functionality. As per recent changes, useds are limited to 10 active papers, and access to the simulation workspace has been restricted.
- Educational license: Free for students and professors for up to three years. Its a full form with all workspaces and functionalities available.
- Startup license: Free for startup corporations less than three years old with 10 or fewer hires. Additionally, the company must earn less than $100,000 in annual revenue and be willing to share success narratives about their exert of Fusion 360 with Autodesk.
- Full license: Up to ~$ 60/ month or ~$ 500/ time. This permission generates be made available to all workspaces, though cloud-credits must be purchased for cloud-computing assistances if needed.
SketchUp
- SketchUp Free: Free for non-commercial uses with 10 GB of shadow storage and restricted access to tools. Customers on this plan only have access to the web-based version.
- SketchUp Shop: ~$ 120/ time for a web-based version with limitless shadow storage and more implements in comparison with the free copy. Further, theres no watermark on exported designs.
- SketchUp Pro: ~$ 300/ time for the desktop and web-based versions. This scheme comes with a 2D documentation application( LayOut ), livings, and advanced pieces. Plug-ins and increases are also available.
- SketchUp Studio: ~$ 1,200/ year (~$ 55/ time for both students and coaches) for the desktop and web-based versions. All peculiarities are available including boosted building layout implements and augmented actuality apps.
Features & Functions
Although Fusion 360 is well known for its different functionalities and modules, for the sake of comparison, well focus only on the overlapping capabilities of the two programs. These are primarily related to design: 2D enlist, 3D modeling, and interpreting. The features and functions discussed here are associated with the full versions of each software.
Read : Top 7 Key Steps to Rendering Exteriors with Vray for SketchUp
Fusion 360
- Cloud storage: All jobs are automatically stored in the vapour. Fusion 360, nonetheless, stops emulates locally so theyre accessible offline. All activities can be viewed, shared, and finagled instantly on a web browser via the A360 online platform or through mobile apps for iOS and Android.
- Rendering: Fusion 360 has strong built-in implements capable of incredible photorealistic makes. An entire workspace is dedicated to this feature, which includes cloud-rendering services for quick and painless background processing of variou images.
- 2D drawing: With a focus on documentation and manufacturing, Fusion 360 s 2D drafting workspace volunteers an array of tools for technological sucks of sides, constituents, and assemblies. Pulls is gonna be exported in PDF, DWG, and DXF file formats.
- Plug-ins and postponements: Autodesk maintains an app place with hundreds of official and third-party plug-ins for Fusion 360. There are many different extensions available, straddling from 3D pattern tools to interface plug-ins and even 3D print employments. Most plug-ins are free, though some merely affair with a full license.
- Familiarity: User familiar with CAD tools will feel at home in Fusion 360. Individual implements and peculiarities are in accordance with other software, carrying their legacy reputation for instantaneous approval. Visual navigation shortcuts like pan, zoom, and path are also standard to other CAD tools.
- Collaboration: Fusion 360 is cabled up to encourage and enhance collaboration. Assignments can be shared and worked on together by virtual squads via the mas, and Fusion 360 does a great job of tracking reforms with exhaustive explanation dominance and easy enter management.
SketchUp
- Cloud storage: Each activity is required to be manually uploaded to the Trimble Connect platform, otherwise they will only be stored locally on the subscribers machine. Cloud-stored projects can be worked on via SketchUps web-based application and too examined through different maneuvers including mobile ones.
- Rendering: SketchUp has no native rendering tools, but theres a great number of plug-ins and postponements that can be added, including popular photorealistic devices like V-ray and Lumion. A handful of free interpreting expansions are too available with different capabilities.
- 2D drawing: SketchUp itself is 3D merely, but the Pro and Studio accounts come with a separate program called LayOut where all 2D draft is done. Both software tools are very well integrated, and any changes in 3D models can be applied to the 2D moves at a clink of a button.
- Plug-ins and expansions: Theres a massive number of plug-ins for SketchUp available from various sources. The Extension Warehouse is the official Trimble plug-in repository, but SketchUcation is also very popular in the user community.
- Model repository: In addition to the plug-in repository, Trimble likewise maintains a monstrou 3D pattern storehouse known as 3D Warehouse. In addition to user contributions, official firebrands also affix 3D representations of their products, including furniture, decoration items, and interior finishings.
- Web-based account: Campaigns and documents can be accessed and revised on the fly via the SketchUp for Web application. All thats expected is an internet connection and a compatible web browser( Chrome 59+, Firefox 52+, or Microsoft Edge 84+ ). The registers can be accessed via Trimble Connects cloud.
Use Cases& Applications
Fusion 360
- Use specimen: There are plenty of case studies at Autodesk, including a project by the world-famous designer and architect Philippe Starck who procreated a weight-optimized chair working Fusion 360 s designing implements. On the more manufacturer back, Nikodem Bartnik formed a DIY Dremel CNC machine exercising Fusion 360; the design enters are available on Thingiverse.
- Applications: The versatility provided by Fusion clears it a suitable tool for a number of applications. Generally speaking, its focus on mechanical parts and product creation including small-batch manufacturing shapes it a excellent implement for small businesses, freelancers, and makers.
Sketchup
- Use occurrences: SketchUp user Aaron Dietzen designed a wooden deck for his own residence working exclusively this software. He documented the entire process and posted pictures of the finished floor. On a grander proportion, the biological science company Aldevron relied heavily on SketchUp for creating internal rooms during the development of their new 14 -acre campus.
- Applications: The program is used primarily by the AEC( building, engineering, and construction) industry. Most implements and features, like 3D Warehouse, are aimed at supporting such professionals. Its user-friendliness is also very attractive to woodworkers, creators, and producers in general.
Support
Both Fusion 360 and SketchUp have official supporter and learning platforms for their users. Being favourite application, they likewise boast a very active user community for everyone looking for troubleshooting tips, 3D models, or even to connect with fellow users.
Fusion 360
- Official support: Autodesk offers thorough official documentation and tutorials. In addition, Autodesk Design Academy is a platform for online courses focused mainly on Fusion 360 and all of its different modules. Most tracks are certifiable.
- Community: The official user community meeting, which is managed by Autodesk employees, is very accept and useful. There are hundreds of online directions and tutorials on YouTube and learning pulpits like Udemy. GrabCAD is a great place for getting 3D sits, as Fusion 360 is compatible with most 3D CAD formats out there.
SketchUp
- Official support: Compared to Fusion, the company support provided by Trimble is equally exhaustive: beginning stairs, tips-off, tutorials, troubleshooting, and blogs. The SketchUp Campus platform offers official online directions for all user heights with records in over 100 different languages.
- Community: SketchUp has a strong user community modelled around enhancing the software via plug-ins and increases. Third-party pulpits like the aforementioned SketchUcation are also great sources of informal substantiate and learning. Lastly, the subscribers can share or download compatible 3D simulates from the 3D Warehouse platform.
Are there alternatives to both Fusion 360 and SketchUp?
If you want to make sure that Fusion 360 or SketchUp is the best for you, then you should consider these programs.
- SelfCAD has a free version that offers you everything you need to design a 3D modeling and print it. You can create involved intends while working with an intuitive user interface. You can also save term exploiting generators, so you don’t have to intend everything from scratch.
- TinkerCAD is excellent for fledglings. It comes from Autodesk, and it allows you to create easy designs right on your browser. TinkerCAD exploits a lag and put user interface that realizes it easier for even CAD amateurs to create simple 3D models.
- LibreCAD is an option if you do 2D pose. This open-source software has a good determined of an instrument for 2D framework start and has a thriving user community.
Your Frequently-Asked Questions
In this section, let’s answer the questions we usually get from our readers.
Question: What is CAD, anyway?
Answer: Computer-aided design is when your computer helps you to create the design that you have in mind. It’s used in a wide range of manufactures, allowing you to create simulations in the piece province to envisage new ideas that you have quickly.
Computers will help you create a model that gives you an idea of how tall or wide a particular objective is. CAD also allows you to see the details of your motif and even gives you the chance to improve your design projects, such as trying weak point in your pattern or acquiring it more efficient, lightweight, or stronger.
Read : 3 Tips to Increase Photorealism Renderings using Vray
More importantly, CAD allows you to bring your design ideas to life. Once you have your layouts created in CAD software, you can open it in CAM software to help you know just how to impel prototypes of your design.
Question: How easy is it to learn to a CAD software?
Answer: You might think it’s challenging to get familiar with and use CAD software, but it’s not. CAD software may be very technical, and it will require a lot of acquaintance for you to use it properly, but it’s enjoyable to learn.
Various makes have been stirring CAD software more instinctive and easy to learn. Plus, these companies have been busy at work coming up with seminars and documentation that will allow users to learn independently. If you have a particular feature that stumps you, you can get videos that educate you how to master them.
Final Thoughts
Throughout this article, weve pictured how these two incredible curricula overlap in some lotions while being developed with different points in mind.
Fusion 360 is a full-fledged CAD software with functionalities that go beyond 3D modeling. It makes the tools required for precise 3D design and all the technical documentation that follows. The collaborative functionality of the programme stimulates grandiose programmes, with Autodesk rendering the majority of members of the carry that might be required.
SketchUp, on the other hand, is geared towards the non-CAD user, offering intuitive design implements and attractive interfaces for 3D simulate amateurs. The ascertain swerve is shallow, yet robust boasts patronage major projects in design and interior design. The active user community and the impressive number of plug-ins and postponements play an important role in SketchUp as well.
In the end, the choice between Fusion 360 and SketchUp might come down to the final goals to be achieved and how suffered the user is with 3D modeling.
Do you know which is better between Fusion 360 vs SketchUp? If you did, give me a quick backup and let me know which implementation you’ve decided on in the comments below.
