Autodesk Fusion
autodesk.com/products/fusion-360Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
3D CAD, CAM, CAE, & PCB Cloud-Based Software
How to Replace Autodesk FusionOverview
Features
57 features across 10 categories
3D Design(9)
Create history-based features including extrude, revolve, loft, sweep that update with design changes
Assemble designs with traditional bottom-up, middle-out, or top-down approach and analyze assembly motion
Create and manage multiple design variations from a single unified parametric model
Edit or repair imported geometry from non-native file formats without worrying about time-based features
Create complex sub-divisional surfaces with T-splines and edit them with intuitive push-pull gestures
Edit and repair imported scans or mesh models, including STL and OBJ files
Design sheet metal part components and document flat patterns using 2D drawings and DXFs with cutting strategies for water jet, laser, and plasma machines
Create and edit sketches with sketch constraints, dimensions, and powerful suite of sketch tools
Create and edit complex parametric surfaces for repairing, patching, or designing geometry
AI & Optimization(4)
Simultaneously solve for various design outcomes freeing up time to focus on other tasks
Estimate production volume requirements impact on manufacturing cost based on generated design outcomes
Explore multiple manufacturing-ready outcomes that meet design specifications while reducing weight, improving performance, and consolidating parts
Review cloud-generated design outcomes based on visual similarities, plots, and filters powered by machine learning
Additive Manufacturing(4)
Connect to library of 3D printing machines including Ultimaker, EOS, and Renishaw
Toolpaths update with every design change through fully integrated manufacturing tools
Manufacture parts using FFF in seamless approach from design to print preparation with infill pattern options and automatic part orientation
Fabricate metal parts with powder bed fusion reducing material wastage with part orientation and support structures
CAM(10)
Quickly set up jobs and create 2D and 2.5D toolpaths to drive CNC routers, mills, water jet cutters, laser cutters, and more
Access powerful 3-axis machining strategies to rapidly create high-quality NC code for roughing and finishing 3D parts
Use specialized 4- and 5-axis toolpaths to achieve superior surface finish with automatic collision avoidance
Program complex feature-rich components using intelligent whole-part strategies like steep & shallow, deburr, hole recognition, and rotary
Enable 3+1 and 3+2 (positional) machining to machine parts with fewer setups using shorter, more rigid cutting tools
Free and fully editable post-processors for code generation across different CNC machines
Use spindle-mounted touch probes to measure stock material, update work offsets, monitor quality, and automate part setup
Powerful modification tools to turn good toolpaths into great ones without wasteful recalculation time
Combine milling and turning operations to generate NC code for multi-tasking hardware
Program 2D turned parts using dedicated turning strategies and verify with stock simulation
Collaboration(5)
Manage design changes with audit trails of changes, comments, and history for access control
Capture and share feedback from any device directly on the design using comments and markups
Connect teams across various departments and locations both internally and externally using single platform
Share links to preview in web browser allowing any third parties to interact with 3D model without modeling program access
Enable seamless teamwork in the same workspace for simultaneous work on same files
Data Management(6)
Use models and data from any tool directly in Autodesk Fusion design without need for translation
Access data anywhere and everywhere on any device with offline mode for continued working when not connected
Export variety of industry-standard file formats including STEP, DWG, DXF, OBJ, STL, IGES, and more
Include internal and external stakeholders in development process and manage how users interact with data
Assign permissions and grant rights to stakeholders inside or outside of organization with advanced administrative tools
Track every change and prevent conflicts with automated, built-in version management
Documentation(2)
Streamline design documentation to enable quick and precise 2D drawings from 3D models
Enable quick and precise 2D drawings with design configuration management
PCB Design(9)
Ready to use PCB library content and component wizards to stay focused on design
Stay true to manufacturing requirements with customizable design rules and Live DRC with real-time constraint violation detection
Remove excess heat within enclosures to prevent damage to internal components
Ensure PCB fits first time with the only genuinely unified MCAD to ECAD software allowing collaboration between electronic and mechanical engineers
Bi-directional synchronization between PCB and schematic maintaining design integrity and consistency
PCB editor with complete set of layout tools for even dense board layouts
Generate gerbers, drill files, and assembly files with a click of a button
Complete set of schematic tools with access to thousands of components and custom attribute assignments
Fully functional SPICE simulation to ensure accuracy and get schematics right the first time
Simulation(7)
Predict unexpected failure modes for slender members under compression
Use cloud simulation eliminating need for expensive hardware and setting up multiple studies for FEA insights
Compare up to four different design iterations side by side in compare workspace
Use finite element analysis to avoid unwanted resonance and improve designs
Analyze permanent deformations and nonlinear materials behavior
Static simulations to determine effects of static loads on individual parts or assemblies
Determine temperature distributions and heat flow using conduction, convection, and radiation
Visualization(1)
Create photo-realistic images of models leveraging local or cloud rendering
Pricing
Autodesk Fusion
- ✓Fully integrated CAD/CAM
- ✓Real-time team collaboration
- ✓PCB design + electromechanical integration
- ✓Drawing automation & design configuration
Autodesk Fusion for Manufacturing
- ✓All Fusion features
- ✓2D to full 5-axis machining
- ✓Intelligent toolpathing for milling, turning, and turn-mill
- ✓Automated CAM programming
- ✓In-process part inspection + probing
- ✓Free and fully editable post-processors
- ✓Integrated CAD + CAM
- ✓Scalable workflows for prototyping through production
Autodesk Fusion for Design
- ✓All Fusion features
- ✓11 advanced simulation studies
- ✓Generative design
- ✓Advanced surfacing and mesh tools
- ✓Plastic, sheet metal, and DFM tools
- ✓Integrated data management and PLM
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying Autodesk Fusion
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 57 features at very easy complexity.
Build vs Buy
Should you build a Autodesk Fusion alternative or buy the subscription? Estimate based on 57 features.
Buy Autodesk Fusion
Better ValueBuild Your Own
Buying Autodesk Fusion saves ~$34,920 over 3 years vs building.
Estimates based on 57 features and a BuildScore of 5/5. Actual costs vary.
Integrations
4 known integrations