This is largely due to Fusion 360’s constantly online, cloud-based structure. However, it should be noted that your decision on which to get will depend on how powerful your computer is.įusion 360 only requires 2.5GB of disk space and 3-4BG RAM minimum to function, AutoCAD needs 6GB of space and a whopping 8BG RAM as a minimum, with 16GB being recommended. Neither requires any additional software to work and both are very straightforward to set up. Simply log in, select, download, and install. Installationīoth AutoCAD and Fusion 360 are extremely easy to install via the Autodesk website. To work fully as intended, Fusion 360 needs an active and fast internet connection, whereas AutoCAD can be used offline. If you’re planning on working offline, or perhaps don’t trust your internet connection, you’ll also find Fusion 360’s cloud-based functionality to be a hindrance. While AutoCAD is certainly capable of it, it’s far from the best around, so you’ll want to look elsewhere entirely if you also want to create and edit 2D models. That being said, Fusion 360 isn’t designed for 2D CAD modeling.

You’ll only really be able to use Fusion 360 to its full potential if you already have something of a background in creative design, while such credentials aren’t necessary to find good footing with AutoCAD. Neither are particularly difficult programs to wrap your head around, but that’s not to say just anyone can pick them up no problem. If you’re a veteran 3D CAD designer, you’ll be surprised and the depth and detail you can achieve even with AutoCAD’s geometrically-focused design.

However, AutoCAD’s customizable interface and variety of tools will mean that beginners will be able to get more comfortable with the software quite easily. The user interface is laid out simply and concisely, and the learning curve isn’t too steep even for total newbies.

The usability of any CAD software really depends on your experience, but when discussing AutoCAD vs Fusion 360, it also comes down to whom each one is targeted.ĭespite its more complex capabilities, Fusion 360 was generally designed to be fairly simple to grasp. Usability AutoCAD vs Fusion 360: Which is best for beginners? Simply speaking, Fusion 360’s usability gears itself more towards highly detailed, finely-tuned models, while AutoCAD serves as a somewhat standard 3D CAD software that’s useful to those with easier, less professionally-focused uses in mind. AutoCAD, on the other hand, is suitable for simpler modeling or 3D printing projects, like preparing simple statuettes or editing details on pre-made CAD files.

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