SolidWorks suits engineering teams that want an established desktop 3D CAD system on Windows, with simulation, data management and manufacturing tools around it and a community of more than 8 million users. Fusion 360 suits makers, startups and small teams that want cloud-based 3D CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB design in one product, with a free version for personal, non-commercial projects. If you're on a Mac or want everything in one cloud tool, look at Fusion first.
Both are serious 3D CAD tools for product design, so the choice comes down to platform, licensing and how much sits in one package. I read SolidWorks' home, how-to-buy and system requirements pages, and Autodesk's Fusion overview and personal-use comparison pages.
SolidWorks and Fusion 360 compared
| SolidWorks | Fusion 360 | |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Dassault Systemes | Autodesk |
| Where it runs | Windows 11 and Windows 10, 64-bit | Cloud-based software |
| Mac users | eDrawings viewer for Mac | Cloud-based, so not tied to Windows |
| Scope | CAD plus Simulation, PDM, ECAD, DraftSight | 3D CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB |
| Ways to buy | Yearly, quarterly or perpetual via resellers | Plans with a free trial |
| Free option | Startup program for eligible startups | Free personal-use version |
| Community | More than 8 million users | Forum support on personal use |
The fine print on free and personal use
Autodesk's free personal-use version of Fusion comes with strict terms. It's for personal, non-commercial projects only, and not for use in primary employment, company environments or commercial training. It also limits CAM, electronics and PCB design, 2D drawings and import and export file types, keeps data management to a single user and offers forum support only.
SolidWorks doesn't list a free version, but its how-to-buy page says eligible startups can get free access to SolidWorks Design solutions through its startups program, and businesses buying online get a 15-day money back policy.
Why engineers choose SolidWorks
In many engineering teams, SolidWorks is the long-standing desktop standard. Its portfolio covers CAD, Simulation, Data Management, ECAD and DraftSight for 2D, and reseller partners add PDM, Simulation and Manufacturing solutions with setup support. You can buy yearly, quarterly or perpetual licences, which matters to firms that prefer to own a licence rather than rent it.
Why makers and startups choose Fusion 360
Fusion 360 puts design and manufacturing in one cloud tool. Autodesk sells it as 3D CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB software, so one person can model a part, simulate it, plan the machining and design the circuit board without switching products. Because it's cloud-based, it isn't tied to a Windows workstation the way SolidWorks is.
Before you commit to a CAD system
- Check your operating system: SolidWorks needs Windows for the full application.
- Decide whether you want to own a perpetual licence or subscribe.
- List the jobs beyond modelling: simulation, CAM, PCB or data management.
- If you'd use the free Fusion version, confirm your project is non-commercial.
- Ask your manufacturer or clients which file formats they expect.
If you're exploring quicker routes to 3D, see where to make 3D models with AI for free, and this look at 3D rendering trends covers visualisation.
Options for students and makers
SolidWorks' how-to-buy page lists student packages in cloud-native and desktop versions, maker offers that are cloud-native or cloud-connected, and research licences for researchers. Autodesk's route for hobbyists is Fusion's free personal-use version. If you're learning CAD rather than running a business, both companies have a way in that won't need a full commercial licence.
My advice on SolidWorks or Fusion 360
If you're joining an engineering team that already uses SolidWorks, or you need a perpetual licence, choose SolidWorks and check you have a Windows machine. If you're a startup, a maker or a small team that wants CAD, CAM and PCB in one cloud tool, start with Fusion 360's free trial. Only use the free personal version for hobby projects.
Do you make 3D CAD or product design software? Tool makers can ask to be considered for a featured place in comparisons like this one.
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Frequently asked questions
Is SolidWorks or Fusion 360 better for beginners?
Fusion 360 is often easier to start with because it's cloud-based and has a free personal-use version. SolidWorks suits teams that already work in it.
Does SolidWorks run on a Mac?
SolidWorks' system requirements list Windows 11 and Windows 10, 64-bit, for the main application. Its eDrawings viewer is available for Mac.
Is Fusion 360 free?
Autodesk offers a free, limited version for personal, non-commercial projects, plus a free trial of the full product.
Can I use free Fusion 360 for my business?
No. Autodesk says the personal-use version isn't for primary employment, company environments or commercial training.
Can I buy a perpetual SolidWorks licence?
Yes. SolidWorks says reseller partners sell yearly, quarterly or perpetual licences.
Is there free SolidWorks for startups?
SolidWorks says eligible startups can get free access to SolidWorks Design solutions through its startups program.
Does SolidWorks have student versions?
Yes. SolidWorks lists student packages in cloud-native and desktop versions.
