When it comes to 3D modeling software, there are a lot of options available in the market. However, two of the most popular ones are SelfCAD and Fusion 360. Both of these tools offer advanced features and capabilities that cater to the needs of professionals and beginners alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at SelfCAD and Fusion 360 and compare their features, pricing, and ease of use to help you decide which one best fits your needs.
nnnnWhat is SelCAD?
nnnnSelfCAD is a cloud-based 3D modeling software designed to be user-friendly and easy to use. It is an all-in-one solution that offers a wide range of tools and features for 3D modeling, sculpting, slicing, and printing. With SelfCAD, users can create complex 3D models using a simple and intuitive interface that requires no prior experience.
nnnnOne of the standout features of SelfCAD is its built-in slicing and printing capabilities. This allows users to prepare their models for 3D printing without needing external software. Additionally, SelfCAD offers a library of pre-built models that users can modify and customize to their liking.
nnnnBefore looking into Fusion 360, let’s look at some of the SelfCAD features that allow you to make easy 3D models in less time.
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- Bend tool n
Bend is a fundamental tool for manipulating shapes in SelfCAD. You can access it in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool allows you to bend selected figures or specific regions by curving them sideways.
nnnnThe Deform category in SelfCAD is distinct because its tools depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution results in smoother and more detailed deformations. Additionally, you can customize the Bend tool using Advanced Settings like the Plane, Dynamic Origin, and Individual transformation.
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- Twist Tool n
Twist is a primary tool for altering shapes in SelfCAD. It can be found in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by rotating them along the axes, as the name implies.
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- Taper Tool n
Taper is a fundamental tool for modifying shapes in SelfCAD. It can be located in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. As implied by its name, this tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by narrowing their sides.
nnnnThe Deform category in SelfCAD is distinctive as its tools heavily depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution leads to a smoother and more detailed deformation. Furthermore, you can enhance the customization of the Taper tool with Advanced Settings like the Origin and Individual transformation.
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- Skew Tool n
Skew is a fundamental tool for altering shapes in SelfCAD. It can be found in the main Toolbar under the Deform section. This tool enables the deformation of selected figures or specific regions by tilting them to the sides, as indicated by its name.
nnnnThe Deform category in SelfCAD is distinctive because its tools heavily depend on the level of detail in the objects. Increasing the Resolution results in a smoother and more detailed deformation. You can customize the Skew tool using Advanced Settings like the Origin and the Minimum Step Size.
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- Scale Tool n
Scale is a fundamental tool for modifying objects in SelfCAD. It can be located in the main Toolbar, positioned alongside the Rotate tool. Just as the name indicates, this tool enables you to resize selected objects or specific regions of an object. However, there’s more to it! You can further personalize the Scale tool to suit your objectives by utilizing Advanced Settings such as Symmetry and Keep Proportion.
nnnnSelfCAD is a cloud-based software, which means you can access your projects and work on them from any device with an internet connection. This feature enables collaboration and sharing of designs with others, making it convenient for teams or remote workers.This Online CAD Software supports parametric modeling, which allows users to create designs with parameters and modify them later by adjusting those parameters
nnnnWhat is Fusion 360?
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Fusion 360: Image Source: youtube.com
nnnnFusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM tool offering advanced design, engineering, and manufacturing features. It is primarily aimed at professionals and provides a wide range of tools and features for 3D modeling, simulation, and collaboration. Fusion 360 allows users to create complex designs and assemblies and simulate real-world conditions to test their functionality.
nnnnFusion 360 also offers advanced CAM capabilities, which allow users to generate toolpaths for CNC machines and 3D printers. Additionally, it provides various collaboration tools, including version control and real-time design review.
nnnnSimilarities Between SelfCAD and Fusion 360
nnnn1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:
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- Both SelfCAD and Fusion 360 are compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. However, SelfCAD can also run on Linux. nnnn
- For optimal performance, SelfCAD and Fusion 360 require a 64-bit processor and a graphics card with at least 2GB of VRAM. nnnn
- SelfCAD and Fusion 360 both recommend at least 8GB of RAM. nnnn
- Hard drive space requirements are similar, with both programs needing at least 3GB of free disk space. n
2. Cost/Licenses:
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- Cost: The cost of both SelfCAD and Fusion 360 varies depending on the subscription plan chosen. SelfCAD offers three plans – Basic, Professional, and Premium, with prices ranging from $14.99 to $39.99 per month. On the other hand, Fusion 360 offers two plans – Standard and Ultimate, with prices ranging from $495 to $1,895 per year. nnnn
- Licensing: SelfCAD and Fusion 360 use cloud-based licensing, which allows users to access the software from anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection. This also means that users do not have to worry about hardware compatibility or installation issues. n
3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:
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- Both programs have intuitive interfaces that are easy to navigate, even for beginners. The menus and toolbars are well-organized and labeled, and plenty of helpful tooltips and pop-ups guide users through the various features and functions. nnnn
- Both programs offer a variety of views and perspectives for designing and modeling 3D objects, including front, back, top, bottom, left, right, and isometric views. This makes it easier to get a comprehensive understanding of the design and make necessary adjustments. nnnn
- SelfCAD and Fusion 360 offer a wide range of design tools and features. These include tools for sketching, extruding, revolving, sweeping, lofting, and more. nnnn
- These programs allow users to import and export files in a variety of formats, including STL, OBJ, and STEP. nnnn
- SelfCAD and Fusion 360 provide users with access to a robust library of pre-built shapes, objects, and templates, which can be customized and modified to suit their specific needs. n
4. Learning Curve:
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- SelfCAD and Fusion 360 are designed to be user-friendly and accessible, even for beginners who have little to no experience with CAD software. nnnn
- SelfCAD has a slightly steeper learning curve than Fusion 360 because it is a more comprehensive software program offering a wider range of tools and features. nnnn
- Fusion 360 focuses more on engineering and product design, while SelfCAD is geared more toward artistic and creative projects. This means that the learning curve for each program may vary depending on the user’s specific needs and goals. n
5. Customer Support:
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- Knowledge Base: SelfCAD and Fusion 360 offer a robust knowledge base with tutorials, how-to guides, and FAQs to help users get the most out of their software. nnnn
- Community Forums: SelfCAD and Fusion 360 have active user communities where users can ask questions, share tips and tricks, and connect with other designers. nnnn
- Email Support: Both software programs offer email support to users with questions or technical issues that must be resolved. nnnn
- Live Chat: SelfCAD and Fusion 360 provide live chat support to users who prefer real-time assistance. nnnn
- Phone Support: While phone support is not available for SelfCAD, it is available for Fusion 360 users who require immediate assistance. n
Differences Between SelfCAD and Fusion 360
nnnn1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:
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- Operating Systems: SelfCAD is a web-based software that can be accessed through any web browser, regardless of the operating system. This means it can be used on any device with an internet connection, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. On the other hand, Fusion 360 is a desktop application designed to work specifically with Windows and Mac operating systems. nnnn
- System Requirements: SelfCAD has minimal system requirements and can be used on most devices, including low-end computers and laptops. It requires a modern web browser, such as Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, and an internet connection. In contrast, Fusion 360 has higher system requirements and requires a more powerful computer. It requires a 64-bit processor, at least 8 GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card. nnnn
- SelfCAD and Fusion 360 differ in operating systems and system requirements. SelfCAD is a web-based software that can be accessed through any web browser, while Fusion 360 is a desktop application designed specifically for Windows and Mac operating systems. n
2. Cost/Licenses:
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- SelfCAD offers a subscription-based pricing model, with monthly plans starting at $14.99 for the basic plan. Annual plans are also available at discounted rates, making it a more affordable option for users who want to save money in the long run. nnnn
- On the other hand, Fusion 360 offers a more complex pricing structure. While it is free for hobbyists and startups with revenue below $100k, it can cost up to $1,635 per year for larger businesses. The pricing can also vary depending on the features and add-ons the user requires. nnnn
- SelfCAD also offers a free 30-day trial, which allows users to test the software and decide if it is right for them. Fusion 360, on the other hand, does not offer a free trial, which can be a drawback for users who want to try it before they buy. nnnn
- Fusion 360, conversely, is more geared toward professional users who require advanced features for their designs. As such, it may not be the best option for hobbyists or beginners who do not need all the advanced features offered by the software. n
3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:
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- User-Friendliness: SelfCAD has a simpler interface and is more beginner-friendly than Fusion 360. It offers easy-to-use tools and a user-friendly interface, making it easier for beginners to get started. Fusion 360, on the other hand, has a more complex interface and a steeper learning curve, which may not be as suitable for beginners. nnnn
- Overview of the Interface: SelfCAD has a straightforward interface that is easy to navigate, with all the necessary tools accessible from the main dashboard. The program also has a comprehensive tutorial system, making it easy for beginners to learn the ropes. Fusion 360, on the other hand, has a more complex interface with a range of tools that can be overwhelming for beginners. However, once you get the hang of it, it offers a more powerful and advanced set of tools. n
4. Learning Curve:
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- SelfCAD is designed to be user-friendly and easy to learn, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Its interface is intuitive, and the software comes with a range of tutorial videos and online resources to help users get started. nnnn
- Fusion 360, on the other hand, is a more complex software that requires a higher level of skill and experience to use effectively. It has a steeper learning curve than SelfCAD, and users may need to spend more time learning how to use its advanced features. nnnn
- However, once users become familiar with Fusion 360, they can access a range of advanced features not available in SelfCAD. These features include advanced simulation tools, CAM functionality, and cloud-based collaboration tools. n
5. Customer Support:
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- SelfCAD offers a comprehensive knowledge base with detailed articles and tutorials to help users navigate the software. The company also provides email support for any questions or issues users may encounter. nnnn
- Fusion 360 offers a similar knowledge base but provides access to a community forum where users can ask questions and get answers from others. In addition, they offer phone support for technical issues. n
Design Efficiently With The Right 3D Modeling Software
nnnnBoth SelfCAD and Fusion 360 are excellent 3D modeling software options that offer a range of tools and capabilities for different levels of experience and needs. It is essential to carefully evaluate your specific requirements and choose the software that best suits your needs and budget. With the right 3D modeling software, you can take your creative projects to the next level. To choose the best one for your needs, it is crucial to consider factors such as price, ease of use, compatibility with other programs, and customer support. Additionally, you must evaluate what type of 3D models you will create and what output you need from the software. Considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision about which 3D modeling software is best for your project.
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