On the other hand, users are a very non-homogeneous group. Think of Fusion 360 as a massive pile of features. It performs work in multiple domains and disciplines, and it is extremely unlikely there is anyone who uses literally all of the product’s numerous features. Let’s look at this objectively and see what’s really going on.Īutodesk Fusion 360 is an extremely powerful product, with probably thousands of features. There’s plenty of chatter on the internets about this, suggesting that Autodesk is putting a squeeze on users, and in many respects they are doing so.

Unlimited active and editable Fusion 360 documents (10 doc limit).Īnalyzing Fusion 360 For Personal Use Limitations.

Export options including F3Z, DWG, DXF, IGES, SAT, and STEP.

Download options from public share links.

Multi-sheets, smart templates, output options for drawings (print only).

Probing, 3 + 2-axis milling (tool orientation), multi-axis milling, rapid moves, automatic tool changes.

The features being dropped from the free tier are:

Cloud Storage – Maximum of 10 active documentsĪutodesk also says free tier users will be able to download files in IGES, SAT, STEP format until January 19th, 2021.

Local File Export – STL, OBJ, F3D, F3Z, IPT, FBX, SMT, SKP, DXF-(from sketch)*.

Manufacturing – 2.5 axis milling & 3 axis milling, turning, FFF additive, fabrication.

Electronics – 2 schematics, 2 layers, 80cm2 board area.Design – Standard design and 3D modeling tools.Alternatively, few use SOLIDWORKS due to its tremendous costs, and the free, open source tool Blender is not as popular as you might think either, as its design doesn’t provide as easy a means to design mechanical parts. It’s very common to see someone using Fusion 360 to design gadgets or other items in these environments.

This program was well received by many hobbyist makers and those who inhabit makerspaces worldwide. “Qualifying” means an individual is using the tool for non-profit, personal use, and you must apply to be accepted into the program, and re-qualify annually. There’s also a large online community providing answers to common questions.įusion 360 For Personal Use is offered on annual basis to qualifying individuals.

There are plenty of low-cost or even free 3D design tools, but few are as accessible as Fusion 360, which provides an easy-to-use interface and plenty of online tutorials to help you get going. That popularity rose to another level when Autodesk offered a free tier, called “Fusion 360 For Personal Use”, where almost anyone could use a somewhat restricted version of the powerful 3D design tool.

Autodesk fusion hobbyist