When comparing Shapr3D and Fusion 360, the former shines for hobbyists and professionals seeking an intuitive, iPad-centric design experience with extensive exporting options. By contrast, Fusion 360, more affordable yet feature-rich, integrates CAD, CAM, and CAE offerings, making it the optimal choice for SMEs demanding a holistic suite within competitive pricing.
Key Differences Between Shapr3D and Fusion 360
Shapr3D runs natively on Apple Pro Products, while Fusion 360 supports multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Fusion 360 provides a comprehensive suite integrating CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB design. On the other hand, Shapr3D is a CAD modeling app focusing on an easy and efficient sketch to model process.
Shapr3D leans towards a more user-friendly, intuitive design interface. Fusion 360, however, excels with sophisticated features like realistic rendering and advanced 2D & 3D designing.
Regarding price, while both offer subscription models, Fusion 360 is more affordable with annual subscription of $545 compared to Shapr3D’s annual fee starting from $239.
Comparison
Shapr3D
Fusion360
User Interface
Adaptive UI, Sketch process simplified
Integrated software for universal design practices
Operating System
Runs natively on Apple Pro Products
Windows, macOS, Web Browser, Android, iOS
Industry Cluster
Makers, hobbyists, 3D designers, mechanical and industrial engineers
Fields like electronics, aesthetic design, architecture
Highly rated for useful features, ease of use in mechanical design
What Is Shapr3D and Who’s It For?
Shapr3D is a 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) modeling app, designed specifically to run natively on Apple Pro Products. It’s powered by the geometric Parasolid modeling kernel from Siemens and D-Cubed sketch engine, guaranteeing precision and efficiency.
With a spectrum of support for varied export formats, it serves as an agile tool for ‘makers’ and hobbyists with 3D printers, professional 3D designers, mechanical engineers, and industrial designers who wish to transition smoothly from sketch to model.
Pros of Shapr3D
Adaptive UI for accurate models
Export options are extensive
Data is easily transferable
Highly-rated with 4.8 stars out of 5 on the Apple store.
Cons of Shapr3D
Disparity in features between free and subscription versions
Only natively supported on Apple Pro Products.
What Is Fusion360 and Who’s It For?
Fusion360 is a cloud-based collaborative platform developed by Autodesk. It’s a comprehensive tool combining CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB design, servicing industries ranging from electronics and aesthetics to architecture since its launch in 2013.
It’s the go-to solution for SMEs, offering a competitive and integrated platform with affordable subscription plans. The tool facilitates when it comes to advanced 2D and 3D designing, PCB layouts and simulation.
Pros of Fusion360
Affordability paired with rich feature sets
Integrated electronics for MCAD and ECAD co-designing
Strong online learning resources
Regular feature updates.
Cons of Fusion360
Potential malware risks
Lack of personal keyboard controls
No web-based standalone version
Shapr3D vs Fusion 360: Pricing
Despite Shapr3D being priced at nearly half the cost of Fusion 360’s annual subscription, both offer various subscription tiers catering to different user needs.
Shapr3D
Shapr3D presents an enticing pricing choice for 3D modelling enthusiasts and professionals alike. The cost of an annual subscription is approximately half that of Fusion 360, making it a more affordable choice. Subscription plans provide a range between a free version and a $239 per year package, thereby allowing users to select a plan that best aligns with their requirements and budget.
Fusion 360
Annual cost for Fusion 360 is priced at $545, or users have the option to choose the monthly billing option of $70/month, providing flexibility to adapt to changing needs. To top it off, a limited version is available for home use quite affordably. Though it’s a pricier alternative to Shapr3D, its advanced, integrated features, backed by the powerful Autodesk platform offers substantial value, particularly attractive to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Shapr3D or Fusion 360: The Big Reveal
As we tread on the fine line drawn between Shapr3D and Fusion 360, here lies our expert verdict customized for specific user groups based on thorough technical assessment.
Solo Enthusiasts and Hobbyists
For you with a knack for 3D printing and independent modeling, we give a thumbs-up to Shapr3D. Its easy sketch-to-model process, pocket-friendly subscription, and 24/7 design feasibility with sync features are praiseworthy. The rating of 4.8 stars by more than 2.4K users on the App Store further bolsters its prominence.
Small to Medium Enterprises
Stepping into the professional sphere where time, cost-efficiency and a multitude of features matter, Fusion 360 emerges as the winner. Its integrated solution combining CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB design, complemented by a user-friendly interface, strikes the right blend of functionality and affordability for SMEs.
Designers and Engineers
For professionals in the hardcore designing and engineering field, we favor Shapr3D. Its wide exporting options, comprehensive support for different formats, and standout features, such as supporting Siemens geometric Parasolid modeling kernel and D-Cubed sketch engine, showcase its technical superiority.
In the battle of Shapr3D vs Fusion 360, hobbyist printers lean towards the user-friendly and cost-efficient Shapr3D, while SMEs and professionals find Fusion 360’s comprehensive feature set more appealing. Shapr3D however takes the trophy for more professional designers and engineers with its superior technical offerings.
Patrick Daugherty
Content writer @ Aircada. Merging AR expertise with a love for late-night gaming sessions.
