# Autodesk Fusion Pricing: A Comprehensive Guide | Capterra

> Check out the Autodesk Fusion pricing guide to understand the cost of different pricing plans, features, and insights on how to choose the right plan.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/pricing

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Autodesk Fusion Pricing Guide 2025

Last updated on June 11, 2025

Written by [Saumya Srivastava](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/ssrivastava/)

Writer

Edited by [Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/)

Editor

Pricing for Autodesk Fusion

[4.5 (269)](#reviews)

User rating:[

4.5

](#reviews)

Based on (269) reviews

## Overview of Autodesk Fusion pricing

[Autodesk Fusion](https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/), previously known as Fusion 360, is a highly rated 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software. Users leverage this platform for manufacturing, design, and consumer product development, utilizing features such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), PCB designs, and cloud rendering. The platform also supports a collaborative approach to design, with features for sharing models with other engineers and designers, and managing version control.

There is only one paid plan for Autodesk Fusion; however, users can invest in multiple extensions to increase the platform's functionality. These extensions cover manufacturing, simulation, design, signal integrity, and management and provide features specific to those aspects of design or development. Each one is charged per year on top of the basic subscription cost. 

There is also a free plan called Autodesk Fusion for personal use with limited functionality, aimed at hobbyists. Most business users may find this plan too restrictive for their needs, however, it may be a useful tool to help understand how the Autodesk Fusion interface works. Buyers can also opt for a 30-day full-feature free trial of the paid version. We dug into our data to help you understand the available pricing plan and extensions and make the best choice for your team.

Let’s take a look at the base plan and extensions in detail:

1 Month

$85.00

Per User,Per Month

* * *

It Includes

-   3d CAD
-   CAM
-   Cloud Collaboration & Data Management
-   Collaboration Software
-   Data Management
-   Flexible 3d Modeling & Design

1 Year

$680.00

Per User,Per Year

* * *

It Includes

-   Cloud Collaboration & Data Management
-   Flexible 3d Modeling & Design
-   Flexible Access
-   Generative Design & Simulation Solutions
-   Integrated CAD + CAM
-   Payment Options

3 Years

$2,040

Per User,

* * *

It Includes

-   Cloud Collaboration & Data Management
-   Flexible 3d Modeling & Design
-   Generative Design & Simulation Solutions
-   Integrated CAD + CAM
-   Long Term Access
-   Photo-Realistic Rendering & Documentation

The latest information on pricing is available on Autodesk Fusion’s website.

## Cost breakdown

Businesses requiring CAM and CAD features or the ability to design electronics and PCBs for professional use would require the Autodesk Fusion plan. The hobbyist version, Autodesk Fusion for personal use, doesn’t offer the same level of capabilities and there’s no phone or email support if issues arise. The website also indicates that it’s only available on a non-commercial basis, which means that even if businesses are able to utilize the features of the free version for their needs, they may be restricted from using any resulting designs for profitable ventures.

### **Starting price**

Hobbyists or software buyers wanting to see how Autodesk Fusion works can download Autodesk Fusion for personal use for free. This free version is available for three years for qualified non-commercial users. 

The Autodesk Fusion paid plan costs $680 for a year’s subscription or $85 per month on a rolling monthly contract. The base plan includes CAM and CAD functionality as well as numerous electronics design features. As mentioned previously, businesses also have the flexibility of adding extensions to increase the functionality of the platform. 

### Billing options

Autodesk Fusion allows users to pay for the platform either on a monthly or annual basis. A month-by-month contract may be ideal for smaller businesses that don’t have the funds to invest in the yearly plan. It’s also potentially suitable for businesses that want to just try the platform for a few months without making a long-term commitment.

The annual price represents significant cost savings for firms that have the budget available to cover the subscription. 

Businesses that want to add extensions should note that not all of these have a monthly subscription option. For example, if you need the base plan plus the Manage Extension, you’ll need to commit to paying for a year’s worth of Manage. 

Buyers can opt for a three-year contract which guarantees the price will stay the same for those three years. The vendor also allows cancellation of annual and 3-year plans within the first 30 days.

### Feature differentiation

The free plan offers similar features to the paid plan, but with limited functionality and support while the extensions​ offer use-case-specific tools. Here are some of the key features that may appeal to 3D CAD software buyers:

-   **CAM functionality**: The free plan only offers limited CAM functionality whereas the paid plan provides comprehensive CAM features including configuration for CAD and CAE (computer-aided engineering). 
-   **Electronics and PCB design**: The free plan offers some electronics and PCB features. The paid plan, on the other hand, offers a wide range of unified electronics and PCB designs. For full PCB functionality, testing, and signal integrity up to industry standards, businesses may need to additionally opt for the Signal Integrity Extension.
    
-   **Data management**: Free users gain access to data management tools for a single user, while the paid plan provides multi-user collaborative tools for data management. However, the Manage Extension may be required for additional workflow management tools. 
-   **File importing and exporting**: The free plan supports the import and export of a limited range of file ​types. With the paid Autodesk plan, users can import and export unlimited file types.
    
-   **Support**: Autodesk Fusion free users can only utilize the forums for support, while all paid users gain access to phone and email support, plus in-product help functions.
    

## What users say about Autodesk Fusion pricing

Our team analyzed a total of 256 reviews from verified Autodesk Fusion users across our website to better understand their views about the platform’s pricing.

Users note that the full, paid version of Autodesk Fusion can be expensive, especially when users require extensions and features that come at an additional cost; simulations and manufacturing extensions can represent a significant price increase. However, the ability to utilize the free version and the free trial helps businesses decide whether the platform is worth the investment. Some reviewers note that Autodesk is more favorably priced than other similar tools on the market.

Here are some of the things users mentioned about Autodesk Fusion pricing.[\[1\]](#footnotes)

Joshua R.Machinist/Business OwnerMechanical or Industrial Engineering1-2 years

I like that this product is cheaper than the bigger name softwares while also holding its own against them.

January 13, 2023

Ian S.Mechanical EngineerConstruction2+ years

I really loved the free version you could access as a student.

August 30, 2024

Ash M.Design EngineerDesign1-2 years

The cost is incredibly low in comparison to other CAD packages and it is easy to get going with it.

September 12, 2023

Vedant A.Assistant ManagerAutomotive1-2 years

It is a very intuitive software that is cheaper than most of the alternatives and performs on par if not better than its competitors.

January 18, 2023

[Read more Autodesk Fusion reviews here.](https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/reviews/)

## Detailed breakdown of Autodesk Fusion pricing plans

### Autodesk Fusion for personal use 

**Priced at**: Free for at least three years

**Ideal for**: Hobbyists and students wanting to learn how to create and develop products using CAD and CAM tools. 

Autodesk Fusion for personal use is a free downloadable tool for qualified non-commercial users such as students and hobbyist makers. The vendor defines qualified users as those who make less than $1,000 in annual revenue from their projects. Software buyers could consider utilizing the free version as a way of getting to grips with the Autodesk Fusion interface. 

**Autodesk Fusion for personal use plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Limited CAM functionality**: Utilize 3D design features, including 2/3 axis milling, additive manufacturing, and turning.
    
-   **Electronics and PCB designs**: Free plan users can create schematics of up to two sheets with two signal layers across boards of a maximum area of 80 centimeters squared. 
-   **Single-user data management**: A single user can comment and mark up designs or create a public shared view of a project. 
-   **Import/export features for limited file types**: Users can import certain file types into their design projects, such as .stp/.step and .igs/.iges files.
    
-   **Forum-based support**: Free users gain access to the online community across seven topic-specific forum boards.
    

_A 3D model created in Autodesk Fusion (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/)_)_

### Autodesk Fusion

**Priced at**: $85 per month or $680 per year

**Ideal for**: Any business involved in design, manufacturing, or electronics. 

Autodesk Fusion allows designers to use freeform tools to create and manipulate 3D models for manufacturing, consumer product development, or machining tasks. The platform includes unified electronics features, multi-layer PCB board design, and numerous collaborative tools. 

**Autodesk Fusion plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Enhanced CAM and CAE functionality**: Create and utilize models with 2/3/4/5 axis milling, rapid feed functions, and setup probing. 
-   **Documentation creation**: Enhance designs with 2D drawings, 3D printing documents, exploded views, and more. 
-   **Collaboration features**: Group management features including the ability to assign roles and responsibilities to users within projects.
    
-   **Bill of materials (BOM)**: The BOM feature allows users to list part numbers, quantities, and descriptions of parts involved in the design.
    
-   **Phone and email support**: Paid plan users gain access to phone and email support as well as in-product help features.
    

_A product design in Autodesk Fusion (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/)_)_

### Manufacturing Extension

**Priced at**: $185 per user, per month, $1,465 per year, or $4,395 for three years. 

**Ideal for**: Manufacturing firms or businesses creating products to share with manufacturers.

This extension adds design and development tools focused on fabrication with sheet metal, metal-based additive manufacturing, and simultaneous machining.

**Manufacturing Extension plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Advanced milling and turning**: Enhanced CAM tools allow the programming of models with multi-axis milling.  
-   **Automated machining features**: Enables users to create complex components via machining instructions such as deburring, hole recognition, and rotary strategies. 
-   **Part inspection**: CAD-based probing strategies enable users to examine and measure components to ensure accuracy. 
-   **3D print simulation**: Run simulations of 3D printing to catch failures before they occur in the real-life product. 
-   **Nesting solutions**: The Manufacturing Extension supports various nesting and fabrication tools including automatic updates if one aspect of a design changes.
    

### Simulation Extension

**Priced at**: $185 per user, per month, $1,465 per year, or $4,395 for three years. 

**Ideal for**: Firms that need to run detailed simulations or parts analysis prior to starting production.

The Simulation Extension enables businesses to utilize generative design tools to adjust models for weight reduction and other potential performance-improving factors. These models can then be run through a variety of simulations to predict how they will perform in the real world.

**Simulation Extension plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Static stress simulations**: Discover how a product will react when bent, put under a weight load, or affected by other types of contact-based stress. 
-   **Event simulation**: Create simulations that show how a product performs over time.  
-   **Injection molding**: Assess the manufacturability of parts and components by seeing how they’ll function during and after injection molding. 
-   **Electronics cooling**: Simulate how PCB boards will function during temperature fluctuations. 
-   **Generative design**: Create multiple outcomes via slight variations in design using the generative features.
    

### Design Extension

**Priced at**: $75 per user, per month, $595 per year, or $1,785 for three years. 

**Ideal for**: Businesses with short deadlines or heavy design workloads who can benefit from automation and integrated manufacturing processes.

The Design Extension leverages automation tools and the ability to integrate ‘shop floor’ manufacturing processes into the design process. These features can help users create accurate, usable designs more quickly than with the base product alone.

**Design Extension plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Manufacturing-aware**: Integrate existing manufacturing processes directly into the design journey. 
-   **Industry-specific automation**: Automate tasks such as creating shareable 2D drawings automatically based on 3D models of manufacturing machinery or robotics parts.
    
-   **Geometric patterning**: Create and apply geometric patterns to a variety of models. 
-   **Volumetric latticing**: Design and manipulate mesh patterns to adjust the appearance and shape of models.  
-   **Visibility controls**: See multiple layers as required during the design process. 

### Signal Integrity Extension

**Priced at**: $185 per user, per month, $1,465 per year, or $4,395 for three years. 

**Ideal for**: Electronics manufacturers or producers of consumer products that contain highly regulated electronics like smart products.

The Signal Integrity Extension leverages Ansys technology to provide a range of testing, tracing, and signal analysis tools for PCB creation.

**Signal Integrity plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Violation flagging**: Using a color-coded visual interface, users can identify potential coupling or signal impedance issues.  
-   **Signal integrity insights**: This extension analyzes signals within designs to highlight issues like signal delays and impedance.
    
-   **PCB impedance matching**: Tools for keeping impedance and signal levels optimal throughout a project.  
-   **Consistency assessment**: Users can assess impedance consistency and mitigate crosstalk effects.
    
-   **Electromagnetic coupling**: PCB traces allow users to assess crosstalk to gain insights into electromagnetic coupling.
    

### Manage Extension

**Priced at**: $495 per user, per year or $1,485 over three years. No monthly option is available. 

**Ideal for**: Businesses that need to focus on compliance, version history, and improving product lifecycle management.

The Manage Extension provides change management tools, release process management functionality, and version control features to help make projects more trackable and compliant.

**Manage Extension plan features**[\[2\]](#footnotes):

-   **Version control**: Users can track changes and revert to previous versions as required.
    
-   **Rights management administrative tools**: This extension allows users to grant rights to specific stakeholders, even if they’re outside the user’s organization. 
-   **Commenting and redlining**: Project managers can comment directly on drawings and models. 
-   **User management**: Users can add, remove, or adjust who has access to the project. 
-   **Remote access**: Cloud storage makes it possible for users to work on projects from remote locations.  ​
    

## Total cost of ownership

Autodesk Fusion offers a wide range of features for the basic subscription price. However, there are more costs associated with onboarding a new 3D CAD platform. Here’s a breakdown of all the potential expenses of using Autodesk Fusion:

### Upfront costs

The primary upfront cost for Autodesk Fusion is the subscription price. Software buyers must carefully assess whether they can afford to pay the annual fee to save money in the long run or if the monthly rate is a better option.

Some businesses will also need to invest in extensions applicable to their use cases. Manufacturers, for example, may want to invest in the Manufacturing Extension but also possibly the Design or Manage Extensions, which also have their own subscription costs. 

You may need to check that your computers meet the technical specifications required to run this 3D modeling software. Upgrading your graphics cards or operating systems could represent another upfront cost.

### Additional costs to consider

As with most 3D CAD and manufacturing platforms, additional costs exist apart from subscription and extension fees. You may want to consider the following:

-   **Training costs**: Autodesk Fusion offers numerous features that engineers may already be familiar with, such as CAD and CAM capabilities. However, they will likely require time to get used to the new interface. Factor in the cost of taking engineers, designers, and other relevant personnel away from their usual duties to learn how to use the new platform.
    
-   **Compliance and version control**: Without the Manage Extension, businesses only get limited version control and compliance management features. As a result, you may need to invest in additional tools to help log changes and ensure compliance with company and regulatory requirements. 
-   **Simulation apps**: If your software budget can’t cover the Simulation Extension, you’ll most likely need to invest in other apps that provide the same or similar functionality. 
-   **Time versus cost**: Many of the available extensions represent a significant monthly or yearly price hike. However, they could save businesses time by getting products to market faster. Work with your finance teams and those who will use the platform to understand if the benefits make the additional costs worth the price. 
-   **Changing business needs**: As your business grows and expands, potentially into other markets, you may need to invest in some of the extension products. Consider your overarching business growth strategy and whether your forecasted software budget will cover these future needs.
    

#### Services needed for implementing and managing the platform

Although Autodesk Fusion is primarily cloud-based, some aspects need downloading, and your computers must meet certain specifications. The vendor’s website cites both minimum and recommended tech specs. Businesses requiring high-performance software for 3D modeling and related tasks may need to upgrade from the minimum to the recommended specs to get the most out of the platform. 

​You may also need to invest in integration tools to ensure you can import and export files as needed. The paid version of Autodesk Fusion states that it supports the importing of all file types, so ensuring you have access to those, for example, in a shared repository, could be essential. Numerous online resources also help users implement and manage the software. 

#### Resources required for long-term platform management

Once you have access to the platform, you can use all the features your version of the software supports. However, you may want to consider investing in the following internal resources:

-   **Ongoing training**: One of the notable features of Autodesk Fusion is that the vendor frequently updates the platform with new or improved functions. Investing in a small team or one individual who can keep themselves upskilled on the changes and update their colleagues could help save time and improve efficiency.
    
-   **Security**: Many product designs and models are highly sensitive company resources. Software buyers should liaise with the Autodesk Fusion team to understand if the built-in security meets company or industry requirements. You may need to invest in additional security software or a security specialist to oversee these aspects of software implementation.
    
-   **Implementation or change management resources**: Switching to a new design platform usually represents a major change for most organizations. If you have a change manager, leverage their experience to help the transition go smoothly. If not, delegate implementation tasks to an individual or team with the skills to manage objections and log/report any issues to the support team.
    

## How to choose the right Autodesk Fusion pricing plan

Here are some considerations you should keep in mind when choosing the best Autodesk Fusion pricing plan for your business:

_Key considerations while choosing the right Autodesk Fusion plan_

-   **Assess your business needs**: Whether Autodesk Fusion is right for you largely depends on the type of design or modeling you require. If you need to create PCB designs or collaborate on consumer product development regularly, the base paid Autodesk Fusion plan is most likely sufficient. For more advanced needs, the available extensions may offer the required features.
    
-   **Compare the features offered in each plan**: Take the time to compare those features and understand what each plan or extension offers. For example, there are some limited simulation features in the Autodesk Fusion base plan. However, if you need to look at the specific impact of thermal fluctuations on PCBs, you’ll most likely need the Simulation Extension.  
-   **Consider your budget**: Autodesk Fusion represents a potentially significant business overhead, especially when the base plan is bundled with extensions. For small and midsize businesses (SMBs) with tight budgets, the price for multiple extensions may seem prohibitive. Remember though, if these extensions replace existing, costly products and save the business time, you could be looking at overall savings. Carefully weigh up your budget versus the value provided by the software.
    

## How to maximize the value of your Autodesk Fusion subscription

By leveraging all the features, tools, and resources associated with your Autodesk Fusion subscription, you can optimize the value it brings to your business. Here are some strategies to help get the most from your Autodesk Fusion platform:

_Ways to maximize the value of your Autodesk Fusion subscription_

-   **Utilize all the features of the tool**: It’s important to get a full list of the available features so you don’t inadvertently miss out. For example, the base paid plan offers the ability to create exploded diagrams based on your 3D models. You can then save these diagrams as documents to go alongside end products. There’s no need to invest in separate documentation software, as you can do it all within the platform. 
-   **Fully leverage customer support and resources**: The extensive forums are available to all users, even those on the free plan. There is a rapidly expanding online community sharing resources and tips, so all users can potentially benefit from a presence in these forums. For paid plan users, there is also phone and email support. Any issues that can’t be fixed by consulting the forums should be reported to the support team immediately. You can also find numerous online resources provided directly by the vendor. Their YouTube channel, for example, provides feature overviews and deep dives into certain functions.
    

Additional tips for getting the most out of your plan:

-   **Customize your shortcuts**: With so many features, keyboard shortcuts can make life easier for busy engineers. Take the time to customize these shortcuts to ones you’re familiar with for enhanced efficiency. 
-   **Familiarize yourself with the ‘View Cube’**: This primary user interface element contains multiple view modes and ways to interact with components and models. Learning all its features can save you time throughout your project.  
-   **Utilize mouse gestures**: Autodesk Fusion supports repeated commands via mouse gestures. Learning these gestures allows you to perform common tasks without manual input quickly. 
-   **Sign up for webinars**: The vendor regularly holds webinars on the features and future of the platform. These are free and could provide useful insights for platform users.  
-   **Bookmark Autodesk University (AU)**: AU offers a large repository of articles, blogs, and educational content on the platform and related design topics.  

## Is it worth paying for Autodesk Fusion?

Understanding whether Autodesk Fusion is worth paying for means considering your business’s needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the main points to consider to help you make that decision.

### Value for money

As a top-rated platform, Autodesk Fusion has earned a value-for-money rating of 4.3/5, based on 256 reviews. Users commend the platform for how accessible and easy to use the free version is and also how useful it is to have a free trial of the paid version prior to making a commitment.

Here are some review snippets from verified Autodesk Fusion users to help you understand the platform’s value proposition compared to its cost:[\[1\]](#footnotes)

Brock P.Vice President of MarketingRetail1-2 years

Fusion 360 is a fantastic program at a great price. Since bringing this tool into our environment we have pretty much stopped using everything else.

February 25, 2023

Andrea I.Progettista meccanico Architecture & Planning2+ years

Excellent value for money, gives you a long trial period, very intuitive.

January 22, 2023

Vidya P.Software engineerComputer Software6-12 months

Also it comes with affordable pricing

December 8, 2024

Jason D.Reliability SupervisorOil & Energy2+ years

I have convinced management at my company to cancel 3 license keys for a more expensive modeling tool and simultaneously get 5 other user licenses for Fusion 360 at a fraction of the cost.

August 2, 2023

[Read more Autodesk Fusion reviews here.](https://www.capterra.com/p/178416/Fusion-360/reviews/)

### Features of the free plan

Businesses can only opt for the free plan if they’re not going to utilize it for commercial purposes. However, the free plan can represent an ideal way to interact with the Autodesk Fusion interface and understand if it’s the best choice for your teams. With the free plan you can:

-   Create limited 3D designs and utilize some CAD and CAM functionality
    
-   Create PCP and other electronics-related designs
    
-   Export/import limited file types
    

**When to upgrade**

Businesses need to upgrade to the paid version of Autodesk Fusion if they want to leverage the platform for commercial purposes. You’ll also want to consider upgrading if:

-   You require the full range of CAD/CAM features and functionality
    
-   You need to import and export multiple file types
    
-   Your teams need the ability to create BOM
    
-   You want to add extensions to expand the functionality of the platform
    

### Customer support options

Autodesk Fusion for personal use (free plan) only supports community forum use. If you run into difficulty using the platform's free version, you have to rely on a community member’s help—or find a relevant help topic online.

Paid users can call or email a support technician. There is also in-product help available, although support is provided in the first instance via artificial intelligence (AI)-powered bots. 

## Is Autodesk Fusion right for you?

### Assessing your requirements

Determining whether Autodesk Fusion is the right 3D modeling platform for you involves assessing your business requirements and comparing them to the plans and extensions on offer. Here are some key factors to consider:

-   **Business size, type, and growth expectations**: Consider the output of your engineering and design teams and what that contributes to your firm’s overall income. If you expect that to increase in the near future, investing in a comprehensive modeling and design platform could be a prudent business decision. However, if design/modeling is only a tiny aspect of your business, you may need to consider if the price will represent a good return on investment. 
-   **Security and data privacy**: Software buyers may need to investigate further to determine whether Autodesk Fusion meets the necessary security and data privacy standards. Remember to also consider your firm’s protocols and any regulatory requirements of your industry.
    
-   **Current systems and applications**: If you need to transfer files from your existing systems into Autodesk Fusion, you’ll need to check if that’s possible. The vendor states that all file types are supported, but you may need to confirm that the platform will support specific integrations. 

### Alternatives to Autodesk Fusion

Autodesk Fusion scores an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 from Capterra users. But how does it compare to other top competitors in the 3D CAD and manufacturing software space?

When examining value for money, Autodesk Fusion has an average rating of 4.3/5 across all its reviews. However, there are other alternatives on the market; some with higher value-for-money scores. **Onshape** is a cloud-native CAD and PDM (product data management) platform that starts at $1,500 per year, with a free trial available. Users rate this tool 4.5/5 for value for money. **KeyCreator** is another 3D modeling tool that earned 4.4/5 for value for money, with prices starting from a $1,188 flat fee with a free trial available. **AutoCAD** also supports multiple types of 3D modeling, with prices starting from $250 per user, per month. It scores a value-for-money rating of 4.2/5. **SolidWorks Premium** is a CAD platform for mechanical projects that also has a value-for-money rating of 4.2/5. This software is charged annually at $4,716 for a single user. Finally, **Alibre Design** provides engineering-focused 3D CAD and CAM solutions. Unlike competitors, this vendor offers lifetime licenses with flat rates starting at $10. Users rate this platform 4.8/5 for value-for-money—the highest scorer of all these competitors.

Let’s take a closer look at the strengths of these alternatives:

-   **Onshape** offers CAD features on a fully cloud-based platform that users can access from any internet-connected device. The platform also includes PDM tools and an analytics suite. On our website, users gave Onshape an overall average rating of 4.5/5, scoring it highly for customer service. Reviewers comment on how easy the software is to use and the benefits of being able to access it from any device. They also praise the collaborative feature of the platform.
    
-   **KeyCreator** is a 3D modeling platform that focuses on collaboration and compatibility, allowing users to import drawings and models from multiple locations and work on them immediately. The platform scores an overall rating of 4.5/5, with users appreciating the ability to import and export multiple file types. They also appreciate the project translators and the high level of customer service from the vendor. 
-   **AutoCAD** offers multiple drawing and 3D modeling features, including industry-specific tools for architects, mechanical designers, plant designers, and more. Users gave this platform an overall rating of 4.6/5, with reviewers appreciating the precision and detail possible with the built-in design tools. They also comment on how easy the software is to use, particularly for transferring data between partners.
    
-   **SolidWorks Premium** combines drawing, rendering, simulation, and data management features. The platform scores an overall rating of 4.6/5, with ease of use as the top-scoring category. Comments about this software include praise for robust modeling and simulation features, plus appreciation for the customer support offered by the vendor. ​
    
-   **Alibre Design** is unusual in that it offers lifetime licenses for a flat rate rather than insisting on a subscription model. Features of this software include part and assembly modeling, automation, and BOM creation. Users on our website gave Alibre Design an overall rating of 4.7/5. Reviewers praise how easy it is to transition between 2D and 3D drawings, and also comment on how customer-centric the vendor is.
    

[4.5 (342)](https://www.capterra.com/p/164681/Onshape/#reviews)

* * *

Starting Price

$1,500

Per User

, Per Year

* * *

## Making the final decision

Autodesk Fusion offers a comprehensive range of 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE features, with useful tools for electronics and PCB designs. Extensions make the platform applicable to various industries and specialisms. Software buyers should carefully compare the features in the base plan versus extensions to understand which best aligns with their business needs. 

There is a free plan, but businesses with a revenue of over $1,000 per year are not eligible to use this version. The paid base plan, simply called Autodesk Fusion, is $680 per user, per year or $85 per month, with annual plans offering savings.​

While the price of Autodesk Fusion can escalate quickly when adding extensions, the benefits in terms of increased productivity and efficiencies could represent long-term value. Taking the time to carefully consider how the features of this 3D CAD and manufacturing software platform could benefit your teams can help you assess whether it’s the right choice for your business.

## FAQs

How much does Autodesk Fusion cost?

Autodesk Fusion, previously known as Fusion 360, offers a free plan for hobbyists and a paid plan at $85 per month or $680 per year. There are also various chargeable extensions that enhance the functionality of the platform.

Is Fusion 360 no longer free for hobbyists?

Fusion 360 has changed to Autodesk Fusion, and there is also Autodesk Fusion for personal use, which is still free of charge for hobbyists and amateur makers. Anyone using the platform for non-commercial use is eligible, as are businesses with revenue under $1,000.

Does Autodesk Fusion require a subscription?

Yes, Autodesk Fusion is available monthly or yearly. There is a significant discount when taking the annual plan versus the monthly plan; however, there are no further discounts when opting for the plan across three years. Extensions are also charged on the same basis, although not all are available on a monthly contract.

Can we get Fusion 360 for free?

Autodesk Fusion for personal use is the free version of Autodesk Fusion. The platform is free for three years for non-commercial users and offers limited CAD, data management, and electronics design features.

Who uses Autodesk Fusion 360?

Autodesk Fusion for personal use is aimed at hobbyists, makers, and businesses with very low revenues from their design projects. Software buyers could use this free version to gain an understanding of the interface and how it might fit in with their existing tech stack.

Is Fusion 360 free for home use?

Yes, Autodesk Fusion for personal use is completely free and comes with a three-year plan, although it’s not clear if it expires after this time. This plan does not have as many features as the paid version.

What are the disadvantages of Fusion 360?

Users who opt for Autodesk Fusion for personal use instead of the paid plan won’t have access to complex milling and turning features or PCB schematics beyond two sheets. There are other limitations, such as single-user data management only and a lack of collaboration tools.

How can I purchase a subscription to Autodesk Fusion?

Software buyers can sign up for an Autodesk Fusion subscription on the vendor’s website.

What will happen to my data after I finish my Autodesk Fusion trial?

Users retain access to their data after the trial finishes, even if they don’t opt to continue with a paid subscription. They can access and download the data but can’t modify it or continue working on it within the platform.

Is Fusion 360 good for beginners?

Many users find the free version, Autodesk Fusion for personal use, intuitive and easy for beginners to get started with 3D modeling and CAD.

What does Autodesk Fusion include?

Autodesk Fusion offers a cloud-based collaboration platform for design and 3D modeling with various CAD, CAM, and CAE features, plus multi-sheet, multi-layer PCB creation tools and data management features. Users can also add extensions that provide advanced manufacturing, design, or simulation tools.

#### Methodology

1.  Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts are evaluated for positive or negative sentiment and receive a sentiment score. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar.
    
2.  Our research team identified these features from vendor websites (as of Feb. 6, 2024) based on their analysis of what users find valuable or expect from 3D CAD software. This list is not exhaustive. For additional features, refer to the vendor’s website.
    

[Saumya Srivastava](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/ssrivastava/)

Saumya Srivastava is a writer at Capterra. She provides insights to help small and midsize businesses identify the right software for their needs by analyzing over 550,000 Capterra user reviews and nearly 48,000 interactions between Capterra software advisors and buyers. Prior to Capterra, Saumya wrote content related to educational and advertising domains.

[Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/)

Mehar Luthra is a team lead at Capterra and specializes in editing reports that cover the latest trends affecting small businesses. With nearly a decade of experience, she has edited a multitude of research articles, top-rated software reports, and thought leadership articles for diverse markets such as Brazil, Japan, Canada, France, Australia, and India. She finds it particularly rewarding to produce content that provides small-business owners with practical tips and helpful advice on topics...

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Table of Contents

-   [Overview of Autodesk Fusion pricing](#overview-of-autodesk-fusion-pricing)
-   [Cost breakdown](#cost-breakdown)
-   [What users say about Autodesk Fusion pricing](#what-users-say-about-autodesk-fusion-pricing)
-   [Detailed breakdown of Autodesk Fusion pricing plans](#detailed-breakdown-of-autodesk-fusion-pricing-plans)
-   [Total cost of ownership](#total-cost-of-ownership)
-   [How to choose the right Autodesk Fusion pricing plan](#how-to-choose-the-right-autodesk-fusion-pricing-plan)
-   [How to maximize the value of your Autodesk Fusion subscription](#how-to-maximize-the-value-of-your-autodesk-fusion-subscription)
-   [Is it worth paying for Autodesk Fusion?](#is-it-worth-paying-for-autodesk-fusion)
-   [Is Autodesk Fusion right for you?](#is-autodesk-fusion-right-for-you)
-   [Making the final decision](#making-the-final-decision)
-   [FAQs](#faqs)