#SKETCHUP VS FUSION 360 SOFTWARE#
#SKETCHUP VS FUSION 360 FREE#

If you were to cut it and pull it apart, you would see two new surfaces created at the cut.ĭoes this matter? Well, not really. Sketchup is a surface modeler, meaning all objects are made up of infinitely thin surfaces called faces.įusion 360 is a solid modeler, which is exactly as it sounds.

#SKETCHUP VS FUSION 360 SOFTWARE#

And yes, the realism route of curves-based modeling does require a beefier software that can take a lot of your CPU power. The tradeoffs between polygonal modeling and curves-based modeling are simplicity and realism. Per, “ uses T-Splines, a mathematical form that provides the interactivity of Catmull-Clark subdivision (SubD) surfaces, with forward and backward compatibility to NURBS surfaces.” So yea, curves. Technically, Fusion 360 is not NURBS-based. There is an option to “smooth curves”, but that simply increases the number of line segments, which can get messy.įusion 360 is a curves-based modeling software, often referred to as “NURBS-based” (nonuniform rationale B-spline). If you’ve modeled anything with a curve in Sketchup, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the ramifications: you don’t have to zoom in very far to see that the curve is made up of several small line segments. There are no true curves, which simplifies the build of the software and arguably simplifies the user interface.

Vertices connected by lines form edges, and edges connected to edges form surfaces. Sketchup is a polygonal modeling software. Polygonal vs Curves-Based (NURBS) Modeling If you are interested in learning either of the programs, check out my article “ What Are The Best Resources To Learn CAD for Woodworking?”. Sometimes the impetus of an assignment with a grade attached to it can kick your butt into high gear or introduce you to modeling techniques you hadn’t considered.

#SKETCHUP VS FUSION 360 FREE#

Feel free to check in with your local college to see if there is a class you can sign up for. Classes like these typically come with other perks, like discounts on software, or 24/7 online support. You can sign up for payed classes like Ledet, NY Institute of Art and Design, or Lynda. I personally believe you can get all the training you need by watching these free videos and simply experimenting, but there are other options. If you click on Help in Sketchup, you will be linked to its very helpful Knowledge Center, while Fusion 360 has a native Learning Panel. Take a look at some of the Sketchup training videos here and some Fusion 360 videos here. The good news is that both have countless free educational videos online and you should even be able to find videos on obscure, highly specific topics that you wouldn’t believe exist. How easy are each of the programs to learn?īoth software are widely regarded as easy to learn, however in my empirical observation I have noticed that Sketchup tends to be easier to learn for those with no 3D modeling experience, while those with at least moderate AutoCAD skills should be able to pick up Fusion 360 more quickly. If you would like to read my in depth article on using a CNC for woodworking, you can check it out here. Here’s a nice video introduction to the capabilities of CNC milling from Wood Magazine there are countless more, and you can go down a wormhole of more specific videos on various milling topics. In the unlikely event you’re a woodworker that hasn’t seen a CNC mill in action, I can say that it is an engrossing process. Others use 3D modeling to generate G-code (more on that later) to send to a computer numerical control (CNC) mill or a 3D printer. Some use the technology for testing ideas, visualizing products for clients, or figuring out how a certain detail will work before beginning work in a woodshop. What are the advantages of 3D modeling for woodworkers? As with every emerging technology, companies are competing for market share, and typically products find their niche based on their pros and cons. Woodworking has existed in various forms since ancient, prehistoric times, while 3D modeling has existed for mere decades, so we should have a little sympathy that our software overlords have not created the perfect “magic bullet” for 3D modeling. Let’s take a look at how Google’s Sketchup compares to Autodesk’s Fusion 360.

Or even better, you’re just getting started with this topic in school or as a hobby and want to start down the right path. If you’re researching the best software for woodworking, I’m guessing you’re considering adding CNC milling to your skillset or switching the software you use to create 3D models. As someone who has spent his fair time in a wood shop and a digital fabrication lab, I can say working with wood is one of the most satisfying uses of time there is.

Sketchup vs fusion 360