Hey everyone! I’m a student looking to dive into the world of design software. I’ve dabbled with AutoCAD, Onshape, and Inkscape, but I’m feeling a bit lost. They all seem different, and I can’t figure out which one to focus on.
I’m really interested in the ability to go from 2D to 3D designs. Does AutoCAD handle this well? Or is there another program I should consider?
Since I’m a student, I can get most software for free. But I want to invest my time wisely in learning the right tool. What do you guys recommend for someone just starting out? Any tips or advice would be super helpful!
Thanks in advance for your input. I’m excited to hear what experienced designers suggest!
hey there! have u tried fusion 360? it’s pretty cool for going from 2D to 3D. i’m curious, what kinda projects are u working on? maybe we could brainstorm which software fits best? don’t worry too much about picking the ‘perfect’ one - just dive in and start creating! what’s ur favorite part of the design process so far?
yo, fusion 360 is dope but have u checked out solidworks? its pretty lit for 2D to 3D stuff. i use it for school projects and its not too hard to pick up. plus, lots of companies use it so itd look good on ur resume. whats ur end goal with design? that might help narrow down ur choices
As someone who’s been in the design field for a while, I’d recommend starting with Fusion 360. It’s an excellent all-in-one solution that seamlessly integrates 2D and 3D design capabilities. The learning curve is gentler than AutoCAD, and it’s free for students.
Fusion 360 offers parametric modeling, which is crucial for iterative design processes. It also includes simulation tools and CAM functionality, which will be valuable as you progress in your design journey.
While AutoCAD is industry-standard in some sectors, Fusion 360’s more modern interface and cloud-based collaboration features make it a strong contender for new designers. Plus, the skills you learn in Fusion 360 will transfer well to other CAD software if you need to switch later.
Remember, the best software is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Fusion 360’s broad functionality should keep you engaged and learning for quite some time.