Inventor vs Simio

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared Inventor vs Simio based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Manufacturing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Inventor Software Tool

Product Basics

Inventor is a Windows-based CAD solution with mechanical 3D designing, documentation and product simulation modules. It intertwines parametric, direct and other design protocols in one centralized place. It enables collaboration with key players across the company with the ability to use any CAD tool.

It includes drawing creation, parametric modeling, sheet metal and instant frame design. It employs particular accessories needed for sheet metals, frame blueprints, tubing and piping. It can also merge with other modules to complete mechanical and BIM assignments.
read more...
Simio is a simulation software that offers a 3D modeling environment that permits users to build 3D models in one step. Users may browse and pick from a repository of objects. It also links to GoogleWarehouse and users can pick from a variety of 3D symbols.

Multiple modeling, 3D object-based modeling and risk-based optimal scheduling are some of its quintessential features.
read more...
$310 Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Undisclosed
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Cloud-Based Design Evaluations: Garner constructive criticism from vital stakeholders and collaborators in real time from any location to save time and boost productivity. 
  • A Single Data Model: Follow the complete product development procedure via one data model instead of accessing more interfaces. 
  • Automation: Conduct designs, recordkeeping and processing automatically via iLogic to diminish manual entries and human errors. 
  • Cloud Operations: Implement the forge design automation API to carry out jobs via the cloud instead of relying on company servers. 
  • Distinguished Tools: Initiate specialized modules for tubing, piping, sheet metals and other materials to handle them with special care. 
read more...
  • Easy Learning Curve: Leverage Simio's tools to create models whether users are experienced or not. 
  • Single Model: Work with one model no matter if it's large or intricate rather than working with individual parts. 
  • Realistic Models: Make models realistic and test them in various atmospheres and scenarios. 
  • Interactive Workpieces: Create "intelligent" workpieces that communicate with each other, enabling detached yet continuous systems. 
read more...
  • Product Design
    • Parametric Modeling: Access a perceptive interface to maintain concentration on creating and editing 3D models. 
    • Assembly Modeling: Review how designs will adhere during the assembly stage. 
    • Drawing Creation: Produce clear, precise, in-depth manufacturing drawings swiftly. 
  • Collaboration
    • Shared View Collaboration: Cooperate with others on models and designs through the internet. Review and comment on shared views and filters. 
    • Non-Native Data: Upkeep related links with non-native CAD information. 
    • BIM Interoperability: Transform CAD models into BIM objects effortlessly. 
  • Design Automation
    • Design Configurations: Permit quick customizations via iLogic. 
    • Automated Frame Design: Craft and assess frame structures rapidly. 
    • Sheet Metal: Build and plan intricate sheet metal products for manufacturing. 
  • Modeling
    • Model-Based Definition: Add manufacturing details in 3D models for downstream programs. 
    • Content Center: Pick standard elements from an adjustable library. 
    • Shape Generator: Develop and analyze high-quality design choices instantly. 
    • Direct Modeling: Establish push/pull controls to shift, rotate, rescale or expand details from other shapes. 
  • Connected Data
    • Printed Circuit Board Interoperability: Merge electronics with mechanical blueprints in a centralized complete product definition. 
    • Data Management: Alter, grow or downsize models with the ideal pull or push tools efficiently. 
  • Simulation and Visualization
    • Simulation: Assess designs with motions, speed and other conditions. 
    • Stress Analysis: Perform fast part checks or product performance evaluations during any product lifecycle phase. 
    • Views and Animations: Employ several filters and animations for intricate product assemblies in reports, manuals and assembly instructions. 
read more...
  • Agent-Based Modeling and Simulation: Integrate data from enterprise relationship solutions, customer relationship systems and other databanks to produce effective simulation models that obtain through results due to this capability. 
  • Discrete Event Modeling and Simulation: Work with a library of stationary workpieces and tools in addition to stimulating workflows and integrating custom models that represent shop floor resources via this attribute. 
  • Continuous Simulation and Modeling: Integrate real-time and previous data from process workflows, supply chains and material flow to understand shop floor procedures with this tool's data analytics tool. 
  • 3D Object-Based Modeling: Craft graphic models step by step and swiftly make objects via the 3D object-based modeling apparatus. 
  • Numerous Modeling: Manage multiple standard and "intelligent" objects that can interact with each other with various modeling functionalities. 
  • Optimal Scheduling: Initiate models to perform risk-based ideal scheduling via this feature 
read more...

Product Ranking

#36

among all
Manufacturing Software

#44

among all
Manufacturing Software

Find out who the leaders are

User Sentiment Summary

we're gathering data
Excellent User Sentiment 103 reviews
we're gathering data
94%
of users recommend this product

Simio has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 94% when considering 103 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

n/a
4.68 (103)

Awards

we're gathering data

Simio stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Powerful Modeling: Inventor offers a robust set of tools for 3D mechanical design, including parametric, freeform, and direct modeling capabilities. This allows users to create complex parts and assemblies with a high degree of precision.
Comprehensive Documentation: Inventor excels in creating detailed 2D drawings and documentation directly from 3D models. This streamlines the design process and ensures that manufacturing has accurate information.
Integrated Simulation: Built-in simulation tools let engineers test their designs virtually for stress, strain, and other factors before any physical prototyping. This can save time and reduce costly errors.
Streamlined Workflow: Integration with other Autodesk products, like AutoCAD and Fusion 360, creates a unified ecosystem for design and manufacturing. This interoperability can significantly improve efficiency for businesses already invested in Autodesk solutions.
Show more
Ease of Use for Beginners: Simio is praised for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to learn and use, even without extensive coding experience. Users find the drag-and-drop functionality intuitive and appreciate the readily available learning resources.
Powerful 3D Visualization: The software's 3D modeling capabilities allow users to create realistic simulations of their manufacturing processes, making it easier to visualize bottlenecks, optimize layouts, and communicate ideas to stakeholders.
Flexibility for Complex Systems: Simio is capable of handling complex systems with a high level of detail, allowing users to model intricate processes, including material handling, staffing, and equipment utilization, to identify areas for improvement.
Show more
Steep Learning Curve: New users often find it challenging to learn and navigate Inventor's extensive feature set, requiring significant time investment for proficiency.
Performance Issues: Large and complex models can lead to sluggish performance, including slow opening times, lag, and occasional crashes, impacting productivity.
File Compatibility: Inventor's compatibility with non-Autodesk file formats is limited, potentially causing difficulties when collaborating with external partners or clients using different CAD software.
High System Requirements: Running Inventor effectively, especially with complex models, necessitates a powerful computer with high-end specifications, which can translate to increased hardware costs.
Subscription Costs: Inventor's subscription-based pricing model, while offering flexibility, can become expensive, particularly for small businesses or freelancers who may not require constant access to all features.
Show more
Cost: Simio can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses or those with limited budgets. The pricing structure can be complex, with different tiers and add-ons that can quickly add up.
Learning Curve: Simio has a steeper learning curve compared to some other simulation software options. Users may need to invest significant time and effort in training and tutorials to become proficient.
Customization Limitations: While Simio offers a range of customization options, some users find it restrictive for highly specific or unique modeling needs. Advanced customization may require coding or scripting, which can be challenging for users without programming experience.
Show more

Can Inventor help users invent 3D models with ease, or will it leave them feeling lost in a digital labyrinth? User reviews from the last year suggest that Autodesk Inventor is a powerful and versatile 3D CAD software with a lot to offer, particularly for experienced users in mechanical engineering and related fields. Users consistently praise Inventor's robust feature set, highlighting its intuitive interface for solid modeling and assembly design. The software's ability to handle complex assemblies efficiently and generate detailed drawings is a significant plus. Additionally, its seamless integration with other Autodesk products, such as AutoCAD, is frequently cited as a major advantage, streamlining workflows for users already within the Autodesk ecosystem. However, there are some drawbacks. One common criticism is Inventor's steep learning curve, which can be intimidating for beginners. Some users have also reported occasional performance issues when working with very large or intricate models. Inventor's strengths lie in its professional-grade design and engineering solutions for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. Its comprehensive features and intuitive interface make it well-suited for experienced users in fields such as mechanical engineering, product design, and manufacturing. However, its complexity and the occasional performance hiccups might pose challenges for beginners or those working with massive, resource-intensive models.

Show more

Simio is a powerful and versatile software known for its ability to manage a wide range of manufacturing tasks. Users praise its user-friendly interface and ability to generate accurate reports, finding it superior to other products in terms of ease of use and reporting capabilities. However, some users have reported a steep learning curve and unclear documentation, suggesting that Simio might require more upfront investment in training compared to competitors like AnyLogic or Arena. Despite these drawbacks, Simio is lauded for its object-oriented approach, which allows for more flexible and customizable modeling compared to traditional process-based simulation software. This makes it particularly well-suited for complex manufacturing environments where adaptability is key. While the software's pricing has been a point of contention for some, its robust features and positive user feedback position it as a valuable tool for manufacturing companies of all sizes. However, its complexity might make it more suitable for larger organizations with dedicated resources for training and implementation. Smaller companies with limited resources might find simpler, more affordable alternatives more appealing.

Show more

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in Manufacturing Software


Acumatica

Aptean ERP

Cetec ERP

DELMIAworks

Dynamics 365 Business Central

Dynamics 365 SCM

Epicor Kinetic

JobBOSS²

Katana MRP

MIE Trak Pro

MRPEasy

NetSuite

Oracle Fusion Cloud

Plex Systems

Sage 100 Cloud

SAP S/4HANA Cloud

SYSPRO

SyteLine

Visibility ERP

Related Categories

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

Compare products
Comparison Report
Just drag this link to the bookmark bar.
?
Table settings