Home > Manufacturing Software > Fusion 360 > Fusion 360 vs Poka

Fusion 360 vs Poka

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Our analysts compared Fusion 360 vs Poka based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Manufacturing Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Overview Pricing Benefits & Features User Ratings Analyst Summary Screenshots
Fusion 360 Software Tool
Poka Software Tool
SelectHub Award Winner
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Product Basics

Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM software that bridges the gap between design and manufacturing. It's well-suited for individuals and small-to-medium businesses seeking a streamlined solution for product development and fabrication. Users praise its intuitive interface, integrated design and manufacturing tools, and cloud collaboration capabilities. Popular features include generative design, simulation tools, and machining capabilities for various manufacturing processes. While some users note performance limitations with complex projects and a reliance on internet connectivity, Fusion 360 stands out for its affordability compared to traditional CAD/CAM software, with subscription plans starting under $500 annually.

Pros
  • Integrated CAD/CAM
  • Cloud collaboration
  • Design for manufacturing
  • Generative design
  • Simulation capabilities
 Cons
  • Cloud dependency
  • Performance limitations
  • Limited feature depth
  • Subscription model
  • Learning curve
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Poka offers production floor problem-solving, knowledge-sharing and consistent learning. It reflects protocols from start to finish to boost performance times and dwindle expenses. It pushes performance and quality to the forefront and decreases production issues.

It performs skill coverages and compliances effortlessly. Knowledge management, communication, forms and checklists and communication are its top accessories. It offers factory feed tools to monitor shopfloor practices in real time.
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$425 Annually
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Chromebook
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Linux
Android
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Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
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On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

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

Product Insights

  • Extensive Library: Fusion 360 offers a complete library of free, open-source and entirely revisable processors for users to upload thorough numerical control (NC) applications so they can rapidly make parts or workpieces.  
  • Intuitive Cloud Interface: Users can log into this solution and access projects from any device with an internet connection. The interface is also adjustable and simple for users to operate. 
  • Fulfill Design Needs: Fusion 360 enables users to design, model, assemble and render projects and workpieces in one centralized system without exporting files to external solutions.  
  • Distraction-Free Rendering: Users can run the rendering process in the background while working on other processes so they can stay on top of their productivity,  
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  • Accessible Knowledge: Access a centralized library with work instructions, videos, troubleshooting tips and tricks, etc., for better organization and centralization. 
  • Straightforward Training: Initiate multi-step training programs to benchmark employee skills growth and set realistic expectations. 
  • Document Worker Updates: Record production alerts in a digital employee and management logbook for a unified information hub. 
  • Correct Form Errors: Flag mistakes and efficiently delegate responsibilities to the ideal employees or managers, avoiding confusion. 
  • Regular Compliance: Standardize ISO and other regulations routinely to avoid fines or immediate business shutdowns. 
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  • Numerous Sketch Tools: Users can implement the 3D modeling module to create products with the ideal form, fit and function. This tool enables users to develop and revise sketches with constraints, dimensions and a robust chain of sketching accessories. Users can also develop parametric models by creating a list of frequently-used features such as extrude, revolve, loft, sweep and more that instantly update with design changes. 
  • Various Modes of Modeling: Fusion 360's 3D modeling component is equipped with a variety of different modeling modes. The direct modeling tool allows users to modify and fix imported shapes from different file formats. Users can draft intricate sub-divisional surfaces that have T-splines and effortlessly edit them with push-pull maneuvers thanks to the freeform modeling extension. The mesh modeling accessory allows editing and repairing of imported scans or mesh models such as STL and OBJ files. Other extensions in the 3D modeling module include sheet metal modeling, parametric modeling, surface modeling, assembly and printed circuit board (PCB) design integration. 
  • Add Electronic Intelligence to Designs: Users can bring 3D designs to life with the electronic intelligence feature. The schematic capture function has several schematic editing tools. Users can construct gerber, drill and assembly files in one click and with the PCB manufacturing (CAM) accessory.  
  • Ensure PCBs Fit Designs: Thanks to the electronics module's MCAD-ECAD unification ability, users can rest assured their PCB fits their designs every time with the unified MCAD and ECAD software. Users can peruse the PCB component library and component wizards for ready-to-use PCB designs and there are adjustable design rules users can set to align with users' manufacturing requirements in the design for manufacturability and design rule checking (DRC) tool. Other extensions in the electronics module include PCB layout, simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) simulation, and electronics cooling. 
  • Real-World Simulations: Fusion 360's simulation allows users to test their designs and models against life-like conditions digitally so they can save money on prototypes. The status stress function oversees parts and workpieces for displacements, stresses and other effects caused by static loads. The thermal and thermal stresses function enables users to comprehend thermal distributions and they connect with physical forces. Users can estimate unexpected failures for parts under compression thanks to the buckling tool. The non-linear stress extension studies permanent deformations and unleveled materials in designs. Other functions within this module include event simulation, shape optimization, modal frequency, comparing results, simplifying, breadth studies and cloud simulation.  
  • Accurately Determine Outcomes: Users can pinpoint several manufacturing-prepared results for their products or workpieces to meet design specifications while dwindling weight, boosting efficiency and condensing parts. Users can recognize design conditions, restrictions, materials and manufacturing choices to create manufacturing-ready diagrams with the project objective definition function. The editable results element allows users to pick the ideal outcome for their designs so they can promptly begin modeling instead of conducting lengthy importing or exporting procedures. Thanks to aPriori in the cost insights function, users can formulate manufacturing costs for every potential outcome in their designs in reference to production volume requirements. Other extensions in this component include generating and exploring designs and cloud solve. 
  • Efficacious Documentation: Fusion 360's documentation accessory permits users to effectively convey designs with internal or external stakeholders with 2D manufacturing drawings, renderings and animations. The 2D manufacturing drawings function chronicles manufacturing requirements with integrated associative drawings for parts and assemblies. The rendering tool enables users to develop photography-esque images of their models with local or cloud rendering options. Lastly, users can effectively convey designs with 3D-expanded views and animations to showcase design assembly thanks to the animation extension.  
  • Unify Teams: Users can eliminate communication roadblocks with their teammates and external stakeholders with the collaboration tool. The team participant extension authorizes users to add members to their zones for data management and teamwork purposes. Users can share links to model previews in any web browser so third parties can evaluate and interact with the model without access to Fusion 360 with the public and private design sharing function. The commenting and redlining extension allows users to gather and share critiques on the design with comments, markups and redlines on practically any device. Other functions included in this tool include user management, global sharing and unlimited access. 
  • Manufacturing: The manufacturing tool suits practically every manufacturing need and collaborates with various types of machinery such as cutting, milling and turning machines. The 5-axis simultaneous milling extension permits users to mill complex shapes, evade collisions and diminish tool lengths to complete sleek surfaces. Turning toolpaths can be verified with stock simulations to detect errors or collisions in models, stocks, tools and work holdings with the turning function. Users can draft toolpaths from solid model features, such as flattened sheet metal components, to activate water jet, laser and plasma cutters. Other extensions in this accessory include 2.5 and 3-axis milling, 3+2 milling, 4-axis milling, setup probing, mill-turning and a free post processor library.  
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  • Knowledge Management: Scan QR codes for immediate access. Manage image, video, text, document or link support. Revise standard asset protocols throughout several global operations with one click. Implement multi-language support and govern approved workflows. 
  • Skills Management: Obtain the skills matrix to have an easy-to-read skills coverage view. Draft customizable exams to confirm training comprehension. Track and record required certification and licensing training. 
  • Communication: Exhibit smooth collaboration and urgency effectively, monitor what employees post on designated channels and assort posts for quick searching and analyses. 
  • Forms and Checklists: Craft new forms with drag-and-drop tools and complete them for multiple shifts and positions. Add field types, including checkboxes, picklists, numbers, dates, times, etc. 
  • Integrations: Link this solution with other applications for a connected feel. Integratable systems include QMS, CMMS, MES, LMS and ERP. 
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Product Ranking

#39

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Manufacturing Software

#73

among all
Manufacturing Software

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User Sentiment Summary

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Excellent User Sentiment 16 reviews
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94%
of users recommend this product

Poka has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 94% when considering 16 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

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4.69 (16)

Awards

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

User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Integrated CAD/CAM: Streamlines design-to-manufacturing workflow by unifying design, simulation, and toolpath generation within a single platform.
Cloud Collaboration: Facilitates seamless teamwork and real-time project visibility for enhanced communication and faster decision-making.
Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Guides designers to create manufacturable parts from the outset, reducing production costs and delays.
Generative Design: Explores multiple design options tailored for specific manufacturing processes, accelerating innovation and optimizing material usage.
Simulation Capabilities: Validates designs for structural integrity, thermal performance, and motion behavior, minimizing physical prototyping and testing costs.
Intuitive Interface: Simplifies the learning curve with user-friendly tools and a modern, streamlined interface.
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Improved Communication and Collaboration: Workers can easily share knowledge, ask questions, and provide feedback in real-time, fostering a more collaborative work environment.
Streamlined Training and Onboarding: The platform provides a centralized repository for training materials, making it easy for workers to access information and learn new skills. This can be especially helpful for onboarding new employees or introducing updated standard operating procedures.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Workers can quickly access the information they need to perform their jobs effectively, reducing downtime and boosting productivity. For example, digital work instructions can be accessed on demand, eliminating the need to consult outdated paper manuals.
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Cloud Dependency: Requires a stable internet connection for most features, potentially hindering productivity in areas with limited connectivity.
Performance Limitations: Can experience slowdowns or crashes when working with large, complex assemblies or simulations, especially on less powerful hardware.
Feature Depth: While comprehensive, certain specialized manufacturing features might not be as robust as in dedicated CAD/CAM software for specific industries.
Subscription Model: Restricts access to software and data if the subscription lapses or encounters billing issues, potentially disrupting workflows.
Learning Curve: While intuitive, mastering advanced features and workflows can require a steeper learning curve, especially for those transitioning from traditional CAD/CAM systems.
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Limited Customization: Poka's fixed structure for work instructions and forms can be restrictive for companies with unique or complex processes. The platform may not offer enough flexibility to tailor content to specific needs, leading to workarounds or compromises.
Mobile App Limitations: The mobile app's functionality is reportedly limited compared to the web version. Users have mentioned difficulties with features like document editing and offline access, hindering productivity and convenience for frontline workers.
Integrations and Scalability: While Poka offers some integrations, it may not seamlessly connect with all the systems used in a manufacturing environment. This can lead to data silos and inefficiencies, especially for larger organizations with complex IT landscapes.
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For hobbyists and professionals alike, Fusion 360 resonates with its cloud-powered accessibility and integrated workflow. "It's like SolidWorks and SketchUp had a baby," one user raves, praising its intuitiveness compared to heavier CAD software. This ease of use shines in rapid prototyping workflows, with another reviewer calling it "a dream come true for quick design iterations." However, Fusion 360's cloud reliance can be a double-edged sword. While it liberates users from hefty installations, internet hiccups can cripple productivity. "Offline functionality, even basic rendering, would be a game-changer," pleads one reviewer. This sentiment echoes for complex projects, where users yearn for the raw processing power of desktop-only alternatives. "Fusion 360 choked on my intricate assembly," admits another, highlighting limitations compared to software like CATIA. Despite these quirks, Fusion 360's unique blend of affordability, user-friendliness, and integrated features like simulation and CAM tools keeps users hooked. "The value proposition is unbeatable," one designer declares, while another appreciates the "constant stream of updates and new features." For those seeking a versatile and accessible entry into the world of 3D design and manufacturing, Fusion 360 remains a compelling choice, even with its occasional hiccups.

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Poka is a software platform designed to streamline manufacturing operations, but user reviews from the past year have been mixed. Some users rave about its ease of use, particularly for shop floor workers who can quickly access work instructions and report issues. Others appreciate the real-time data insights, allowing them to identify bottlenecks and improve efficiency. However, some users find the platform lacking in features compared to competitors like Tulip and Parsable. They point to limited customization options and a less intuitive interface for building complex workflows. Overall, Poka seems best suited for organizations with a large frontline workforce that need a simple, visual way to manage tasks and communication. However, companies looking for a highly customizable solution with advanced analytics capabilities might find Poka falling short.

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