# Autodesk Fusion vs Creo Elements/Direct Modeling Comparison
---
## AI Generated Summary
- **G2 reviewers report** that Autodesk Fusion excels in user satisfaction, boasting a higher overall rating compared to Creo Elements/Direct Modeling. Users appreciate the **customizable toolbars and shortcuts** that enhance productivity and streamline the design process.
- **According to verified reviews** , Creo Elements/Direct Modeling is praised for its **direct modeling features** , which allow users to design products quickly, significantly reducing the overall design cycle time. This capability is particularly beneficial for those needing to iterate designs rapidly.
- **Users say** that Autodesk Fusion's advanced modeling tools enable precise and detailed designs, making it a favorite among professionals who require high-quality outputs. The software's ability to handle **surface and mesh modeling** is also highlighted, allowing for efficient adjustments of scanned objects.
- **Reviewers mention** that while Creo Elements/Direct Modeling has a user-friendly interface, it faces challenges in meeting specific workflow needs, with some users noting configuration difficulties. However, its **direct editing capabilities** and compatibility with models from other tools are seen as significant advantages.
- **G2 reviewers highlight** that Autodesk Fusion's pro version is particularly valuable for enthusiasts, offering enhanced features for recreating and modifying existing files. This flexibility is a strong selling point for users looking for advanced functionalities.
- **According to recent user feedback** , while Creo Elements/Direct Modeling has a solid foundation for 2D and 3D design, it lacks the extensive user base and support resources that Autodesk Fusion benefits from, which can impact the overall user experience and access to community-driven solutions.



| | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.5 out of 5 | 4.0 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 519 | 22 | 
| **Largest Market Segment** | Small-Business (68.4% of reviews) | Small-Business (52.4% of reviews) | 
| **Entry Level Price** | $680.00 1 Subscription Per Year | No pricing available | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### Autodesk Fusion

Pros:
- Ease of Use (29 reviews)
- Features (21 reviews)

Cons:
- Difficult Learning (11 reviews)
- Learning Curve (11 reviews)

### Creo Elements/Direct Modeling

**Not enough data**

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 8.8 (446 reviews) | 8.3 (21 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.6 (451 reviews) | 7.9 (21 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.8 (120 reviews) | Not enough data | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | 8.5 (54 reviews) | Not enough data | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 8.4 (393 reviews) | 7.2 (19 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | 8.8 (55 reviews) | Not enough data | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 9.0 (441 reviews) | 8.9 (21 reviews) | 

---
## Pricing

### Autodesk Fusion

#### Entry-Level Pricing

Plan: Autodesk Fusion 

Price: $680.00 1 Subscription Per Year

Description: Autodesk Fusion is a cloud-based 3D modeling, CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software platform for professional product design and manufacturing.

Key Features:
- Design and engineer products how you want to ensure aesthetics, form, fit, and function.
- Engineer, design, and create anything with comprehensive electronics and PCB design tools.
- Save time and money and get quality parts out the door faster.

[Browse all 4 editions](https://www.g2.com/products/autodesk-fusion/pricing)

#### Free Trial

Yes

### Creo Elements/Direct Modeling

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

No information available

---
## Features Comparison By Category

### Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.7/10 | 180 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### CAD to CAM

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **CAD-CAM Import** | 8.9 (152 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAM Data Exchange** | 8.8 (138 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAD/CAM Compatibility** | 8.8 (148 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### CNC Programming

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **CNC Workflows** | 8.7 (138 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CNC Feature Recognition** | 8.4 (130 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Programming Control** | 8.4 (130 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Machining

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Job Set-up** | 8.5 (135 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Operations** | 8.7 (133 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Tooling and Toolpaths** | 8.7 (135 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### General-Purpose CAD

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.6/10 | 102 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 9.1 (100 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Modeling** | 9.2 (100 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Visualize ** | 9.1 (99 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering** | 8.8 (97 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Edit

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **File Import ** | 8.4 (96 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Push/Pull** | 8.7 (92 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Views** | 8.8 (94 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Grips ** | 8.7 (87 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Collaboration

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Annotate** | 8.1 (86 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Documentation ** | 8.1 (94 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Extract** | 8.3 (90 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### CAD Libraries

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.6/10 | 31 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Library

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Categorize** | 9.1 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Search** | 8.3 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Deduplication** | 8.3 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Feedback** | 8.5 (26 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### CAD

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Types** | 8.6 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Models** | 8.9 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Compatibility** | 9.1 (29 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Integration

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Catalogs** | 8.6 (28 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **CAD & PLM** | 8.7 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **ERP** | 8.3 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### CAD Data Exchange

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.7/10 | 28 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Data

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D Format** | 9.0 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Data Quality** | 8.7 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Extra Information** | 8.4 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Standard Format** | 8.6 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Translate** | 8.6 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Validation** | 8.8 (22 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Logistics

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Integrate** | 8.5 (25 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Additive Manufacturing

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.1/10 | 191 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### File Support - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **STL Compatible** | 9.0 (178 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **3MF Compatible** | 8.7 (100 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **OBJ Compatible** | 8.7 (142 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### File Editing - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Mesh Repair** | 7.8 (144 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File Editing** | 8.6 (171 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Software Integrations - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Standalone Slicer** | 7.8 (127 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Inetgrated 3D Modeling** | 9.1 (167 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Software Type - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Cloud-based Platform** | 8.5 (173 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Downloadable Application** | 8.9 (170 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Generative AI - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **AI Text-to-Image** | 6.0 (23 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **AI Text-to-3D** | 6.1 (24 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Building Preparation - Additive Manufacturing

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Material Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Building Simulation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Slicing Optimization** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

### CAD Viewers

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.7/10 | 117 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### File Options

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Import files** | 9.1 (111 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Export files** | 8.7 (109 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **View 2D files** | 8.3 (105 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **View 3D files** | 9.3 (112 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Batch convert files** | 7.9 (73 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File size** | 8.4 (101 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Dimensioning tools** | 8.3 (112 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Change units** | 8.8 (109 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **3D/solid modeling tools** | 9.2 (109 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Design

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Drawing** | 8.8 (111 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### PCB Design

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.5/10 | 36 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **PCB layout editing** | 8.5 (31 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Schematic editor** | 8.4 (32 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D modeling tools** | 9.1 (34 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Component placement** | 8.8 (34 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Library

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Component libraries** | 8.3 (32 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Platform

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Board size** | 8.6 (33 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Layers** | 8.5 (32 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Customization

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Custom commands** | 7.8 (33 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom interface** | 8.2 (32 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Simulation & CAE

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.4/10 | 127 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Design

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 9.1 (116 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 8.8 (117 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Editing Tools** | 9.0 (116 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering tools** | 8.6 (108 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Tools

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Fluid analysis** | 7.2 (63 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Finite element analysis** | 8.4 (81 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Multibody dynamics** | 8.1 (73 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Work

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Discrete event modeling** | 8.0 (66 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Continuous event modeling** | 8.2 (67 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Mechanical event simulation** | 8.4 (83 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manufacturing process simulation** | 8.4 (76 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Integrate** | 8.2 (72 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Environment

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 8.6 (97 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Task** | 8.6 (87 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 8.4 (84 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Command Clarity** | 9.1 (102 reviews) | Not enough data | 

### Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Autodesk Fusion** | 8.9/10 | 22 |
| **Creo Elements/Direct Modeling** | N/A | N/A |

#### Tools - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **3D/solid modeling Tools** | 8.8 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Rendering Tools** | 8.7 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Drawing Tools** | 9.1 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Editing Tools** | 9.1 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Text Editing Tools** | 8.7 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### File Options - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Export Files** | 9.2 (22 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Import Files** | 9.1 (21 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File Interoperability** | 8.9 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Backwards compatibility** | 9.3 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **File size** | 8.7 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Customization - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Custom Commands** | 8.5 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Scripts** | 8.8 (20 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Menus** | 8.4 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Custom Interface** | 8.9 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 

#### Environment - Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD)

| Feature | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Hardware support** | 8.8 (18 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Task-based interfaces** | 9.0 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Manage Multiple Profiles** | 8.5 (19 reviews) | Not enough data | 
| **Command Clarity** | 9.3 (18 reviews) | Not enough data | 

---
## Categories
**Shared Categories (3):** [Simulation & CAE Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/simulation-cae), [Mechanical Computer-aided Design (MCAD) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mechanical-computer-aided-design-mcad), [General-Purpose CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad)

**Unique to Autodesk Fusion (7):** [CAD Viewers](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-viewers), [Additive Manufacturing Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/additive-manufacturing), [CAD Data Exchange Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-data-exchange), [CAD Libraries](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-libraries), [Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/computer-aided-manufacturing-cam), [Sketching Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/sketching), [PCB Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/pcb-design)



---
## Reviewer Demographics

### By Company Size

| Segment | Autodesk Fusion | Creo Elements/Direct Modeling | 
|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 68.4% | 52.4% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 21.7% | 14.3% | 
| **Enterprise** | 9.9% | 33.3% | 

### By Industry

#### Autodesk Fusion

- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 16.1%
- **Design:** 13.9%
- **Automotive:** 8.2%
- **Higher Education:** 5.0%
- **Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing:** 4.0%
- **Consumer Goods:** 3.6%
- **Construction:** 2.8%
- **Machinery:** 2.4%
- **Medical Devices:** 2.4%
- **Manufacturing:** 2.2%
- **Other:** 39.6%

#### Creo Elements/Direct Modeling

- **Mechanical or Industrial Engineering:** 42.9%
- **Design:** 19.0%
- **Higher Education:** 9.5%
- **Shipbuilding:** 4.8%
- **Oil & Energy:** 4.8%
- **Machinery:** 4.8%
- **Defense & Space:** 4.8%
- **Computer Software:** 4.8%
- **Automotive:** 4.8%

---
## Alternatives

### Alternatives to Autodesk Fusion

- [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (643 reviews)
- [Onshape](https://www.g2.com/products/onshape/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (695 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (606 reviews)
- [Altium Develop](https://www.g2.com/products/altium-develop/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1009 reviews)
- [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (200 reviews)
- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1326 reviews)
- [Designcenter](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (600 reviews)
- [CATIA](https://www.g2.com/products/catia/reviews) — 4.2/5 stars (255 reviews)
- [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (770 reviews)
- [DraftSight](https://www.g2.com/products/draftsight/reviews) — 4.2/5 stars (208 reviews)

### Alternatives to Creo Elements/Direct Modeling

- [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (643 reviews)
- [Inventor](https://www.g2.com/products/inventor/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (440 reviews)
- [Designcenter Solid Edge](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter-solid-edge/reviews) — 4.3/5 stars (606 reviews)
- [Designcenter](https://www.g2.com/products/designcenter/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (600 reviews)
- [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1326 reviews)
- [ZWCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/zwcad/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (350 reviews)
- [Altium Develop](https://www.g2.com/products/altium-develop/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (1009 reviews)
- [MATLAB](https://www.g2.com/products/matlab/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (770 reviews)
- [MicroStation](https://www.g2.com/products/microstation/reviews) — 4.0/5 stars (416 reviews)
- [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (1935 reviews)

---
## Top Discussions

### Autodesk Fusion

- Title: [Does Fusion 360 require cloud credits?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/cloud-credits) — 2 comments, 1 upvote *(includes official response)*
  > **Top comment:** "Each annual subscription comes with 100 cloud credits. Cloud credits are needed for advanced simulation, generative design, and cloud-rendering."
- Title: [What do I need to run Fusion 360?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/system-requirements-7d07ee73-2cf0-420d-bb26-c8985e5c3cc8) — 2 comments, 1 upvote *(includes official response)*
  > **Top comment:** "Operating System	Apple® macOS™ Mojave v10.14;Apple® macOS™ High Sierra v10.13; Apple® macOS™ Sierra v10.12
Note: Support for Mac® OS® X v10.11.x (El..."
- Title: [What is Fusion 360 used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-fusion-360-used-for) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Fusion 360 is a start-to-finish product design and development tool.
Fusion's core product offerings include CAD/CAM/CAE and PCB design capabilities. With..."
- Title: [Is Fusion 360 still free for hobbyists?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/fusion-360-is-fusion-360-still-free-for-hobbyists) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Yes, you just have to use the Educational Version. And you can only have 10 editable/active projects. If you want more than 10 projects, you have to make..."
- Title: [Is Fusion 360 a CAD software?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-fusion-360-a-cad-software) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "Yes, and so much more."

### Creo Elements/Direct Modeling

No discussions available for this product.

---
**Source:** [G2.com](https://www.g2.com) | [Comparison Page](https://www.g2.com/compare/autodesk-fusion-vs-creo-elements-direct-modeling)