However, Inventor has many tools to make the 3D modeling process smoother and more intuitive.ĢD models can be imported to Inventor. (Note: Each category is based on the question: “Which is better for developing a product for testing and manufacture?”) CriterionĪutoCAD is all-around less expensive than InventorĪs far as simplicity is concerned, AutoCAD is simpler. For example, Maya is used to produce 3D animation, while Inventor is used to create 3D plans and specs for manufacturing. Each program is specialized for a different field or industry. Most of their software deals with conceptual plans in 3D space. I’ll talk more about that later on.Īutodesk is the world leader in CAD/CAM software development. Interestingly, the compatibility only flows one way. Both AutoCAD and Inventor are developed by the California-based company, so you can expect a lot of compatibility between the two. Let’s take a brief moment to talk about Autodesk. But it will clarify the key differences between the two programs.Įither way, you look at it, by the time you finish reading this article, you’ll see the distinction between AutoCAD and Inventor. No matter what your situation is, this article will help answer your question: “What is the difference between AutoCAD and Inventor?” Now, let me make this clear, this article won’t tell you which of the programs is better when placed head-to-head. Inventor?Īre you a CAD/CAM professional trying to decide which of these two programs to specialize in? Are you an employee assigned the task of figuring out which CAD/CAM program is right for your purposes? Are you an inventor or creator who’s itching to convert your ideas into 2D or 3D models? Why are you interested in comparing AutoCAD vs. But before we continue, let me ask you a question. I’m going to use several criteria to differentiate between these two programs. If you’re looking for an honest comparison between AutoCAD vs.

Inventor can run simulations such as stress testing, airflow, even carbon emissions.Inventor is Specialized for Parts modeling for CAM Machines.Compatibility between AutoCAD and Inventor