SolveSpaceLinux
vs
Autodesk Fusion 360Windows
SolveSpace as a Linux alternative to Autodesk Fusion 360
Updated
Our verdict
SolveSpace can replace Fusion 360 for users who only need basic parametric 2‑D/3‑D modeling and simple assemblies. It is free, open‑source, and works natively on Linux, but it lacks the advanced simulation, CAM, and PCB features that Fusion 360 offers. It is best suited for hobbyists, makers, or small‑scale designers who can handle manual export/import for advanced tasks.
- License
- GPL-3.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.2 (March 27, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both provide parametric modeling with constraints
- Both support 3‑D solid creation via extrude, revolve, and Boolean operations
- Both allow assembly of multiple parts with positional constraints
- Both can export to common formats like STL and DXF
What is different
- SolveSpace has no integrated mechanical simulation or stress analysis
- It lacks a CAM module for CNC toolpath generation
- No PCB design integration
- No cloud collaboration or version control
- No direct import of Fusion 360 native files
Opening your Autodesk Fusion 360 files
SolveSpace can import DXF, SVG, and STL files, which can be exported from Fusion 360. Direct opening of Fusion 360’s .f3d or .f3d+ files is not supported; users must export to a compatible format first.
Switching from Autodesk Fusion 360 to SolveSpace, step by step
- Export your Fusion 360 parts to STL or DXF
- Open the exported files in SolveSpace using File → Import
- Recreate assemblies by adding components and applying constraints
- Adjust dimensions to match original design
- Export final models to STL or DXF for manufacturing or further processing
Key features of SolveSpace
- Parametric 2D and 3D modeling
- Extrude, revolve, and Boolean operations
- Constraint solver for planar and spatial linkages
- Assembly support with fit verification
- Export to STL, DXF, SVG, and other common formats
- CAM export for laser cutting and waterjet
- Free and open‑source (GPL‑3.0)
- Available as a Flatpak and native packages for Debian/Ubuntu
How to install SolveSpace on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.solvespace.SolveSpacesudo apt install solvespacesudo apt install solvespaceFrequently asked questions
Can I use SolveSpace for CNC machining?
SolveSpace can export 2‑D CAM data for laser cutting or waterjet, but it does not generate 3‑D CNC toolpaths like Fusion 360. For CNC you would need to export to STL and use another CAM program.
Does SolveSpace support parametric assemblies?
Yes, SolveSpace supports assemblies with positional and dimensional constraints, and it can perform fit verification.
Is SolveSpace suitable for mechanical simulation?
No. SolveSpace does not include finite‑element analysis or stress simulation; you would need a separate tool for that.
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