AutoCAD vs Fulcrum Pro

Last Updated:

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

Product Basics

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design system that drafts accurate 2D and 3D product designs. It develops, documents and crafts 2D shapes and 3D models via surfaces, solids and other types. It's customizable with integrated apps and APIs.

Its main offerings include performance enhancements, sharing, fast measure, layouts, tables and rendering. It streamlines drawing comparisons, counting, scheduling, block adding and other responsibilities automatically. It's available for Windows and Mac OS.
read more...

Fulcrum Pro is a comprehensive software designed to streamline and manage manufacturing tasks. It is particularly well-suited for small to mid-sized manufacturing businesses seeking to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. This software offers significant benefits, including real-time data tracking, improved workflow automation, and enhanced resource management, which collectively contribute to reduced downtime and increased output.

Popular features of Fulcrum Pro include inventory management, production scheduling, and quality control, all integrated into a user-friendly interface. Users appreciate its ability to provide actionable insights and facilitate better decision-making processes. Compared to similar products, Fulcrum Pro is often praised for its intuitive design and robust functionality, which cater specifically to the nuanced needs of the manufacturing sector.

Pricing for Fulcrum Pro typically falls within a moderate range, often based on the number of users or the scale of operations, with options for monthly or annual payments. This flexibility allows businesses to choose a plan that aligns with their budget and operational requirements.

read more...
$255/User, Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$800 Monthly
Free Trial is unavailable →
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

  • Quick Feedback: Add feedback to DWG files without altering drawings, saving time in the design process. 
  • Flexible Windows: Tug and shift windows to showcase information side by side or on numerous monitors to keep track of everything in one place. 
  • Easy Sharing: Allocate shared drawing copies to colleagues with real-time technology for remote access anywhere at any time and faster deliberations. 
  • Rapid Conversions: Transform CAD drawing sheets into PDFs or CAD files for quick distribution. 
  • Automatic Prompt Counting: Leverage instant counting blocks or shapes to boost productivity and reduce errors. 
read more...
  • Increased Efficiency: Streamline your manufacturing processes with automated task management, reducing manual errors and saving time.
  • Real-Time Data: Access up-to-the-minute information on production status, inventory levels, and workforce productivity, enabling informed decision-making.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitate seamless communication between departments with integrated messaging and shared task lists, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
  • Customizable Workflows: Tailor the software to fit your specific manufacturing needs with flexible workflow configurations, improving operational alignment.
  • Improved Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality checks at every stage of production, reducing defects and ensuring high standards are maintained.
  • Scalability: Easily scale your operations as your business grows, without the need for significant additional investment in new software.
  • Cost Reduction: Identify and eliminate inefficiencies in your production process, leading to significant cost savings over time.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Stay compliant with industry regulations through automated documentation and reporting features, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.
  • Resource Optimization: Allocate resources more effectively by tracking usage patterns and adjusting allocations based on real-time data.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Utilize predictive analytics to anticipate equipment failures before they occur, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
  • Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Deliver products on time and to specification, improving customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Leverage comprehensive analytics to gain insights into production trends, helping you make strategic decisions that drive growth.
  • Inventory Management: Maintain optimal inventory levels with automated tracking and reordering, reducing waste and ensuring materials are always available when needed.
  • Employee Productivity: Boost workforce productivity by providing clear task assignments and tracking progress, ensuring everyone is working efficiently.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Implement eco-friendly practices by monitoring and reducing waste, energy consumption, and emissions throughout the manufacturing process.
read more...
  • 2D Drafting, Drawing and Annotation
    • Views: Name and save views effortlessly. Return to specific filters for reference or to add viewports. 
    • Purge: Delete several unneeded items via selection and object preview options. 
    • Arrays: Construct and edit models in circular, rectangular or straight paths 
  • 3D Modeling and Visualization
    • Rendering: Add lighting and particular materials to offer realistic 3D designs. These features also improve design communications. 
    • Visual Styles: Utilize these styles to manage edge, lighting and shading displays on 3D models. 
    • Model Documentation: Produce bases, projections, sections, detail views and other 2D drawings from 3D models. 
  • Collaboration
    • DWG Compare: Compare two drawings in the same window. 
    • Model References and Import: Add Navisworks models for drawings and input. 
    • Sheet Sets: Review, manage and plan numerous blueprints in different sheet sets. 
  • Installation and Customization
    • CUI Customization: Tailor user interfaces to strengthen accessibility while diminishing routine assignment phases. 
    • Action Recorder: Document commands and enter playback values as action macros. 
    • CAD Standards Checker: Initiate and watch CAD regulations to upkeep fluent layer, line type, text and dimension styles. 
read more...
  • Real-Time Production Tracking: Monitor production processes in real-time to ensure efficiency and identify bottlenecks immediately.
  • Advanced Scheduling: Utilize dynamic scheduling tools to optimize production timelines and resource allocation.
  • Inventory Management: Maintain accurate inventory levels with automated tracking and replenishment alerts.
  • Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality checks at various stages of production to ensure product standards are met.
  • Customizable Dashboards: Create personalized dashboards to display key performance indicators and metrics relevant to your operations.
  • Data Analytics: Leverage powerful analytics tools to gain insights from production data and drive informed decision-making.
  • Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrate with existing ERP, CRM, and other enterprise systems for a unified workflow.
  • Mobile Access: Access critical production data and management tools from any mobile device, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness.
  • Work Order Management: Efficiently create, assign, and track work orders to streamline production tasks and responsibilities.
  • Compliance Tracking: Ensure adherence to industry regulations and standards with built-in compliance tracking features.
  • Resource Planning: Optimize the use of materials, labor, and machinery with comprehensive resource planning tools.
  • Cost Analysis: Perform detailed cost analysis to identify areas for cost reduction and improve overall profitability.
  • Supplier Management: Manage supplier relationships and performance with integrated supplier management tools.
  • Document Management: Store and manage all production-related documents in a centralized, easily accessible repository.
  • Scalability: Scale the software to meet the growing needs of your manufacturing operations without compromising performance.
read more...

Product Ranking

#8

among all
Manufacturing Software

#150

among all
Manufacturing Software

Find out who the leaders are

User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 5388 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 3 reviews
92%
of users recommend this product

AutoCAD has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 92% when considering 5388 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

93%
of users recommend this product

Fulcrum Pro has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 93% when considering 3 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

4.65 (2689)
4.67 (3)
4.6 (2699)
n/a

Awards

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

User Favorite Award

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

User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Precise Measurements and Technical Drawings: AutoCAD's tools enable the creation of highly accurate and detailed technical drawings, which are essential for manufacturing processes. The software's precision ensures that designs can be reliably translated into physical products.
3D Modeling and Visualization: AutoCAD facilitates the creation of 3D models, allowing manufacturers to visualize and test product designs before production. This capability helps identify potential design flaws and optimize products for functionality and aesthetics.
Streamlined Collaboration and Communication: AutoCAD files can be easily shared among team members, suppliers, and clients, promoting efficient collaboration and communication throughout the manufacturing process. The software's standardized file formats ensure compatibility and reduce the risk of miscommunication.
Show more
Offline Capabilities: Users in manufacturing appreciate that they can continue to collect data even when internet connectivity is unreliable, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
Customizable Forms: The ability to tailor forms to match specific workflows, such as equipment inspections or quality checks, is frequently praised for its ability to mirror real-world processes.
Location-Based Data: The capability to associate data with specific locations resonates with users who need to track assets, monitor work sites, or manage geographically dispersed teams.
Show more
Cost: The significant upfront cost and ongoing subscription fees can be a barrier for smaller businesses or independent designers.
Complexity: The software's extensive features and functionalities can present a steep learning curve for new users, potentially hindering productivity.
Resource Consumption: AutoCAD's demanding hardware requirements can necessitate investments in powerful computers to ensure smooth operation, especially for complex projects.
Collaboration Challenges: Collaboration among team members or with external partners can be cumbersome, often requiring additional software or cloud-based solutions.
File Compatibility: Sharing or exchanging design files with users of other CAD software can lead to compatibility issues, potentially causing delays or requiring file conversions.
Show more
Offline Functionality: Users report intermittent issues with offline data syncing, leading to data loss and workflow disruptions in environments where internet connectivity is unreliable.
Complex Integration: Integrating Fulcrum with existing manufacturing systems (e.g., ERP, MES) can be cumbersome and require significant customization, posing challenges for seamless data exchange.
Reporting Limitations: Some users find the built-in reporting features limited, lacking advanced filtering and customization options needed for in-depth production analysis.
Show more

Since its debut in 1982, AutoCAD has become a cornerstone within the computer-aided design (CAD) software industry. It's renowned for its robust capabilities in creating intricate 2D and 3D designs, making it a go-to for professionals across various sectors such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. User reviews from the past year highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of this software. AutoCAD's powerful drafting tools and extensive library of symbols and templates are frequently praised. Its ability to handle complex 3D modeling and generate precise technical drawings is a significant advantage over competitors like SolidWorks and CATIA, especially for projects requiring a high degree of detail and customization. However, the steep learning curve and the software's high cost can be deterrents for some users. Additionally, while AutoCAD excels in 2D drafting and 3D modeling, it may not be as specialized as some industry-specific software options when it comes to simulations or certain types of engineering analysis. Overall, AutoCAD is best suited for experienced professionals who require a versatile and powerful CAD software for creating complex designs. Its comprehensive features and industry-standard file format make it an ideal choice for large-scale projects and collaboration across different disciplines. However, beginners or those on a tight budget may want to explore alternative options that offer a more user-friendly interface and a lower price point. Keep in mind that the software landscape is constantly evolving, so it's always a good idea to check for the latest updates and comparisons before making a decision.

Show more

Is Fulcrum Pro the lever your business needs to succeed in the cutthroat world of manufacturing? User reviews from the past year paint a picture of Fulcrum Pro as a comprehensive and robust manufacturing software solution, particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses. Users praise its intuitive interface, real-time data visibility, and powerful scheduling algorithm, which dynamically optimizes job order based on factors like lead times, inventory, and machine availability. This proves especially valuable in mitigating production bottlenecks and reducing overtime costs. However, some users express concerns about the software's learning curve, particularly for those unfamiliar with manufacturing software. While Fulcrum Pro offers extensive features, mastering them may require dedicated training and time. Fulcrum Pro differentiates itself through its end-to-end approach, encompassing everything from quoting to shipping, unlike some competitors that specialize in specific areas like ERP or MRP. This makes it an attractive option for businesses seeking a single, unified platform to manage their entire production process. For instance, its integrated scheduling algorithm, a feature not commonly found in all manufacturing software, gives it a competitive edge. Ultimately, Fulcrum Pro emerges as a powerful tool for manufacturers aiming to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and gain a competitive advantage. Its comprehensive nature, real-time capabilities, and advanced scheduling make it ideal for those seeking to optimize their manufacturing processes from start to finish.

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