Fusion 360 vs Keyshot: two approaches to lighting 3D models
When working with 3D models, lighting is a crucial step for presenting a design. Two popular tools, Fusion 360 and Keyshot, approach this task from radically different perspectives, integrating the process into the modeling workflow or specializing in achieving maximum realism. 🔦
Lighting within the CAD environment: Fusion 360 Render
The rendering workspace of Fusion 360 operates directly within the CAD modeling software. It uses a real-time engine that allows seeing changes in lights and shadows instantly, greatly accelerating design iteration. The user configures basic parameters such as intensity and color for HDRI environment lights, spotlights, and sunlight. Its priority is speed to generate quick presentation images from the same file, without complex export processes.
Main features of Fusion 360 Render:- Native integration: No need to leave the CAD modeling environment to preview.
- Immediate response: The real-time engine updates the view when modifying any light parameter.
- Simplified setup: Basic controls for intensity, color, and position of common light sources.
Fusion 360 lights to clearly and quickly show the form and function of a design.
Lighting with physical accuracy: Keyshot
Keyshot works as a standalone application dedicated exclusively to rendering. Its approach to lighting is deeper, based on physical principles. It uses advanced ray tracing and path tracing algorithms to accurately calculate complex effects like subsurface light scattering or ambient occlusion. It offers extensive control over light properties, allowing adjustments to area lights, IES projectors, and dynamic HDRI environments to achieve photographic realism.
Main features of Keyshot:- Advanced physical engine: Path tracing algorithms to faithfully simulate how light travels.
- Total control: Detailed adjustments for every light and material property.
- Complex lighting effects: Ability to render subsurface scattering, caustics, and precise reflections.
Choose according to workflow and result
The choice between both tools depends on the final objective. Fusion 360 is ideal for producing conceptual or technical renders agilely while designing. On the other hand, Keyshot, although it requires exporting the model, delivers total control to create high-quality final images. While one prioritizes integrated speed, the other seeks absolute visual fidelity, meticulously simulating how light interacts with materials. The user experience also differs: adjusting lighting in Fusion 360 is quick, while in Keyshot, rendering a final high-quality image may require significantly more processing time. ⏱️