BIM 360 vs. Revit - Which One Should You Choose?

Building Information Modeling has revolutionized the architecture, engineering, and construction industry by improving collaboration, accuracy, and efficiency. Autodesk offers a range of BIM tools, with BIM 360 and Revit being two of the most commonly used platforms. However, many professionals wonder which one to choose.

This article provides a detailed comparison between BIM 360 and Revit, covering their features, differences, benefits, and best use cases. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which software aligns with your project needs.

Understanding BIM 360 and Revit

What is BIM 360?

BIM 360 is a cloud-based collaboration and project management platform that facilitates real-time coordination among teams working on BIM projects. It is designed to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and ensure project efficiency from design to construction.

Key Features of BIM 360:

• Cloud-based document management
• Real-time collaboration with teams
• Clash detection and issue tracking
• Data analytics and reporting
• Integration with Revit and other Autodesk tools
• Mobile access for field teams

BIM 360 consists of various modules, including:

• BIM 360 Docs: Document management and version control
• BIM 360 Design: Collaboration for Revit users
• BIM 360 Coordinate: Clash detection and coordination
• BIM 360 Build: Construction site management

What is Revit?

Revit is a powerful BIM authoring software used for designing, modeling, and documenting buildings and infrastructure. It allows architects, engineers, and MEP professionals to create intelligent 3D models with detailed parametric components.

Key Features of Revit:

• Parametric modeling and intelligent objects
• 3D visualization and rendering
• Structural, architectural, and MEP design
• Construction documentation
• Interoperability with other BIM software
• Collaboration tools (with BIM 360 or local networks)

BIM 360 vs. Revit: Key Differences

1. Purpose and Functionality

• BIM 360 is primarily a cloud-based collaboration and project management tool, helping teams work together remotely on BIM projects.
• Revit is a BIM modeling and design software, used for creating 3D models and generating construction documentation.

2. Collaboration Capabilities

• BIM 360 offers seamless cloud collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on a single model from different locations in real time.
• Revit has built-in collaboration features but typically requires worksharing (local networks or BIM 360 integration) for multi-user access.

3. Deployment and Access

• BIM 360 is cloud-based, accessible from any device with an internet connection.
• Revit is desktop-based, requiring installation on a computer but offering cloud collaboration through BIM 360 Design.

4. File Management

• BIM 360 provides version control, ensuring that all team members work on the latest files without conflicts.
• Revit saves files locally or on a shared server, requiring manual coordination.

5. Clash Detection & Coordination

• BIM 360 Coordinate has automated clash detection, allowing teams to identify and resolve conflicts before construction.
• Revit requires additional plugins like Navisworks for clash detection.

6. Cost and Licensing

• BIM 360 operates on a subscription-based cloud licensing model, with different pricing for various modules.
• Revit is available as a standalone license or as part of the Autodesk AEC Collection.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on the nature of your work. Let’s explore which tool is better suited for different use cases:

Choose BIM 360 If:

• Your team needs real-time collaboration across multiple locations.
• You require document management and cloud-based version control.
• You want to streamline clash detection and issue tracking.
• You work on large-scale projects that involve multiple stakeholders.
• You need access to project data and analytics for better decision-making.

Choose Revit If:

• You are an architect, structural engineer, or MEP professional creating detailed 3D models.
• You require parametric modeling and intelligent design tools.
• You need to generate construction documentation directly from the BIM model.
• You work locally and don’t require cloud collaboration.
• You want advanced customization and scripting (e.g., using Dynamo for automation).

Can You Use BIM 360 and Revit Together?

Yes! In fact, many AEC professionals combine BIM 360 and Revit for enhanced efficiency. BIM 360 Design integrates directly with Revit, allowing multiple users to co-author a model in the cloud without worrying about file conflicts. This combination is especially useful for firms handling large-scale projects with remote teams.

How They Work Together:

1. Designers create 3D models in Revit with intelligent components.
2. Teams collaborate in real-time using BIM 360 Design, storing models in the cloud.
3. BIM 360 Coordinate performs clash detection, ensuring constructability.
4. BIM 360 Build helps manage construction phases, reducing errors and rework.

BIM 360 or Revit?

• If your goal is to design and model buildings, Revit is your go-to software.
• If you need cloud collaboration, project management, and coordination, BIM 360 is the better choice.
• If you work on large-scale projects and need both design and collaboration, using BIM 360 and Revit together is the ideal solution.

For best results, consider integrating both tools to leverage their strengths and ensure seamless BIM workflows from design to construction.

Both BIM 360 and Revit play critical roles in modern BIM workflows. Revit excels at modeling and design, while BIM 360 enables cloud-based collaboration and project management. Your choice should depend on your specific project requirements, team collaboration needs, and budget.