We live in a world of choices. In the past, if you wanted to use powerful software such as Autocad, Maya, and others, you needed to purchase an expensive license. However, Autodesk unveiled a subscription model for Autocad in 2016. Now, the company offers Flex, a new “pay as you go” model for its products.
With Flex, you can purchase tokens for any Autodesk product, including Autocad, Maya, 3ds Max, Fusion 360, and many other solutions. Autodesk is well-known for offering state-of-the-art software for different areas, including architecture, structural design, construction, game development, and more.
Even with top-quality software, is it a good deal to use Autodesk Flex? Let’s take a deeper look to find out.
The Concept Behind Flex
If you’re a heavy user of Autodesk apps, such as what happens with architects using Autocad, it’s a given that you’ll purchase a subscription. However, others might find the cost too high for occasional use. This is when Autodesk Flex comes in handy.
You can buy tokens that you later spend on using Autodesk offerings. Each software costs a different number of tokens a day. Additionally, no restrictions exist on how many people can use the software, whereas the subscription model is user-specific. Tokens expire one year from the date of purchase.
There’s no limit on software features by using Flex, and token spending is calculated on a daily basis or per result. For instance, ReCap Photo costs 1 token per 50 photos instead of a daily rate.
A Great Way to Reduce Cost
If you’re an occasional user, buying tokens is a great deal because it can greatly reduce your costs. Let’s take AutoCAD as an example. If you use it once a month, you can get 100 tokens for $300, which will also allow some additional uses.
If you’re unsure about how many tokens you need, fret not! An onsite tool allows you to choose your product, set an estimated use and number of users, and provide recommendations on how many tokens you need.
How Many Flex Tokens Do You Need?
Let’s look at some numbers as of the time of this writing. First, consider that each token costs $3, and you can buy at least 100. Remember that if you’re a dedicated user, purchasing a subscription might be more convenient. That said, here’s an overview of the tokens needed for the top products:
- Autocad: 7 tokens a day
- Navisworks: 9 tokens a day
- 3ds Max: 6 tokens a day
- Advance Steel: 8 tokens a day
- ReCap Pro: 1 token a day
- Structural Bridge Design: 7 tokens a day
- Fabrication products: 4 tokens a day
- Civil 3D: 9 tokens a day
- Infraworks: 7 tokens a day
- Advance Steel: 8 tokens a day
- Fusion 360: 2 tokens a day
- Inventor: 8 tokens a day
- Maya: 6 tokens a day
- Flame: 18 tokens a day
Get a Good Deal
If you buy more than 5,000 tokens, you can get a discount by contacting Autodesk’s sales team. As we mentioned, you might want to explore subscriptions if you need many tokens for a specific product and one user. But purchasing many tokens is oriented toward distributing them to as many users as necessary.
It also brings a significant advantage: you can use the tokens for any Autodesk offerings. This means you can try and use other software and all their features. True to its name, Flex is all about flexibility.
You Have the Control with Flex
If you use Flex for your Autodesk products, you won’t need to worry about controlling token spending since everything is done via a simple interface, where you can assign users and track token spending.
You only need to worry about ensuring that every user closes the products once they’re finished to stop token spending.
Maximize Advantages with a Mixed Model
Even though Flex can be an excellent decision for you or your team, it doesn’t mean you need to discard any purchased subscriptions you might have. Account administrators can have a mix of subscriptions and Flex.
When using a product with a subscription, it won’t use tokens before the subscription expires. This idea is great for teams that use one product heavily and others occasionally.
Your Chance to Use Autocad at a Custom Cost
Autodesk Flex is an incredible way to use Autocad and many other offerings at a low cost. It’s ideal for small teams or anyone who needs to use these products occasionally. It allows you to spend as much as you need, reducing costs.
It’s also an excellent way to try new products before committing to a yearly subscription. So, if you’re unsure about a specific product, Flex offers a way to test it without committing too much money. Intrigued? Get started today!
