When it comes to digital creation, 3D modeling software is an essential tool for transforming imaginative concepts into tangible models. Whether you work in the automotive industry, movie-making, engineering, gaming, product design, or 3D printing, the right 3D modeling software can elevate your creative capabilities.
However, with so many options available, choosing the best 3D modeling software can be a daunting task. Our team has extensively tested a range of software, from beginner-friendly applications to advanced programs tailored for professional designers. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best 3D modeling software, including the top picks for animators, architects, and 3D printing. We will also cover how to choose the right software for your needs and our review process.
The Top 3D Modeling Software in 2024
Looking for the best 3D modeling software? Look no further. We’ve tested and reviewed the top options on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. Here are our top picks:
- Autodesk Maya: This industry-standard software is great for professional animators and 3D modelers. It offers a wide range of tools and features for creating complex animations and simulations.
- Blender: This free and open-source software is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It’s easy to use and offers a wide range of features for creating 3D models, animations, and games.
- ZBrush: This digital sculpting tool is great for creating highly-detailed 3D models. It offers a range of features for sculpting, painting, and texturing your models.
No matter what your needs are, these top 3D modeling software options are sure to help you create stunning 3D models and animations.
Best 3D Modeling Software Overall
Autodesk 3ds Max
Autodesk 3ds Max is the industry-standard 3D modeling software, making it our top pick for the best 3D modeling software overall. This software is especially popular with game developers, interior designers, and architects who need professional modeling, texturing, and meshing tools.
Multi-faceted Modeller
3ds Max supports conventional polygon construction, NURBS, and patch surfaces. It also includes standard features such as skeletons and inverse kinematics, cloth simulation, skinning, and character controls for bipedal motion.
The Tool of Choice for Game Makers
3ds Max is the tool of choice for game makers, offering amazing plugins that can add extra functionality to the software. While some of these plugins are free, the best ones are paid.
Amazing Plugins
An extensive plugin system allows third-party modules to add functions or rendering modes that are not supported by the software. Some of the plugins available include Renderman created by Pixar and mental ray.
However, while 3ds Max is a feature-rich 3D creation software, it’s not the easiest program to use, and it’s not totally versatile. It’s perfectly capable of animations, for example, but some professional animators and VFX artists may be better served by Autodesk’s Maya.
Can Lack Stability
One issue with 3ds Max is that it can lack stability, especially when using too many plugins. Complex plugins that stress the PC can make 3ds Max unstable on occasion.
Best for Bigger Budgets
Another downside is that 3ds Max is best suited for bigger budgets. It’s available in monthly, annual, or three-yearly subscriptions.
In conclusion, Autodesk 3ds Max is the best 3D modeling software overall, offering a multi-faceted modeller, amazing plugins, and being the tool of choice for game makers. However, it can lack stability and is best suited for bigger budgets.
Best Free 3D Modeling Software
2. Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation tool available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. It is the best free 3D modeling software for animation and animators, and it is supported by a generous community of developers and users. Blender is free for personal and commercial use.
Features
Blender provides the entire pipeline for 3D creation, including modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, and motion tracking, as well as video editing. It also has a 2D animation pipeline, which allows you to combine 2D elements with 3D models. Blender’s pipelining aspect is perfect for team collaboration, where artists can work on their part of a scene and watch it come together with elements created by others.
Pros
Blender is free and open source, and it provides a full pipeline model for 3D creation. It has a great community support, which means that a large developer community has extended the functionality of the software. Blender’s real-time rendering using the EEVEE engine is a great feature that bridges the gap between what was previously possible in real-time and those effects that required exclusively offline processing.
Cons
Blender doesn’t support NURBS, which may be a drawback for some users. Also, Blender’s independence and reliance on community support does mean it won’t always have regular updates and bug fixes. However, development continues apace to keep Blender the best software for modeling, 3D printing, and much, much more.
Blender may not be the easiest 3D modeling software to use, but as a free program for Windows, Mac, and Linux, it’s a good place to start if you’re new to the scene. Blender is also considered the best Adobe After Effects alternative for animation.
Best 3D modeling software for animators
Autodesk Maya
Autodesk Maya is the top choice for animation and is widely considered as an industry-standard for character work. It is rich with pro-level features for modeling, texturing, rendering, and more. Maya was one of the first commercial 3D rendering systems to introduce hair and fur, making it a popular software among VFX artists and animators.
Procedural Effects
Maya now includes Bifrost procedural effects, allowing the creation of complex elements using dynamic solvers. This feature is particularly useful for simulating natural elements such as water, fire, sandstorms, and explosions.
Arnold Rendering
Maya’s Arnold RenderView system provides photoreal rendering for stunningly real results. The software’s Arnold rendering engine is known for its high-quality output and is often used in big-budget productions.
System Requirements
Maya is a highly advanced tool that demands a powerful workstation. The software is also relatively expensive, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Maya’s interface is less user-friendly than 3ds Max, making it a challenging 3D modeling software for beginners. However, for professionals who demand Hollywood-grade crafting, Maya is an excellent choice.
Maya is available across Windows, Mac, and Linux, with three subscription options available for monthly, annual, or tri-annual payments.
Best 3D software for 3D printing
ZBrush
ZBrush is a 3D modeling software that uses a brush system to sculpt digital clay in real-time. This approach makes it one of the best 3D software for 3D printing. Objects created in ZBrush tend to have a hand-formed feel, making it a natural choice for designers who are all about design.
Features
ZBrush offers a wide selection of plugins and photoreal rendering, making it a versatile tool for 3D printing. The system can be used with pressure-sensitive pens and graphics tablets to help with the organic nature of a modeling method popular with concept artists, filmmakers, and game developers.
Another artist-friendly feature is a non-linear production path. This lets you revert a design to a previous iteration, make a change, then roll forward again. This flexibility allows for mistakes, changes of mind, or design evolution to be part of the process.
Pros and Cons
One of the biggest pros of ZBrush is its ability to create new and interesting shapes, as well as painstakingly recreating existing objects in a 3D space. It also means you can really focus on detailed sculpting, which should come out looking great.
However, the initial interface may overwhelm beginners, making it difficult for them to get started.
Availability
ZBrush is available on both Windows and macOS operating systems. The modeling and 3D printing software is available on subscription or a buy-it-once perpetual license.
Overall, ZBrush is a great choice for designers and artists who are looking for a versatile 3D modeling software that is also great for 3D printing.
Best 3D Modeling Software for Architects
As an architect, you need a 3D modeling software that can help you create accurate and detailed models of your designs. SketchUp is one of the best 3D modeling software for architects, offering a simple interface that is easy to use and great for beginners.
With SketchUp, you can create anything from a high-rise building to a stool, giving you absolute freedom to design whatever you want. It is a powerful tool that is tailored to seasoned artists, architects, and designers who need exact precision and do not require the use of templates or ready-made objects.
SketchUp is also great for 3D printing, as it focuses on model accuracy. It offers a large, dedicated community following, with a vast user-generated object library and pre-constructed elements that you can use in your own designs.
There are four versions of SketchUp available, each offering a better toolset for more professional uses. SketchUp Free is perfect for home users who want to craft 3D objects right in their browser. SketchUp Go is a subscription service for 3D modeling on iPad and web. SketchUp Pro offers more tools with browser, desktop, and tablet support. SketchUp Studio is the most advanced package, emphasizing photorealistic models and animation and is only available for Windows.
SketchUp is not designed for interior or landscape design, but it is best if you are comfortable building 3D objects from scratch. The free version is best for rapidly prototyping concepts, while the feature-rich versions will let you visualize entire buildings.
Overall, SketchUp is a great 3D modeling software for architects, offering powerful tools and a simple interface that is easy to use. Whether you are a seasoned artist or a beginner, SketchUp has something to offer everyone.
Best 3D Modeling Software for Surfaces
Rhino
Rhino is a versatile 3D modeling software that is available for both Windows and macOS. It is particularly well-suited for working with surfaces, making it a top choice for accurately modeling complex objects like vehicles, aircraft, and even the curvature of human faces.
One of Rhino’s key strengths is its ability to handle NURBS, which is essential for precise surface modeling. In addition to surface modeling, Rhino can also sculpt objects, adapt LIDAR scans, work with meshes from other systems, and even render scenes using raytracing.
Rhino also has a plugin solution and a sophisticated developer platform for those interested in creating new plugins. Additionally, Rhino has a scripting language that enables complex detailing or modification processes to be automated. Even if you’re not a software developer, you can create enhanced functionality through Grasshopper, a tool for making form generation algorithms without writing code.
However, it’s worth noting that Rhino has a steep learning curve, especially for those coming from a more conventional modeling environment. The interface can also be a bit clunky compared to other 3D modeling software options. But overall, Rhino excels at prototyping mechanical parts or using the software for 3D printing concept designs.
Best 3D modeling software: FAQs
What is 3D modeling?
3D modeling is the process of creating three-dimensional objects in digital space. It involves the use of 3D polygon shapes and vertices to form an object, or digital sculpting where you work with virtual clay to create organic structures such as characters and animals. 3D models can be created for a variety of applications such as product design, engineering, architecture, movies, games, and commercial advertising.
What sort of computer do you need to run 3D modeling software and rendering software?
Since 3D design software is generally resource-intensive, you will need a computer with good specs to run the program smoothly. For example, the best laptops for architects are performance-driven, with fast CPUs, lots of RAM, and a strong GPU for visual fidelity. If you just want to try 3D modeling software, you should be able to get the program working on a slightly above average PC (or laptop), such as an Intel Core i5 with a decent graphics card and at least 8GB of RAM. However, if you want to create and render detailed computer-generated imagery and visual effects, you will need a more powerful machine. Generally, the best laptops for video editing or the best video editing PCs should be able to easily handle most 3D modeling software.
How to choose the best 3D modeling software
When choosing the best 3D modeling software, consider your use and needs, your skill level, your budget, and what fits your creative workflow. Some software is powerful at everything from modeling and sculpting to motion graphics, while others excel in particular areas or are more suited to specific industries. For example, some software is better for architecture, while others are better for 3D printing or drawing and sketching.
It’s also important to take your skill level into account. Some 3D software can be advanced or overwhelming to beginners, so if you’re new to CG graphics and visualizations, start with a tool with a gentler learning curve. Additionally, budget will be a factor – especially for creatives who demand professional polish. Top-end software, like Autodesk 3DS Max and Maya, deliver industry-standard results at industry-standard prices. If your needs (or your budget) are less extensive, tools like Blender and SketchUp Free offer affordable alternatives.
Lastly, choose the software that feels comfortable for you and matches your flow. Like the canvas vs. the cel, artists and animators need different spaces to create. It’s important to choose software that fits your creative workflow and allows you to work efficiently. To ensure that your hardware can manage heavy workloads in 3D software, check out our recommendations for the best laptops for Blender, best laptop for engineering students, and best laptop for architects.
How We Evaluate the Best 3D Modeling Software
To determine the best 3D modeling software, we use a rigorous and comprehensive approach that tests the software’s performance, user experience, and accessibility. We evaluate each program’s toolkit to ensure it meets the needs of its intended user-base.
Our testing process involves using a handful of files to push each software platform to its limits and see how it can edit and develop 3D objects and characters. We pay close attention to the software’s ability to edit a range of content types without recurring errors.
We also evaluate the software’s user experience and interface, looking for programs that are intuitive and navigable. Even more advanced or complex 3D programs must be accessible, despite steeper learning curves.
Performance is another critical factor we consider when evaluating 3D modeling software. We ensure that each tool provides an optimal creation process and a finished product of high quality.
When testing free software, we verify that there are no hidden charges, secret subscriptions, or credit card details required. We also check whether any limitations to free versions or upgrade costs are clearly signposted for the user.
Overall, our team of expert reviewers benchmark hundreds of creative apps, and we take the same rigorous approach when evaluating 3D modeling software. We aim to find outstanding examples of what matters to users and provide you with the most comprehensive and reliable information to help you choose the best 3D modeling software for your needs.
What are the top-rated 3D modeling programs for beginners?
If you’re new to 3D modeling, it’s important to start with a program that is user-friendly and easy to learn. Some of the top-rated 3D modeling programs for beginners include Tinkercad, SketchUp, and 3D Slash. These programs offer intuitive interfaces and a range of basic tools to get you started.
Which 3D modeling software is preferred for engineering purposes?
When it comes to engineering, precision and accuracy are key. SolidWorks and AutoCAD are two of the most popular 3D modeling software options for engineers. Both programs offer advanced tools for creating complex geometries and performing simulations.
What are the leading 3D printing software options available?
If you’re looking to 3D print your models, you’ll need software that can prepare your designs for printing. Some of the leading 3D printing software options include Ultimaker Cura, Simplify3D, and PrusaSlicer. These programs offer features such as automatic support generation and advanced slicing options.
How do Fusion 360 and Blender compare for 3D modeling?
Fusion 360 and Blender are two popular 3D modeling software options, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Fusion 360 is a powerful tool for designing mechanical parts and assemblies, while Blender is better suited for creating complex organic shapes and animations.
Can you recommend any free 3D modeling tools that are user-friendly?
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free 3D modeling tools available that are still powerful and easy to use. Some of our top recommendations include Blender, Tinkercad, and FreeCAD.
What is the most suitable 3D modeling software for use on an iPad?
If you want to do 3D modeling on the go, there are several options available for iPad users. Shapr3D is a popular choice, offering a range of advanced tools and a streamlined interface. Another option is uMake, which offers a more intuitive and user-friendly approach to 3D modeling.