If your interested in making your own 3D art or 3D models for games you’ll need a 3D modeling software to get started. We have a list of the best 3D modeling software for creating creating 3D art for animations as we2ll as games.
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What is a 3D Modeling Software?
A 3D modeling software is special type of program used by artists to create 3D models. Once designed these 3D models can be used for several purposes such as digital assets for computer animations and 3D models in video games.
Check our list of 3D modeling software below:
- Blender
- Autodesk Maya
- SketchUp
- Mega Voxels
- 3ds Max
- Cinema 4D
- ZBrush
- Rhino
- Modo
- Tinkercad
- Adobe Substance 3D
- FreeCAD
Blender
Blender stands out as a robust and open-source 3D modeling software that caters to a wide range of artistic needs. Renowned for its versatility, it encompasses the entire 3D creation process, including modeling, sculpting, animation, and rendering. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, Blender’s user-friendly interface and active community support make it an ideal choice for diverse projects.
Features:
- Full Featured 3D modeling software with powerful sculpting tools
- Advanced rendering engine for photorealistic images
- Comprehensive animation tools
- Support for game development
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free (Open-Source)
Download 3D Modeling Software: Blender
Autodesk Maya
Autodesk Maya stands as a pinnacle in professional 3D modeling and animation, particularly in industries like film and gaming. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools, allowing artists to create intricate models, realistic animations, and visually stunning scenes. Maya’s prominence lies in its ability to handle complex character rigging and dynamics, making it an industry standard for high-end 3D production.
Features:
- Complete 3D Modeling Software with dozens of tools and features
- Advanced 3D character rigging
- Extensive scriptability for customization
- Seamless integration with other Autodesk products
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: $235/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: Autodesk Maya
SketchUp
SketchUp is a user-friendly 3D modeling software celebrated for its accessibility and efficiency, particularly in architectural and interior design. Offering a quick and intuitive platform, SketchUp excels in producing conceptual models and is favored by professionals and hobbyists alike. Its simplicity does not compromise on versatility, making it a go-to tool for those who prioritize ease of use without sacrificing powerful modeling capabilities.
Features:
- Simple 3D Modeling Software with an intuitive interface
- Access to a digital warehouse for 3D models
- Dynamic components for interactive designs
- Special integration with Google Earth
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: $119/year (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: SketchUp
Mega Voxels
Mega Voxels is a free voxel 3D modeling software developed exclusively for iOS, Android and ChromeOS for creating 3D models on smartphones and tablets. This model maker app is packed with different 3D modeling tools and features so you can add, delete and paint 3D models. It comes with instant rendering and ambient occlusion that allows you to share crisp images and videos quickly and easily. It also has a built in shop where you can can browse hundreds of 3D models on demand. The app is also game engine friendly with built in support for the obj export format. And last but not least this 3D modeling app gives artists the ability to create turntable videos of their 3D creations for sharing to popular social networking sites such as Instagram and Twitter. This powerful app too allows for 3D art creation on the go!
Features:
- Free 3D Modeling Software with dozens of modeling tools
- Access to library of hundreds of 3D Models to use
- View your 3D voxel models in Augmented Reality
- Instant Ambient Occlusion Rendering
Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, ChromeOS
Price: Free
Download 3D Modeling Software: Mega Voxels
3ds Max
Developed by Autodesk, 3ds Max stands as a powerhouse in 3D modeling and animation, particularly in industries requiring high-level visualization. Known for its robust modeling and rendering capabilities, 3ds Max empowers artists to create stunning visuals and realistic animations. Its versatility extends to supporting various industries, from architecture to gaming, making it a staple for professionals seeking a comprehensive 3D solution.
Features:
- 3D Modeling Software with advanced modeling features
- High-level 3D animation tools
- Extensive plugin support for customization
- Integrated rendering engine
Supported Platforms: Windows
Price: $235/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: 3ds Max
Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D, developed by Maxon, is a professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software known for its user-friendly interface. Widely embraced in motion graphics and visual effects, Cinema 4D stands out with its powerful tools for creating intricate motion designs and visually captivating scenes. Its integration with After Effects further enhances its appeal to motion graphics artists.
Features:
- Complete 3D Modeling Software with powerful polygon modeling tools
- Built in advanced rendering options
- Seamless integration with After Effects
- MoGraph for motion graphics
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: $149/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: Cinema 4D
ZBrush
ZBrush is a revolutionary modeling software renowned for its focus on high-detail sculpting and painting. Widely used for character design and organic modeling, ZBrush provides artists with unparalleled control over the sculpting process, resulting in intricate and lifelike 3D models. Its dynamic topology and 3D painting capabilities set it apart as a preferred tool for artists in the entertainment and gaming industries.
Features:
- High-End 3D Modeling Software with High-resolution sculpting tools
- Dynamic topology for adaptive detailing
- Advanced brush system for artistic control
- 3D painting capabilities
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: $149/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: ZBrush
Rhino
Rhino, or Rhinoceros, is a versatile 3D modeling software with widespread use in various design fields, including industrial design and architecture. What sets Rhino apart is its support for both NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines) and mesh modeling, providing designers with a flexible and powerful platform for creating complex 3D models.
Features:
- 3D Modeling Software with NURBS modeling for precise surfaces
- Advanced surface creation tools
- Parametric modeling capabilities
- Support for scripting and automation
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: $995
Download 3D Modeling Software: Rhino
Modo
Modo is a comprehensive 3D modeling, sculpting, and rendering software developed by Foundry. It is known for its powerful modeling tools and versatility in both organic and hard surface modeling. Modo is widely used in the entertainment industry for game development, animation, and visual effects.
Features:
- Complete 3D Software with robust modeling tools
- Advanced UV mapping
- Physically based rendering
- Procedural modeling
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: $89/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: Modo
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is an accessible and user-friendly 3D modeling software designed for beginners and educational purposes. Its intuitive interface allows users to create 3D models through a simple drag-and-drop system, making it an ideal platform for those new to 3D design. Tinkercad is often used in educational settings to introduce students to the basics of 3D modeling and design principles.
Features:
- Unique 3D Modeling Software with drag-and-drop design
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Cloud-based collaboration
- Easy integration with 3D printing
Supported Platforms: Web-based, iOS (iPad Only)
Price: Free
Download 3D Modeling Software: Tinkercad
Adobe Substance 3D
Adobe Substance 3D is a modeling software and comprehensive suite of 3D design tools that empowers artists to create realistic and detailed 3D assets. It includes applications like Substance Painter for texturing, Substance Designer for material creation, and Substance 3D Stager for scene composition. Adobe Substance 3D is widely used in industries such as gaming, film, and virtual production for its powerful texturing capabilities.
Features:
- Advanced 3D Modeling Software with texturing tools
- Procedural material creation
- Real-time rendering
- Integration with popular 3D software
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Price: 24.98/month (Subscription)
Download 3D Modeling Software: Adobe Substance 3D
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a noteworthy open-source 3D modeler designed for product design and engineering applications. Offering a modular and extensible platform, FreeCAD is customizable to suit various needs, making it an excellent choice for users who value an open and community-driven approach to 3D modeling.
Features:
- Flexible 3D Modeling Software
- Modular architecture for customization
- Extensibility through Python scripting
- Community-driven development fostering continual improvement
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free (Open-Source)
Download 3D Modeling Software: FreeCAD
Are you interested in making pixel art? View our new page Best Pixel Editors to view the latest pixel art software!
We also have pages that discuss the Best Design Apps for iOS and the Best Design Apps for Android
