Best 3D Modeling Software for 2024

3D modeling software is used by a wide range of industries, but what makes a top 3D design software? Real-time rendering, affordable price, or seamless integration? Or something else altogether??

Find out how you can choose the right 3D design software by comparing top contenders for 3D software for modeling. Also, explore the benefits of using a software program for 3D modeling and how you can choose the right tool.???

What Is 3D Modeling Software??

3D modeling software is a type of computer program used to create 3D models — digital representations of three-dimensional objects. You can use these models for a variety of purposes, such as:

• 3D printing: Creating physical objects from the digital model.
• Video game development: Creating the characters, environments, and objects in video games.
• Movie and television production: Creating the special effects and props used in movies and TV shows.
• Architecture and engineering: Designing buildings and other structures.
• Product design: Creating prototypes and models of new products.
• Medical imaging: Creating 3D models of organs and other tissues.

What Are the Benefits of Using 3D Modeling Software??

There are many different types of 3D modeling software available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses — and benefits.?Here are some of the key advantages:

Enhanced Visualization and Communication

3D models provide a clearer and more realistic understanding of an object than 2D drawings or sketches. It can be super helpful for communicating ideas to clients, colleagues, or stakeholders.?

Improved Design and Prototyping

You can modify 3D models easily, making it much easier to experiment with different design ideas. It can save a lot of time and money in the long run, as it can help avoid making costly mistakes later in the production process.?

Increased Efficiency and Productivity

3D modeling software can automate many tasks involved in the design process, such as creating a bill of materials or generating technical drawings. It allows designers and engineers to focus on more creative and strategic work.

Moreover, you can use 3D models to simulate real-world conditions, such as how a product will perform under stress or how a building will respond to an earthquake. It can help identify potential problems before they occur and ensure that the final product is as efficient and functional as possible.

9 Best 3D Modeling Software for 2024

The options are endless, but here are the top 9 3D modeling software for different industries and individuals with varying levels of experience. We will compare their features, pros, cons, and prices to help you make an informed decision.?

1. Autodesk Maya — For Creating High-Quality 3D Assets

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Autodesk Maya is a powerful and industry-standard 3D animation, modeling, simulation, rendering, and visual effects software developed by Autodesk. Professionals in the film, television, video game, and visual effects industries use Maya to create high-quality 3D assets and animation.

Features

Maya helps you create complex and detailed 3D models using a variety of tools, such as polygonal modeling, NURBS modeling, and sculpting. Moreover, you can:?

• Create realistic and believable animation using a range of tools, including character rigs, dynamics, and simulation.
• Produce high-quality renders of your 3D scenes using a variety of renderers, including Arnold, V-Ray, and Maya's own mental ray renderer.
• Create stunning visual effects using tools like particle systems, fluids, and dynamics.
• Extend Maya's functionality with Python scripting and a variety of plugins.

Pros

• Powerful and versatile
• Industry-standard software
• Large community
• Extensive plugin ecosystem

Cons

• This 3D model software has a steep learning curve
• Can be expensive for hobbyists or small businesses
• Not the best 3d modeling software for beginners

Pricing

Autodesk Maya is available as a subscription-based software program.?

Price per month: $235

Yealy: $1,875

For 3 years: $5,625        

2. Blender — Ideal for Hobbyists and Students

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Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite. It integrates modeling, animation, sculpting, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion graphics, video editing, and game engine development into one powerful package.?

While primarily known for its 3D capabilities, Blender's feature set makes it a versatile tool for creative professionals across various disciplines.

Features

Blender offers a comprehensive set of tools for polygonal, subdivision surface, NURBS, and metaball modeling, enabling the creation of complex and detailed objects. You can also:?

• Sculpt organic shapes with intuitive brush tools and modifiers, making it ideal for character creation and creature design.
• Breathe life into your creations with a powerful animation system featuring keyframe animation, non-linear animation, character rigging, and physics simulation.
• Produce stunning visuals with various render engines like Cycles, Eevee, and Workbench, catering to different needs and project requirements.
• Integrate 3D elements with live-action footage using Blender's compositing tools, ideal for visual effects and post-production work.
• Simulate realistic physics like fluids, smoke, fire, and soft bodies to add dynamism and realism to your projects.

Pros

• Free and open-source
• Powerful and versatile
• Active community
• Multiple customization options

Cons

• Has a complex interface?
• Limited documentation
• Troubleshooting issues might rely more on community forums?

Pricing

Blender is completely free to download and use — no hidden costs or subscriptions. However, paid add-ons and assets are available for purchase in the Blender Market to extend its capabilities further.        

3. Redshift — Best for Film and Media Professionals

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Redshift is a powerful GPU-accelerated 3D renderer known for its speed, quality, and versatility.?

Unlike traditional CPU-based renderers, Redshift leverages the processing power of graphics cards to achieve exceptional rendering speed while delivering high-quality results. This makes it a popular choice for professionals in film, television, advertising, and design industries, where tight deadlines and complex scenes are commonplace.

Features

Redshift is a biased renderer, allowing you to prioritize speed and quality based on your project needs. Here are some more features:?

• Produces stunning visuals with accurate lighting, materials, and textures.
• Seamlessly integrates with popular 3D modeling software like Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, Cinema 4D, Houdini, and Katana.
• Offers a comprehensive set of shading and lighting tools, including physically based shaders, global illumination, and area lights.
• Allows you to render specific elements like shadows, reflections, or motion blur separately.

Pros

• Blazing-fast rendering
• Excellent quality and versatility
• Wide industry adoption
• Seamless integrations
• Powerful shading and lighting tools

Cons

• GPU hardware requirements
• Subscription-based pricing

Pricing

Redshift offers two subscription plans:

Individual: $45 (monthly)

Team: $299 (annually)        

4. D5 Render — Ideal for Designers and Architects

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D5 Render is a real-time ray tracing 3D rendering software known for its user-friendly interface. It's also popular for its focus on architectural visualization and emphasis on speed and efficiency.?

D5 Render leverages real-time ray tracing technology to offer instant previews and quick iterations. It's ideal for anyone who needs fast, high-quality renders.

Features

D5 Render offers instant lighting and shadow updates as you move your camera or adjust lights. It also helps you:?

• Produce photorealistic images and animations with accurate lighting, materials, and textures.
• Utilize AI features like material suggestion, texture generation, and atmosphere matching to accelerate your workflow and enhance your visuals.
• Access a vast library of pre-made models, materials, and textures to populate your scenes and save time on modeling from scratch.
• Work seamlessly with your team through cloud-based storage, project sharing, and simultaneous editing capabilities.

Pros

• Real-time rendering
• User-friendly interface
• AI-powered tools
• High-quality output
• VR support

Cons

• Limited modeling tools
• Subscription-based pricing
• Newer software

Pricing

D5 Render offers three subscription plans:

D5 Community: Free. Best for beginners and hobbyists.

Pro: $38 per month. $30 per month for the annual package. Ideal for solo designers, and freelancers.

Pro Team: $75 per month. $59 per month for the annual package. Ideal for small teams and studios.        

5. Lumion — 360 Panoramas and VR Compatibility

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Lumion is a 3D rendering software specifically designed for architects, landscape architects, and interior designers. It boasts strengths in user-friendliness, speed, and creating lifelike and immersive visualizations of architectural designs. Lumion doesn't focus on complex modeling but excels in adding context, atmosphere, and details to models created in other software.

Features

Similar to D5 Render, Lumion utilizes real-time rendering technology, allowing you to see changes instantly as you adjust materials, lighting, or environment. You can also:?

• Add realistic surroundings, weather effects, vegetation, and even people and animals.
• Benefit from its drag-and-drop functionality and user-friendly menus.
• Produce stunning visuals with accurate lighting, materials, and detailed environments.
• Create immersive experiences for clients or presentations with 360 panoramas and VR compatibility.
• Access a vast library of pre-made objects, materials, and effects to populate your scenes and enhance realism quickly.

Pros

• Focus on architectural visualization
• Real-time rendering and speed
• Easy to learn and use
• Lifelike and immersive scenes

Cons

• Limited modeling tools
• Subscription-based pricing
• Less flexibility compared to other 3D software

Pricing

Along with a free trial, Lumion offers two subscription plans with varying features and durations:

Standard

Monthly price for a 1-year subscription: $78.83

Monthly price for a 3-year subscription: $70.13        

Pro Plus

Monthly price for a 1-year subscription: $157.77

Monthly price for a 3-year subscription: $140.29        

6. Twinmotion — Ideal for Architectural Visualization

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Twinmotion is a real-time rendering software and architectural visualization tool. It allows you to create stunning and immersive presentations of your designs quickly and easily.

Features

Twinmotion allows real-time rendering. You can view your project with immediate feedback as you edit materials, lighting, weather, and other aspects, making iteration and refinement intuitive and efficient. It also:?

• Produces photorealistic visuals with accurate lighting, materials, and textures.
• Has a comprehensive library of pre-made objects, materials, textures, and characters.
• Helps create interactive presentations with clickable hotspots, timelines, and narration.
• Integrates with popular BIM software like Revit and Archicad.
• Allows you to directly import your 3D models and start visualizing them immediately.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Real-time rendering and speed
• High-quality visuals and Storytelling
• Extensive Asset Library and contextual tools
• VR support and interactive presentations

Cons

• Limited modeling tools
• Subscription-based model
• Less flexible compared to other 3D software

Pricing

Twinmotion offers several subscription plans with varying features and durations:

Community Edition: Free. Best for hobbyists!

Education Edition: Free. Best for students and educators.

Commercial Edition: $749. Best for professional use and commercial projects.

Upgrade to Twinmotion 2023.2: $199 for existing users upgrading to the latest version        

7. Modo — Focused on Artistic Freedom?

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Modo is a versatile 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software. It's known for its user-friendly interface, powerful sculpting tools, and focus on artistic freedom. Modo offers a comprehensive suite of tools suitable for various creative tasks, from character creation and animation to product design and architectural visualization.

Features

It helps you create complex and detailed models using a range of tools, including polygonal modeling, NURBS modeling, and subdivision surfaces. You can also intuitively sculpt organic shapes and characters with Modo's advanced sculpting tools and brushes. Here’s what else you can do:?

• Breathe life into your creations with tools for character rigging, keyframe animation, and dynamics simulation.
• Preview your work with real-time rendering capabilities, allowing for faster iteration and feedback.
• Achieve realistic materials and textures with Modo's comprehensive library of shaders and material editing tools.
• Extend Modo's functionality and personalize your workflow using Python scripting.
• Integrate Modo with various plugins and other 3D software like Houdini and ZBrush, enhancing its capabilities.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Powerful sculpting tools
• Focus on artistic freedom
• Growing community and resources

Cons

• Has a learning curve for beginners due to its diverse feature set
• Less emphasis on specific areas
• Subscription-based model

Pricing

Modo offers two subscription plans for individuals:

Modo Maintenance: $485/yr

Best for users with Modo perpetual licenses, wanting access to updates and support

Modo Subscription: $89/month or $719/yr

Best for individual professionals needing a full Modo license        

8. Enscape — Ideal for Architects, Designers, and Engineers

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Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin for popular 3D modeling software like Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and ArchiCAD. It allows you to experience your designs live as you create them, making iteration and communication with clients and stakeholders significantly faster and more intuitive.

Features

With Enscape, you can see your design updates instantly as you adjust materials, lighting, shadows, or even furniture placement. Enscape produces photorealistic visuals with accurate lighting, materials, and textures, showcasing your designs in their best light. You can also:?

• Explore your designs in VR using compatible headsets, allowing for a true "walk-through" experience that enhances client understanding and engagement.
• Add realistic surroundings like weather effects, vegetation, and even people and animals.
• Take measurements directly within the rendered view and add annotations.
• Quickly generate high-quality 360° panoramas and videos for presentations, marketing materials, or client communication.
• Access a vast library of pre-made objects, materials, and textures.
• Collaborate with colleagues and clients on your designs in real time through Enscape's cloud platform.

Pros

• Real-time feedback and iteration
• Intuitive and user-friendly
• Immersive virtual reality experience
• High-quality visuals and storytelling
• Extensive collaboration features

Cons

• Not ideal for complex modeling
• Demands powerful hardware to ensure smooth performance

Pricing

Enscape offers a 14-day free trial and three subscription plans:

Fixed-Seat License: Best for individuals & smaller teams (budget-conscious)

$46.90/month (billed yearly)
$84.90/month (billed monthly)

Floating License: $79.90/month. Best for individuals & teams; maximum flexibility

Enterprise: Custom quote. Best for large organizations with specific needs        

9. Verge3D — Offers an SDK for Advanced Customization?

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Verge3D is a real-time renderer and toolkit specially designed to empower artists and designers to transform their 3D creations into interactive web experiences. It bridges the gap between traditional 3D modeling software and web development, allowing you to bring your 3D models to life online without extensive coding knowledge.

Features

Verge3D seamlessly integrates with industry-standard tools like Blender, 3ds Max, and Maya, allowing you to leverage your existing modeling skills and assets.?

Also, Verge3D's innovative "Puzzles" system enables you to create intricate interactions and behaviors for your web experiences without writing a single line of code. You can also:

• Drag-and-drop elements allow you to define reactions to user input, animations, and more, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Build web experiences that adapt and run smoothly on different devices, including smartphones and tablets.

For programmers, Verge3D offers a powerful SDK for advanced customization and scripting, allowing you to push the boundaries of interactivity and create truly unique experiences.

Pros

• Democratizes 3D for the web
• Real-time and interactive
• Intuitive and user-friendly
• High-quality output
• Mobile-friendliness

Cons

• Limited modeling capabilities
• Focus on web experiences
• Subscription-based model

Pricing

Verge3D offers various subscription plans for different tools:

Freelance: $290. Best for solo creators, freelancers, small projects

Team: $990. For collaborative teams, studios, medium-sized projects

Enterprise: $2,990. For large studios, agencies, demanding projects        

The rates may vary based on the 3D modeling software you use.?

Which Industries Can Benefit From 3D Modeling Software??

The versatility of 3D modeling software makes it beneficial across a wide range of industries, from the creative realm to more technical fields. Here are some prominent examples:

Creative Industries

1. Film and Television: 3D models are extensively used for animation, visual effects, set design, and character creation.
2. Gaming: From AAA titles to indie games, 3D models form the backbone of game environments, characters, and objects.
3. Architecture and Interior Design: Architects and designers use 3D modeling to visualize buildings, interiors, and landscapes, facilitating better communication with clients and stakeholders.
4. Product Design: From concept sketches to prototypes, 3D modeling allows designers to visualize and refine products before physical production.
5. Advertising and Marketing: 3D models enhance product presentations, create impactful visuals for commercials, and even allow for interactive product experiences.

Technical Industries

1. Engineering and Manufacturing: 3D models facilitate product design, prototyping, and analysis, contributing to improved efficiency and accuracy in manufacturing processes.
2. Medical and Healthcare: 3D models of organs, bones, and medical devices are used for surgical planning, patient education, and medical research.
3. Education and Research: 3D models can bring complex concepts to life in science, engineering, and other fields, enhancing learning and understanding.
4. Construction and Real Estate: 3D models help visualize building projects, assess feasibility, and create virtual walkthroughs for clients and potential buyers.
5. Archaeology and Paleontology: 3D models aid in the reconstruction and analysis of historical artifacts and fossils, offering valuable insights into the past.

Other industries that use 3D modeling software include fashion, food and beverage, jewelry design, and robotics. In short, 3D modeling offers immense potential for any industry that requires visualization, design, analysis, or communication of complex ideas and objects.

How To Choose the Right 3D Modeling Sofware?

Start by defining your needs. What are you creating? Is it for architectural visualization, animation, product design, game development, or something else? Different software excels in different areas. Similarly, analyze your skill level and budget.?

Then, consider specific features, such as modeling tools, rendering capabilities, animation and rigging tools, integration with other software, user interface and ease of use, and more.?

To get the best tool, compare multiple options. Read reviews, watch tutorials, and try free trials and demos before you buy. And don’t overlook the hardware requirements. Figure out if the software runs smoothly on your existing hardware or if you need to upgrade. Prefer investing in 3D modeling software that is actively developed and updated with new features.