3D Software you need to know about
If you're new to 3D modeling, choosing the right software is crucial. This article explores the best 3D modeling software programs available, including Blender, Bforartists, Goxel, Wings3D, GravitySketch, Medium, Blocks, SculptVR, Arkio, SketchUp Viewer, and Masterpiece Studio Pro. Discover their features, ease of use, compatibility, and suitability for beginners and professionals alike. Make an informed decision and embark on your modeling journey with confidence.
3D Software You Need to Know About to Build a Career in VR and Metaverse
Watch a quick video summary of the blog
If you're just getting started with 3D modeling, choosing the right software can make all the difference. There are a lot of great options out there, but it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best 3D modeling software programs available to help you get started on your modeling journey.
Blender
Blender is free to use and open source, meaning it can be freely shared, modified, and distributed. It is a 3D modeling and animation software that offers a customizable, user-friendly interface with a wide range of hotkeys and customizable themes. It provides tools for polygon modeling, sculpting, boolean operations, retopology, and UV mapping. Texturing and shading can be achieved with procedural textures, PBR shading, image textures, and texture painting. Animation features include advanced rigging tools, keyframe and procedural animation, and physics simulation. It also offers real-time and high-quality ray-traced rendering with Cycles, as well as support for compositing and post-processing with customizable rendering settings. Blender has a large community of users and developers, with an extensive library of add-ons for added functionality and regular updates based on user feedback.
Bforartists
Bforartists was created with the goal of making 3D modeling and animation more accessible to users who may find the complexity of Blender's interface intimidating. While it is based on Blender's code, Bforartists has a simplified UI that is more user-friendly, with reorganized menus and an improved iconography that makes it easier to navigate and find the tools you need. Additionally, Bforartists includes a number of built-in add-ons that enhance its functionality , such as improved text tools, mesh tools, and a render farm manager. Bforartists is a great choice for beginners who want to get started with 3D modeling without feeling overwhelmed, but it also has enough advanced features to satisfy experienced users. Like Blender, Bforartists is free and open source, so it is a cost-effective solution for artists and designers on a budget.
Goxel
Goxel is a lightweight and intuitive 3D voxel graphics editor that enables users to create low-poly 3D models with ease. It is a free and open-source software with support for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The program is designed for creating small 3D models, particularly those intended for use in game design, but it can also be used for a variety of other applications, such as creating 3D models for 3D printing.
One of the standout features of Goxel is its straightforward user interface, which is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible to users with different levels of expertise. The software offers a range of tools for voxel modeling, such as brushes, extrusion, and sculpting, which can be used to create complex shapes and designs. Additionally, Goxel supports the creation of textures and materials using a simple and effective system, making it easy to give your models a professional finish.
Another advantage of Goxel is its compatibility with other 3D software, such as Blender and Unity, which makes it a great choice for creating low-poly game assets that can be easily imported and used in game development projects. Additionally, Goxel is a versatile tool that can be used for creating different types of 3D models, such as terrains, buildings, and other objects.
Wings3D
Wings3D is a free, cross-platform, and user-friendly 3D modeling software that allows artists and designers to create complex models with ease. It is designed to be a versatile tool for 3D modeling, from organic shapes to technical objects, and can be used for a variety of applications such as game development, product design, and more.
One of the advantages of Wings3D is its unique workflow that makes it easy to create 3D models from 2D sketches. It offers a range of modeling tools such as extrusion, bevel, bridge, and smoothing, which allow users to create detailed and intricate models. Additionally, Wings3D supports both NURBS and polygonal modeling techniques, which make it easier to create both organic and technical shapes.
Wings3D's interface is relatively simple, with a clean and organized layout, which makes it easy for new users to navigate and use. It also offers advanced features such as UV mapping, texture mapping, and custom scripts that can be used to automate repetitive tasks.
Another advantage of Wings3D is its support for a variety of file formats, including OBJ, STL, and Collada, which makes it easy to transfer 3D models between different software applications. Wings3D also has an active community of users and developers, who regularly share tips and tutorials on how to use the software effectively.
GravitySketch
GravitySketch is a 3D modeling software that was specifically designed for use with virtual reality (VR) headsets. It offers an intuitive interface that allows users to create 3D models in 3D space using a VR controller. The software is compatible with popular VR headsets like Oculus and HTC Vive.
GravitySketch is particularly useful for those who want to experiment with VR-based 3D modeling. Its intuitive interface allows for a more natural and tactile approach to creating 3D models. The software also offers a range of tools for creating complex shapes and textures, as well as support for exporting models in a variety of file formats.
One of the key advantages of GravitySketch is its ability to create 3D models quickly and easily. Its streamlined interface and VR-based controls make it easy to create detailed and intricate models with minimal effort. Additionally, GravitySketch has an active community of users who share tips, tutorials, and models.
Medium
Medium is a 3D modeling software that was designed specifically for use with Oculus VR headsets. It offers a natural and intuitive sculpting experience that allows users to create 3D models with their hands. The software is particularly useful for artists who want a more tactile and intuitive modeling experience.
Medium's interface is designed to be immersive and intuitive. Users can manipulate 3D models using their hands and a variety of tools that simulate the feel of traditional sculpting materials like clay. Medium also offers a range of tools for creating complex shapes and textures, as well as support for exporting models in a variety of file formats.
One of the key advantages of Medium is its ability to create expressive and organic 3D models. Its tactile interface allows for a more natural and intuitive approach to sculpting 3D models. Additionally, Medium has an active community of artists who share tips, tutorials, and models.
Blocks
Blocks is a free 3D modeling software designed for use with Oculus VR headsets. Its simple and intuitive interface allows users to create low-poly 3D models in 3D space with the help of the VR controller. It is an ideal choice for those who want to create basic 3D models and do not require complex features. With Blocks, users can easily create models for use in video games, virtual reality experiences, and other applications.
SculptVR
SculptVR is a 3D modeling software that is designed to work with virtual reality (VR) headsets. Its intuitive sculpting experience allows users to create 3D models in 3D space using a VR controller. This software is an ideal choice for those who want to experiment with VR-based 3D modeling. SculptVR offers a number of tools for creating detailed and intricate 3D models, including an eraser tool, symmetry tool, and copy-paste tool.
Arkio
Arkio is a 3D modeling software that is designed to work with virtual reality (VR) headsets. It offers a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to create 3D models in 3D space using a VR controller. Arkio is a great choice for those who want to experiment with VR-based 3D modeling. This software is designed to be used in a collaborative setting, making it a good choice for teams working on large-scale projects.
SketchUp Viewer
SketchUp Viewer is a free 3D modeling software that is great for beginners. It has a simple user interface and a number of tools for modeling, texturing, and rendering 3D models. This software is an ideal choice for architects, designers, and hobbyists who want to create basic 3D models. SketchUp Viewer offers a number of features that allow users to quickly and easily create 3D models, including a push-pull tool, an arc tool, and a follow-me tool. It also has a robust library of 3D models, textures, and other assets that can be used to enhance your creations.
Masterpiece Studio Pro
Masterpiece Studio Pro is a top-of-the-line 3D modeling software that is perfect for beginners and professionals alike. With its user-friendly interface and advanced features, you can easily create stunning 3D models that are perfect for use in VR and other applications. The software is designed with artists in mind, making it easy to sculpt and manipulate your designs to perfection. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, Masterpiece Studio Pro is a great option for creating high-quality 3D models. It supports a wide range of file formats, including OBJ, STL, and FBX, making it easy to import and export your models. Additionally, the software has an active community of users who can provide helpful tips and support.