Did you know that to recreate any object or character in three dimensions by computer it is necessary to make a 3D modeling or mesh? And 3D modeling programs are key to being able to carry them out.
Some software such as Sketch Up or Blender are free even for commercial use; however, in the world of work, proprietary software is in the lead. Knowing the characteristics of each program is highly recommended before jumping into the pool, since, despite sharing many capabilities (UV mapping, texturing, rigging, animation, lighting, rendering…), depending on the application we need, one or the other may be more suitable.
When we are looking for the perfect program for us. We must keep in mind that software may excel in some aspects but it is also possible that they falter in others. Beyond objective needs, we must try different options to experiment with another way of performing the same task that may be more suited to us. Which will lead to greater productivity and personal enjoyment.
3D modeling is a complex discipline that requires a lot of practice and refinement of certain skills to achieve good results. A theoretical basis and a holistic view of the 3D creation process are essential to delve into modeling.
So, let’s explore the differences between the 5 most commonly used 3D modeling software to help you make the right choice.
Top 5 Most Popular 3D Modeling Software:
Autodesk Maya
Maya is the king of 3D modeling, a powerful program that has become an industry standard. Most animation and video game companies use it for productions of the highest level and it is the yardstick with which the rest of the competitors are measured. Do you know what is the only 3D software awarded with an Oscar? Indeed, Maya.
It is an all-in-one software that is used for the different stages of modeling, although it undoubtedly stands out above others in the sections of UV mapping, retopology, rigging, simulations and, especially, animation.
In addition to the tools that come with it, there are endless plugins that add any function that it might lack, making it possibly the most complete software. What’s more, through its own programming language (MEL) or Python it is possible to create scripts to further increase its versatility.
Originally standalone until its purchase by Autodesk, Maya’s rendering engine, called Arnold, is relatively easy to use and delivers spectacular results (demonstrable, in fact, in high-budget animated films).
Knowing how to work at Maya will open the doors to being hired in most companies. Since it is one of the most used, especially in the film industry. The biggest downside is its high price, although Autodesk offers free licenses for students.
Autodesk 3ds Max
Formerly known as 3D Studio Max, this program is also part of the Autodesk suite and shares most of the functions with its brother Maya: modeling, sculpting, rigging, animation, creating UVs, texturing, lighting, simulation, rendering…
Despite their similarities, both softwares are presented quite differently. So each modeler usually has a predilection for one or the other, although video game software usually opts for 3ds Max.
3ds Max excels especially in polygonal modeling. Where in addition to the classic tools for rounding, warping and deforming the model, it adds a battery of modifiers that automate or facilitate the transformation of geometry in a myriad of ways.
Another aspect in which 3ds Max excels is in rendering with its integrated V-Ray engine, with which real photorealistic wonders can be achieved.
The photorealistic results of V-Ray, along with the friendly integration with other programs such as Revit or Autocad, are the reasons why the use of 3ds Max is so widespread in infoarchitecture.
This is a high-cost program, but it has free licenses for students. Unlike Maya, it is only available for Windows.
Blender
Blender is a 3D all-rounder, one of those programs that is hard to believe is free.
It has an infinite number of functionalities and customization possibilities, which make it a very versatile software. The Blender Foundation continues to update its already extensive set of modeling tools, such as modifiers that make it easier to create meshes for 3D printing.
Also very noteworthy is the sculpting section, quite powerful and flexible for the design of characters or environments. The flexibility of Blender is such that you can even develop video games on it.
This is thanks to GameKit, the built-in game graphics engine that allows renders to be made in near real-time. That impacts the quality of the render, but makes it easier for illuminators to learn, who can check their scene settings on the spot, without waiting minutes for a render to be ready. Developing games entirely in Blender is not a better option than the game engines already widespread on the market, but it is good proof of how complete it is.
Given its open source nature, Blender allows you to add functions programmed in Python, further expanding its portfolio of resources.
The negative part of Blender is its high initial difficulty curve, because by covering so many fields, it is not specialized in any area. However, films such as “Robot 7723” or the Blender Foundation shorts are proof that it is possible to reach very high using open and free software.
Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D is another of the most complete 3D modeling programs, although it falters in the areas of sculpting and mapping UVs.
Maxon’s software is somewhat less well-known than others on the list, although it has many automatisms that make it ideal for Motion Graphics, design and illustration. It has a very clean and intuitive interface, which makes it relatively simple to learn. The MoGraph toolset is its biggest asset, allowing for the creation of animated logos and eye-catching effects quite easily.
Its perpetual licenses aren’t especially affordable, but it does have student licenses and short-term plans at a reduced price.
ZBrox
Acquired at the beginning of 2022 by Maxon, Zbrush is the software par excellence for creating digital sculptures. Years ago, the title was discussed with Autodesk Mudbox. But the latter was displaced and its best features have been implemented in Maya.
Using ZBrush is like sculpting with clay or plasticine, as it draws inspiration from traditional sculpting techniques to offer similar digital tools that allow the sculptor’s artistic creativity to be unleashed.
With a palette of more than 30 sculpting “brushes”, ZBrush stands out from any program available on the market and stands as the standard software of its kind.
It also has digital painting and traditional modeling functions, although its use is obtuse. ZBrush makes intelligent use of the computer’s resources. Allowing you to work with very high resolution meshes (tens of millions of polygons) with a fairly moderate RAM.
Zbrush’s interface is completely customizable, although it takes a lot of practice to get to grips with. The use of Zbrush makes a graphic tablet sensitive to pressure levels almost essential, even better if it has a screen.
Zbrush is used by the world’s animation studios for the creation of organic models, although its applications are much more limited than previous programs. Its license is also quite expensive, but it will likely be integrated into Maxon’s reduced plans soon.