Best 3D Modeling Software

The ability to create designs with 3D modeling software can be a huge advantage for any graphic designer. It enables you to create photorealistic illustrations and mockups that are compelling to clients, as well as expand your skill set to craft blueprints for product and environmental designs.

There are many types of of 3D modeling software out there, but we’re going to take you through a list of some of the most popular ones.

1. Sketchup

Sketchup is a user-friendly application that’s free to download and great for 3D modeling beginners. More advanced versions cost money, but you can still create great renderings and animations with the free version.

2. Blender

Blender is another free 3D modeling application. Features include sculpting, animation, photorealistic rendering and video editing. For those ready to step it up a notch, the software also allows you to craft full 3D games, edit videos and realistic simulations (such as fluid, smoke and hair).

3. AutoCAD

Autodesk’s AutoCAD is one of the most versatile and widely-used 3d modeling applications out there. It’s used by engineers as well as environmental, industrial and graphic designers. As an added bonus, they offer online videos to walk you through the software basics to get you started.

4. Rhino

Rhino is a curve-based 3D modeling software that creates mathematically-precise models of 3D surfaces. It’s used in architecture, industrial, product, multimedia and graphic design. Rhino offers and entire library of online tutorials, live classes, training guides and more to help you kick things off.

5. Revit

Autodesk’s Revit specializes in architectural design and structural engineering, specifically Building Information Modeling (BIM). Features take you from free conceptual sketches to sustainable energy analysis, with plenty of collaboration and worksharing capabilities.

6. 3Ds Max

3ds Max® by Autodesk is a 3D modeling, animation, simulation and rendering software used in industrial design, film, games and motion graphics. Designers can make their creations come to life with more believable textures, human-like motion, flowing hair and fur, particle simulations and more.

7. Maya

Also by Autodesk, Maya 3D is a 3D modeling, animation, rendering and simulation software. Maya 3D very similar to 3ds Max, but less user-friendly for beginners. It’s used in video game development, animated films and visual effects and offers higher-end tools for characters and effects. You can start learning some of the basics here.

8. Cinema 4D

Developed by MAXON, CINEMA 4D is a 3D modeling, animation and rendering application that is available in “4 Flavors” – motion graphics artists, architects, designers and 3D animators.

It’s widely used in the film industry and helped to create animations in movies like Iron Man and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. You can check out more impressive work made in C4D here.