The best 3D modeling software and apps are loaded with all the tools required to bring creations to life, whether it's creating architectural mock-ups, 3D printing models, animated figures for films and video games, and more.
Depending on the brief, I'd recommend either Autodesk 3ds Max for developing games and producing films, while Autodesk Maya and the free and brilliant Blender stand out as top picks for animation. All of these apps deliver professional-grade 3D modeling tools, and while they may not be the easiest to get started with, the features and results speak for themselves.
You can check out our full thoughts below, with some top alternatives for a range of professional uses. What we're chiefly looking for with each software option is a powerful feature-set, intuitive workflow, and all the tools you need to craft unique and distinctive 3D models.
Best 3D modeling software overall
Autodesk 3ds Max is our top pick for best 3D modeling software. If you require professional modeling tools, including texturing and meshing, are into interior design, or are an architect, then this is the software for you. Also, just like Autodesk's Maya, Fusion360, and AutoCAD, it's very good (but expensive) 3D printing software.
OK, let’s talk about cost for a second: in order to use Autodesk 3ds Max, you first need a Windows machine (that’s right, there still are no Mac or Linux versions), and you’ll also have to grab a subscription, which can be monthly ($255) or yearly ($2,010) - Adobe’s Creative Cloud Pro plan looks like a bargain in comparison! This may sound like a lot, but you do get what you pay for, and in order to entice you, Autodesk do offer you a 30-day free trial.
A lot is included in 3ds Max. Standard features include skeletons and inverse kinematics, cloth simulation, skinning, and character controls for bipedal motion. If the software doesn’t support the exact function or rendering mode you need, an extensive plugin system allows third-party modules to add this to 3ds Max. Some of these plugins are free, but if won’t surprise you to learn that the best ones are paid.
For modeling purposes, 3ds Max supports conventional polygon construction, NURBS and also patch surfaces. Images can be generated using a very wide range of rendering systems, including Renderman created by Pixar, and mental ray.
However, while we think 3ds Max is a feature-rich 3D creation software, packed with pro-level functionality, it’s not the easiest program to use, and it's not totally versatile. It’s perfectly capable of animations, for example, but some professional animators and VFX artists may be better served by Maya.
We also ran into issues when using too many plugins, as they can interact in somewhat unpredictable ways. Complex plugins that stress the PC can make 3ds Max unstable on occasion.
Best free 3D modeling software
Blender is incredibly well known in the field of 3D modeling, not only because it’s free (although that’s a huge draw obviously), but also because, as it’s an open-source 3D creation tool, it’s supported by a generous community of developers and users. For that reason, we view it as the best free 3D modeling software for animation and animators.
The top free 3D animator used to be the domain of hobbyists wanting to create animated space battles or giant robot films. Now, it’s evolved to the point where many production companies use it to create effects elements for big-budget movies.
Most other tools in our best 3D design software round-up focus on the modeling or rendering parts of the 3D process. Blender is different, providing the entire pipeline from modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, and motion tracking to video editing.
It even has a 2D animation pipeline, if you need to combine 2D elements with 3D models. The pipelining aspect of this tool is perfect for team collaboration, where artists can work on their part of a scene, and then watch it come together with elements created by others.
As this is open source software, a large developer community works to extend its functionality over time. This is different from big companies, where you expect timely bug fixes and regular updates - for a hefty fee. Being free, Blender relies on independent contributors, so updates may not be as regular as you might expect, although updates do happen: as of this writing, version 4.5 LTS was only just released a month ago (LTS means “Long Term Support, ie this version will receive fixes for the next two years). Development continues apace to keep Blender the best software for modeling, 3D printing, and much, much more.
One feature is real-time rendering using the EEVEE engine, bridging the gap between what was previously possible in real-time and those effects that required exclusively offline processing. It may not be the easiest 3D modeling software to use, but as a free program for Windows, Mac, and Linux, it's an excellent place to start if you're new to the scene, or are on a tight budget. We also thought Blender was the best Adobe After Effects alternatives for animation and VFX.
Best 3D modeling software for animators
If you're into animation, Autodesk Maya is easily the best 3D graphics software - it was actually one of the first commercial 3D rendering systems to introduce hair and fur.
An industry-standard that’s used in countless big-budget productions, like Stranger Things, the program is rich with pro-level features for modeling, texturing, rendering, and more. You'll find tools for character creation and movement, and the simulation of natural elements such as water, fire, sandstorms and explosions. For that reason, it’s often the software of choice for VFX artists and animators.
Maya now includes Bifrost procedural effects, enabling complex elements to be constructed using dynamic solvers. Once a scene has been created and effects defined, photoreal rendering is available using the Arnold RenderView system for stunningly real results. In addition to that, the crowd simulation and character layout plugin known as Golaem is now available, and OpenPBR is now the default surfer shader.
It doesn’t take a genius to see that Maya is a hugely advanced tool. As a result, its interface is far less user-friendly than 3ds Max. This isn’t easy 3D modeling software for beginners, but for professionals who demand Hollywood-grade crafting, even though its price is the same as 3ds Max’s: $255 a month, or $2010 a year, with a free 30 day trial
Best 3D software for 3D printing
Maxon’s ZBrush is a creative take on modeling in 3D. Like Adobe Substance 3D Modeller, it uses a brush system to enable designers and artists to sculpt digital clay in real-time. Because of this 'virtual claymation' approach, ZBrush proved to be one of the best 3D software for 3D printing. It’s available for Macs and PCs free for 14 days. Beyond that, it’s a $400 a year subscription. There’s also an iPad version for $90 a year.
If you're all about design, the program is a natural choice. Objects created in ZBrush tend to have a hand-formed feel. The object construction system lends itself to creating new and interesting shapes, as much as painstakingly recreating existing objects in a 3D space. It also means you can really focus on detailed sculpting, which should come out looking great. Despite an initially complex and unconventional modeling and sculpting method, this arrangement does make it easier for beginners to join in the fun.
The system can be used with pressure-sensitive pens and graphics tablets to help with the organic nature of a modeling method popular with concept artists, filmmakers, and game developers.
We found another artist-friendly feature is a non-linear production path. This lets you revert a design to a previous iteration, make a change, then roll forward again. This flexibility allows for mistakes, changes of mind, or design evolution to be part of the process.
Best 3D modeling software for architects
While we noted that it’s not really built for interior or landscape design purposes, we praised the software for offering “absolute complete freedom, with the ability to create anything from a high rise building right down to a stool.”
As with most apps these days, you must subscribe to it, and you can do so on a monthly or yearly basis. There are also special prices for those in education. Sketchup is compatible with Macs and PCs, there’s an iPad version and an online one, depending on your needs, and the size of your wallet.
The SketchUp Go subscription is for 3D modeling on iPad and the web. SketchUp Pro offers more tools, including desktop support in addition to its iPad and browser capabilities. While SketchUp Studio, the most advanced package (which disappointingly lacks MacOS support and is Windows-only), emphasises photorealistic models and animation.
Sketchup attracts a large, dedicated following, with vast user-generated object libraries, and pre-constructed elements to use in your own designs.
After following a handful of straightforward tutorials, artists of any skill level can begin crafting complex solid geometric shapes. We found the web version was best for rapidly prototyping concepts, while the more feature-rich tiers will let you visualise entire buildings.
Read our full SketchUp review
Best 3D modeling software for surfaces
If you're working with surfaces, Rhino has to be the top choice 3D modeling tool. Unlike all other options on this list (aside from Blender which is free), Rhino doesn’t attempt to take money from you each month for using their software. Instead, they offer you a perpetual licence, a rare thing these days that we encourage. It’s currently valued at $1,000. In addition to that, they also have an extremely generous 90-day free trial. You can still use the software after that time, although you won’t be able to save your work and any plugins you have installed will stop working until you purchase a license.
When the tool first appeared, even the best 3D modeling software could only handle basic geometry, and a few offered splines. Almost none of them could handle NURBS. That’s essential when you’re accurately modeling the body of a vehicle or aircraft, or the curvature of someone's face.
Available for both Macs and PCs, Rhino is an especially versatile program. It's capable of sculpting objects, adapting LIDAR scans, and working with meshes from other systems. It can even render scenes using raytracing. Like 3ds Max, this also has a plugin solution and a sophisticated developer platform for those wanting to create new ones.
Alongside the plugins is a scripting language, enabling complex detailing or modification processes to be automated. But even if you’re not a software developer you can create enhanced functionality through Grasshopper, a tool for making form generation algorithms without writing code.
Overall, Rhino excels at prototyping mechanical parts or using the software for 3D printing concept designs. Our only reservations about it are that for someone coming from a more conventional modeling environment, this learning curve can be a steep one, and we find the interface to be a bit clunky compared to others.
Best 3D modeling software: FAQs
What is 3D modeling?
We asked Penny Holton Craig, Principal Lecturer Principal Lecturer in the Department of Digital Arts and Animation at Teeside University, for her definition of 3D modeling:
"3D modeling is a vital part of the computer graphics process. It is the creation of objects in 3D space. In some organizations, it's used as a 3D mock-up software to gauge the MVP or test out ideas.
There are now a number of ways to create 3D models and the techniques can be split broadly into two areas. Hard surface modeling where you use 3D polygon shapes and vertices to form an object, and digital sculpting where you work with virtual clay.
Hard surface is good for modeling things like buildings and cars, where digital sculpting is better for organic structures such as characters and animals.
3D models can be created for a variety of applications from product design, engineering, and architecture to movies, games, and commercial advertising."
What sort of computer do I need to run 3D modeling software and rendering software?
Although system requirements vary, 3D design software is generally very resource-intensive - so you'll need a computer with good specs to run the program smoothly. The best laptops for architecture students and architects, for example, are performance-driven, with fast CPUs, lots of RAM, and a strong GPU for visual fidelity,
Our team has actually tested out the best laptops for Blender. If you just want to have a go, then you should be able to get the program working on a slightly above average PC (or laptop), such as an Intel Core i5 with a decent graphics card and at least 8GB of RAM - although the more RAM you have, the better the performance will be, so it’s always best to get much RAM as you can afford.
As soon as you start to want to create and render detailed computer-generated imagery and visual effects, you will need a more powerful machine. Generally, the best laptops for video editing or the best video editing PCs should be able to easily handle most 3D modelling software. But again, if you have the option to add more RAM, do so. The workflow will be much smoother.
How to choose the best 3D modeling software
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When choosing which software is best for 3D modeling, consider your use and needs, your skill level, your budget, and what fits your creative workflow.
Your use
Like the canvas vs the cel, artists and animators need different spaces to create, so factor in how you’ll use the software. The best 3D design software and tools are powerful at everything from modeling and sculpting to motion graphics. Some excel in particular areas or are more suited to specific industries, like the best architecture software. Some make good 3D printing software, while others are better for 3D drawing and sketching.
Your skill level
Take your skill-level into account. Some 3D software can be advanced or overwhelming to beginners, so if you’re new to CG graphics and visualizations, start with a tool with a gentler learning curve.
Your budget
Budget will be a factor - especially for creatives who demand that professional polish. Top-end software, like Autodesk 3DS Max and Maya, deliver industry-standard results at industry-standard prices. If your needs (or your budget) are less extensive, for example, building a quick mock-up or visualization, tools like Blender and SketchUp Free offer affordable alternatives.
Your hardware
The best 3D modeling software can be pretty resource-intensive, demanding a lot from your computer. You'll need to make sure your hardware can manage heavy workloads. Popular choices in hardware for heavy workloads include the best laptop for engineering students, best mobile workstations, and best workstations, but it's about finding the right balance.
Your creativity
Be subjective. Choose the software that feels comfortable for you, and matches your flow. Most options here include free trials to see how well they fit.
How we test the best 3D modeling software
Our team of expert reviewers have benchmarked hundreds of creative apps, from the best digital art and drawing software to the best video editing software. We take the same rigorous approach, whether we're reviewing photo editors or 3D printing software.
When we test which 3D modeling software is best, we’re looking for outstanding examples of what matters to users.
We expect to see good 3D software exhibit a strong user experience and an interface that’s intuitive and navigable. We're not just looking for the easiest program for 3D modeling. Even more advanced or complex 3D programs, like Rhino and 3ds Max, still needs to be accessible, despite steeper learning curves.
We test the performance of each tool, ensuring an optimal creation process and a finished product that’s of high quality. Since every 3D modeling software is different, we also evaluate how well the program meets the needs of its intended user-base with its appropriately equipped toolkit.
When a service is promoted as free, it needs to be genuinely free. No hidden charges, secret subscriptions, or credit card details. Any limitations to free versions, or upgrade costs, must be clearly signposted for the user.
During our test and review of the best 3D modeling software, after signing up to each service, we used a handful of files to see how the software could be used for the editing and development of 3D objects and characters. The aim was to push each software platform to see whether it could simply and easily not just edit a range of content types but also do so faithfully and consistently without recurring errors.
Want to bring your creations into the real world? We've also reviewed the best 3D printers around.
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