# Best 3D Modeling Software for Small Business - Page 2 *By [Neeraja Prakash](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/neeraja-prakash)* The best 3D modeling software in 2026 is SketchUp, rated 4.5 out of 5 on G2 based on 1,300+ verified reviews. For rapid asset generation from images, Meshy and Tripo Studio both earn 4.6–4.7 stars and eliminate the need for manual modeling expertise. Blender remains the top choice for teams prioritizing zero licensing cost and full creative control. 1. SketchUp — 4.5/5 (1,300+ reviews): Rapid 3D concept modeling with client-ready visualization 2. Meshy — 4.7/5 (2,800+ reviews): Image-to-3D asset generation with auto-rigging 3. NVIDIA Omniverse — 4.6/5 (10+ reviews): Real-time multi-app 3D collaboration with RTX rendering 4. Tripo Studio — 4.7/5 (200+ reviews): Image-to-3D mesh generation for non-modelers 5. Blender — 4.6/5 (300+ reviews): Full-pipeline 3D creation with zero licensing cost *Updated June 2026. Based on 2026 G2 verified review data across 3D modeling products.* Products classified in the overall 3D Modeling category are similar in many regards and help companies of all sizes solve their business problems. However, small business features, pricing, setup, and installation differ from businesses of other sizes, which is why we match buyers to the right Small Business 3D Modeling to fit their needs. Compare product ratings based on reviews from enterprise users or connect with one of G2's buying advisors to find the right solutions within the Small Business 3D Modeling category. In addition to qualifying for inclusion in the 3D Modeling Software category, to qualify for inclusion in the Small Business 3D Modeling Software category, a product must have at least 10 reviews left by a reviewer from a small business. ## Top 3D Modeling Software at a Glance | # | Product | Rating | Best For | What Users Say | |---|---------|--------|----------|----------------| | 1 | [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (1,299 reviews) | Rapid 3D concept modeling with client-ready visualization | "[SketchUp Makes 3D Modeling Fast, Approachable, and Easy to Present](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sketchup-review-13033539)" | | 2 | [Meshy](https://www.g2.com/products/meshy/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (2,985 reviews) | Image-to-3D asset generation with auto-rigging | "[Lightning-Fast 3D Rendering with an Intuitive UI & Much more amazing Features.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/meshy-review-11928700)" | | 3 | [NVIDIA Omniverse](https://www.g2.com/products/nvidia-omniverse/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (16 reviews) | Real-time multi-app 3D collaboration with RTX rendering | "[Useful for previewing common model and material types in pre-vis workflows](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nvidia-omniverse-review-10755067)" | | 4 | [Blender](https://www.g2.com/products/blender/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (310 reviews) | Full-pipeline 3D creation with zero licensing cost | "[Revolutionized Our 3D Modeling Workflow](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/blender-review-4393800)" | | 5 | [Tripo Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/tripo-studio/reviews) | 4.7/5.0 (217 reviews) | Image-to-3D mesh generation for non-modelers | "[Fast, Intuitive Starting Models for Rapid Concept Exploration](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/tripo-studio-review-13113812)" | | 6 | [Unity](https://www.g2.com/products/unity/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (353 reviews) | Cross-platform 3D game asset deployment | "[Great Free Tier, Helpful Support, and Wide SDK Integrations](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/unity-review-12857701)" | | 7 | [3ds Max Design](https://www.g2.com/products/3ds-max-design/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (279 reviews) | Photorealistic archviz with CAD-pipeline interoperability | "[Powerful But Demanding — My Experience with 3ds Max Design](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3ds-max-design-review-12984450)" | | 8 | [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) | 4.1/5.0 (189 reviews) | Parametric assembly modeling with Windchill-integrated revision control | "[Creo Inspires Structural Thinking and Engineering Discipline](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/creo-review-12070261)" | | 9 | [Adobe Dimension](https://www.g2.com/products/adobe-dimension/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (72 reviews) | Adobe-native photorealistic product mockup rendering | "[User-Friendly 3D Rendering with Drag-and-Drop Ease in Adobe Dimension](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/adobe-dimension-review-12235638)" | | 10 | [Maya](https://www.g2.com/products/maya/reviews) | 4.3/5.0 (259 reviews) | Full-pipeline 3D modeling and character animation | "[Powerful 3D Features and Easy UV Mapping, But Occasional Stability Issues](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/maya-review-11880726)" | ## G2 Grid® for 3D Modeling Software ![G2 Grid® for 3D Modeling Software plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-modeling/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=1798&focus%5B%5D=1362388&focus%5B%5D=5460&focus%5B%5D=10042&focus%5B%5D=1626745&focus%5B%5D=5304&focus%5B%5D=52003&focus%5B%5D=13768) Highlighted products: SketchUp, Meshy, Blender, Unity, Tripo Studio, 3ds Max Design, Adobe Dimension, and Maya. Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-modeling/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=sketchup&focus%5B%5D=meshy&focus%5B%5D=blender&focus%5B%5D=unity&focus%5B%5D=tripo-studio&focus%5B%5D=3ds-max-design&focus%5B%5D=adobe-dimension&focus%5B%5D=maya&segment=small-business) ## How Many 3D Modeling Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 215 ### Category Stats (Jul 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.33/5 The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings - **Top Trending Product**: VECTARY (+0.73%) - Among all products in this category, VECTARY recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month *Last updated: July 16, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank 3D Modeling Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 8,200+ Authentic Reviews - 215+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which 3D Modeling Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Best for Small Businesses:** [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) - **Best for Mid-Market:** [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews) - **Best for Enterprise:** [Creo](https://www.g2.com/products/creo-2025-08-26/reviews) - **Highest User Satisfaction:** [Meshy](https://www.g2.com/products/meshy/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Meshy](https://www.g2.com/products/meshy/reviews) ## What Are the Top-Rated 3D Modeling Software Products in 2026? ### 1. [ArcGIS 3D Analyst](https://www.g2.com/products/arcgis-3d-analyst/reviews) ArcGIS 3D Analyst for Server helps you to share your 3D Analyst tools and models on desktop, mobile, and web applications. ArcGIS 3D Analyst for Server is included only with ArcGIS Enterprise Advanced. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 27 **How Do G2 Users Rate ArcGIS 3D Analyst?** - **Controls:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind ArcGIS 3D Analyst?** - **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri) - **Year Founded:** 1969 - **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA - **Twitter:** @Esri (188,738 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,311 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 45% Mid-Market, 34% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of ArcGIS 3D Analyst? **"[great plug in](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-3d-analyst-review-8038671)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Rachel K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-3d-analyst-review-8038671) --- **"[Best platform for GIS related development and related services](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-3d-analyst-review-8224667)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Anil K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/arcgis-3d-analyst-review-8224667) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About ArcGIS 3D Analyst? - [What is ArcGIS 3D Analyst used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-arcgis-3d-analyst-used-for) ### 2. [SolidWorks Composer](https://www.g2.com/products/solidworks-composer/reviews) Repurpose your 3D engineering models for creating graphical content to explain processes and procedures in technical communications, such as manufacturing assembly instructions, product manuals, installation instructions, service manuals, training guides, marketing brochures, and sales bidding kits **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 32 **How Do G2 Users Rate SolidWorks Composer?** - **Controls:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind SolidWorks Composer?** - **Seller:** [Solidworks](https://www.g2.com/sellers/solidworks) - **Year Founded:** 1993 - **HQ Location:** Waltham, MA - **Twitter:** @SOLIDWORKS (178,616 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/solidworks/ - **Ownership:** EPA: DSY **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, Automotive - **Company Size:** 55% Small-Business, 27% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SolidWorks Composer? **"[Review on a solidworks composer.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solidworks-composer-review-8848011)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Amardeeepsinh Z.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solidworks-composer-review-8848011) --- **"[Ideal for quick technical animations and illustrations](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solidworks-composer-review-8846604)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Bhrigu Bharadwaj P.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solidworks-composer-review-8846604) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About SolidWorks Composer? - [What is SolidWorks composer vs visualize?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-solidworks-composer-vs-visualize) - [Is SolidWorks composer included with professional?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-solidworks-composer-included-with-professional) - 1 comment - [What is SolidWorks composer vs SolidWorks?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-solidworks-composer-vs-solidworks) - [What does SolidWorks composer do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-solidworks-composer-do) ### 3. [Modo](https://www.g2.com/products/modo/reviews) Modo’s powerful and flexible 3D modeling, texturing and rendering toolset empowers artists to explore and develop ideas without jumping through technical hoops. Modo® is your starting point for creative exploration. Whether you’re creating addictive real-time experiences, innovative product designs, compelling advertising images, or engaging film and video content, MODO’s artist-friendly tools let you iterate freely to realize your ideas’ full creative potential. As part of our Enterprise Solution Partnership Package, not only will you get the photo-realism of Modo, but you get the rapid-iteration software, Colorway. On top of that, you have access to our Modo experts for asset creation, expert training, and dedicated support as you chart your digital design transformation. Users choose Modo for its ability to enable fast direct modeling, flexible procedural modeling, the award-winning MeshFusion Boolean toolset and built-in sculpting tools all working together, Modo’s modeling moxie is unmatched. With its advanced photorealistic viewport and progressive renderer, and WYSIWYG look-dev for Unity and Unreal, Modo lets you visualize your designs as you develop them, so you can discover their ultimate potential in less time. Freedom from creativity-killing constraints, with Modo’s intuitive, artist-friendly toolset. From roughing out volumes to creating highly detailed forms, Modo lets you focus on creation, not construction. Build your own kit of specialized tools by combining different operations, with Modo’s flexible tool assembly system. With Modo, every job you do becomes easier, as you continually develop new efficiencies. Modo fits right into your pipeline, with Python and C++ APIs; a fully customizable UI; and support for industry-standard formats like OpenSubdiv, OpenColorIO, OpenEXR, OpenVDB and Alembic. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 83 **How Do G2 Users Rate Modo?** - **Controls:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Modo?** - **Seller:** [Foundry](https://www.g2.com/sellers/foundry) - **Year Founded:** 1996 - **HQ Location:** London, United Kingdom - **Twitter:** @TheFoundryTeam (58,803 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/33583/ (387 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Design, Computer Games - **Company Size:** 76% Small-Business, 17% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Modo? **"[Beautiful renders made easy.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/modo-review-6723456)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Nathan M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/modo-review-6723456) --- **"[Great for 3D Development](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/modo-review-6714294)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Apparel & Fashion* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/modo-review-6714294) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Modo? - [Is Blender animation free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-blender-animation-free) - [Is Modo easy to learn?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-modo-easy-to-learn) - [Who uses modo?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/who-uses-modo) - [What is Modo used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-modo-used-for) ### 4. [LightWave 3D](https://www.g2.com/products/lightwave-3d/reviews) LightWave 3D combines a state-of-the-art renderer with powerful, intuitive modeling, and animation tools. **Average Rating:** 3.9/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 28 **How Do G2 Users Rate LightWave 3D?** - **Controls:** 3.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 6.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind LightWave 3D?** - **Seller:** [NewTek](https://www.g2.com/sellers/newtek) - **HQ Location:** San Antonio, TX - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/15419/ (150 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NASDAQ: NEWT **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Animation - **Company Size:** 76% Small-Business, 14% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of LightWave 3D? **"[{"translation":"Translate the text from the Unknown Language to English."}](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lightwave-3d-review-5256303)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Tushar A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lightwave-3d-review-5256303) --- **"[Don't knock it till you've tried it.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lightwave-3d-review-4884247)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Keith B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lightwave-3d-review-4884247) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About LightWave 3D? - [What is LightWave 3D used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-lightwave-3d-used-for) - [What does LightWave 3D do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-lightwave-3d-do) - [How much does LightWave cost?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-much-does-lightwave-cost) - [What happened LightWave 3d?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-happened-lightwave-3d) - [Is LightWave 3d good?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-lightwave-3d-good) ### 5. [Realflow](https://www.g2.com/products/realflow/reviews) Realflow is a fluid and dynamics simulation tool for the 3D and visual effects industry. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 18 **How Do G2 Users Rate Realflow?** - **Controls:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Realflow?** - **Seller:** [Next Limit Technologies](https://www.g2.com/sellers/next-limit-technologies) - **Year Founded:** 2004 - **HQ Location:** Madrid, Spain - **Twitter:** @MaxwellRender (4,571 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/maxwell-render/ **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Animation - **Company Size:** 72% Small-Business, 22% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Realflow? **"[AVTPro's RealFlow Review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/realflow-review-1642684)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Alonzo V.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/realflow-review-1642684) --- **"[When it comes to fluid dynamics, Realflow is one of the few tools which is best there is.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/realflow-review-4865066)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Prashant G.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/realflow-review-4865066) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Realflow? - [What is Hybrido in RealFlow?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-hybrido-in-realflow) - [How much is RealFlow?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-much-is-realflow) - [What is the latest version of RealFlow?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-latest-version-of-realflow) - [Does RealFlow use GPU?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/does-realflow-use-gpu) - 1 comment ### 6. [3D Slash](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-slash/reviews) The easiest way to create in 3D... and the most fun! **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate 3D Slash?** - **Controls:** 7.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind 3D Slash?** - **Seller:** [3D Slash](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3d-slash) - **Year Founded:** 2014 - **HQ Location:** Paris, France - **Twitter:** @3dslash (723 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/9208188/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 79% Small-Business, 14% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of 3D Slash? **"[3d designing for the absolute beginners](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-slash-review-2995223)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Leonard R.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-slash-review-2995223) --- **"[3D slash software is the best product to deliver different kinds of 3D models](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-slash-review-4338307)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Mohammed Moin K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-slash-review-4338307) --- ### 7. [3D Coat](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-coat/reviews) 3D-Coat is the one application that has all the tools you need to take your 3D idea from a block of digital clay all the way to a production ready, fully textured organic or hard surface model. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 21 **How Do G2 Users Rate 3D Coat?** - **Controls:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind 3D Coat?** - **Seller:** [3D Coat](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3d-coat) - **Year Founded:** 2007 - **HQ Location:** Kyiv - **Twitter:** @3DCoatOfficial (4,148 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/pilgway/ (8 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 90% Small-Business, 5% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of 3D Coat? **"[Master of modeling 3D](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-coat-review-963615)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jhon C.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-coat-review-963615) --- **"[3D Coat Review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-coat-review-5023754)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Entertainment* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/3d-coat-review-5023754) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About 3D Coat? - [Who uses 3DCoat?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/who-uses-3dcoat) - [Is 3D a coat subscription?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-3d-a-coat-subscription) - [Is 3DCoat better than ZBrush?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-3dcoat-better-than-zbrush) - [Is 3DCoat good for modeling?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-3dcoat-good-for-modeling) ### 8. [formZ](https://www.g2.com/products/formz/reviews) form·Z's ability to combine solid and surface modeling has made it a favorite in multiple design fields that engage in the articulation of 3D forms and spaces. Available for the Mac and Windows, it adds interoperability between the two platforms as it allows users to open their files on either one. **Average Rating:** 3.7/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 22 **How Do G2 Users Rate formZ?** - **Controls:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind formZ?** - **Seller:** [AutoDesSys](https://www.g2.com/sellers/autodessys) - **HQ Location:** Columbus, Ohio - **Twitter:** @formZ3D (126 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/autodessys-inc./ (7 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Architecture & Planning - **Company Size:** 91% Small-Business, 5% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of formZ? **"[Venerable modeler](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/formz-review-5140490)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Architecture & Planning* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/formz-review-5140490) --- **"[3D Modeling for Both Windows and Mac](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/formz-review-8118952)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Denis M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/formz-review-8118952) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About formZ? - [What is formZ used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-formz-used-for) ### 9. [Pool Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/pool-studio/reviews) Pool Studio is 3D pool design software made easy for everyone, whether you live and breathe AutoCAD or you don’t even like turning on your computer, this professional landscape design software is for you. **Average Rating:** 1.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 13 **How Do G2 Users Rate Pool Studio?** - **Controls:** 4.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Quality of Support:** 3.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Pipeline :** 5.4/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10) - **Topology:** 5.2/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Pool Studio?** - **Seller:** [Structure Studios](https://www.g2.com/sellers/structure-studios) - **Year Founded:** 2001 - **HQ Location:** Henderson, Nevada - **Twitter:** @StructStudios (1,375 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/469245/ (26 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 77% Small-Business, 8% Enterprise #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Pool Studio? **"[Brilliant and multifaceted](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pool-studio-review-5240082)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Architecture & Planning* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pool-studio-review-5240082) --- **"[Program with potential Growth](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pool-studio-review-8640493)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Rachit J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pool-studio-review-8640493) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Pool Studio? - [How do you use a pool studio?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-you-use-a-pool-studio) - [Is Pool Studio easy to learn?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-pool-studio-easy-to-learn) - [What program do pool designers use?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-program-do-pool-designers-use) ## What Is 3D Modeling Software? [3D Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-design) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to 3D Modeling Software? - [3D Rendering Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-rendering) - [Animation Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/animation) - [3D Painting Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-painting) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right 3D Modeling Software? ### What You Should Know About 3D Modeling Software ### What is 3D Modeling Software? 3D modeling completely transforms the way creative teams approach product design projects. While 2D still serves a purpose for floor plans and schematics, 3D modeling gives people a more realistic view of a final design. With 3D rendering capabilities, creators can even place their designs in real-life environments to demonstrate how their products might interact in the real world. For animators and game designers, these tools are invaluable to their artistic vision, while product designers and marketers are able to rely on 3D software to design a product that meets consumer needs. 3D modeling software has many computer-aided design (CAD) software capabilities, but it serves a different set of industries. CAD software is used to create industrial or mechanical designs, but 3D modeling is more common in animation, game design, and 3D printable models. 3D modeling software gives users direct input into each vertex and manipulates shapes that look more organic. It allows users to play with geometry in a way that creates hyper-accurate models. ### Features of 3D modeling software A base product for 3D modeling software often has limited features, but plugins can offer additional functionality. - UV mapping is the 3D modeling process of projecting a 2D image onto a 3D model’s surface for the purpose of texture mapping. Most 3D modeling software comes with UV editing features that let users move, scale, and generally modify the UV topology for a surface. - Sculpting features allow users to form virtual 3D surfaces as if they were made of clay. This feature allows more free-form editing and creates complex models with tools such as pushing, pulling, smoothing, and pinching the digital object. Sculpting is beneficial across various industries, such as game design, character animation, and product design. - Rendering puts the final touches on  3D models. It involves adding texture, color, and light to make them appear authentic. Most 3D modeling software offers features to help render, but other platforms are specifically dedicated to this process and might be a better fit if rendering is your focus. - Animation is probably an obvious feature of 3D modeling software. Some tools provide users with options that bring characters and objects to life. This can include adding expressions and realistic motion to characters. It’s mostly used by animators and video game designers. - Simulations help give a deeper, realistic representation of objects. Simulation features allow users to produce effects such as rain, fire, or wind. - Component libraries are provided by most 3D modeling software platforms. This includes pre-made geometric shapes so users don’t have to model from scratch. - Collaboration features allow multiple users to work on a model simultaneously. Users can leave notes, annotations, and edits. Having multiple team members on a design can speed up the process and eliminate the need for more reworks. ### Benefits of 3D modeling software - Prototyping: 3D modeling is one of the easiest ways to show stakeholders what a final product will look like. 3D modeling can make virtual prototypes, allowing for testing and validation before building physical prototypes. - Simulation: 3D modeling software is a powerful tool for engineers that helps simulate the behavior of structures, mechanisms, or fluid dynamics, enabling creators to optimize designs for performance and efficiency. - Productivity and cost: There’s no longer a need to manufacture prototypes if you use 3D modeling software because all of the creation happens on the computer and the printer.  Unnecessary labor and associated costs with manufacturing are eliminated and design issues with the model can also be identified, which prevents nonessential reworks down the line. - Collaboration: The software often supports collaborative features so multiple users can work on the same project. This is especially valuable for remote teams working on complex projects. ### Types of 3D modeling  The choice of 3D modeling software depends on a project's specific requirements, the industry, and the desired level of detail and precision. Many 3D artists and designers use a combination of these techniques according to the task at hand.  - Wireframe modeling represents 3D objects using lines and curves to define the shape. [Wireframing](https://www.g2.com/categories/wireframing) focuses on the underlying structure of the object without considering surface details. - Surface modeling defines the outer shape of an object and its surfaces. It is often used in industrial and automotive designs to create smooth and aesthetically pleasing surfaces. - Solid modeling creates realistic 3D objects with volume. It's widely used in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing to represent physical objects precisely. - Polygonal modeling is common in video games, virtual reality, and computer-generated imagery (CGI) for movies. Objects are represented by a mesh of polygons (typically triangles or quadrangles).  - Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS) modeling represents 3D geometry using mathematical curves. It's commonly applied in automotive design and animation industries to make smooth and precise surfaces. - Parametric modeling involves defining 3D objects using parameters or mathematical equations. Changes to one part of the model can then automatically update related components. It's often used in engineering and product design. - Procedural modeling involves creating 3D models through algorithms and rules rather than manual manipulation. It's useful for generating complex and detailed environments, such as landscapes and cityscapes. - CAD modeling is widely used in engineering and architecture to make technical drawings and models. It involves parametric and solid modeling techniques. ### Who uses 3D modeling software? The animation, gaming, and industrial design industries have embraced 3D modeling software. However, it is also used by marketers, architects, and hobbyists. For example, marketers can use 3D modeling software to demo their products for advertising, and architects turn to 3D modeling software to visually develop their projects. Hobbyists who want to play around with 3D creation also find much use for the tool.  - Product designers in a variety of different fields utilize 3D modeling software to bring models from conceptualization to completion. It helps them identify any issues before the model is put into production, saving companies time and money on reworks. - Animators are some of the most prevalent users nowadays. Many of the top animation studios use 3D modeling software to create characters, objects, digital sculpting, and a variety of other models that they use in their shows and films. - Game designers can find all their desired features with 3D modeling software, including character creation tools, body simulation, texturing, and motion graphics. - Architectural planners use 3D modeling for architectural drawing, as it allows viewers to experience an entire structure and its surroundings. ### What does 3D modeling software cost? The pricing of 3D modeling software ranges from free to more than $500, with paid versions having more functionality and support than free versions. This encompasses one-off fees, annual fees, or monthly fees. #### Return on investment (ROI) Below is the breakdown of the estimated time to ROI according to the 3D modeling product review data on G2 as of July 2021: - 50% of buyers see an ROI in 6 months or fewer - 26% of buyers see an ROI in 7-12 months - 15% of buyers see an ROI in 13-24 months - 1% of buyers see an ROI from 24-36 months - 1% of buyers see an ROI from 36-48 months - 3% of buyers see an ROI in 48+ months  - 3% of buyers haven’t realized a full payback yet ### What are the alternatives to 3D modeling software? [Alternatives to 3D modeling software](https://www.g2.com/articles/3d-modeling-vs-cad-vs-bim) that can replace this type of software, either partially or completely: - [Building design and building information modeling (BIM) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim) is specifically meant to aid in building design and construction. Architects, contractors, and engineers use it to visualize, design, and coordinate construction from beginning to end. While there is some overlap with 3D modeling programs, BIM 3D modeling tools are less robust and flexible. BIM tools may have a library of doors, windows, stairways, and other objects to make the process of designing and improving workflow.  - [CAD software](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) is primarily used by various engineering fields to design parts, tools, or entire projects, such as bridges or auditoriums. CAD software is also used to create designs for 3D printing, make objects in 3D, create 2D schematics, and edit the design. ### 3D modeling software trends - VR modeling: More and more tools let users [model in a VR environment](https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/71263). They can now walk around and view their 3D designs in a fully realized world. Some VR 3D modeling features even provide collaboration features so multiple users can collaborate at the same time. - More vertical industries: An increasing number of industries will begin to explore 3D modeling software as they notice the benefits. Businesses such as clothing stores or jewelry departments can turn to 3D modeling software to avoid post-production model costs associated with making a physical model. These companies can provide software features that let customers try on designs to understand better how they’ll look. The same concept can be applied to other industries, including furniture, landscape design, and automobile makers. ### Software related to 3D modeling software User-friendly solutions that integrate well with 3D modeling software include: - [3D printing software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-printing): Many 3D modeling software tools have features that prepare designs for 3D printing, like slicing and piping the g-code directly to the printer. This essentially translates 3D models into instructions for 3D printers.  - 3D rendering software: Sometimes, 3D models can be enhanced with [tools designed for 3D rendering](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-rendering). These features could be lighting, texturing, and wind effects that all place the 3D model in a fully realized environment. Users can insert 3D models, objects, and characters into the 3D rendering software to access these tools. - [Animation software:](https://www.g2.com/categories/animation) Animation is a popular integration for 3D modeling software. Users can upload their 3D designs into the animation software, where the model can be further manipulated. Designers can make the model interact with other objects, landscapes, and characters using high-quality animation software features.  _Written and Researched by_ [_Shalaka Joshi_](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/shalaka-joshi) _Reviewed and edited by_ [_Aisha West_](https://www.linkedin.com/in/westeawest/)