# Best 3D Modeling Software - Page 6

  *By [Gauri Pawsey](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/gauri-pawsey)*

   3D modeling software refers to programs that design basic three-dimensional models of objects or characters. To flesh out the models with realistic details, the tools include supplemental features, like 3D painting features to add textures, lighting, and color. Once the software has completed the models, they can come to “life" using 3D rendering and 3D animation tools.

More and more often, industries such as television and film, gaming, marketing, and virtual reality turn to the [best 3D modeling software](https://learn.g2.com/best-3d-modeling-software) to create their work. These programs are used by industries including television and motion picture, video game, marketing, and virtual reality. After they are created using 3D modeling software, Graphic designers can utilize crude 3D models without rendering for use on websites and media stills. Tools with 3D capabilities that are specifically for [building design](https://www.g2.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim) and [architecture](https://www.g2.com/categories/architecture), [civil engineering design](https://www.g2.com/categories/civil-engineering-design), or other [CAD](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad)-related functions, are not included in the 3D Modeling category.

To qualify for inclusion in the 3D Modeling category, a product must:

- Provide tools for constructing and modifying 3D graphic models
- Allow users to store and export completed models
- Not be specifically created for building design and architecture, civil engineering design, or CAD





## Best 3D Modeling Software At A Glance

- **Leader:** [SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews)
- **Highest Performer:** [Browzwear](https://www.g2.com/products/browzwear/reviews)
- **Easiest to Use:** [Meshy](https://www.g2.com/products/meshy/reviews)
- **Top Trending:** [cmBuilder.io](https://www.g2.com/products/cmbuilder-io/reviews)
- **Best Free Software:** [Meshy](https://www.g2.com/products/meshy/reviews)


## Top-Rated Products (Ranked by G2 Score)
  ### 1. [Selfcad software](https://www.g2.com/products/selfcad-software/reviews)
  Problem: Professional level 3D software is hard to learn, while entry level software is laggy and limited. And both of them require multiple programs to get the 3D printing job done. The Solution SelfCAD offers professional level capabilities, is easy to learn, fast, and does not require any additional programs to get a 3D printing job done. SelfCAD is doing the same thing for the 3D CAD industry that Wix did for the Web design industry and Canva did for the graphic design industry. Target Markets Intermediate 3D modeling users, B2C, and B2B2C Founders Aaron Breuer- Founder & President George Weinberger CEO


  **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Pipeline :** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [SternHoldings](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sternholdings)
- **Year Founded:** 2016
- **HQ Location:** New York, US
- **Twitter:** @SelfCAD (601 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/selfcad (26 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


  ### 2. [Shade 3D](https://www.g2.com/products/shade-3d/reviews)
  3D Modeling, Rendering and Animation


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Pipeline :** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Proactive International](https://www.g2.com/sellers/proactive-international)
- **Year Founded:** 2007
- **HQ Location:** Beaverton, US
- **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/mirye-software (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


  ### 3. [Strata Foto 3D CX](https://www.g2.com/products/strata-foto-3d-cx/reviews)
  Strata Foto 3D CX helps to use a digital camera or any phone camera to capture real-world objects as fully textured 3D models. Its ideal for difficult to model objects like organic shapes, soft forms and hand made items.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Pipeline :** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Strata](https://www.g2.com/sellers/strata-0d86f15a-66d4-4917-92ae-276e93b4dff2)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **Twitter:** @Strata3DDesign (800 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


  ### 4. [Stratasys](https://www.g2.com/products/stratasys/reviews)
  Transform the way you can create new behavior characteristics for models by programming material placement at the voxel level. Unleash virtually unlimited color and texture variations.


  **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Pipeline :** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Stratasys](https://www.g2.com/sellers/stratasys)
- **HQ Location:** Rehovot, Center District, Israel
- **Twitter:** @Stratasys (40,103 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/stratasys/ (1,925 employees on LinkedIn®)
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ: SSYS

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


  ### 5. [SURE Editor](https://www.g2.com/products/sure-editor/reviews)
  Including a free Mesh Viewer, this new tool allows for scalable data interaction to manually improve output results efficiently. Reduce the overall project time and delivery by viewing, deleting, flattening, and sharpening DSM and 3D meshes in order to produce the best product possible for the clients. Increased loading times as streaming directly from the disk.


  **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Esri](https://www.g2.com/sellers/esri)
- **Year Founded:** 1969
- **HQ Location:** Redlands, CA
- **Twitter:** @Esri (188,797 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5311/ (7,207 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


  ### 6. [ThingWorx Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/thingworx-studio/reviews)
  ThingWorx Studio transforms applications into immersive experiences that enable users to better create, service, and operate products in the smart, connected world through augmented reality.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [ThingWorx](https://www.g2.com/sellers/thingworx)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market


  ### 7. [TilesView](https://www.g2.com/products/tilesview/reviews)
  Tilesview - Reimagine Your Space Future of Room Visualization Tilesview.ai is a leading AI-powered space visualization platform that helps businesses and consumers bring their design ideas to life with stunning realism. Founded in 2016, Tilesview is headquartered in San Diego, California, USA and has grown into a trusted visualization solution serving thousands of customers worldwide. At its core, Tilesview empowers users to visualize tiles, flooring, rugs, paint, wallpanel, wallpapers, laminates and more in real or custom spaces using advanced artificial intelligence and interactive tools. Whether you’re a tile manufacturer, distributor, retailer, interior designer, or a homeowner planning a renovation, Tilesview bridges the gap between imagination and reality by making visualization intuitive, accurate, and instantly accessible. What We Do Tilesview.ai offers a suite of smart visualization tools, including: 📌 AI-Powered Room Visualizer – See flooring, wall coverings, paints, and more in real or uploaded spaces. 🌀 360° Panorama Views – Explore designs from all angles for a fully immersive preview. 📄 Generate Catalogs & PDF Previews – Create branded visual catalogs to share with clients. 🌐 Seamless Web Integration – Integrate the visualizer into websites to boost engagement and sales conversions. 📱 Multi-Device Support – Works across desktops, tablets, mobile phones, and interactive kiosks. 📈 Lead Generation & Sales Tools – Built-in features help convert interest into inquiries and sales.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [TilesView](https://www.g2.com/sellers/tilesview)
- **Year Founded:** 2016
- **HQ Location:** San Diego CA , AS
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/tiles-view/ (16 employees on LinkedIn®)



#### Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

- 3D Visualization (1 reviews)
- Ease of Use (1 reviews)
- Visualization (1 reviews)


  ### 8. [VIP3D](https://www.g2.com/products/vip3d/reviews)
  Vip3D - Complete 3D Outdoor Living Design Software


  **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Quality of Support:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Pipeline :** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Structure Studios](https://www.g2.com/sellers/structure-studios)
- **Year Founded:** 2001
- **HQ Location:** Henderson, Nevada
- **Twitter:** @StructStudios (1,377 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/469245/ (26 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 200% Small-Business


  ### 9. [Xspiral](https://www.g2.com/products/xspiral/reviews)
  Welcome to Xspiral, the new-generation hybrid design visualization platform that seamlessly integrates 2D and 3D capabilities with AI-driven features for real-time collaboration. Designed for both individuals and teams, Xspiral offers advanced tools for 3D modeling, 2D sketching, and interactive design within a single workspace. Enhance your creativity and productivity with our web-based platform, which supports high-quality 3D visualization, AI-powered writing, and project planning. Model, animate, and render your ideas into reality with AI assistance, and experience seamless collaboration that empowers you to innovate, design, and execute projects with precision. Discover how Xspiral transforms detailed art and design projects from concept to completion with ease.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Controls:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10)
- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Pipeline :** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)
- **Topology:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.7/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Xspiral](https://www.g2.com/sellers/xspiral)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market


  ### 10. [3D AI Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-ai-studio/reviews)
  3D AI Studio is an innovative, AI-powered platform that revolutionizes 3D model creation by enabling users to generate high-quality 3D assets from text prompts or images within seconds. Designed for developers, designers, game creators, and 3D artists, it streamlines the traditionally complex and time-consuming process of 3D modeling, making it accessible and efficient for both professionals and beginners. Key Features and Functionality: - Text-to-3D Generation: Input descriptive text prompts to instantly create detailed 3D models, facilitating rapid prototyping and concept development. - Image-to-3D Conversion: Upload 2D images to transform them into 3D models, ideal for converting sketches or concept art into tangible assets. - AI Texturing: Automatically apply realistic textures to 3D models, enhancing their visual appeal and realism. - Remeshing: Optimize the geometric structure of models to improve quality, making them suitable for applications like 3D printing and animation. - Level of Detail (LOD) Automation: Generate multiple resolution levels for models to ensure performance optimization across various platforms. - Comprehensive 3D Asset Library: Access a vast collection of pre-made 3D assets to accelerate project development. - Multi-Format Support: Export models in various formats, including .obj, .fbx, and .stl, ensuring compatibility with popular 3D software and platforms. Primary Value and User Solutions: 3D AI Studio addresses the challenges of time-consuming and technically demanding 3D model creation by offering an intuitive and rapid solution. By automating the generation and texturing processes, it significantly reduces the time and effort required to produce high-quality 3D assets. This efficiency allows users to focus more on creativity and design, rather than the technical intricacies of modeling. The platform's versatility makes it suitable for various applications, including game development, product design, architectural visualization, digital art creation, education, and animation. By democratizing access to advanced 3D modeling tools, 3D AI Studio empowers users to bring their ideas to life swiftly and effectively.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3Daistudio](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3daistudio)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 11. [3D Body Visualizer](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-body-visualizer/reviews)
  3D Body Visualizer is a professional-grade online modeling tool designed for both men and women. Powered by the sophisticated SMPL model, it allows users to input specific body metrics to create a precise 3D digital twin. Whether for professional fitness tracking, medical health visualization, or personal body-positive goals, it transforms numerical data into a realistic, gender-specific 3D representation.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [BodyVisualizer](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bodyvisualizer)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 12. [3DFY](https://www.g2.com/products/3dfy/reviews)
  3DFY.ai enables the creation of high-quality 3D models using existing images.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3DFY](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3dfy)
- **HQ Location:** Haifa, IL
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3d-fy (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 13. [3D Head Scanner](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-head-scanner/reviews)
  Create a hyper-realistic 3D avatar in minutes with Copresence, powered by cutting-edge AI. Just use your iPhone’s camera, and Copresence will guide you through a seamless facial scan, capturing every unique detail, including your hair! Once created, export your avatar from our platform in popular formats like (.blend), (.fbx), and (.glb) — ready for integration on platforms like Metahuman and Rapport. Get started today and see yourself in the digital world like never before!




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Copresence](https://www.g2.com/sellers/copresence)
- **Year Founded:** 2021
- **HQ Location:** Zurich, CH
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/copresence-tech (15 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 14. [3Dify](https://www.g2.com/products/3dify-space-3dify/reviews)
  3Dify is an AI-powered platform that transforms 2D images into high-quality 3D models, streamlining the creation of game-ready assets, textures, and animations. Users can upload clear, high-contrast images of single objects, and the system automatically removes backgrounds and optimizes the input for superior 3D conversion. The platform offers a free trial, with premium plans providing advanced settings for more detailed and higher-fidelity models. Generated models are available in industry-standard GLB and PLY formats, suitable for web applications, AR/VR experiences, 3D printing, and more. All models created with 3Dify are licensed for commercial use, making it an invaluable tool for game developers, product designers, and marketers seeking efficient and cost-effective 2D to 3D conversions. Key Features: - AI-Powered Conversion: Transforms 2D images into 3D models using advanced artificial intelligence. - Automatic Background Removal: Enhances input images by removing backgrounds and optimizing for 3D conversion. - Advanced Settings: Premium users can adjust settings to generate more detailed and higher-fidelity models. - Multiple File Formats: Provides GLB and PLY formats for compatibility with various applications. - Commercial Licensing: All generated models are licensed for commercial use. Primary Value: 3Dify addresses the challenge of creating 3D models from 2D images by offering a stable, AI-driven solution that simplifies and accelerates the conversion process. This enables professionals and hobbyists alike to produce high-quality 3D assets efficiently, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional modeling methods.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3Dify.space](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3dify-space)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 15. [3DPEA](https://www.g2.com/products/3dpea/reviews)
  3DPEA is a comunity to publish, share and embed interactive 3D designs and makes. Discover and download thousands of 3D models for printing. Improve your 3D workflow with free tools including image&3D file converter, free online viewer, GCode simulator and DICOM viewer.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3DPEA](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3dpea)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 16. [3D QuickTools](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-quicktools/reviews)
  3D QuickTools is a Hong Kong-based company specializing in the development of advanced 3D die and mold design solutions integrated within the SOLIDWORKS environment. Established in 2002, the company offers a suite of products tailored to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of tool and die design processes. Key Features and Functionality: - 3DQuickPress: A comprehensive tool for progressive die design, facilitating tasks from blank development to strip layout and die set structure design. It includes features like automatic punch generation, die plate hole creation, and a standard component library. - 3DQuickForm: An add-in for inverse forming simulation, enabling high-speed and accurate blank shape generation, material thickness analysis, and stress/strain distribution visualization. It supports various CAD data imports and offers a customizable material database. - 3DQuickMold: A professional solution for plastic mold design, addressing complex mold splitting tasks and providing tools for core and cavity layout, mold base management, and cooling system design. It offers a flexible workflow and high performance for intricate mold structures. Primary Value and User Solutions: 3D QuickTools' products are designed to streamline the tool and die design process, reducing overall design time and minimizing errors. By integrating seamlessly with SOLIDWORKS, these solutions allow users to maintain a consistent design environment without the need for data conversion or retraining. This integration enhances productivity, facilitates material usage calculations during the quotation phase, and supports the creation of complex designs with a short learning curve. Industries such as electronics, automotive parts, medical equipment, and aerospace benefit from these tools by achieving faster design cycles and improved product quality.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3D QuickTools](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3d-quicktools)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 17. [3YOURMIND](https://www.g2.com/products/3yourmind/reviews)
  3YOURMINDis an online platform that transform data into a 3D-print.


  **Average Rating:** 3.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**User Satisfaction Scores:**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.1/10)


**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [3YOURMIND](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3yourmind)
- **Year Founded:** 2014
- **HQ Location:** Germany
- **Twitter:** @3yourmind (1,217 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3yourmind (44 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Reviewer Demographics:**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


  ### 18. [Alexsys](https://www.g2.com/products/alexsys/reviews)
  Alexsys is a simple conversational package for CNC milling machines. Classic conversational programming ease is combined with the visual assistance of simple CAD. Stand right at the control and start creating parts!




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [MachMotion](https://www.g2.com/sellers/machmotion)
- **Year Founded:** 2008
- **HQ Location:** Newburg, US
- **Twitter:** @MachMotion (146 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/machmotion/ (30 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 19. [Alpha3D AI](https://www.g2.com/products/alpha3d-ai/reviews)
  Alpha3D is a generative AI-powered platform that enables anyone, regardless of their 3D modelling knowledge, to automatically transform text prompts or 2D images of real-world objects into 3D digital assets in minutes. At Alpha3D, we believe in an immersive digital future and it is our mission to make creating 3D content fast, easy, scalable, and accessible for everyone. We democratize creating 3D content so that we can all build the best future digital experiences together. Alpha3D enables creators to easily create digital assets 10x cheaper in minutes, instead of days, with just a few clicks and no previous 3D modeling knowledge necessary. All you have to do is upload your 2D images to the Alpha3D app and let our AI take care of the rest. Compatible with any 3D environment, the digital assets are completely interactable and can be used in Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Virtual Try-On (VTO), gaming, the Metaverse, or even as NFTs. Let's build the world of future digital experiences together. It's not magic, it's generative AI.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Alpha3D](https://www.g2.com/sellers/alpha3d)
- **Year Founded:** 2018
- **HQ Location:** Tallinn, EE
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/alpha3dio (19 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 20. [Altair Inspire Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/altair-inspire-studio/reviews)
  Altair Inspire Studio is an all-in-one industrial design solution tailored for designers, architects, and digital artists to create, evaluate, and visualize designs with unparalleled speed and precision. Its unique construction history feature, combined with multiple modeling techniques, empowers users throughout the creative process. The software offers a sleek and efficient user experience, accommodating both expert and novice users. From initial sketches to exploring styling with polygonal, freeform, and PolyNURBS parametric modeling, each tool and workflow are optimized for an efficient design experience. Additionally, Inspire Studio includes a high-quality, physically-based global illumination renderer, Thea Render, enabling the production of stunning product presentations in real-time. Compatible with both Mac OS X and Windows, and operating under Altair’s flexible token-based licensing model, Inspire Studio liberates designers from the constraints of traditional CAID tools while ensuring the export of robust digital models for product development. Key Features and Functionality: - Construction History: Automatically backtrack to earlier stages of your design, reusing or modifying objects from past stages in real-time. - Sketching: Create and edit constraint-based technical sketches by easily applying geometric relationships between components. - Surfaces and Curves: Utilize Non-uniform Rational B-Splines curves and surfaces to accurately represent even the most complex shapes with flexibility and precision. - PolyNURBS: Combine the ease and simplicity of polygonal modeling with the precision and flexibility of NURBS to quickly create free-form surface and solid geometry that is smooth and continuous. - Rendering and Animations: Create high-quality rendered images and animations with a physically-based global illumination engine in biased photorealistic, unbiased, and Presto interactive modes. - Tool Belts: One-click access to all modeling and rendering tools brings any functionality directly to you. Customize tool belts to meet your needs. - Manufacturing Drawings: Create detailed 2D drawings of complex 3D models and assemblies from multiple perspectives, including section and detail views, dimensions, and annotations. - Design Tables: Explore and evaluate design alternatives on the fly by modifying and setting thresholds for various model parameters without digging through construction history. - Geometry Morphing: Easily edit complex geometries interactively, either at the global part level or by applying local modifications to the model. Primary Value and User Solutions: Inspire Studio enhances creativity by allowing designers to drive their designs with its powerful construction history tool and intuitive user interface, enabling quick creation, exploration of multiple iterations, and changes without rework. It offers flexibility by allowing users to mix and match modeling techniques within the same environment, combining fast, free-form polygonal modeling with the control and precision of surface and solid modeling to effortlessly create and explore even the most challenging designs. The software also provides an intuitive setup and a large choice of environments and materials, enabling the creation of stunning images and complex animations in real-time with physically accurate lighting.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Altair](https://www.g2.com/sellers/altair-186799f5-3238-493f-b3ad-b8cac484afd7)
- **Year Founded:** 1985
- **HQ Location:** Troy, MI
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/8323/ (3,169 employees on LinkedIn®)
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ:ALTR
- **Total Revenue (USD mm):** $458



  ### 21. [Argon 3D Modeling CAD](https://www.g2.com/products/argon-3d-modeling-cad/reviews)
  Argon™ is a CAD and 3D precision modeling software for Mac and Windows. It offers wireframe, solid and surface history-free modeling with precision drawings, photo-realistic renderings and animation. Argon offers entry-level 3D modeling without the commitment of high-end professional packages. It contains the same solid and surface modeling, rendering engine and animation tools found in Cobalt™ and Xenon™, but without the high-end mechanical design and extreme productivity features you may not need yet. For both Macintosh and Windows, Argon lets you model and render with such a straightforward interface that you’ll forget you’re using a computer. Intended for those needing precision 3D modeling without cumbersome parametric history.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Ashlar-Vellum](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ashlar-vellum)
- **HQ Location:** Austin, US
- **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/ashlar-inc (2 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 22. [Bevelify](https://www.g2.com/products/bevelify/reviews)
  Convert text to 3D or transform images into detailed 3D models effortlessly, no design skills needed. Perfect for creators, designers, and developers looking for quick, high-quality 3D models.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Bevelify](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bevelify)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 23. [Boxs](https://www.g2.com/products/boxs-boxs/reviews)
  Need a shelf? Just say 'Add Shelf'. Need a drawer? Just say 'Add Drawer'.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Boxs](https://www.g2.com/sellers/boxs-c3f55b9d-f63f-41d7-aa66-bb40c32c6359)
- **Year Founded:** 2016
- **HQ Location:** Gretzenbach, CH
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/boxs-ag (8 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 24. [Candera CGI Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/candera-cgi-studio/reviews)
  The Powerful Design Tool for your embedded HMI Candera CGI Studio enables the creation of brilliant Human Machine Interfaces and UIs of all kinds for the automotive area and beyond.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [Candera](https://www.g2.com/sellers/candera)
- **Year Founded:** 2000
- **HQ Location:** Linz, AT
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/candera-hmi/ (42 employees on LinkedIn®)



  ### 25. [ComfortClick Manager](https://www.g2.com/products/comfortclick-manager/reviews)
  ComfortClick Manager is home automation software which enables control and automation of smart buildings based on KNX system.




**Seller Details:**

- **Seller:** [ComfortClick](https://www.g2.com/sellers/comfortclick)
- **Year Founded:** 2008
- **HQ Location:** Ljubljana, SI
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/comfortclick-building-automation/ (8 employees on LinkedIn®)





## Parent Category

[3D Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-design)



## Related Categories

- [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)



---

## Buyer Guide

### 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/)