Programs for three-dimensional modeling will help turn interesting sketches into beautiful prototypes and models that can then be used for a variety of purposes. This kind of software allows you to work with 3D graphics regardless of the level of training. The bulk of 3D editors is quite simple (like Netfabb or Google SketchUp), so even a beginner can master them in a relatively short time. Modeling in three-dimensional space is used in various fields: architecture and design, cinema and computer games, and much more.
Creating 3D models and choosing the right program for this is often a very difficult process, so many just try everything in search of the necessary functionality and returns. Let's try to identify a list of the most popular and noteworthy applications that have distinguished themselves by rich functionality, comparative simplicity and accessibility.
Wings 3D
The 3D graphics created by Wings are considered advanced and quite realistic. The software has a wide range of tools with which you can create almost any 3D model. The interface is quite simple to configure "for yourself", and after several hours spent on the manual, you can quite quickly manage the main functionality of the program.
The application has a built-in tool for displaying objects in AutoUV (symmetric modeling) and easily exports the made models to most popular 3D formats. The only thing users complain about is the lack of animation: 3D graphics are drawn quickly and efficiently, but to look at all this “live”, you have to turn to other programs. But this defect can be attributed, rather, to the game layout, but for architects and designers this moment is not significant.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux, OS X.
Sketchup
The Google SketchUp platform is considered a professional software for almost any action with three-dimensional models. The program has many templates and built-in effect generators, which greatly facilitates the work of both beginners and, in some cases, professionals. The application supports all kinds of plugins and additional macros, so there should be no problems with fine-tuning.
The developer positions the platform as a tool where the creation of 3D models is optimized for architects, designers, furniture for the premises, that is, for the sphere of "Building a house." But if you want and install additional plugins, the functionality of the program can be significantly expanded. After installing the add-ons, it is possible to create 3D models from photographs, capture animations, layout of complex geometry, and much more - it all depends on the task and your imagination.
It is worth noting that the platform is extremely popular among Russian-speaking users due to the full localization and a large number of training documentation in both photo and video format. And its system requirements are more loyal, unlike venerable counterparts.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, OS X.
Compass-3D
This platform is extremely popular among specialists: it is the production of auto parts, modeling of equipment, calculation of three-dimensional objects for proper drilling, etc. By and large, the creation of 3D models in Compass is the construction of voluminous associative models, starting from isolated nodes and ending with a full assembly unit.
The main feature of the platform is that once created a 3D prototype allows you to quickly create models of a wide variety of typical products. The program supports "complex" 3D formats - SAT, IGES, XT, VRML, STEP, and is able to transfer geometric packages to various kinds of CNC equipment, which makes it indispensable in production areas.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux.
Daz studio
The program is free, but this does not prevent it from being a powerful enough platform for creating 3D models. The program is far from an easy tool to learn, so beginners will have to study 3D lessons on this platform for a long time and hard. But the forces and time spent on a detailed examination are worth it. The newcomer will be rewarded with extensive functionality, wide capabilities and really beautifully obtained projects.
Creating 3D models in Daz Studio makes them extremely realistic thanks to GPU acceleration and advanced rendering. The platform supports the creation of critical three-dimensional scenes and is armed with extensive functionality for animating models of any complexity.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, OS X.
AutoCAD
This platform does not need any special presentation, because it is familiar to almost everyone - from beginner engineers to professional architects working in large companies.
If you have skilled hands and a small package of knowledge in your arsenal, creating 3D models in AutoCAD will be quick and relatively easy. Moreover, you can replenish the knowledge base on this platform for a long time, due to its versatility and versatility. The benefit of all kinds of literature, lessons and articles on AutoCAD training abound.
The main direction of the platform is the design of drawings, but the latest software versions and additional plug-ins significantly expand the capabilities of the program. Therefore, the creation of 3D models for games, interiors and designer chips is not uncommon in AutoCAD. However, venerable experts believe that the platform is sharpened exclusively for technical modeling and has excelled in this area. But if you suddenly want to “update” furniture in your apartment or do game design, AutoCAD will be a great help in your endeavors.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux, OS X.
Netfabb
The developer positions the platform as a visualizer of interactive three-dimensional scenes, but the advanced version allows you to analyze, edit and make any changes to the constructed 3D models. One of the main features of the program is support for 3D printing. It is also worth noting that the software is extremely simple along with wide functionality.
The platform is extremely easy to learn, easy to install and supports most of the well-known 3D formats. On the network you can find amateur (and very good) localization, so beginners should not have problems. Users warmly respond to the capabilities of the program, but nevertheless consider it a kind of help for the implementation of more ambitious projects on venerable platforms.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux, OS X.
Open scad
An interesting and free platform for 3D modeling Open SCAD allows you to seriously engage in interior design, industrial design and architecture. Developers were much less interested in any artistic aspects, therefore, unlike similar programs, this platform is not an interactive tool.
By and large, the creation of 3D models in Open SCAD is a compilation of projects where the smallest details and details of an object in three-dimensional space are shown to your attention. Many use the platform as an intermediate tool (similar to Netfabb), providing more serious programs with finishing touches.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux, OS X.
AutoDesk 123D
The platform is equipped with rich functionality and has a large set of tools for three-dimensional and CAD modeling. Software allows you to create, design and visualize any 3D projects, with the exception, perhaps, of critical geometric designs.
It is also worth noting that the platform supports 3D printing technology in full. Official support for the application will provide the user with many interesting and free 3D models that can be used for your experiments and other purposes. Multitasking and wide functionality allow the platform to be autonomous and independent of any third-party programs, that is, the entire simulation process can be carried out on AutoDesk 123D.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, OS X, iOS
Meshhixer
The platform is considered an ideal tool for compiling and visualizing several projects or individual 3D models. In just two clicks, you can cut a part from one model and paste it into another.
The platform also supports modeling, that is, the ability to create virtual sculptures and images, moreover, forming and refining the surface at any stage of construction, as if the model was molded alive from clay. Moreover, the whole process can be set to "real time" and adjusted according to the visual progress.
Supported Operating Systems: Windows, OS X.
3D Crafter
Another free platform that allows you to work with three-dimensional models in real time. The main feature that beginners and experts love the program for is the intuitive drag-and-drop function.
The function allows you to build more complex models or projects based on simple shapes and sketches. The program also supports sculptural design, modeling and the possibility of 3D printing. Many users consider the platform an ideal tool for creating simple and medium in complexity animated objects. Amateur localization will help beginners to get used to it, and unpretentious functionality will make it easy to navigate along the way.
Support for operating systems: Windows.
Leocad
It is a highly specialized platform for designing virtual objects of LEGO models. Software can be a good alternative to the expensive and difficult to learn LDD (Lego Digital Designer) program.
The utility has a relatively simple interface, can work in animation mode and supports key frames. Moreover, it is support for object animation that sets the product apart from other similar programs. If you wish, you can find amateur support for the Russian language and additional text and video materials for a more detailed acquaintance with the platform.
Support for operating systems: Windows, Linux, OS X.