3D modeling is a crucial step in the 3D printing value chain that allows the user to visualize the geometry of the part and its functionality. But as a beginner, finding your way through the multiple software solutions available today is challenging. Which tool should you choose when starting 3D printing? 3D software for beginners is designed to be simple to use but also very accessible. Most are free or include an online version without downloading a complex program requiring an advanced computer. This software will allow you to give life to all your ideas and then export them in the proper format to print them in 3D. In this blog post, we will explore the top 8 3D modeling software for beginners due to these software’s unique set of features and tools to suit different interests.
3D Modeling Software for Beginners:
3D modeling plays a crucial role in developing 3D animation and gaming projects, enabling artists to craft lifelike models for production. Given the abundance of 3D modeling software options, selecting the ideal choice for beginners can be challenging. We’ve compiled a list of the top 8 3D modeling software tailored for newcomers to simplify this decision-making process:
SelfCAD
SelfCAD is an affordable 3D modeling software suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner, business professional, student, or freelancer looking to craft 3D models, SelfCAD is your tool. This versatile software streamlines the process of creating 3D models and preparing them for 3D rendering, 3D printing, or animation, significantly reducing the time required compared to traditional CAD software. Especially well-suited for novice 3D designers, SelfCAD boasts a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy tool comprehension. The tools are thoughtfully organized in clusters based on their specific functions, making them readily accessible.
Features:
- Flexible Storage Option
- Explore Interactive Tutorial
- Suitable for Everyone
- Easy to Use & Easy on Pocket
Pricing Plan:
- Pro: $14.99
- Perpetual Licences: $599
Cedreo
Cedreo is an entry-level 3D modeling software tailored for novice users, primarily focusing on 3D home design and architectural visualization, particularly on kitchen designs. Its main audience comprises construction and real estate professionals, like interior designers, architects, and home builders. The software features a user-friendly interface that simplifies the creation and visualization of 3D building models and floor plans. Users can exercise their creativity by designing and customizing various aspects of a structure, including its layout, landscaping details, interior aesthetics, and choice of materials. Additionally, Cedreo offers an extensive library of pre-made 3D objects and materials, easing the crafting of lifelike representations of spaces and buildings.
Features:
- Streamline Your Full Sales Process
- Reduce the cost of the Pre-sale Phase
- Get Interior & Exterior 3D Home Renderings
- Design Your Home Projects Faster Than Ever
Pricing Plan:
- Personal: $49/project
- Pro: $40.83/month
- Enterprise: $57.5/month
Vectary
Vectary is a versatile 3D modeling program that offers free and paid versions. Despite being relatively less recognized than other 3D modeling software, it boasts impressive capabilities. Vectary is ideal for individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned 3D modeling experts. It enables you to generate various 3D models swiftly. Much like Blender, it offers both object and edit modes, facilitating the creation of highly advanced renderings. The creative possibilities are boundless, which allows you to craft a wide range of 3D assets, like objects, 3D logos, characters, 3D text, and furniture designs, catering to your specific needs.
Features:
- Explore Virtual Design and Digital Twins
- Share Ideas with Clarity
- Empower Small and Large Teams
- Find Creative Solutions
Pricing Plan:
- Pro: $15/month
Womp 3D
Womp 3D is an innovative browser-based 3D modeling platform characterized by its user-friendly nature. Among its most captivating features is the ability to manipulate 3D shapes with a liquid quality, enabling actions like subtracting, groping, and melting one shape from another. The brainchild of Gabriela Trueba, this software empowers users to construct models using fundamental shapes like cubes, spheres, or cylinders. These creations can be effortlessly combined or subtracted in real time using Boolean operations. Furthermore, the 3D models can be conveniently exported in OBJ, STL, 3DS, or PLY formats for further editing and rendering in alternative 3D software like Cinema 4D, 3ds Max, or Blender.
Features:
- Easy to Use
- Always Production Ready for Digital Export
- Share Project in Real Times
- Create Printing Ready Models
Pricing Plan:
Free
Tinkercard
Autodesk Tinkercad is a no-cost web-based 3D modeling application accessible through your web browser. Founded by Kai Backman and his co-founder Mikko Mononen, Tinkercad took its initial steps 2011 as an online 3D design tool. This versatile tool empowers users to craft 3D models tailored for 3D printing. Tinkercad employs a simplified constructive solid geometry approach to model creation. Designs are assembled from basic geometric shapes categorized as holes or solids. The magic happens when these solids and holes are combined to generate new shapes, each inheriting the solid or hole attribute as desired.
Features:
- Hands-On Projects Build Confidence
- From Mind to Design in Minutes
- Power Up Your Imagination
- Build a Coding Foundation
Pricing Plan:
Free
ScluptGL
SculptGL represents an exceedingly user-friendly browser-based sculpting application harnessed through WebGL and JavaScript. It offers a hassle-free experience, free from the need for registration or downloads, and is compatible with all major web browsers. Accessible through the SculptGL URL, this online tool makes 3D sculpting a breeze, providing various sculpting tools, including creases and brushes. The interface is navigated using a standard mouse. The creative mind behind SculptGL and Nomad Sculpt is Stephane Ginier. Additionally, this tool supports multiple formats, including STL, ONJ, and PLY, for added convenience.
Features:
- Computer Assisted Design
- Multiplating a Polygon Mesh
- Export Files in Printable Format
- Automatically Shares Them on Protofilo
Pricing Plan:
Free
BlocksCAD
BlocksCAD, a 3D software, primarily targets newcomers to the 3D realm and offers accessibility in multiple languages, including German, English, Italian, Spanish, and French. You can embark on your 3D journey directly from the website without the need for any software downloads. In this context, modeling resembles constructing with a set of digital building blocks, akin to Lego bricks, which can be effortlessly positioned in their designated locations through simple mouse clicks or drag-and-drop actions. Even though this application is user-friendly, if you ever require assistance, BlocksCAD provides various resources, including online courses, instructional videos, and introductory tutorials.
Features:
- Computer-Aided Drafting
- Block-Based Modeling Tool
- Curriculum Support Math and Coding Learning
- Viewed in AR or VR Environment
Pricing Plan:
Starting Price: $149/month
Morphi
Morphi is a beginner-friendly 3D modeling application developed by New York City-based Inventory, which offers versatility by being accessible on three different platforms. With the option for both online and offline usage (note that a mobile version is currently undergoing alpha testing). It enables users to craft 3D models through the art of 3D drawing, and it also can transform 2D drawings into 3D creations. The app uses Apple’s ARKit to provide Augmented Reality functionality when employed on an iPad. It allows users to seamlessly integrate 2D or 3D elements into their real-world surroundings, creating a compelling illusion.
Features:
- Scan or Import 3D Models
- Work with Other 3D Apps
- Easy to Use
- Share in 3D AR/VR
Pricing Plan:
Edu: $9.99/Licenses
Desktop: $9.99/Licenses
Conclusion
The top 8 3D modeling software options are presented here to provide beginners with a diverse range of tools and features to kickstart their journey into the world of 3D design. Each platform offers unique features and capabilities to cater to a wide range of creative needs that make it easier than ever to dive into the exciting realm of 3D modeling and unleash your imagination. With this user-friendly software, aspiring 3D modelers can explore their creativity, develop new skills, and bring their digital visions to life.
