Getting into 3D modeling and printing can seem very difficult for beginners, quickly discouraged by the multiplicity of software that exists today. To avoid this, we have prepared the list of the most popular beginner’s 3D software, very easy to use, intuitive, which will guide novices in their process of creation and printing. Discover our top 12 and find the beginner’s 3D software that suits you according to your need! We have classified them by type of functionality offered, from the most basic to the most advanced.
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1 – The 3D software for beginners Morphi
Developed by New York-based startup The Inventery, Morphi is a software application specifically designed for tablets. It allows you to create 3D models in an easy way and contains a complete library with a large number of decorative and functional models. While the app itself is free, you will need to pay to open some specific 3D models and app tools. If you want to use this version in schools, there is another version, Morphi Edu, priced at $ 4.99 for 20 downloads.
2 – BlocksCAD
This 3D software has been specially designed for educational purposes. Its development was designed so that everyone can later use OpenSCAD, a more professional CAD software. The commands for the development of objects and their transformations are represented by colored blocks reminiscent of the well-known construction toys, LEGO. The BlocksCAD code is compatible with OpenSCAD to give your models a final touch up. Export formats can be OpenSCAD or STL. So that everyone can learn how to use the software, BlocksCAD offers 3D modeling tutorials on its Youtube channel. Count on $ 149 per year.
3 – Leopoly
Leopoly is cloud-based 3D modeling software that was developed by the eponymous Hungarian start-up. Easy to use, it offers different options when modeling an object. For example, it offers a library of objects that can be personalized in terms of color and text; the user can also choose the template from a gallery of files created by other users. This 3D software is primarily intended for brands, designers, developers, students and consumers who are new to 3D modeling.
4 – 3D Slash
3DSlash was created in 2013 by Silvain Huet, inspired by his son playing the Minecraft video game, in which you have to build your own world using small cubes. 3Dslash therefore takes up this idea of blocks that you can remove or use to create your 3D model. The software offers different tools to help you shape your designs, including the ability to transform parts from reality to 3D with an image you download and decal. With a maximum resolution of 0.1 mm, this program will allow you to achieve your object in a fairly precise way and bring your realities to life!
5 – TinkerCAD 3D software
It is a free online 3D modeling software developed by Autodesk that is aimed at real beginners. The software features an intuitive concept of building blocks, allowing you to develop models from a set of basic shapes. The online software comes with a library of millions of files that users can use to find the shapes that best suit them and manipulate them as they see fit. It is also possible to interact directly with third-party printing services. This is a fairly simplistic program and some designs will be limited. But it remains ideal for anyone who has no experience in modeling for 3D printing.
6 – FreeCAD
FreeCAD is, as the name suggests, completely free. This is open source parametric 3D software, sometimes referred to as very basic, but the parametric component makes modeling easier for beginners who want to get fully involved in 3D modeling on CAD software. For example, a useful option is to look at your model history and change the settings to get a different model. This software is not designed for professional purposes, but is still a good training tool.
7 – 3D SketchUp Make software
Sketchup Make (formerly SketchUp) was designed in 2000 by LastSoftware for use in architectural design. It is now owned by Trimble Navigation LLC. The Sketchup program is free and offers simple tools to a wide range of users: manufacturers, architects, designers, engineers, and builders. This program allows you to sketch your ideas into a 3D model. Before you start your creation, you can select a model that will guide you through the modeling process. It is a very versatile 3D software, which maintains a good balance between usability and functionality, a good option for beginners who are serious in learning CAD.
8 – Sculptris
Sculptris uses digital sculpture as the basis to create a 3D model. Creating your model will be as easy as shaping an object with plasticine. This software starts with a sphere that the user can model as they wish by stretching, hollowing, smoothing, etc. This makes it an ideal tool for creating animated characters or video games. Sculptris is owned by Pixologic, the creator of Zbrush. Although this is good beginner 3D software, it is no longer in development; you can still download it, but it may not be compatible with newer operating systems.
9 – Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD program. It uses the power of the cloud to bring design teams together to collaborate on complex projects. One of the advantages of the Fusion 360 ° platform is that it stores the entire model history, including any changes made. It contains many design options including modeling freeforms, solids, and meshes. It works on a monthly subscription. The developers also regularly update the features, which brings constant news. It works across multiple platforms and allows users to access their information wherever they want. In the survey conducted by i.materialise in 2017, we see an increase in the popularity of the software over the past two years. Many people praised its professional capabilities, as well as its user-friendly interface and workflow. It is a powerful software which is suitable for beginners because it becomes very easy to use with enough practice.
10 – Vectary
Vectary is an online 3D modeling tool with which you can create, share and customize 3D designs. It’s a combination of standard mesh modeling, subdivision modeling, and parametric plugins. It was built from the ground up to make 3D modeling easy to use for beginners (but can be useful for professionals too). The models are saved in the cloud, where they can be accessed through any browser. Users can access their designs very easily and share their models from all over the world.
11 – OnShape 3D software
OnShape is probably one of the more advanced 3D software on this list. It is a cloud-based CAD platform designed by former members of the Solidworks team. Many people agree that it is relatively easy to use given the range of features it offers. It enables collaborative work between team members using any web browser, phone or tablet. It was created for today’s agile design teams. If you want to start 3D modeling, it may be wise to invest in learning this 3D software which is also free.
12 – Meshmixer
Meshmixer software is free CAD software in the Autodesk software family. Meshmixer is not your typical CAD software because it doesn’t let you build your product from scratch. Instead, this software will help you with animating, modeling, compressing, filling holes, printing surface, and auto-repairing pre-existing models that you edit to create your own.
What is your favorite beginner’s 3D software? Share your opinion in the comments of the article or with members of the 3Dnatives forum.