Applications of 3D rendering software are not limited to product visualization only. It has applications in animated movies, educational videos, augmented and virtual reality apps as well. In this article, we will cover various best free and paid 3D rendering software and their applications.
What is 3D CAD Rendering?
3D Rendering is the process of converting a 3D CAD model into 2D images. These 2D images look like real images with photographing a real product.
What is the purpose of 3D Rendering Software?
3D rendering is used to create realistic product images or animations from 3D CAD models. Rendered images help engineers, artists or companies showcase their product or idea to their prospective customers before actually building them. This gives companies the advantage of getting product feedback in the initial design stage itself.
Following are the applications of rendering in various industries:
- Create Walkthroughs
- Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality Applications
- Product Concept Design and Approvals
- Video Games
- Animation
- Architectural Rendering
How to choose a Best 3D Rendering Software
The following factors shall be considered during the selection of the Rendering Software. The best way is to talk to different distributors and tell them your requirements. Before purchasing the license, we recommend you use the trial version.
Application of the Rendering Software
Different rendering tools come with different feature sets. The section of rendering tools shall be done depending on your application. For example, KeyShot is best suited for product rendering and animation. Read this article to know the best 3D animation software available in the market.
Compatibility with 3D CAD Software
3D rendering software is selected as an add-on to 3D CAD Modeling Software. Therefore compatibility and streamline the flow of data of 3D CAD Software with rendering software shall be checked.
For example, if rendering software does not support your cad native format, then you need to convert your data in the format rendering tool supports.
License Cost
Different rendering software has a different licensing agreement. If cost is a concern, you can select free software as well.
Compatibility with Operating System
Before the selection of rendering software, its compatibility with the operating system shall be checked.
Best 3D Rendering Software
Various Free and Paid 3D rendering software are available in the market have their advantages and limitations. Some of these software are freely available with lots of features and good results.
Our recommendation is to use a trial license before purchasing a commercial license. Following is the list of best rendering software available in the market.
| Software | Operating System | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| KeyShot | Windows macOS |
| Starts From $995 |
| Autodesk Maya | Windows macOS Linux |
| $1620 per year |
| Autodesk 3ds Max | Windows |
| $1620 / year |
| Lumion | Windows 10 |
| Starts from €1499 |
| Blender | Windows macOS Linux |
| Free |
| Modo | Windows macOS Linux |
| $1888 |
| Maxwell | Windows macOS Linux |
| Starts from $590 |
| SOLIDWORKS Visualize | Works with Solidworks only |
| Contact Vendor |
| Clarisse | Windows macOS Linux |
| Free for non-commercial user
|
| Kerkythea | Windows macOS Linux |
| Free |
We will keep adding more information on various best Rendering software available in the market. Please add your comments, suggestions, or questions on 3D rendering software. We suggest you also read this article on the selection of cad software.
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