Updated on February 24, 2025
We’ve refined this article by adding a simple, beginner-friendly introduction to 3D modeling and a practical guide for choosing tools, addressing common newbie challenges. We’ve reorganized the content into four clear categories, streamlined each software description, and paired them with rich learning resources. This ensures you can easily find the right tool, kickstart your 3D creation journey, and gain more value from your learning experience!
The purpose of this article is to assist beginners of 3D modeling in finding the best software tools that are free, easy to use, or both. With hundreds of products and services available and many claiming to be the best, becoming a 3D modeler can initially be overwhelming. Fear not!
We'll introduce eight beginner-friendly options that fit a variety of project requirements. They offer intuitive user interfaces, robust features, and comprehensive learning resources.
For more information on selecting the right tools for you, we’ve also published the following guides. Be sure to check them out.
What is 3D modeling?
Let’s quickly touch on the basics. A 3D (three-dimensional) model, as the term suggests, consists of three dimensions––width, height, and depth. While our brains interpret people and objects in conventional films and photos as 2D (two-dimensional), 3D computer graphics also portray depth to deliver a more realistic representation of the physical world.
The surface of a 3D model is made up of polygons––2D shapes with straight sides. They define the appearance of a model. The higher the polygon count, the more detail the 3D model.
3D modeling is, of course, widely used in computer graphics niches such as animation, virtual reality, special effects, and games. Over the last decade, the technology has found applications in mainstream professional fields as well:
Streamlining product development with 3D representations of prototypes.
Creating a new medium for artistic expression.
Visualizing architectural designs to enhance designer-client communication.
Improving training for high-risk situations with lifelike simulations.
Curious to learn more? Read this comprehensive introduction to 3D modeling.
What are the characteristics of a beginner-friendly 3D modeling tool?
Before we unveil our picks, here are several tips for assessing the right tools for you.
Ensure the software’s interface is highly rated regarding user intuitiveness.
Does the software offer learning resources such as tutorial videos and bite-size courses?
Is it affordable? You don’t want to commit financially while you’re still exploring what’s right for you.
Does it come with automation and AI generation features to help you with more advanced processes?
Without further ado, our eight recommendations.
Category 1 - Intuitive and easy to learn
1. SketchUp
SketchUp is an intuitive 3D modeling software commonly used in architecture, interior design, and urban planning. It boasts a user-friendly interface and a large community of architects and interior designers. Featuring a vast library of user-generated objects and pre-constructed elements, SketchUp offers four versions catering to different needs.
Operating System:
Windows 10 or 11
Mac OS 11 (Big Sur) or above
IOS
Android
Pricing: Free and Paid plans The free version works in-browser with basic features, perfect for quick projects, while paid plans like SketchUp Pro start at $349/year, offering advanced tools for professionals.
Learning resources: visit the SketchUp Community for discussions and course.
2. Spline
Spline’s user-friendly workspace offers parametric objects, polygonal editing, and other advanced processes made simple, all within a browser-based platform that requires no complex setup. With intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, you can quickly manipulate elements, while its robust toolset lets you incorporate vector artwork, 3D designs, and other essentials to bring your envisioned composition to life. Thanks to a collection of easily digestible tutorials, you’ll be 3D modeling and creating stunning designs in just a few hours, making it an approachable choice for beginners and rapid creators alike.
Operating System:
MacOS (m1/ Intel)
Windows
Pricing: Free and Paid plans The free version gives you core tools to begin creating, while paid plans start at $12/month, unlocking animations and collaboration features.
Learning resources: check out these tutorials covering everything from modeling fundamentals to animation and 3D interactivity.
Category 2 - Free and open-source software
3. Blender
Blender is a versatile 3D modeling, rendering, 2D animation, and texturing software. Widely regarded as the top free 3D software for animation, it provides a complete pipeline, including modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion tracking, and video editing.
With its open-source nature, Blender benefits from a large developer community that is continuously expanding its functionality.
Operating System:
Windows 8.1 (64-bit) or above
Mac OS 11.2 (Big Sur) or newer
Linux distribution with glibc 2.28 or newer (64-bit)
Pricing: Free Blender is completely free for all users, with no catches, and you can opt for a Blender Studio subscription at $12/month for extra tutorials and updates.
Learning resources: You can find plenty of resources on YouTube by using the #b3d hashtag. You can also subscribe to Blender Studio for more official information.
4. FreeCAD
FreeCAD is primarily applied in real-world object design, utilizing physical units such as microns, kilometers, inches, feet, or a combination of units.
3D models created on the platform are inherently parametric. Changes to shapes are calculated for you, and change history is recorded in an undo/redo stack. The values of one object automatically affect the values of other objects, allowing you to create 3D objects and environments with complex, custom parametric chains.
Operating System:
Windows 7
Mac OS x 10.12 Sierra
Linux
Pricing: Free FreeCAD is totally free as an open-source tool, with optional donations to support its growing community.
Learning resources: This YouTube playlist offers a comprehensive tutorial, covering everything from creating your first model to essential modeling techniques like creating arrays and using Boolean operations.
Category 3 - Character modeling and avatars
Maya is the go-to software for professional 3D modeling and animation, offering powerful tools for character rigging, simulation, and rendering. Its steep learning curve and high cost make it less suitable for beginners, so we won't spend too much time on it here. However, as you progress in your 3D modeling journey, we recommend eventually adding Maya to your 3D graphics toolbox.
Operating System:
Microsoft Windows 10, version 1809 or above
Apple Mac OS 12.x or newer
Linux Red Hat Enterprise 8.7 WS, 9.3 WS
Pricing: Paid plans Maya starts at $1,945/year, a big step for beginners, but students can use it free through Autodesk’s Education plan.
Learning resources: Autodesk’s website provides a comprehensive list of valuable resources.
6. Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D is widely applied in motion graphics thanks to its intuitive interface and robust animation features. It excels in creating high-quality 3D assets for advertising, design, and visual effects. While it's easier to learn than Maya, it still requires some knowledge of 3D modeling.option.
Operating System:
Windows 10 Version 20H2 or above
macOS 11.7.7 (Big Sur) or newer
Pricing: Paid plans
Cinema 4D now starts at €121.77/month or €859.77/year, with a 14-day free trial still available to explore its features.
Learning resources: join the Cineversity for a wide range of learning materials.
VIVERSE Avatar Creator is a free, web-based tool that lets you craft your unique digital identity in minutes. Unlike traditional 3D modeling software, it does not require building from scratch—you can create avatars by selecting and customizing pre-made elements like facial features, hairstyles, and outfits that truly reflect their personality. With no software installation necessary, it's ideal for virtual environments, the virtual worlds, and social media. The VIVERSE Avatar SDK further offers a quick and convenient way to seamlessly integrate avatars into the developers' products.
Operating System:
Windows® 10 (64-bit) or later
macOS 11.3 or later
Pricing: Free
Learning resources: learn more about VIVERSE Avatar Creator here.
Check out the video below for a quick tutorial, bringing your Spline 3D design into VIVERSE!
Category 4 - Sculpting custom models
8. ZBrush
ZBrush is a leading 3D modeling software renowned for its real-time sculpting capabilities using a brush system. It provides a hand-crafted feel to digital objects, offering a platform for innovative creations and meticulous reproductions.
Despite its relatively complex user interface, ZBrush does accommodate less experienced modelers with its compatibility with pressure-sensitive pens and graphics tablets favored by concept artists, filmmakers, and game developers.
Operating System:
Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
Mac OS 11.5 or newer
Pricing: Paid plans (subscription or perpetual licensing)
Learning resources: here are six courses––six different ways to use ZBrush.
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Recap and Summarize
The eight solutions mentioned are ideal for beginners seeking to translate their 2D ideas into captivating 3D creations. Once you're satisfied with your 3D works of art, don't forget to export them into GLB files to proudly showcase them in VIVERSE.