Blender 3D vs formZ

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared Blender 3D vs formZ based on data from our 400+ point analysis of 3D Design Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Product Basics

Blender 3D is a versatile software designed for creating intricate 3D computer graphics. It excels in modeling, sculpting, animation, rendering, and compositing, making it ideal for artists, animators, and designers in industries like film, gaming, and architecture. Its open-source nature allows for extensive customization and a supportive community enhances its appeal. Unique features include a powerful rendering engine, advanced sculpting tools, and a comprehensive animation suite. Users appreciate its flexibility and robust capabilities, often comparing it favorably to other high-cost alternatives. Blender 3D is particularly beneficial for those seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on features, as it is free to use. For specific pricing needs or additional services, contacting SelectHub is recommended. Overall, Blender 3D stands out for its comprehensive toolset and adaptability, making it a preferred choice for creative professionals seeking a reliable and dynamic 3D graphics solution.
read more...
formZ is a sophisticated 3D modeling software that excels in creating detailed and precise architectural designs, product visualizations, and complex geometries. It is particularly well-suited for architects, industrial designers, and digital artists who require a robust tool for rendering and animation. The software's unique strengths lie in its intuitive interface, advanced modeling capabilities, and comprehensive toolset that supports both solid and surface modeling. Users appreciate its flexibility in handling both simple and intricate projects, making it a versatile choice in the design industry. Compared to similar products, formZ is praised for its precision and ease of use, although some users note a steeper learning curve. Pricing details are not readily available, so potential users are encouraged to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote. Overall, formZ stands out for its powerful features and adaptability in professional 3D modeling applications.
read more...
$0 Free, Open-Source
Free Trial is unavailable →
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$219 Annually
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Small 
i
Medium 
i
Large 
i
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Cost-Effective Solution: Blender is open-source and free, making it accessible for individuals and small businesses without the need for expensive licenses.
  • Comprehensive Toolset: Offers a wide range of tools for modeling, sculpting, texturing, and rendering, allowing users to complete entire projects within a single application.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring that users can work on their preferred operating system without compatibility issues.
  • Active Community Support: A large, vibrant community provides extensive tutorials, forums, and resources, facilitating learning and problem-solving for users at all levels.
  • Regular Updates: Frequent updates and improvements driven by community feedback ensure that Blender remains at the cutting edge of 3D technology.
  • Customizability: Users can tailor the interface and functionality through Python scripting, allowing for personalized workflows and automation of repetitive tasks.
  • Industry Adoption: Increasingly used in professional environments, including film, gaming, and animation, providing users with skills that are relevant and in demand.
  • High-Quality Output: Capable of producing photorealistic renders and animations, meeting the quality standards required for professional projects.
  • Non-Destructive Workflow: Features like modifiers and node-based materials allow for iterative design processes without permanently altering the original model.
  • Integration with Other Software: Supports various file formats and can be integrated into existing pipelines, enhancing its utility in diverse production environments.
  • Educational Resource: Serves as a powerful tool for learning 3D graphics, providing students and educators with a robust platform for teaching and experimentation.
  • Open Development Model: Users can contribute to its development, ensuring that the software evolves in ways that meet the needs of its community.
  • Real-Time Rendering: The Eevee engine allows for real-time rendering, enabling artists to see changes instantly and iterate quickly.
  • VR and AR Capabilities: Supports virtual and augmented reality workflows, making it suitable for cutting-edge applications in these growing fields.
  • Animation and Rigging Tools: Comprehensive animation and rigging features support complex character animations, making it ideal for creating dynamic scenes.
read more...
  • Enhanced Precision: formZ offers advanced modeling tools that allow for meticulous control over geometry, ensuring accuracy in complex designs.
  • Versatile Modeling Capabilities: Supports a wide range of modeling techniques, from solid and surface modeling to parametric and polygonal modeling, catering to diverse project needs.
  • Intuitive Interface: The user-friendly interface reduces the learning curve, enabling designers to focus on creativity rather than software navigation.
  • Robust Rendering Engine: Integrated rendering tools produce high-quality visualizations, helping stakeholders visualize the final product effectively.
  • Comprehensive Material Library: Access to an extensive library of materials and textures allows for realistic representation of design concepts.
  • Seamless Integration: formZ supports various file formats, facilitating smooth collaboration with other software and enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • Dynamic Component Management: The ability to create and manage reusable components streamlines the design process and ensures consistency across projects.
  • Advanced Animation Tools: Enables the creation of dynamic presentations and walkthroughs, providing a compelling way to showcase designs.
  • Customizable Work Environment: Users can tailor the workspace to their preferences, improving productivity and comfort during long design sessions.
  • Efficient Collaboration Features: Built-in tools for sharing and reviewing designs enhance teamwork and communication among project stakeholders.
  • Extensive Support and Resources: Access to tutorials, forums, and customer support ensures users can resolve issues and continue progressing with their projects.
  • Scalable for Various Industries: Suitable for architecture, interior design, product design, and more, making it a versatile tool for professionals across sectors.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: Offers a comprehensive set of features at a competitive price point, providing value for both small firms and large enterprises.
  • Regular Updates and Improvements: Continuous development ensures the software remains cutting-edge, incorporating user feedback and technological advancements.
  • Enhanced Visualization Tools: Tools like real-time rendering and virtual reality integration help in creating immersive design experiences.
read more...
  • Comprehensive Modeling Tools: Blender offers a wide array of modeling tools, including advanced sculpting, retopology, and curve-based modeling, allowing for intricate and detailed 3D creations.
  • Powerful Rendering Engine: Cycles and Eevee are Blender's two rendering engines, providing both ray tracing and real-time rendering capabilities for high-quality visual outputs.
  • Animation and Rigging: Blender supports complex animations with features like inverse kinematics, shape keys, and a non-linear animation editor, making it suitable for both character and object animations.
  • Node-Based Compositing: The node editor allows for intricate compositing and post-processing, enabling users to create complex visual effects and color grading directly within Blender.
  • Grease Pencil: This feature allows for 2D animation within a 3D environment, offering a unique toolset for artists to create traditional-style animations with modern 3D techniques.
  • Python Scripting: Blender's extensive Python API allows for automation, custom tool creation, and integration with other software, enhancing workflow efficiency and customization.
  • Video Editing: The Video Sequence Editor (VSE) provides basic video editing capabilities, including cutting, splicing, and color grading, suitable for integrating 3D content into video projects.
  • Cross-Platform Support: Blender runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring accessibility and consistency across different operating systems.
  • Open Source and Community Driven: As an open-source project, Blender benefits from a large community of developers and artists who contribute to its continuous improvement and feature expansion.
  • UV Mapping: Blender includes advanced UV mapping tools, such as live unwrap and multi-tile UV mapping, facilitating detailed texture application and manipulation.
  • Simulation Tools: Features like fluid, smoke, and particle simulations allow for realistic environmental effects, enhancing the realism of 3D scenes.
  • Asset Management: The Asset Browser provides a streamlined way to manage and reuse assets across projects, improving workflow efficiency and organization.
  • Customizable Interface: Blender's interface is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the workspace to their specific needs and preferences, enhancing productivity.
  • Support for Industry Standards: Blender supports various file formats and standards, such as FBX, OBJ, and Alembic, ensuring compatibility with other industry tools and pipelines.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: With the introduction of features like the Blender Cloud, users can collaborate on projects in real-time, facilitating teamwork and project management.
read more...
  • Advanced 3D Modeling Tools: Offers a comprehensive suite of tools for creating complex 3D models, including NURBS, subdivision surfaces, and parametric modeling.
  • Dynamic Interface: The interface is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the workspace to their specific needs and streamline their workflow.
  • Robust Rendering Engine: Includes a powerful rendering engine that supports photorealistic rendering with global illumination and ambient occlusion.
  • Precision Drawing: Provides precise drawing capabilities with snapping, guides, and grids to ensure accuracy in model creation.
  • Extensive Material Library: Comes with a vast library of pre-defined materials and textures, which can be easily applied to models for realistic finishes.
  • Animation Tools: Features basic animation tools that allow users to create simple animations and walkthroughs of their models.
  • Comprehensive Import/Export Options: Supports a wide range of file formats, including DWG, DXF, STL, OBJ, and more, facilitating seamless integration with other software.
  • Parametric Modeling: Enables users to create models with adjustable parameters, allowing for easy modifications and iterations.
  • Boolean Operations: Offers advanced Boolean operations for combining and subtracting shapes, enhancing the modeling process.
  • Interactive Visualization: Provides real-time visualization tools that help users evaluate their designs as they work, improving decision-making.
  • Scriptable Interface: Supports scripting with Python, allowing for automation of repetitive tasks and customization of workflows.
  • Comprehensive Documentation: Includes detailed documentation and tutorials to assist users in mastering the software's features and tools.
  • Collaborative Features: Facilitates collaboration with features that allow multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.
  • Advanced Lighting Controls: Offers sophisticated lighting controls, including area lights, spotlights, and HDRI lighting for enhanced realism.
  • Layer Management: Provides robust layer management tools to organize and control the visibility of different elements within a model.
  • 3D Printing Support: Includes tools for preparing models for 3D printing, ensuring they meet the necessary specifications and requirements.
  • Terrain Modeling: Features tools for creating and manipulating terrain models, useful for architectural and landscape design.
  • Customizable Shortcuts: Allows users to set custom keyboard shortcuts, improving efficiency and speed during the modeling process.
  • Comprehensive Support: Offers access to a dedicated support team and community forums for troubleshooting and advice.
read more...

Product Ranking

#2

among all
3D Design Software

#16

among all
3D Design Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

74
62
100
39
91
97
84
100
Show More Show More
Animation and Rigging
Texturing and Shading
Rendering and Visualization
Modeling and Sculpting
Integrations
Platform Capabilities
Modeling and Sculpting

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Blender 3D
formZ
+ Add Product + Add Product
Animation And Rigging Modeling And Sculpting Platform Capabilities Rendering And Visualization Texturing And Shading 100 91 84 93 98 39 97 100 71 67 0 25 50 75 100
100%
0%
0%
33%
0%
67%
90%
10%
0%
90%
10%
0%
86%
0%
14%
100%
0%
0%
86%
0%
14%
57%
14%
29%
100%
0%
0%
67%
0%
33%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

71%
14%
15%
57%
14%
29%
0%
40%
60%
20%
0%
80%

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Blender 3D and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Animation and Rigging.

Animation and Rigging Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated formZ and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Modeling and Sculpting and Platform Capabilities.

Modeling and Sculpting Award
Platform Capabilities Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Cost-Effective: Blender is renowned for being free to use, making it a budget-friendly choice for businesses of all sizes.
Open-Source Nature: Blender's open-source nature fosters continuous development and innovation, driven by a passionate community.
Versatility: Blender caters to a wide range of 3D tasks, including modeling, animation, rendering, and visual effects, eliminating the need for multiple software licenses.
Active Community Support: A large and active community provides ample resources, tutorials, and support for users, ensuring assistance is readily available.
Show more
User-Friendly Design: formZ is renowned for its user-friendly interface, making it enjoyable to use, particularly on Mac systems.
Flexible Modeling Approach: The software excels in combining solid and surface modeling, enabling a fluid workflow for various design tasks.
Unique Features: formZ offers distinctive tools like pushing/pulling shapes on surfaces and creating solids with cavities, setting it apart in specific modeling scenarios.
Perpetual Licensing: Unlike subscription-based models, formZ provides perpetual licensing, which can be cost-effective for users seeking long-term ownership.
Show more
Steep Learning Curve: Blender's interface and tools can be challenging for new users to grasp, potentially slowing down workflow as they learn the software.
Limited Industry Adoption: While gaining traction, Blender is not as widely used as industry-standard software like Maya or 3ds Max, potentially limiting job opportunities and compatibility with established pipelines.
Plugin Dependency: Blender's reliance on plugins for certain advanced features can lead to inconsistencies, as plugin quality and updates are not always guaranteed.
Show more
Limited Plug-ins and Extras: formZ lacks a wide selection of plug-ins and extensions, which can limit its functionality for specialized tasks compared to competitors with more extensive libraries.
Absence of Advanced Features: The software may not natively support certain advanced features found in competitors, such as specific BIM functionalities, potentially requiring workarounds or limiting its suitability for certain projects.
Lower Market Visibility: formZ has lower market awareness compared to more popular 3D modeling software, which could result in a smaller community for support and resource sharing.
Show more

Blender 3D is a comprehensive and powerful 3D modeling and animation software that has garnered significant attention for its open-source nature and robust feature set. User reviews from the past year highlight Blender's strengths as a cost-effective alternative to industry giants like Maya and 3DS Max, particularly for independent artists, hobbyists, and those new to 3D modeling. Its intuitive interface, extensive modeling tools, and active community support make it an attractive option for a wide range of users. However, Blender's versatility can also be perceived as a weakness by some. Users note that while it excels in areas like modeling and texturing, it may fall short in specialized areas like motion graphics, where software like Cinema 4D, with its advanced rendering capabilities, might be preferred. Additionally, Blender's rendering times, especially for complex scenes, can be a drawback. Despite these limitations, Blender's open-source nature, continuous development, and active community ensure its relevance and appeal in the ever-evolving landscape of 3D modeling and animation. Blender is best suited for individuals or small teams prioritizing cost-effectiveness and a wide array of features over specialized functionalities. Its open-source nature makes it ideal for beginners, educators, and independent artists who may not have the budget for expensive commercial software. Moreover, Blender's active community and readily available tutorials provide ample support for users of all levels.

Show more

Is formZ the solution to use for 3D modeling, or does it fall flat? User reviews from the past year reveal a mixed bag. While formZ is praised for its user-friendly interface and powerful modeling tools, it grapples with a significant drawback: a lackluster plugin ecosystem compared to competitors like Rhino3D. This limitation is a dealbreaker for many, as plugins are essential for extending functionality and streamlining workflows. For instance, one user lamented the absence of visual scripting capabilities, a feature often provided by plugins in other software. Despite this shortcoming, formZ shines in its intuitive design. Users highlight the right-click help feature for tools as a standout, making it easy to learn and use, even for beginners. Additionally, its affordability, particularly the perpetual licensing option, makes it a tempting choice for hobbyists and small businesses. One user praised its speed in creating basic geometry and architectural designs, emphasizing its practicality for smaller projects. In conclusion, formZ is best suited for individual users or small teams who prioritize ease of use and cost-effectiveness over a vast plugin library. It's like a reliable toolbox with all the essential tools for basic 3D modeling, but you might need to improvise if you're tackling more specialized tasks.

Show more

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in 3D Design Software


3DCoat

3ds Max

Adobe Dimension

Autodesk Maya

Cinema 4D

Coohom

formZ

Houdini

KeyShot Studio

LightWave 3D

Modo 3D

Mudbox

Rhino 3D

SketchUp

Substance 3D

Unity 3D

ZBrush

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

Compare products
Comparison Report
Just drag this link to the bookmark bar.
?
Table settings