Substance 3D vs formZ

Last Updated:

Our analysts compared Substance 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

Adobe Substance 3D is a comprehensive suite designed for 3D design and texturing, offering tools for creating, texturing, and rendering 3D assets. It is particularly suited for professionals in industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design, where high-quality 3D visuals are essential. The software's standout features include its powerful texturing capabilities, procedural material creation, and real-time rendering. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and seamless integration with other design tools, which streamline workflows. Compared to similar products, Adobe Substance 3D is praised for its robust material library and flexibility in creating photorealistic textures. Pricing details are not readily available, so it is recommended to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote. This software is ideal for those seeking to enhance their 3D design projects with detailed textures and realistic rendering, making it a valuable asset for creative professionals aiming for excellence in visual storytelling.
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...
$49.99 Monthly
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

  • Enhanced Realism: Adobe Substance 3D allows designers to create highly realistic textures and materials, enabling lifelike renderings that closely mimic real-world surfaces.
  • Seamless Integration: The software integrates smoothly with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, facilitating a streamlined workflow for designers who use multiple Adobe tools.
  • Time Efficiency: With its extensive library of pre-made materials and smart assets, Substance 3D significantly reduces the time needed to create complex 3D models from scratch.
  • Customizability: Users can easily modify existing materials or create new ones from scratch, offering unparalleled flexibility in achieving the desired aesthetic for any project.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Substance 3D supports various file formats and can be used across different platforms, making it versatile for diverse project requirements.
  • Collaborative Features: The software supports collaborative workflows, allowing multiple team members to work on the same project simultaneously, enhancing productivity and creativity.
  • Advanced Material Authoring: With its node-based material authoring system, users can create complex materials with intricate details, providing a high level of control over the final output.
  • Real-Time Feedback: The software provides real-time rendering previews, enabling designers to see immediate results of their adjustments and make informed decisions quickly.
  • Scalability: Substance 3D is suitable for projects of all sizes, from small-scale designs to large, intricate environments, making it a versatile tool for various industries.
  • Educational Resources: Adobe offers a wealth of tutorials and learning materials, helping users of all skill levels to master the software and improve their 3D design capabilities.
  • Community Support: A vibrant community of users and experts provides support, inspiration, and shared resources, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and growth.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: By reducing the need for physical prototypes and enabling virtual testing, Substance 3D can help companies save on production costs and time.
  • Innovation and Updates: Adobe regularly updates Substance 3D with new features and improvements, ensuring that users have access to the latest tools and technologies in 3D design.
  • Environmental Impact: By facilitating virtual prototyping and design, Substance 3D helps reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional manufacturing processes.
  • Industry Adoption: Widely used across industries such as gaming, film, and architecture, Substance 3D is a trusted tool for professionals seeking to produce high-quality 3D content.
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...
  • Parametric Materials: Create and customize materials with adjustable parameters, allowing for dynamic changes without starting from scratch.
  • Real-time Visualization: View changes in real-time with a powerful rendering engine that supports physically-based rendering (PBR) workflows.
  • Comprehensive Material Library: Access a vast library of pre-made materials and textures, which can be further customized to fit specific project needs.
  • Seamless Integration: Easily integrate with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications and popular 3D software like Blender, Maya, and 3ds Max.
  • Advanced UV Unwrapping: Utilize sophisticated UV mapping tools to ensure textures are applied accurately and efficiently across complex models.
  • Substance Engine: Leverage the powerful Substance Engine to automate repetitive tasks and enhance productivity through scripting and automation.
  • Cross-platform Compatibility: Work across Windows and macOS platforms, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for diverse user environments.
  • AI-Powered Features: Use AI-driven tools to enhance texture creation and material application, reducing manual effort and increasing precision.
  • Non-destructive Workflow: Maintain flexibility in design changes with a non-destructive workflow that preserves original data and allows for iterative adjustments.
  • 3D Painting Capabilities: Paint directly on 3D models with a variety of brushes and tools, offering intuitive control over texture application.
  • Custom Shader Support: Develop and implement custom shaders to achieve unique visual effects and tailor materials to specific artistic visions.
  • Interactive 3D Viewer: Share and review 3D models with clients and collaborators using an interactive viewer that supports annotations and feedback.
  • High-resolution Export Options: Export textures and materials in high resolution for use in professional-grade projects, ensuring quality and detail.
  • Comprehensive Documentation: Access detailed documentation and tutorials to support learning and mastery of the software's extensive features.
  • Community and Support: Engage with a vibrant community of users and access dedicated support channels for troubleshooting and advice.
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

#12

among all
3D Design Software

#16

among all
3D Design Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

74
62
47
39
79
97
98
100
Show More Show More
Texturing and Shading
Platform Capabilities
Integrations
Rendering and Visualization
Security
Platform Capabilities
Modeling and Sculpting

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Substance 3D
formZ
+ Add Product + Add Product
Animation And Rigging Modeling And Sculpting Platform Capabilities Rendering And Visualization Texturing And Shading 47 79 98 91 100 39 97 100 71 67 0 25 50 75 100
33%
17%
50%
33%
0%
67%
80%
0%
20%
90%
10%
0%
100%
0%
0%
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

86%
14%
0%
57%
14%
29%
100%
0%
0%
20%
0%
80%

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Substance 3D and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Texturing and Shading and Security.

Texturing and Shading Award
Security 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

Ease of Use: Adobe Substance 3D is lauded for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible for both professionals and those new to 3D design.
Seamless Integration: The software integrates smoothly with other Adobe products, such as Photoshop and Illustrator, streamlining workflows for users familiar with these applications.
Dynamic Material Creation: Substance 3D excels in creating realistic and intricate materials and textures, a significant advantage for fields like game development and product visualization.
Efficient Scene Creation: Substance 3D Stager simplifies scene creation with its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, making it easier for users transitioning from 2D to 3D design.
Strong Performance and Support: Users consistently praise the software's reliability, performance, and the availability of regular updates, ensuring a smooth and productive creative process.
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
Pricing Complexity: The subscription plans and pricing structure for Adobe Substance 3D can be difficult to understand, especially for new users and those accustomed to different Adobe product subscriptions.
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

Is Adobe Substance 3D the real deal when it comes to 3D design software, or does it lack substance? User reviews from the past year reveal a product that's generally well-received, particularly for its strengths in texturing and ease of use. Many users highlight Substance 3D's intuitive interface and powerful texturing capabilities as major advantages, drawing parallels to Photoshop but for 3D. Features like dynamic material creation, which allow for realistic edge wear and surface imperfections, are praised for adding depth and believability to textures. This user-friendly approach makes it a favorite among both seasoned 3D artists and those transitioning from 2D design tools like Photoshop and Illustrator.However, the software isn't without its drawbacks. Some users find the pricing structure, particularly for existing Adobe Creative Cloud subscribers, to be a bit convoluted. This is a valid concern, as one might expect a smoother integration with Adobe's subscription service. Additionally, while the software is considered relatively intuitive, some users point out that the sheer breadth of features can feel overwhelming initially, especially for beginners. Overall, Adobe Substance 3D shines in areas like game development, rendering, and creating realistic materials, thanks to its advanced texturing and procedural modeling features. Its integration with other Adobe products is a significant plus, although the pricing structure could be more straightforward. While the learning curve might seem steep to some, the software's intuitive design and powerful capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about 3D content creation, from beginners to experienced professionals.

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

Blender 3D

Cinema 4D

Coohom

formZ

Houdini

KeyShot Studio

LightWave 3D

Modo 3D

Mudbox

Rhino 3D

SketchUp

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