Too often we go asking for the best programs or software for perfect 3D rendering or 3D animation. In the industry of architectural visualization, it’s not possible to use only one gimmick once for all. From time to time, architects and designers have to choose from the right program to get the best 3D rendering, animation, or VR according to the disparate merits each different software boasts. However, this article is not to suggest the best one, but to provide lead-in insight into different programs and needs. After all, beauty is in the eyes of the “berenderers”.

AutoDesk 3ds Max
Developed by Autodesk Media and Entertainment, AutoDesk 3ds Max, formerly as 3D Studio Max, is a powerful and professional software dedicated to 3D Modeling, 3D Rendering, Animation, and Games. Other than used by lucrative studios or video game developers, it’s also a useful tool for architects and 3D artists to create soulful 3d architectural visualization including still images and walk-through animation.
However, 3ds Max is most noted for its modeling edges, with a number of easy-to-use and flexible toolsets offered to its users. Also, models transformed into 3ds Max file show a more compelling effect, which is one of the reasons why AIMIR prefers well-crafted 3ds Max models.
Blender
Blender, compared with other big names of visualization programs, stands out not only at its cost but also its community-driven platform vison. Like it has characterized itself at the website:” Blender is your own 3D software”. The public is granted the power and capability to make changes at the core base and others to streamline the usage and experience. It doesn’t matter if you are students or a private-owned commercial group, Blender is a free software to use out of any directions. It can be regarded as less-capable versatile software compared with other advanced ones, but always good at producing wonderful 3D outcomes. This is an easy one to get start off for 3D freshmen, but they could encounter obstacles while turning to other programs. Anyway, all roads lead to Rome and one will always find something in common and adapt.

Maxwell
The merit of Maxwell is that it’s a free and standalone software that offers access to all kinds of users. It secures accuracy in production and is featured by its Multilight, which allows instant adjustment of lighting or ambiance, and previews are also accessible in seconds. But, it takes, as reflected, long hours to render. The good news is the latest Maxwell 5 indicates a faster experience than ever before, with several updated and new features such as Random UVs, Coating in GPU, and Cloud rendering service. Await the speeding though.
Artlantis
Artlantis sounds promising as a 3D rendering program, impressed by its imitation of Atlantis, the fabled island where mystery roams and inspires modern literature. Back to its feature, is Artlantis really worthy of such a reputation? As a render engine developed by Abvent, it has benefited users by helping them make high-quality 3D renderings, animations, and virtual tours. The user-friendly interface has lowered the threshold to comprehend its function as to full control over the tool. One of its outstanding features lies in Real-time Preview, which is also its founding concept that allows users to process continuous changes instantly. Its processing speed is also exceptional as to showcase the scene, lighting, and stuff. The latest features also include the Denoiser tool to smooth the rough pixel and portal tools to manage indoor lighting better.

V-Ray/Lumion 3D
V-Ray and Lumion 3D are both excellent programs to produce wonderful 3D renderings. When we put them into detail comparison, they differ in numerous aspects. Lumion 3D offers real-time render, an outstanding feature that’s for preference. While V-Ray is a much more sophisticated option that offers photo-realistic 3D renderings. New users can choose Lumion 3D as a great start and V-Ray for a professional level. But in short, they are both powerful rendering programs. Certainly, for architects and designers, they can follow up on the newest versions and review great changes in either processing speed or final performance.
In addition, previously we have shared thoughts on https://www.aimircg.com/3ds-max-ue4-and-lumion-which-should-i-choose/ to compare different advantages of the different programs with actual cases. To clarify, discussions onto the above six programs may seem biased, but as users of these products, we must keep critical thinking and improve constantly. What suits embodies the best, and learn to track the updates that’s quickly taken place in the 3D world.

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