For 3D enthusiasts and professional artists, Blender gleams as a comprehensive, open-source tool with a robust feature-set perfect for animation, rendering and VR. Conversely, 3DCoat, with its focus on texture, sculpture, and easy licensing rules, emerges as a preferred choice for artists adamant on detailed modeling and texturing processes.
Key Differences Between 3DCoat and Blender
- 3DCoat is specialized for texture, sculpture, and detailed 3D modeling, unlike the broader features set offered by Blender.
- Blender is free and open-source, whereas 3DCoat comes at an accessible price range with a wide array of licensing options.
- 3DCoat requires Internet connectivity for license validation while Blender is available offline once downloaded.
- Blender supports a wider range of 3D file formats for import/export compared to 3DCoat.
| Comparison | 3DCoat | Blender |
|---|---|---|
| Development Focus | AR/VR Tech-focused solutions | 3D Computer Graphics Tool Set |
| Latest Release | 3DCoat 2022 and 3DCoatTextura 2022 | Distributed as shareware with continuous development |
| License Management | Two computers allowed under one license, license activation-deactivation for updates | GPL-2.0 or later |
| Developer Location | Kyiv, Ukraine | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Operating Systems Compatibility | Linux, Windows | Linux, macOS, Windows, BSD, Haiku |
| Software use in Education | Used in 200+ universities worldwide | Widely adopted in academia and industry |
| Price | Range from $49 to $468 | Free and open-source |
| Texture Compatibility | Compatible with Lightwave 2018/19/20 for texturing import/export | Supports a range of 3D file formats including Alembic, 3DS, FBX, DXF, SVG, STL, UDIM, USD, VRML, WebM, X3D, OBJ |
| Use Case | Sculpting tools, UVs, integrated renderer solution with AR/VR focus | Wide scope of use encompassing 3D modelling, UV mapping, texturing, rigging, animation, rendering, and motion graphics |
What Is 3DCoat and Who’s It For?
3DCoat, a tech solution by Pilgway, offers updated AR/VR software capabilities including the latest 3DCoat 2022 and 3DCoatTextura 2022. Primarily based in Kyiv, Ukraine, this firm maintains a dedicated developmental drive, consistently updating and adding features to its software. This product is primarily targeted at the specialized tech cluster who require high-quality AR/VR tools.
Pros of 3DCoat
- Consistently updated features
- Compatibility with popular systems such as Lightwave
- Effective licensing system allowing two computers under one license
- Wide range of licensing prices from 3DCprinting ($49) to Floating licenses ($468)
Cons of 3DCoat
- Requires internet connectivity for licensing verification
- Activation and deactivation process needed for app updates
- Charged upgrade from V4 or anterior versions to 3DCoat 2021
What Is Blender and Who’s It For?
Blender, a 3D computer graphics software tool, is a robust open-source platform offering a plethora of uses such as visual effects, 3D-printed models, VR, motion graphics, and more. Conceived by Dutch animation studio NeoGeo and primarily helmed by Ton Roosendaal, Blender is supported by a diverse community, backed by the Blender Foundation. Blender serves a wide audience, from animation studios, VFX designers, artists to VR developers.
Pros of Blender
- Open-source and free
- Versatile features for various uses such as 3D modeling, animation, and editing
- Supported on multiple OS
- Efficient import/export through many 3D file formats
Cons of Blender
- Depreciation of Blender Game Engine in 2.8 version
- Removal of Blender Internal favoring Eevee renderer in 2.80 version
3DCoat or Blender: Picking a Winner
Deciding between 3DCoat and Blender involves weighing personal requirements, needs, and learning capabilities. As we delve into their unique differences, we hope this aids your final decision.
AR/VR Designers
For AR/VR designers working on projects with complex textures, 3DCoat could be the ideal toolkit. Its persistent development, adaptability for Linux and Windows, and integration with Lightwave make it a compelling choice for high-end texturing work.
- Availability at 200+ universities enhances accessibility and ongoing learning.
- Texture import/export compatibility with Lightwave 2018/19/20.
- Pricing ranges from $49 to $468 licenses, offering flexibility.
Animation Professionals
If you’re an animation professional seeking an all-round package, Blender should be your bet. It competently handles animation, rigging, skinning, and particle simulation. Blender’s large community, open-source status, and multi-language support equip you with an extensive global network.
- Comprehensive tool set for animation, match moving, and rendering.
- Supported by 36 languages, promoting worldwide use and support.
- It is free and open-source – budget friendly and community supported.
Independent Artists or Graphic Designers
Blender‘s comprehensive suite for 3D modelling, digital drawing, and raster graphics editing makes it an apt choice for independent artists or graphic designers strapped for cash. The free and open-source preserves your wallet, allowing you to create masterpieces without breaking the bank.
3DCoat dominates in AR/VR design and additional texturing intricacies, while Blender reigns in the animation sector and for penny-pinching creative artists. Weigh features, accessibility, and cost to find your tool.
