3D modeling software for Mac: What are the best programs?
There are a lot of parameters to take into account while choosing your 3D modeling program, and the operating system is one of them. Some programs will exclusively run with Mac, while some others will only run with Windows.
Most of the 3D design programs are running on both Windows and Mac, but there are some exceptions. For example, neither 3Ds Max or the famous 3D modeling software SolidWorks is available for Mac users.
So, what is the best 3D modeling software to use with a Mac? Here are all of the best 3D modeling software for Mac you can use!
Free 3D CAD software for Mac
3D Slash
Do you know the game Minecraft? That’s exactly how this 3D modeling software works: with blocks. So if you’re thinking about beginning your journey in the world of 3D modeling, 3D Slash is perfect for you. If you already have some 3D modeling skills, you probably don’t want to play around with 3D Slash.
This 3D design software works with tools such as a hammer or drill. You start with a solid block and edit it by adding or subtracting cubes. 3D Slash is very easy to learn and fun, however, it is also limited in terms of tools and options.
Blender
Blender is certainly one of the best programs to use on a Mac. It is free, open-source and provides 3D modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion tracking, video editing, and game creation. All of these great tools can be used to create animated movies, visual effects but also great 3D printed models.
Blender has a flexible Python controlled interface allowing you to create your own tools.
MagicaVoxel
Magicavoxel is a free program, and you don’t need any commercial license to download it, and it is available on both Windows and Mac. It is a simple and user-friendly interface that will allow you to use it even if you are a beginner.
Are you looking for a program to create voxel art with your Mac, you’ve just found the perfect software for you. This software works using blocks also called voxels. It really allows creating quite sophisticated designs. Voxel’s designs are particularly popular thanks to some games like Minecraft or Monument Valley.
Wings 3D
Free and open-source, Wings 3D is a nice way to begin with 3D modeling, thanks to all of its basic tools you won’t get overwhelmed. It has some powerful 3D modeling tools and a customizable user interface and a built-in Auto UV mapping facility to add texture to your model!
This advanced subdivision modeler is powerful but also easy-to-use, available on Windows, Mac, and Linux!
TinkerCAD
If you are a Mac user, you also have the possibilities to use browser-based programs, as they don’t require any specific operating system, you can access these programs from any computer. That is the case with TinkerCAD.
This software is particularly good for educational purposes as it is fun and easy to use. If you want to prepare your 3D models before 3D printing them using our online 3D printing service, don’t forget to take a look at our tutorial.
Sculptris
Are you looking for a free 3D sculpting software? Sculptris, a CAD program developed by Pixologic might be a good choice if you want a digital sculpting program. Sculptris’ features are easy to learn so it is easy to get started with this 3D design software.
It is quite similar to ZBrush, except that it is free. You build up levels of details step by step thanks to complete sculpting tools. It has all the software tools you need to work on graphic design and create your additive manufacturing project.
Meshmixer
Mesmixer is a program developed by Autodesk, it is free for Windows and Mac. Meshmixer has a lot of amazing tools allowing drag-and-drop mesh mixing.
This software is particularly great if you want to create 3D models for 3D printing. You can use it to create branching support structures, you can also use its great thickness analysis which is particularly useful to control the wall thickness of your future parts, ensuring that they are actually 3D printable and won’t break during the printing process.
