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Online 3D Modeling Software - The Ultimate Guide 2022

Would you like to learn or carry on the 3D modeling path without overloading your computer with heavy software? We propose you try online 3D modeling software. There are many options for beginners and teams of professionals working online. 

Start 3D modeling anywhere you want!

Why should you start using online 3D modeling software ?

What is 3D modeling software?

3D modeling uses software to create a mathematical representation of a three-dimensional object. 3D modeling software now appears to be helpful for many different projects, from education to more advanced applications such as mechanical engineering or architecture. 3D modeling is now a necessary tool.
Indeed, these 3D programs can take you through your rapid prototyping process, proof of concept, and whole production process. But you can also use it for rendering to show your project to a potential client or for simulation.

A 3D modeling software is also an excellent way to create your 3D model, an STL file. These files can then be used for 3D printing, becoming an opportunity to make the most of this game-changing technology that is additive manufacturing. To try out 3D printing, you don’t even need to invest in 3D printers, and you can use online 3D printing services such as Sculpteo to 3D print your parts in just a few clicks.

Online 3D modeling software: How does it work?

3D modeling software is a powerful tool and sometimes requires expensive and robust equipment. Using online 3D modeling software is an opportunity to use software without having to worry about your system: You need an internet connection to access this software from your web browser. But there is another good news, most of these online 3D modeling software is free, making them even more accessible to everyone willing to start using 3D modeling.
Working online is also a great advantage to work from anywhere. You won’t need one specific computer or access to work on your 3D project.

Best free online 3D modeling software

Online 3D modeling: Beginners level

If you’re starting your adventure with 3D modeling, don’t be scared, we all had to go through it. Creating 3D models can be a piece of cake! Check out our list of the best 3D modeling software for beginners. If you have any problems, you can always contact Sculpteo, and our 3D printing experts will assist you from there. Now, let’s talk about 3D design software for beginners.

  • TinkerCAD

Autodesk designed this online 3D modeling software, and it is one of the most popular. It is very intuitive and colorful. It is also well-known for its friendly User Interface and easy learning curve.

It works with drag-and-drop primitive shapes. It is not the most sophisticated tool but will be suitable for amateurs and professionals looking for a speedy way to design a simple object. TinkerCAD was created with 3D printing in mind, so exporting an STL file for 3D printing is not a problem.

You can also find some excellent TinkerCAD alternatives.

 

  • 3D Slash

Do you know Minecraft? This is precisely how 3D Slash works! Discover the ability to add or remove blocks to build your 3D models! It’s that easy. This 3D modeling software is one of a kind.

It is a great choice for first-timers, and with practice, you will be able to achieve more complex models. 3D Slash is also connected to online 3D printing services available in desktop and browser versions.

  • BlocksCAD

Another exciting option is in the field of 3D modeling. You should especially pay attention if you know how to code. BlocksCAD is a friendly introduction to advanced programs such as OpenSCAD.

Here again, you also work with blocks, similar to LEGO bricks. You don’t have to write the code, and you use blocks to command what to do. When you think your code is ready, you render it to preview if the commands worked. This is an excellent way to start simple 3D modeling or get familiar with this type of software before learning OpenSCAD.

  • Third Design

A straightforward online 3D program, its mission is to democratize 3D modeling and 3D animation access. That is why there are no expensive licenses, no downloads, just a sign-up process, and you are all set to begin your 3D modeling journey. 

The third Design focuses on the basics, and you can access free 3D models, and offer presets for your animations. This online program won’t necessarily be adapted if you need 3D files for 3D printing, but Third Design can be a great introduction to 3D modeling.

  • SculptGL

SculptGL takes an alternative take on 3D modeling, and instead of creating 3D models with mesh, it allows you to create characters from a basic shape. This online 3D modeling software was designed to help you bring to life animals or people.

This innovative approach is called 3D sculpting, and the main principles are the same as in traditional clay sculpting. In the virtual reality of your web browser, you will use sculpting tools. Different sizes of brushes will allow you to work from the biggest parts of the character, such as legs, arms, etc., to work your way down to the details.

Online 3D modeling software: Intermediate level

Maybe your workshop is a little rusty, or you’re just tired of laggy and heavy software that makes your computer sound like a tractor. You might want to consider online 3D modeling then, even though you already have some knowledge of 3D modeling. Let’s have a look at your options.

  • SketchUp

This online 3D modeling software is very well known in the industry thanks to the simplicity and many extensions for premium versions. It is especially used in the architecture field, but not only.

SketchUp has intuitive tools to produce accurate and precise 3D models. This CAD software has drawing layout functionality and many beautiful, photorealistic render options. 3D models can also be easily saved for 3D printing.

  • Clara

Although it’s free and online, this software is quite powerful. It provides you with tools for polygon modeling, texture mapping, UV mapping, and a V-Ray engine that will allow you to produce photorealistic renders.

Besides an impressive set of tools, Clara.io also allows for full collaboration. You can share your 3D models, and others can edit them with live updated changes. On top of all of that, this 3D design software can also create animations! Pretty neat.

  • Vectary

Vectary is another popular 3D modeling software. It offers advanced tools such as parametric modeling, mesh editing thanks to sliders, and selections, which are usually only available in high-grade engineering software.

However, consider that Vectary is more for designers than mechanical engineers. It won’t produce exact 3D models, but you can still create very complex models. It is an exciting 3D program for 3D artists. It also allows for multiple people to work on a project.

  • SelfCAD

SelfCAD is fully ready to 3D print online CAD software. It is user-friendly and easy to learn and will also provide you with more advanced tools to produce complex 3D models within your web browser.

Compared to Clara.io or SculptGL, SelfCAD, as the name suggests, is much more technical. You wouldn’t use it or make an animation or a video game character. It is a unique software for mechanical or industrial design applications. Your 3D models can even be prepared and sliced for 3D printing. SelfCAD gives you the full package to design and produce your parts, thanks to Additive Manufacturing.

Online 3D modeling software: Advanced level

If you’re working in a large team or as a freelance 3D designer, doing your project online might be especially interesting for you. There are a few options for professionals and engineers to use online 3D modeling software for their work.

 

  • Onshape 

Another high-grade CAD software. OnShape comes in different shapes: for your desktop, tablet, and smartphone, which allows you to be fully mobile and take your 3D project to any meeting or presentation.

It offers similar toolsets to Fusion 360. You design your models from sketches, using the different options to turn them from 2D into 3D objects. You can then run simulations and multi-part assembly tests to ensure they work together.

OnShape also allows you to use FeatureScripts, a new open-source programming language to create your customized CAD tools.

 

  • Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is making its way up to many 3D modeling software rankings. This product from Autodesk has numerous design tools for CAD design. From industrial design to mechanical engineering, Fusion 360 will handle your project.

This 3D design software will allow you to prepare necessary documentation of the project, make technical sketches, design highly complex 3D models and even test them for the stress they will have to withstand. 

As you can see, Fusion 360 is the whole package. And obviously, it fully supports 3D printing by providing you with Autodesk 3D printing Studio, where you will be guided through the preparation of your 3D file.  

Which software do you choose?

As you can see, there are plenty of options for different skill levels. From first-timers to professional engineers, you can enjoy the freedom of working online with multiple people and accessing projects anywhere in the world. 

And once your 3D model is ready, you can easily 3D print it using an online 3D printing service. All you have to do is upload your file, and we will deliver it straight to your door! And in case of any questions, feel free to contact us.

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Blender

Powerful free application with full professional tools.

Includes modeling, animation, rendering, video post-processing, and interactive game creation tools. Blender has a large number of additional information resources to help you master this tool.

Blender projects are saved in *.blend format. The program supports import and export of *.dae, *.bvh, *.ply, *.stl, *.3ds, *.fbx, *.obj, *.x3d formats.

www.blender.org

Autodesk 123D

Autodesk 123D is a suite of free 3D applications linked together in the cloud to bring your idea to life!

Autodesk 123D software is designed to enable iPad, Mac and PC users to create and order 3D models without serious design skills or knowledge of complex CAD systems. Autodesk 123D projects are saved in *.3dmk format. The program supports *.stl and *.obj import of 3D graphics format.

www.123dapp.com

Tinkercad (online)

With Tinkercad, you can design amazing little things for 3D printing.

You do not need to have experience in designing and working with complex programs. With the latest web technology, you can use the 3D modeling tool directly in your browser. Just open your browser and start creating!

Tinkercad projects are saved in *stl ,*.obj, *.x3d, *.vrwl format.

tinkercad.com

Sculptris

Sculptris is an easy-to-use yet powerful 3D modeling software.

If you're new to the world of digital design, then Sculptris is the perfect tool to get you started. On the other hand, if you already have experience in 3D modeling, Sculptris will allow you to test your ideas and concepts incredibly quickly.

Sculptris projects are saved in *.sc1 format. The program supports import and export of *.obj 3D graphics format.

www.pixologic.com/sculptris

Sketchup

SketchUp is a tool that makes creating a model easy and enjoyable.

Are you an architect who wants to design your future home or interior, or do you just dream of getting into 3D modeling? Dozens of video tutorials, an extensive help center, and a worldwide community of users will help you quickly master SketchUp.

SketchUp projects are saved in *.skp format. The program also supports import and export of various formats of two-dimensional raster and three-dimensional graphics, in particular: *.3ds, *.dwg, *.ddf; *.jpg, *.png, *.bmp, *.psd.

www.sketchup.com/intl/en/download/

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Online 3D modeling (overview of 7 services)

Author Sergey August Reading 8 min Published Updated

3D modeling is usually associated with the purchase of expensive programs, long training and increased computer requirements. But what if we say that now you can build even very complex 3D models right in the browser?

Contents

  1. What is 3D modeling and where it is used
  2. Popular 3D modeling web services
  3. Tinkercad
  4. 3D Slash
  5. SketchUp
  6. Clara.io
  7. Plastisketch
  8. Planoplan
  9. Roomtodo

What is 3D modeling and where is it used

, which has volume. 3D models are created from 2D drawings and sometimes just imagination.

Three-dimensional modeling is used in the following areas:

  • printing objects on a 3D printer;
  • creating characters and objects for video games and special effects in video;
  • animation and illustration creation;
  • designing interiors, landscapes, architectural structures;
  • production, construction and more.

Let's take a look at some popular free services that allow you to create 3D models online.

Popular 3D modeling web services

Tinkercad

This web-based application is called the online version of 3ds Max, the most famous and popular 3D editor. The reason for the confusion is that both products were created by the same developer - Autodesk. While there is no official online version of 3d Max, you can get by with Tinkercad if your goal is to build a relatively simple 3D model.

The service is completely free and very beginner friendly. Instead of complex modeling approaches, Tinkerpad uses the principle of creating complex objects through a combination of simple shapes. The result can be downloaded in almost any file format for 3D printers and printed immediately.

The site interface has been translated into Russian, but, unfortunately, not completely. If you wish, you can create an account on it or simply log in using social networks by clicking this button:

To create a model in the Tinkercad editor, do the following:

  • Click on your account icon in the upper right corner of the screen and select "Create".

  • Drag the desired simple shapes from the right side of the screen to the work plane on the left.

  • Adjust the size, shape and position of objects in space using control handles.

  • Color and a number of other properties can be changed in the Shape section on the right side of the screen.

  • Several selected objects can be combined or aligned relative to each other using a special toolbar.

  • After completing the creation of the model, click "Export" and save the result to your computer in a convenient format. If you don't know which format is best for you, choose OBJ.

More detailed instructions for working with this editor can be found on its official website.

3D Slash

3D Slash is a service for those who lack the capabilities of Tinkercad. It is also very easy to learn, but there are more tools for working with models: there are tools for “engraving”, cutting, creating figured holes, painting, etc.

The free version of the service has limitations: only 8 colors are available to the user, no support by the work team, finished files are saved only in low resolution. Full access to 3D Slash starts at $2 per month. However, the Russian language, unfortunately, is not available in either version.

Registration to work in 3D Slash is required. To do this, click on "Sign In" in the upper right corner of the screen.

Then fill out a short form and verify your email address.

How to Model in 3D Slash:

  • Choose whether you will create an object from scratch, based on a finished model or drawing. If you don't know, click Classic.

  • To rotate the cube that appears in the working area of ​​the screen, grab it with the left mouse button, and to move it - with the right mouse button. The sliders on the bottom and on the right change the size of the shape. To start creating a model from a cube, click on the tool selection button at the top right.

  • Some tools “hollow out” pieces from the figure, others build them up, others paint and so on.

  • To download the model to your computer, click on the icon shown below and select the appropriate format.

SketchUp

This 3D constructor is somewhat different from those described above in terms of how it works. If the previous services were based on simple three-dimensional objects (cubes, balls, and so on) and allowed them to be modified and combined, then here you will have to draw, creating models from lines. SketchUp is organized more complicated than 3D Slash and Tinkercad, but still it is a simple and intuitive editor that anyone can figure out. It is most often used for the design of furniture and architectural structures.

SketchUp has a Russian version, but English is opened by default. It is completely free for non-commercial use, but with limitations: some formats are not supported in the public version, you cannot create materials and visual styles from scratch. A paid subscription will cost you from $119 per year.

How to use SketchUp. A brief description of the interface:

  • Registration for SketchUp is optional, you can enter here through your Google account by clicking on the button below.

  • A set of drawing tools (straight lines, curved lines, basic shapes, and so on) is located on the panel on the left. It is with their help that you have to create three-dimensional models.

  • On the right you will find auxiliary tools, including materials for your drawings, searching for finished models, adjusting layers and much more.

  • Once you are done with the model, click on the folder icon, then "Export" and save the file to your computer in a convenient format.

Clara.io

Clara.io is an online program that is more suitable for users with experience in professional 3D editors. But it also allows you to create much more complex models. A special advantage of this service is the ability to run even on weak computers, since objects are processed in the cloud.

Clara.io also has free and paid versions. In the first one, the space for storing models in the cloud and the processor time for their processing are limited. In the second, everything is available, but the subscription costs from $100 per year. Unfortunately, neither the paid nor the free version supports the Russian language.

How to use Clara.io:

  • Register on the site using the form on the main page (required).

  • Click on New Scene.

  • Create a new scene (as individual projects are called here) or choose one of the hundreds of ready-made and free ones available on the site. There is a search form for this.

  • There are 4 3D object view windows in the center. On the left above them are buttons for creating simple geometric shapes, on the right are tools for working with lighting and the camera.

  • On the left side of the Tools tab are tools for editing the 3D model. With their help, you can cut it, twist it, and so on.

  • After you finish working with the model, open the top menu (File-Export All) and save the file on your computer.

Plastisketch

This online application is the fastest on our list, and in addition, it does not require registration. The principle of its operation is different from all of the above. In Plastisketch, you simply draw layers, which the program merges into one model. Imagine that you cut a 3D object horizontally into several thin pieces. Then you stacked these pieces at some distance from each other, and the space between them filled up on its own. This is how the editor works.

Unfortunately, Plastisketch only has an English version. It is completely free for everyone, but the downloaded files will contain a link to the official website.

How to use the service:

  • Click Start PlastiSketch on the main page.

  • In the vector view shown below, edit the horizontal slice by moving and adding points, bending the curves. Changes are immediately displayed on the right - in the 3D view window.

  • To switch between layers and add new ones, use the tools at the bottom of the window.

  • Via the menu on the left you can manage various project parameters.

  • Click Export to save the model to your computer.

Planoplan

Planoplan is a 3D editor with a specific focus. It allows you to build and visualize 3D interiors from blueprints. Working with it is quite simple, but it is demanding on computer resources. Basic editing functions are available online in Planoplan, but you will have to download the desktop application of the same name to use all the features.

The service allows you to store for free no more than one project of a one-storey building with an area of ​​up to 350 m 2 . Paid plans start at $10 per month and remove all restrictions.

Unfortunately, Planoplan does not have a full Russian version.

How to use the service:

  • Click "Create your project" to get started.

  • A typical three-dimensional apartment project will open, which can be edited by moving objects with the mouse. You can also use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate.

  • To modify the walls, you need to switch to 2D mode by pressing the appropriate button.

  • To save the project and continue editing it in the desktop program, you need to register using the form in the lower left corner of the screen. In addition, you can log in to the site using social networks (FB or VK).

Roomtodo

Unlike the previous service, Roomtodo allows you to model interiors completely in the browser without any special restrictions without installing additional software. Here you can import models from other 3D editors.

The service is completely free for private use. It remains paid only for commercial purposes (for example, a company that wants to implement an interior design feature on its website will only be able to do this for money).

Roomtodo is completely in Russian and has a simple and intuitive interface.

Learn more