Autodesk 3DS Max

Pros

• Very versatile 3D modeling program
• Many tools for advanced users to create real products or engineering parts
• Built for advanced users that need pixel perfect control

Cons

• Highly advanced interface that isn't meant for newer users

Autodesk 3DS Max is a 3D modeling program often used for making products, mechanical parts and other highly complex models. While Autodesk 3DS Max has been around for a number of years, it's still a very popular program among those who love making 3D models. There are a number of versatile and powerful tools that will help you create any model you have in mind.

Primary Features

Autodesk 3DS Max is a very powerful 3D modeling program made to build complex, layered designs. While these designs can be used in other 3D programs, the point of this program is to print or manufacture the models in the real world. Many people use this program for engineering purposes and to build advanced parts that will be useful in high-level situations.

To that end, there are many tools that help you build highly detailed models. You get pixel-perfect control of every angle and aspect of your model. While wire frames were common for a long time, the most recent updates have done away with wire frames and made the whole modeling process much easier.

Extensive Control

Autodesk has a reputation for giving users extensive control over their models. You can change anything within seconds. Whether you want to change an underlying part or layer, change the texture, add holes or vents or anything else, this program lets you do it. This is a program for those who have a clear vision in their head and know what they want to make. While simpler programs do much of the work for you and give you less control, Autodesk gives you all the control to make your vision a reality.

Advanced Interface

If you're new to 3D modeling, then Autodesk 3DS Max may not be the right program for you. This program doesn't hold your hand and all the tools are developed for advanced users. There is a large learning curve that will be difficult for new users to overcome. Unless you're an advanced user or willing to put in the hours, this program may not be the best place for you to start.

This isn't a program where you take a basic shape, apply some changes and you're finished. This is meant for adding hundreds of layers, using different materials, considering real physics and making a model that can be accurately produced in the real world.

Alignment

In order to make designing easier than ever, there are various alignment tools that help you control exactly where each layer sits in conjunction with each other. This allows you to produce complex models where there is a big difference between the outer layers and inner layers. The alignment tools make it easy to situate each layer perfectly.

Pros

• Very versatile 3D modeling program
• Many tools for advanced users to create real products or engineering parts
• Built for advanced users that need pixel perfect control

Cons

• Highly advanced interface that isn't meant for newer users