Since its inception in the late 1970s, 3D modelling software has come a long way. Advancements in technology are probably the biggest factor in this, so much so that computer-generated imagery, otherwise known as CGI, is the new norm.
Today’s 3D modelling software has practically replaced the pencil, speeding up the process for digital designers all over the world. This has also made the industry very competitive because everyone has access to the many industry-standard software options available.
So, when it comes to knowing which is the best 3D modelling software, you are not the only one struggling to decide. Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison of Blender vs Maya, two of the industry’s best-known 3D modelling tools.
In this blog, you’ll learn more about the features, ease of use and functionality of Blender and Maya, while also looking at which one is the best for students in 2023.
Although linked to animation, this blog will focus mostly on 3D modelling. If you want to learn more about traditional 2D animation, take a look at our recent blogs – Blog Title and What is Cel Animation.
Introduction to Blender and Maya
What is Maya?
Maya is a globally used professional software owned by Autodesk that specialises in 3D modelling, animation and special effects. Maya was first released in 1998 by the original owner’s Alias Systems Corporation. It has come a long way since its birth.
Maya has been known to help create giant projects in the entertainment industry from movies to video games, like the 2016 action-packed Playstation game Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End, which is known for its stunning 4K graphics and compelling storyline.
What is Blender?
Blender on the other hand is a free, open-source 3D graphics software maintained by Blender Foundation. Originally, the company Not a Number (NaN) released the first version in 1998. Due to bankruptcy, the rights were then transferred over to The Blender Foundation.
Today it is a non-profit organisation that also specialises in 3D modelling, animation and special effects. Blender isn’t famously known for creating triple-A movies or games, but it is used frequently for creating models and animations within them, so it’s still a vital part.
Both programs are used widely amongst both professionals and beginners, but which one is best for students in 2023 and why? Let’s take a look!
Features and Functionality
Both Blender and Maya have a wide range of features and tools that produce high-quality outcomes. When compared, who wins the head-to-head battle?
1. User Interface and Ease of Use
Blender and Maya both have similar user interfaces as both of them specialise in a similar thing. They are both accessible and run smoothly on Windows, Mac OS and Linux and have a large, dedicated main workspace area.
Maya provides great customisation options for its interface which is important for a designer – especially a beginner. Menus and tools are displayed clearly making it easy to find your way around.
Blender on the other hand is well known in the industry for being difficult to navigate. Users often learn the many shortcuts needed quickly, but it is another thing to learn straight away. This might not be the best for a beginner.
Maya wins!
2. Rendering
Rendering is the process of computer software taking raw information from the 2D/3D scenes created and producing a calculated final product. The final image or image sequence is called a ‘Render’.
Blender has two rendering engines to choose from (Cycles and Eevee). The rendering process is smooth, fast and easy to use.
Maya also has two rendering engines (Octane and Arnold). It does take longer to render but this is due to the higher quality outcome.
It’s a draw!
3. Modelling
3D modelling is the process of creating a digital representation of a physical object or scene using specialised software. The computer creates the object using mathematical representation.
If you are a student or a beginner in the 3D modelling world, Blender might be the best tool to start off using for modelling. It is one of the software’s best-known features. It can be a little overwhelming at first because of the user interface, but there are plenty of tutorials to help you.
The industry standard however is Maya. It is easier to learn and if you are serious about becoming a professional, it might be best to start using the top-rated software as soon as possible.
Blender wins!
4. Animation
Whilst Blender is capable of producing animations, Maya is the obvious winner in this category. Blender is more suited to building assets that are placed in animations rather than the animation itself.
Artists have created some fantastic animations with blender, but it is generally for short animations or personal projects. Check out this short film made entirely from Blender called Hammer, Nails & Wood.
Unlike Blender, Maya is not typically used only for asset creation, but the animation engine. It has a vast amount of tools capable of building complex animations at the highest quality.
Maya wins this one!
5. Performance and Compatibility
Blender and Maya have different system requirements and performance benchmarks. Maya requires a higher-performing computer to be used efficiently. If you are a student that has access to this on campus, then go with Maya. If you have to rely on your own personal computer that might be lower-end, use Blender.
Maya wins!
6. Cost
This is where Maya and Blender differ significantly. Blender is a free, open-source software whilst Maya is paid for at just under £2000 a year. You can receive a student discount for the Autodesk suite, so check with your college or university if they already have the license.
Blender wins!
Conclusion
If you’re a student who wants to begin your journey in animation and 3D modelling, it can be difficult to choose which software to use. In this article, we’ve looked at the winners in each key category and why.
So, with the results in…the winner is Maya! But only if you can afford the license, otherwise it’ll be costly.
It is no surprise that Maya is the leading industry software for 3D modelling and animation as it dominates in most areas.
However, Blender is great especially for beginners, because it’s free and plays a big part in many practical uses in the industry, so it’s important to learn Blender.
If you want to explore 3D animation, BCE offer courses like Animation and Next Gen Academy and Games Design & VFX. And yes…we have the best industry-standard 3D modelling software for you to use!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s make some awesome 3D animations!
