AC3D vs Autodesk 3ds Max

AC3D is desktop 3D design software for creating models, prototypes, virtual reality simulations, and data visualisations. It runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows, with animation tools, rendering, and 3D print export. Modeling features include subdivision surfaces, UV mapping, 2D and 3D text, boolean operations, polygon reduction, and object hierarchy. It imports and exports formats including 3D Studio, Collada, DirectX, DXF, OBJ, STL, VRML, and X3D. A software development kit and plugin interface allow additions such as file formats and other functionality. An optional plugin adds animation capability for X-Plane models on Windows, Mac, and Linux. AC3D also lists support for 3Dconnexion mice on Windows. A 14-day trial is available. The maker lists one-time prices of $99.00 USD for Home / Student and $99.00 USD for Commercial / Group (5 users/seats); other listed seats have different prices. Purchases are non-refundable, and the software is delivered by download with the license emailed after purchase.

Autodesk 3ds Max is Windows desktop software for 3D modeling and animation. It is aimed at 3D generalists, modelers, animators, and look development artists working on game development, film and television production, and design visualization. Modeling tools include Smart Extrude, high-quality Booleans, and ReForm retopology. CAT and Biped provide rigging and character-animation setups. A built-in renderer and Arnold integration support rendering, while 3D print export handles output for physical production. Integrated OpenUSD support is intended to improve collaboration. Scripting and plugins such as tyFlow, thinkingParticles, and ForestPack extend the application. Flow Retopology moves mesh operations to the cloud, and Flow Studio can launch inside 3ds Max to send footage-derived elements through USD. It runs on Microsoft Windows 10 and 11. A free 30-day trial is available; paid subscriptions are $255 a month, $2,010 a year, or $6,025 a year billed every three years.