1. Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite. It is a cross-platform software that supports the entire 3D pipeline. Namely, modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering composting and motion tracking. If that should not be enough for you, how about an integrated game engine?
With the release of Blender 2.8, the program completely renovated its surface: numerous icons and interactive tools make getting started, everyday work easier, and has the possibility to customize workspaces. On top, the new physically real-time rendering engine Eevee replaces the aging internal renderer and supports rendering still frames, animations, compositing, and sequencer.
| Blender < Click to download |
2. 3Delight
3Delight is a 3D rendering software that is designed for maximum compatibility with industry standards, as it uses the RenderMan shading language. Its integration into major 3D modeling solutions like Maya makes it a popular option for feature film effects.
In Maya, users can choose between multiple rendering algorithms (REYES and path tracing, giving filmmakers greater flexibility without the need to buy a new application. As is to be expected, this 3D rendering software supports physically-based materials. Other standards include OpenExr and OpenVDB. For single users, 3Delight is free.
3Delight is an excellent 3D rendering software for special effects because it integrates well with other programs.
3Delight < Click to download
3. Clarisse
Although a new kid on the 3D rendering software block, Clarisse has already numerous blockbuster credits to its name, i.e. the new Star Wars movies. The reason for this success Clarisse is that it is not only a fast 3D rendering software, but it also encourages artists to set up their scenes intelligently and cost-effectively. For instance, scenes are built, lit and rendered from assets. These assets can be modified in third-party-software which facilitates the pipeline integration of Clarisse.
The rendering capabilities of Clarisse are highly advanced. For instance, it facilitates the integration of rendered images and sequences from other 3D rendering software by deep image output. To break it down, Clarisse outputs depth information for every pixel.
You can learn Clarisse for free with the Personal Learning Edition. The renders made with the PLE are limited to 2560×1440 resolution and may not be used for commercial purposes.
Clarisse is the best 3D rendering software for commercial studios that try to streamline their production pipeline.
Clarisse< Click to download
4. LuxCoreRender
LuxCoreRender is an unbiased/biased 3D rendering software that is available under an OpenSource license. On a wide range of features, LuxCoreRender can compete with commercial rendering solutions: The materials used are physically based, thus enabling photorealistic results.
LuxCoreRender supports even complex phenomena like subsurface scattering and volumetrics. To help minimize the overall render time, users can choose to render in biased mode. To the same end, instanced objects may be used in this 3D rendering software.
Because of LuxRender’s impressive range of features, it is an excellent 3D rendering software for special effects and architectural visualization.
LuxCoreRender < Click to download
