Top-tier 3D Modeling Applications Compatible with iPad
In the realm of digital design, the iPad is making significant strides, challenging the dominance of traditional desktop software. Here are some of the leading apps transforming the iPad into a powerful 3D modeling tool.
TinkerCAD, developed by Autodesk, is a free and simple-to-use app for learning 3D modeling. Ideal for beginners, TinkerCAD can be used on both iPad and iPhone, and offers basic CAD tools along with the ability to visualize designs in Augmented Reality (AR).
For those seeking a more professional experience, Shapr3D is a pro CAD modeling app that stands out. Available on Mac, PC, and iPad, Shapr3D offers precise parametric modeling, Apple Pencil support, and easy export options. The app's UI is clean and easy to use, with pop-out tools menus grouped nicely for easy access.
One of the standout features of Shapr3D is its speed. Modeling on an iPad is fast, with simple drawing and measurement adjustments resulting in perfect results. Extruding and adding a bevel or chamfer is achieved by click and dragging, and boolean operations are some of the best in the reviewed apps. However, the only drawback is the price, with the pro features costing £299 a year.
TinkerCAD and Shapr3D are not the only options. Nomad Sculpt for iPad is a power and intuitive app that offers dynamic topology, PBR rendering, layers, and Apple Pencil features. It is comparable to ZBrush for iPad but lacks desktop support and Maxon ecosystem. ZBrush for iPad, the best overall 3D modeling app for iPad, offers a similar set of features to the desktop version with added innovations from using Apple Pencil Pro and a touchscreen.
The iPad Pro, with its powerful processing capabilities, competes with many laptops for performance. The Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024) is a testament to this, offering a remarkable amount of what was created back in the late 1990s using Maya Unlimited for less than 1% of the cost and with only an evening needed to learn an app.
Moreover, Apple has developed 'ZBrush for iPad,' a professional 3D digital sculpting app designed for artists, which is already available. It enables real-time modeling and painting with many features of the desktop version and supports high polygon counts on recent iPads. Additionally, the AR Code Object Capture app for iPad offers advanced 3D scanning and AR QR code generation.
Finally, 3D Modeling: Design My Model is a user-friendly app that works well with touch gestures and offers poly modeling tools, subdivisions, smoothing, mirroring, and boolean operations. It is ideal for beginners and offers easy export features and compatibility with 3D printing.
In conclusion, the iPad is rapidly becoming a viable alternative to traditional 3D modeling software. With a range of apps catering to both beginners and professionals, the iPad offers a more accessible and affordable way to create stunning 3D models. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, the iPad is opening up new possibilities in the world of 3D modeling.
