Which Is Better for 3D Modeling on a Tablet vs a Computer?
Back in the day, digital 3D modeling software was rare, only worked on PCs, and was mostly used by the pros. But now, with technology improving at lightning speed, developers have made 3D modeling more accessible by introducing the software to smart devices, like tablets—a mainstay in today's world. So, which is better? Read on to find out.
What Is 3D Modeling?
Simply put, 3D modeling is a way to digitally create objects, people, and surfaces in a 3D simulated space. It's used in many industries for a variety of reasons, and requires special software. It's kind of like digital art, but it's pretty complex and requires some extra know-how.
Nowadays, anyone can learn 3D modeling if they have a PC or smart device with the right specs. In fact, a lot of software is free and easy to download.
If you're on a PC and don't have any software yet, why not try Blender? Check out this beginner's guide to Blender for a simple introduction to the world of 3D modeling.
So, is 3D modeling better on a PC or a tablet? There are pros and cons to both.
Advantages of 3D Modeling on a PC
3D modeling on PCs has been around for a while, so there are definitely some advantages.
Advanced Software
The best 3D modeling software, like Blender and Autodesk Maya, is only available on PCs. That's because the specs required are too advanced for tablets, iPads, and other smart devices.
However, since the software is so intricate, you get more freedom to create details, which means you'll end up with more precise results.
Lots of Software Options
Since 3D modeling for PCs has been around for longer than smart device apps, there's a lot more software to choose from. Having a greater variety of software means more options to fit your specific needs.
High-Quality Results
Not only are the end results of better quality than on a tablet, but the software for 3D modeling on PCs is more refined too. Digital 3D modeling was first developed in the 1960s, so developers have had more time to perfect the technology.
Disadvantages of 3D Modeling on a PC
There are some downsides to doing 3D modeling on a PC. However, they might not apply to everyone.
Too Complex for New Users
Navigating your way through 3D modeling software on a PC can be challenging, especially if you're not used to design software.
PC 3D modeling usually has many components, and the many steps required to complete one portion might be a point of frustration for some.
Might Require Math Knowledge
You need some basic understanding of math and space to do 3D modeling, but to use the software you might need to know more complicated mathematics, like differential geometry, coordinate systems, and vector algebra.
So if you're not mathematically inclined, you might find 3D modeling on a PC more trouble than it's worth.
Advantages of 3D Modeling on a Tablet
Even though PCs have been around longer, there are still some advantages to using 3D modeling software on a tablet.
Hands-On
Not everyone can work a mouse effectively, and if you're an artist expecting to transfer your skills from the real world, you might be disappointed by the motions of using a PC mouse.
With a tablet, 3D modeling is more like drawing, so if you're already an artist, you should find the motions familiar.
Plus, if you're looking to improve your fine motor skills (or if you're more comfortable using them), then 3D modeling on a tablet could benefit you in more ways than one.
User-Friendly
Usually, smart devices are more user-friendly than PCs, and 3D modeling software is no different. The software isn't as advanced as that made for PCs, so there are fewer functions to learn, and you can find apps that have made variations of the technology that are far simpler.
For example, the 3D posing app Magic Poser comes with pre-designed props and people for you to modify and pose in a 3D space. While that certainly limits what you can create, it also makes the technology a lot more accessible, so people without the skill, time, or understanding of 3D modeling can participate too.
Easy to Take Anywhere
One of the most obvious advantages to using a tablet for 3D modeling is that it's easy to take with you; they're compact, lightweight, and can be used in just about any position. So, you can model anywhere and in a comfortable position.
Disadvantages of 3D Modeling on a Tablet
You should also consider the downsides of using a tablet for 3D modeling.
Limited Software Options
You can't download any software to your tablet, so you have to rely on apps. The brand of your tablet will limit your options even more because some apps are made exclusively for iOS, while others can only be used on Android devices, and so on.
Also, none of the top-of-the-line 3D modeling software is available in its full form for a smart device app.
Limited Capabilities
The specs required to perform certain operations are lacking in tablets, so they can't do desirable functions like rendering or rigging, among other things. This greatly affects the outcome of the 3D model, so users might end up disappointed.
If you're looking for a no-cost rigging tool, check out the free automatic rigging software application AccuRIG.
Lower Quality
With its limited capabilities, 3D modeling on tablets tends to produce lower-quality work. That doesn't mean it can't produce high-quality content, but when compared to a PC, the finished result is often lacking.
So, What's the Verdict?
Which is better, a PC or a tablet, for 3D modeling? There are pros and cons to both, and it depends on the person's purpose and needs. PCs are going to be more reliable for professional use, but there's no reason you can't create great 3D designs with a tablet, making it a perfect option for beginners.
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