Best 3D Modelling Apps for iPad: A Comprehensive Guide
The 3D Modelling App Landscape for iPad
The 3D modelling apps for iPad can emulate the tools of the best 3D modelling software but with the added value of touch controls and Apple Pencil or Apple Pencil Pro support. Many artists are finding the new gesture controls are a more natural and approachable way to sculpt and model in 3D, making these apps ideal for beginners and pros alike.
The Best 3D Modelling Apps for iPad
Best Overall: ZBrush for iPad
ZBrush for iPad works just like the desktop version but with added innovations from using Apple Pencil Pro and a touchscreen. If you’re used to ZBrush, you’ll love this new workflow, if you’re new to 3D sculpting, this is the ideal place to start.
Best Affordable: Nomad Sculpt
Nomad Sculpt is a powerful and intuitive app that offers dynamic topology, PBR rendering, layers, and Apple Pencil features – it’s comparable to ZBrush for iPad at No.1 but lacks desktop support and Maxon ecosystem. However, for a one-off fee, it’s more affordable.
Best for CAD: Shapr3D
Shapr3D is a pro CAD modelling app for iPad but can sync to Mac and Windows too. It features precise parametric modelling, Apple Pencil support, and easy export options – a perfect iPad app for engineers, designers, and product developers.
Other Options
- 3D Modeling: Design My Model is a cheap and cheerful entry point to the world of 3D modelling on the iPad. This app is one of the few that works well with touch gestures alone, although it does work well with the Apple Pencil too.
- Forger is another option, which can work nicely with ZBrush for iPad as a renderer.
How to Choose the Right 3D Modelling App for iPad
This is all down to your preferences, budget, and goals. If you want pinpoint accuracy, look at something like Shapr3D or AutoCAD on my list, which will give you exactly that, although Autodesk’s app comes at a cost.
How We Review 3D Modelling Apps for iPad
I’ve tested each app on my list and use many of them every day in my studio work, and I have experience of desktop 3D modelling apps for comparisons. Outside of this, for our guides, we try and review every entry in detail, and when this isn’t possible, we refer to reviews on our sister websites such as TechRadar and Tom’s Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an iPad Pro to do 3D? No, not these days. Most iPads are more than capable of running 3D apps.
- Do I need to use an Apple Pencil for 3D? Not always, although there are exceptions. Shapr3D, for example, uses both Pencil and touch to access different features.
- Are complex tools necessary? No! Absolutely not. We are used to having an overabundance of tools in our desktop apps, but, much of the time, these aren’t necessary to complete a project. They are mostly helpers for efficiency or to complete complex tasks more easily.
