Likelihood to Recommend I have found that Autodesk Tinkercad is best for creating simple 3D models for printing. I use it to add text or modifications to 3D models of artifacts for my museum, including labels and support structures for artifacts to stand on. I also use it to create promotional materials, like 3D models of artifacts with our logo on them, which we can print and pass out at events. I would not use Autodesk Tinkercad for more complex 3D modeling or editing 3D models. It's really designed for basic creation and modification, and in those areas it is extremely useful!
Read full review Robert McNeel and Associates
One of the main highlights of Rhino is the built-in visual programming system "Grasshopper". It is widely used for parametric architectural design, by a variety of world-class architectural offices. It is also very popular within architectural schools and universities. Its usefulness has increased a lot by having add-ins, plug-ins, scripts, and integrations with
Revit and
ARCHICAD for BIM workflows.
Read full review Pros Tinkercad is a great baseline CAD program. This program is easy to implement and train people in. After on a short period of time my students are able to create complex forms using Tinkercads pre-generated shapes and holes. The Tinkercad provided projects aid in pushing the learning experience even further and reinforce the ideas that I train on and help my students explore the program before designing their own complex sculptural forms. Read full review Robert McNeel and Associates
Parametric Modeling - Grasshopper allows for easy/rapid iterative process White box renders display - looks great as a quick diagram export with no post-production required. robust command prompts - rhino was originally made for industrial design and it flexes a lot of unique modeling commands that put it up there with SolidWorks Read full review Cons The tutorials could be more easily readable and easier for younger students Sometimes confusing how to use the mouse tools vs on an iPad Less professional, not often used in career fields Read full review Robert McNeel and Associates
Rhino has very limited sheet layout tools. Grasshopper could be better integrated into the main interface. Lack of backwards file compatibility can be frustrating. Read full review Support Rating Robert McNeel and Associates
A majority of the support for Rhinoceros 3D does not come from the company itself, but from online forums and boards where other Rhinoceros 3D users outline their issues and solutions. The Rhinoceros 3D website does not offer much in-depth support and just outlines general how to's. At the same time, online forums allow for more specific issues to be addressed and solved by the Rhinoceros 3D community.
Read full review Alternatives Considered Tinkercad is free and easy to use. It's a great place for people to start learning about 3D Design before they invest time and money in professional-level tools.
Read full review Robert McNeel and Associates
It's hard to compare Rhino to other modeling software as Rhino is in a niche of its own. No other software (to my knowledge) is as customizable/programmable and has such a large community and such a large amount of free, open-source addons. Rhino (and Grasshopper) can be intimidating at first but once you get familiar with it and grow your toolbox with your own scripts, so much time will be saved
Read full review Return on Investment I should definitely say that Tinkercad has no negative impact on my business. It shortened my 3d design process for my many simple projects. Tinkercad is a free tool, no investment needed. I suggest it to my customers who don't know 3d design, but desperately needs a 3d file for their projects. Read full review Robert McNeel and Associates
Right away Rhino3D is useful for simple and accurate 3D model import, repair and export all in a variety of formats. Rhino3D is easy to use and learn. The time to productivity is very short with this modeling tool. The price is low for the value received, a great investment. Read full review ScreenShots