Microsoft

Goodbye Paint 3D. Hello design alternatives.

Launched with high expectations in 2017 as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update, this application promised to take the creation of digital art to a new dimension, unfortunately it did not have the expected receptivity, and Microsoft has decided to add it to the list of obsolete Windows functions and services, so probably, it will disappear in the near future.
Paint 3D has innovative features, such as the creation of objects in three dimensions, support for layers and transparency, and the possibility of integrating 3D models directly into our projects. Without a doubt, a great application. The truth is that most Windows users prefer the simplicity and speed of the classic version of Paint, so it was not as popular as expected.
Besides, Paint classic recently received important updates, adding many of the functions that were originally exclusive to Paint 3D.

So what's next?
It's a good time to explore alternatives, both for 3D modeling and alternatives to traditional Paint:

Alternatives to traditional Microsoft Paint:

Pinta https://pinta-project.com/pintaproject/pinta/releases
It is cross-platform and open-source. Its interface has some interesting similarities with some of the older versions of Microsoft's graphic editor. It includes more advanced features in its taskbar, such as a complete history with all the steps performed, the possibility of adding multiple layers and a collection of 35 adjustments and effects to modify your images. Available for Windows, Ubuntu, macOS and OpenBSD.

Paint.NET https://www.dotpdn.com/downloads/pdn.html
It is a free image editor for Windows, developed in the .NET framework, by Washington State University (WSU) with the supervision of Microsoft. It requires a Windows 7 or higher operating system to run. Its interface is fairly simple to understand, it has more advanced options such as a specific window for the color palette. It includes unlimited history, multiple layer management and a good assortment of special effects to edit your photos.

Pixlr Editor https://pixlr.com/editor/
It is a web application and contains the basic editing tools that Paint had, but with layer management and multiple effects. It requires Flash Player to use it.

PaintZ https://paintz.zmyaro.com/
PaintZ is another online alternative, the great advantage over Pixlr Editor is that it does not require Flash, which allows you to use it from virtually any browser. Its code is completely open, and it also has the peculiarity of being able to work offline. On the other hand, its interface is simple and does not have advanced options.

MyPaint http://mypaint.org/downloads/
Open-source and available for GNU/Linux, macOS and Windows. It is a simple editor, free of distractions and designed for graphic editors, as it includes support for Wacom graphic tablets and similar devices. The application contains options to create and configure your own brushes, unlimited canvas and support for base layers. It also allows you to hide the entire graphical interface for when you need to focus only on what you are drawing.

Krita https://krita.org/es/descargar/krita-desktop-es/
A free and open-source application that has versions for Windows, GNU/Linux and macOS, it seeks to compete with Photoshop as a natural replacement for the more basic Paint. It has a familiar interface and features such as a brush stabilizer for those who do not have a good pulse, pop-up palette, and has vector, filter, group and file layers. It includes support for PSD files, support for HDR and nine engines with which to customize brushes.

Alternatives to Microsoft Paint 3D

Blender https://www.blender.org/download
It is a free and open-source 3D modeling software. It is very versatile and is used for modeling, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and video editing. It is popular among professionals and hobbyists due to its wide range of tools and active user community. Available for Windows, macOS, Linux.

Autodesk Maya https://www.autodesk.com/products/maya/overview
Industry-leading software for 3D modeling, animation, simulation and rendering. It is used in film, video game and visual effects production. Maya offers advanced tools for creating highly detailed characters, scenery and objects, runs on Windows, macOS, Linux.

SketchUp https://www.sketchup.com/ - https://app.sketchup.com/app
An easy-to-use 3D modeling application popular in architecture, interior design and urban planning. It offers an intuitive interface and allows users to create 3D models quickly and efficiently. It also features a 3D gallery for sharing and downloading models. It can be downloaded in its paid version for Windows and macOS, or used for free in web browsers.

Autodesk 3ds Max https://www.autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/overview
It is a 3D modeling, animation and rendering software used primarily in the creation of games, movies and architectural visualizations. It offers powerful tools for modeling and simulation, along with an integrated rendering engine. Available for Windows only.

Tinkercad https://www.tinkercad.com/
Free web application for 3D modeling, developed by Autodesk. It is especially popular with beginners and educators because of its simplicity. Tinkercad is used to create quick designs, prototypes and models for 3D printing.

ZBrush https://pixologic.com/zbrush/
ZBrush is a 3D modeling software specialized in digital sculpting. It is widely used in the creation of characters and creatures for movies, video games and concept art. It offers advanced tools for working with complex geometry and fine details. Available for Windows and macOS.

Cinema 4D https://www.maxon.net/en/cinema-4d
A 3D modeling, animation and rendering software, known for its ease of use and stability. It is popular in the motion graphics and product visualization industry, offering tools for creating complex scenes with advanced effects. Available for Windows and macOS.

Fusion 360 https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview
It is a cloud-based 3D modeling application developed by Autodesk. It combines CAD, CAM and CAE on a single platform, and is used for industrial design, engineering and manufacturing. It offers real-time collaboration and parametric modeling tools. Available for Windows and macOS. Although it is a subscription-based application, it offers free versions for students, educators and startups. Available for Windows and macOS.

Rhino (Rhinoceros) https://www.rhino3d.com/
NURBS-based 3D modeling software, known for its ability to create complex geometries with precision. It is used in architecture, product design, jewelry and automotive. Rhino also integrates with various rendering engines and plug-ins. Available for Windows and macOS.

Onshape https://www.onshape.com/
Cloud-based 3D CAD platform that allows teams to collaborate in real time on design projects. It is used for product design and offers tools for parametric modeling, simulation and data management. Being a cloud-based web application it can be accessed from any browser. They offer a limited free version as well as subscription options.

 

While it is true that the upcoming removal of Microsoft Paint 3D marks the closing of a chapter for many users who found in this tool an accessible way to get started in 3D design and modeling, however, the current landscape offers a variety of alternatives that not only match but surpass Paint 3D's capabilities.
From free options like Blender, which provides a complete set of professional tools, to more specialized solutions like Tinkercad for beginners and ZBrush for advanced artists, there are options for every need and experience level.
3D design software continues to evolve rapidly, expanding opportunities for creativity and innovation. This is an exciting time to explore new tools and techniques that can take your projects to new heights. So, while we say goodbye to Paint 3D, we welcome a future filled with unlimited possibilities in the realm of 3D design and modeling.

It's time to experiment and find the tool that best aligns with your creative vision!

30 de Agosto, 2024