Autodesk Software (Free but Limited)
What We Like
- Free top-tier 3D design software if used only non-commercially.
- Powerful and feature-rich software tools that are industry standards.
What We Don’t Like
- Steep learning curve when starting to use these complex software packages.
- Software can have hefty system requirements and be resource intensive.
Autodesk offers virtually its entire software line free for non-commercial use to “students and community members.” However, you don’t have to be enrolled in a school to download them.
If you want to work in the industry eventually, knowing Autodesk software is a valuable skill, so this is a highly recommended path. The only limitation is that you can’t use any of the software in commercial projects. Among the educational downloads are 3DS Max, Maya, Inventor Professional, and AutoCAD.