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Lightwave3D is a versatile software that excels in precise modeling workflows, making it ideal for a range of use cases. Users appreciate …
Starting at $995 one-time fee
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Basic
$995
Cloud
one-time fee
Entry-level set up fee?
- No setup fee
Offerings
- Free Trial
- Free/Freemium Version
- Premium Consulting/Integration Services
Product Details
- About
- Tech Details
What is Lightwave3D?
Lightwave3D Features
- Supported: Animation
- Supported: Collaboration Tools
- Supported: Component Library
- Supported: Data Import/Export
- Supported: For 3D Printing
- Supported: For Architects
Lightwave3D Technical Details
| Deployment Types | Software as a Service (SaaS), Cloud, or Web-Based |
|---|---|
| Operating Systems | Mac, Windows |
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TrustRadius Insights are summaries of user sentiment data from TrustRadius reviews and, when necessary, 3rd-party data sources. Have feedback on this content? Let us know!
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Lightwave3D is a versatile software that excels in precise modeling workflows, making it ideal for a range of use cases. Users appreciate its fast and efficient modeling capabilities, allowing for the creation of prototypes and impressive imagery with ease. They have found Lightwave3D to be particularly valuable for architecture, robots, and other structured designs. The software's native modeling, animation, and rendering capabilities make it a must-try for artists seeking a unique visual experience. Users have utilized Lightwave3D for various projects, such as school animation projects, freelance work, improving 3D animation skills, TV commercials, movie special effects, presentations, illustrations, graphics for applications, and product visualization.
Additionally, Lightwave3D is relied upon in motion graphics pipelines as it enables easy swapping of elements and creating multiple versions of content. With its speed being a significant benefit, Lightwave3D serves as a good stepping stone for motion graphics and commercial animation production. Users have also found it useful for quick proofs, animatics, and sample turnaround for client approval before full renders. The software's renderer works well as a raytracer and is praised for its lighting and rendering engines that produce good output with minimal effort.
Furthermore, Lightwave3D is not resource-intensive, making it suitable for general systems. It has been successfully used to create custom 3D models and animations for various clients' needs including communicating technical concepts and designing furniture. Combining Lightwave3D with other software like Poser and Adobe Photoshop allows for the creation of photorealistic composites. Its integration with After Effects through dynamic linking enables the creation of interesting effects. Overall, Lightwave3D offers a diverse range of use cases for designers and artists looking to bring their ideas to life through precise modeling, animation, rendering, and motion graphics pipelines.
Efficient Workflow: Many users have praised Lightwave's modeling style and workflow, stating that it is more similar to CAD and makes it a great choice for architectural and hard surface modeling. This feature has been highlighted by several reviewers who appreciate the ease with which they can work on various aspects of a project, including modeling, texturing, rigging, animation, and rendering all in one software.
Impressive Visual Results: The render and illumination pipeline in Lightwave has received positive feedback from users for delivering great visual results. Whether it is non-photorealistic or photorealistic projects, many reviewers have mentioned that Lightwave provides satisfactory realistic lights, reflections, object textures, and even offers choices for fine-tuning options in rendering layouts.
Affordability and Value: Several users have commended Lightwave for being an affordable software package that offers advanced features for rigging, dynamics, animation, and rendering. Reviewers appreciate the value they receive for the price paid as Lightwave provides high-quality render engine support along with extensive plugin compatibility.
Cumbersome and Outdated User Interface: Some users have expressed frustration with the user interface of Lightwave3D, finding it to be cumbersome and outdated. They feel that certain elements from the software's Amiga roots are still present, which can make navigation and workflow more challenging than in modern 3D applications.
Lack of Cross-Platform Support: Several users have mentioned that Lightwave3D lacks cross-platform support for other 3D package standards. This limitation restricts their ability to collaborate with users of different software or easily transfer projects between programs, making it less versatile compared to its competitors.
Slow Adoption of Common Features: Lightwave3D has been criticized by a number of users for being slow to adopt common features found in other 3D applications. This lag in incorporating industry-standard functionalities has left some feeling disappointed and left behind when compared to competing software options.
Users have made several recommendations for improving the software based on their experiences. The most common recommendations include:
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Adding a feature to make solving rigging joint deformation easier: Users have suggested the need for a feature that simplifies the process of solving rigging joint deformation. This would enhance the rigging capabilities of the software and streamline the animation workflow.
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Enhancing compatibility with frequently used software: Users have expressed the desire for improved compatibility with other commonly used software in the industry. This would allow for smoother integration and collaboration between different software tools, ultimately enhancing productivity and workflow efficiency.
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Offering a trial version for testing before purchasing: Many users recommend trying out a trial version of the software before making a purchase decision. This would allow potential users to assess if the software meets their specific needs and evaluate its performance and features firsthand.