How Much Does 3D Modeling Cost?

You might not notice it, but you can find 3D models in many things around you, such as in games, movies, landscapes, architecture, arts, designs, science, and many more. 

Businesses create these 3D designs through 3D modeling. And you might be wondering right now how much does 3D modeling cost. If you want to bring your vision and ideas to life, read further.

Pricing Structure of Outsourced 3D Modeling Service

3D modeling has changed the way businesses develop and present unique ideas and new concepts. They started to use it to achieve more efficient business operations as they can finally focus on their core functions rather than diverting their time to other processes like 3D modeling.

Along with their efforts to accelerate their development, they also seek ways to minimize their operational expenses. As a result, outsourcing 3D modeling and 3D rendering services became a go-to option for many.

To give you an idea of how much does 3D modeling cost when outsourced and how you can save more through outsourcing, here are some of the pricing structures:

• Hourly Rate

This pricing structure is one of the ideal types as it is cost-efficient. It works through the outsourcing company paying per hour consumed by the 3D designer to get the project done. 

For 3D modeling work, the average hourly rate is between $40 to $60. It only means that if the hours spent by a CAD designer doing a specific project is 5, then you will have to pay a total of $200 to $300. 

The common inclusions for the value mentioned above is a 3D modeler with equipment, program, and software to do the full 3D modeling job. 

• Project-Based Rate

For this type, the cost of a 3D service is at a fixed price for a particular project. The outsourcing company will have to pay for each project they require. Its rate will depend on many factors such as the type of design, complexity, how long will it take to have it done, and many more. 

The rate per 3D modeling project is around $300 to $600, but it can go up to $2,000 and more for projects that are more complex than usual.

Typically included in the rate are a number of 3D modelers needed for the project. 

• Monthly Rate

If you need continuous support in working on your 3D modeling projects, this is the ideal pricing structure for you. You will pay a monthly fixed rate to the outsourced 3D modeling provider.

For this pricing structure, outsourcing 3D modeling costs between $300 to $500 per month. It includes a team of 3D modelers specially assigned to do your business needs. 

*Note: Each artist is provided with equipment, program, and software to do a full 3D modeling job. Other inclusions may depend on the outsourced company.

How Much Does 3D Modeling Cost by Industry

Every business industry has a unique level of complexity when it comes to 3D modeling. With this, here is the cost per business industry:

• Mechanical Engineering

Almost similar to product design, mechanical design costs $50 per hour or more. It often costs a bit more than the other industries. The reason for this is the complexity of projects in mechanical designs. Also, there is a need for precision and involvement of trial and error to make the output perfect for the requirement.

Some products that can be 3D designed for mechanical engineers are transmissions, engine parts, control systems, printers, semiconductor tools, compressors, robots, and machine tools.

• Architecture

Here, the use 3D modeling is important in creating plans, images, and designs for a building or any structure. It is fun, especially for interior designers, not until you know the cost of its 3D model. 

Now, how much does 3D modeling cost for architectural designs?

In this industry, expect rates between $40 to $50 and more per hour. It may be a little lower, but the twist is that it may take more time to have architectural designs done than the others as it may require multiple models and renderings.

• Product Designs

Businesses, like Ford, one of the largest car companies in the world, commonly use a prototype to study and come up with the perfect design of a consumer product. They create prototypes of car parts and accessories such as front wings, door handle, mobile phone and cup holder through 3D printing, which also undergoes 3D modeling.

If you want to create a 3D model of your product design, it will cost you about $40 on an hourly rate. The price is a comparable average than the other industries mentioned above.

Factors that May Affect the Price of 3D Modeling

Looking for the most cost-efficient method to get your 3D modeling projects done can be exhausting at times. And outsourcing is one of the best options you got. With this, here are some of the factors that may affect the price of 3D modeling:

• Level of Expertise of 3D Modeler

The expertise is what you’re paying for. 

Like in any other field, the level of professionalism can be of great value. If the 3D artists you got have more than five years of experience doing their craft, expect a higher labor rate. But for 3D modelers with less than a year in the field, the cost would significantly be lower. The choice is up to you. 

It would be best to consider your expected quality of the output. If your project requires a high level of complexity, it would be ideal to go with those who are experienced enough to do it. 

• Software Used

You might not have thought about it, but yes, it’s a part of what you’re paying for.

To create a 3D model, you need software. And to have one, you need to buy a license to use. Take note that there are different 3D modeling software mentioned below and each costs unique from the others.

1. AutoCAD – $210 per month / $1,690 per year
2. AutoDesk Maya – $234 per month / $1,620 per year
3. ZBrush – $39.95 per month / $895 for perpetual license
4. Cinema 4D – $55.99 – $119.99 per month / $3,300 for perpetual license
5. Rhino3D – $995
6. SketchUp – Free
7. Blender – Free

*Note: The prices indicated above are the costs as of October 2020. Prices may change without prior notice.

3. Type of Project and Complexity

Every type of project has a different level of complexity. And believe it or not, it has a significant impact on the price of 3D modeling services. 

An example would be a 3D model of a building versus a 3D design of a wedding ring box. 

The creation of the 3D model of the structure will require specifics and other complex processes than that of the wedding ring box. It only means that the 3D model of the building will cost higher than the wedding ring box. 

4. Turnaround Time

3D modeling isn’t an instant task that you can do overnight. It requires a lot of time to finish a project. 

For example, it may take up to 7 days to produce a clean 3D model for objects that were 3D scanned. On the other hand, those that are created through a hundred percent 3D modeling may take about 14 days.

If you want to cut a few days to the original turnaround time, you might have to pay extra in addition to the original price for a few valid reasons: 

• 3D modelers need to leave behind the other projects to focus on yours.
• Rush projects can cause artists to work overtime to have it done quickly.

5. Post-Production

After getting the output, some clients often ask for a few adjustments. It is the reality, even after studying the 3D model. 

To avoid occupying their time doing revisions, 3D modeling service providers ask for an additional fee for alterations. 

It still depends on the number of changes you need. If it is only a few minor adjustments, the outsourced company commonly does not charge extra and will do it for free. But for large-scale revisions, definitely expect an additional fee ranging from 10% to 20% of the project’s price.

To get the most out of what you’re paying for, find the ideal 3D modeling service provider that can deliver unquestionable high-quality and value-for-money services. You can start the process by filling out the form below.