Blender vs Maya: 2026 Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of Blender (3D Modeling) and Maya (3D Modeling): pricing, platforms, ratings, supported file formats, deployment options, and the specific strengths each tool brings to a CAD team in 2026.
B
Blender
Free
★ 4.8/5 expert score
The free and open-source 3D creation suite.
M
Maya
$1875 (Subscription)
★ 4.9/5 expert score
3D animation, modeling, and simulation software.
| Blender | Maya | |
|---|---|---|
| Expert score | ★ 4.8/5 | ★ 4.9/5 |
| Pricing | Free | $1875 (Subscription) |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| External reviews | 1,390 reviews on G2 / Capterra / TrustRadius | 273 reviews on G2 / Capterra |
| Free trial | Always free | — |
| File formats | BLEND, OBJ, FBX, glTF, GLB, USD, … | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | — |
| API / SDK | Yes (Python API) | No |
| Industries | Indie Games, VFX, Hobbyist | VFX, Gaming, Animation |
| Strengths | 100% Free · Cycles production renderer · Rapid development | Industry VFX standard · Node-based power · Linux support |
| Limitations | Non-standard UI · Lacks NURBS precision · Not for CAD/CAM | Steep learning · High cost · Not for engineering |
Which one to pick
Pick Blender if you need
free / open-source; public API for automation.
Read the full Blender review →Want a personalised shortlist?
Compare more than two tools side-by-side, or answer a short quiz and let our matchmaker filter the 235-tool catalog for your team.