Modo - Detailed Review
Design Tools
Modo - Product Overview
Introduction to Modo
Modo is a comprehensive 3D modeling, texturing, animation, and rendering application developed by Foundry, a company renowned for its industry-standard visual effects, computer graphics, and 3D design software. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Modo serves as a versatile tool for creative exploration in 3D design. It empowers artists to model, texture, animate, and render 3D assets efficiently, making it an essential tool across various industries such as gaming, visual effects (VFX), product design, animation, and architecture.Target Audience
Modo’s target audience includes a diverse range of professionals and artists. The software is widely used by companies with 10-50 employees and revenues between $1M-10M. The primary industry segments using Modo include Higher Education (8%), Information Technology and Services (6%), Media Production (6%), and Manufacturing (6%). Geographically, the majority of Modo users are based in the United States (63%), followed by the United Kingdom (10%), and Brazil (7%).Key Features
3D Modeling
Modo offers a powerful and intuitive direct modeling toolkit that allows artists to create and refine organic shapes and hard-surface models quickly. Tools like Primitive Slice, Slice Effector, and MeshFusion enable the creation of complex shapes with precision.Texturing and Shading
The software features a physically-based shader system, providing realistic material definitions and lighting scenarios. This allows for the production of photorealistic images and animations even on lower-end hardware.Rendering
Modo includes advanced rendering capabilities, including the integration of OctaneRender for fast and high-quality GPU rendering. The software also supports network-based rendering solutions, allowing for scalable and high-speed rendering.Animation and Deformations
Tools like the Wrap Effector and Conditional Loop Command enable fast, flexible, and reliable deformations and modeling workflows. Features such as PolyHaul and MeshOps streamline multiple modeling operations into single tools, enhancing efficiency.Performance and User Experience
Recent updates, such as those in Modo 17.0, have significantly improved performance and user experience. Enhancements include faster modeling tools, improved wireframe drawing, and better integration with the Advanced Viewport, allowing artists to work more interactively and efficiently.Integration and Workflow
Modo integrates seamlessly with other Foundry products like MARI, Katana, and NUKE, and supports cloud rendering services such as AWS and Conductor. This integration simplifies workflows and enhances collaboration. Modo’s flexible and intuitive toolset makes it an ideal choice for artists and designers looking to explore and develop their creative ideas in 3D without the technical hurdles. Modo - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Modo, a 3D modeling and rendering software, is designed to be intuitive, flexible, and user-friendly, making it an effective tool for artists and designers.3D Viewport
The core of Modo’s interface is the 3D viewport, which serves as the primary window into the software’s virtual 3D world. This viewport is highly customizable, allowing users to sculpt, paint, animate, deform, and position cameras and lights with ease. Upon opening Modo, the default layout presents a large 3D viewport set to Perspective view, featuring grids that help in orienting and working within the 3D space. Users can adjust various display options, such as wireframe overlays and background element visibility, through the gear icon or by pressing the ‘O’ key while hovering over the viewport.Customization and Layout
Modo’s interface is highly customizable, with features like tabs that allow multiple viewports to coexist in the same layout. These tabs help organize different facets of the interface, such as item selection and properties, making it easy to access specific functions without unexpected changes. Tabs do not auto-select, giving users full control over what information is displayed at any given time.Navigation and Tools
The software provides a range of navigation tools and shortcuts that enhance the user experience. For example, mouse button and keyboard combinations enable smooth navigation within the 3D space. The interface also includes features like the Tool Pipe, which allows users to combine tools and their modifiers, create tool presets, and manage tool handle styles. This flexibility makes it easier to perform complex modeling tasks efficiently.Ray GL and Real-Time Feedback
Modo’s Ray GL viewport option integrates render preview functionality with standard viewport options, providing a hybrid display that allows users to interact with rendered scenes in real-time. This feature comes in different modes, such as Full, Fast, and Bake, each offering varying levels of detail and speed to suit different needs.User-Friendly Design
The overall design of Modo’s interface is modern and user-friendly. The top bar includes sections like Files, Edit, and View, which are intuitive and easy to use. Basic editing options are accessible from both the top menu and the left side tools menu, making it simple to find and use specific tools without extensive searching.Ease of Use
Modo is praised for its ease of use, particularly in subD modeling and retopology. The software offers a smooth and intuitive modeling experience, with tools that can be applied to points, edges, or polygons with a single shortcut. For instance, the bevel tool can be activated with a single key (‘b’) regardless of the selection type, which is a significant advantage over other modeling software.Learning Curve
While Modo is highly intuitive for many tasks, it can be challenging for users accustomed to other software like 3ds Max or Maya. However, once the interface and shortcuts are learned, users find it highly efficient and powerful for their modeling needs.Conclusion
In summary, Modo’s user interface is designed for flexibility, ease of use, and real-time feedback, making it a valuable tool for 3D modeling and rendering tasks. Its customizable layout, intuitive tools, and efficient navigation options contribute to a positive user experience. Modo - Key Features and Functionality
Modo Overview
Modo, a 3D rendering and design tool developed by Foundry, is packed with a variety of features that make it a powerful asset for artists and designers. Here are the main features and how they work:Modeling
Modo offers several modeling techniques that cater to different needs:Direct Modeling
This toolset allows artists to manipulate geometry directly in the 3D viewport. You can add shapes, bevel edges, move vertices, duplicate polygons, and deform objects all through direct interaction. This approach is highly efficient and focuses on workflow and technical innovation.Procedural Modeling
Introduced in Modo 10, procedural modeling provides a system for creating models using procedural techniques. This means many of the direct modeling features are available as powerful procedural variants, allowing for more flexibility and automation in the modeling process. Procedural modeling continues to grow more powerful with each product update.MeshFusion Boolean Toolset
This award-winning toolset enables artists to perform complex Boolean operations with ease. It allows for the combination and subtraction of meshes in a highly intuitive and efficient manner.Sculpting
Modo’s integrated brush-based sculpting tools enable artists to build shapes and add fine details quickly. This feature is ideal for bringing artistic expression to 3D models and can be used to create highly detailed and realistic models.UV Workflows
Modo includes a highly efficient UV toolset that automates many tedious UV creation tasks. It supports UDIM workflows and integrates fully with modeling and selection workflows, making the process of creating UV maps much simpler and faster.Effects
Modo’s effects systems are comprehensive and integrated:Particle and Dynamics
The particle and dynamics systems in Modo allow artists to create dynamic simulations using rule-based, directable particles and dynamics. This includes rigid and soft bodies, and procedural shattering, enabling the creation of compelling simulations quickly.Hair and Fur
Modo lets you create and manipulate realistic hair, fur, grass, feathers, and other fiber-based effects as actual geometry. These can be sculpted, shaded, and rendered directly in the scene.Camera and Projection Tools
Modo is equipped with advanced tools for virtual camera creation and digital matte painting. It offers extensive projection tools, allowing you to choose the desired camera type and achieve professional-grade results.Workflow and Customization
Modo is highly customizable to fit individual workflows:Presets
Modo’s Presets help artists work more efficiently by allowing them to save and reuse common modeling tasks. This includes saveable, shareable, and reusable assemblies and presets that can segment work into more manageable parts.Customizable UI
The user interface in Modo is composed of “forms” that can be resized or toggled on and off. Users can create and save custom layouts to optimize their workflow. The interface can also be modified using the F3 key to view and adjust various forms.Toolpipe (Custom Tool Creation)
The Toolpipe feature allows artists to create specialized modeling and selection tools by combining Modo’s tools with falloffs and action centers. This customization can be assigned to hotkeys or other parts of the user interface, making the tools feel and work exactly as desired.Action Centers and Falloffs
Modo allows artists to choose the “pivot point” of a tool or action in real-time by simply clicking on the desired location. Additionally, tools can be modified with customizable falloffs, which adjust the influence and strength of the tool based on geometric shapes like radial or linear gradients.3D Painting
Modo’s paint system enables artists to paint directly onto 3D models using a combination of tools, brushes, and inks. This feature also allows painting instances of existing meshes onto the surface of an object, providing a wide range of paint effects and styles.AI Integration
While the primary features of Modo do not explicitly integrate AI, the tool’s procedural modeling and automated workflows can be seen as precursors to more advanced automation and potentially AI-driven processes in the future. However, as of the current information, there is no direct integration of AI within Modo’s core functionality.Conclusion
In summary, Modo is a powerful 3D design tool that offers a wide range of features to enhance modeling, effects, and workflow customization, making it a versatile and efficient tool for artists and designers. Modo - Performance and Accuracy
Performance Enhancements
Modo 17.0 marks a significant update with a focus on performance. The software has overhauled its internal systems, resulting in notable performance increases. This update provides artists with the interactivity needed for modern asset creation workflows, making it more efficient and responsive.
Speed Increases
Artists can expect a substantial speed boost, especially with the inclusion of OTOY’s Prime version of OctaneRender, which offers up to a 50x speed increase over traditional CPU renderers. Additionally, users on Apple Silicon machines can enjoy an average 50% speed increase due to Modo’s new native macOS ARM build.
Tool Enhancements
New and improved tools such as Decal workflow, Primitive Slice, Corner Radius, Mesh Cleanup, Radial Align, and PolyHaul streamline the modeling process. These tools help artists stay productive by automating tasks like fixing broken geometry and creating complex patterns more efficiently.
Accuracy and Quality
Modo is known for its high-quality modeling capabilities and accurate surface generation.
Modeling Accuracy
The software offers fast and intuitive direct modeling capabilities, allowing artists to create and refine models quickly without the restrictions of a history-based workflow. This ensures clean topology and accurate surfaces even from rough blocked-in forms.
Rendering Accuracy
Modo’s physically-based shader system provides realistic material definitions and lighting scenarios, enabling the production of photorealistic images and animations. The integrated rendering solution allows for final frames to be rendered locally or distributed across render farm networks, ensuring high-quality output.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While Modo 17.0 addresses many performance and accuracy concerns, there are still areas where improvements can be made:
Continuous Updates
Foundry has committed to more frequent releases in 2024, building on the foundation of Modo 17.0. This indicates that while the current version is a significant step forward, there is ongoing work to further enhance performance and features.
System Requirements
While the software is optimized for modern hardware, including Apple Silicon machines, the performance can still vary depending on the specific hardware configuration. Ensuring compatibility and optimal performance across a wide range of systems remains an area of focus.
In summary, Modo 17.0 has made substantial strides in performance and accuracy, particularly with its new tools and rendering capabilities. However, as with any software, there is always room for further improvement, especially in terms of continuous updates and broader hardware compatibility.
Modo - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure of Modo
The pricing structure of Modo, a 3D CAD and modeling software developed by Foundry, is structured into several plans to cater to different user needs. Here’s a breakdown of the available plans and their features:
Modo Subscription
- This plan starts at $54.91 per month or $659 per year.
- It includes a full suite of features such as 3D modeling, animation, rendering, texturing, shading, custom workflows, rigging, conditional commands, data import/export, collaboration tools, scripting, and a custom UI.
Modo Maintenance
- This plan costs $440 per year.
- It is geared more towards users who need ongoing support and updates rather than the full subscription features.
Modo Perpetual
- This is a one-time license purchase priced at $1,909.
- It offers a permanent license without the need for ongoing subscriptions or maintenance fees.
Educational Licenses
- Modo offers free student licenses for students.
- For educational institutions, custom pricing is available, with licenses starting as low as $156 for students and $188 for institutions.
Free Trial
- A 30-day free trial is available, which includes training materials to help users get started.
Free Plan
- While there is no fully featured free plan, Modo does offer limited features in their free student licenses and the trial period. However, for general users, there is no free plan with full features.
Additional Plans
- Modo also offers specialized plans such as Modo Educational, Modo Business, and Modo Enterprise, but the pricing details for these plans need to be obtained directly from Foundry.
Summary
Modo provides flexible pricing options to accommodate various user needs, from monthly subscriptions to one-time licenses, and includes educational discounts and a free trial for new users.
Modo - Integration and Compatibility
Modo Overview
Modo, a 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering software developed by Foundry, integrates seamlessly with a variety of tools and platforms, ensuring broad compatibility and versatility.File Format Compatibility
Modo supports a wide range of file formats for both import and export. This includes CAD formats such as STEP, IGES, and SAT, which allows for smooth collaboration between Modo and other CAD software. Additionally, Modo supports popular 3D file formats like OBJ, FBX, COLLADA, Alembic, and its own proprietary format, .lxo, which preserves all aspects of a 3D model including geometry, textures, materials, and animations.Integration with CAD Software
Modo has strong interoperability with CAD software, particularly through its ability to import and export CAD files. The Power SubD-NURBS plugin, for instance, enables the conversion of subdivision surface (SubD) models into non-uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) surface models, which can be used in SolidWorks for engineering and manufacturing purposes.Cross-Platform Compatibility
Modo is compatible with macOS, specifically versions 11.x (Big Sur), 12.x (Monterey), and 13.x (Ventura), and has been validated on Apple Silicon hardware using Rosetta 2 emulation. While other operating systems may work, they have not been fully tested, and users are advised to contact support if issues arise.Integration with Rendering and Design Tools
Modo integrates with various rendering and design tools. For example, it works with cloud rendering services like RebusFarm and iRender, which offer CPU and GPU-accelerated rendering options. These services allow users to manage and optimize their rendering tasks efficiently. Additionally, Modo integrates with software such as HitFilm, SimLab Composer, Adobe Substance 3D Designer, Adobe Substance 3D Painter, and V-Ray, enhancing its capabilities in different aspects of 3D design and rendering.Other Integrations
Modo also integrates with other creative tools and services. For instance, it can work with Copernicus Computing and other specialized software, providing a comprehensive suite of tools for various design and rendering needs. These integrations make Modo a versatile tool that can be adapted to different workflows and projects.Conclusion
In summary, Modo’s extensive support for various file formats, its integration with CAD and rendering software, and its compatibility across different macOS versions make it a highly versatile and useful tool in the design, gaming, and film industries. Modo - Customer Support and Resources
Current Support
For users with active subscriptions or maintenance contracts that were in place before Foundry ended perpetual licenses, support will continue until the end of their current contract. This includes access to Foundry’s global support teams via email, as well as updates and new releases while the subscription or maintenance remains valid.
Future Support and Resources
Final Update and Support
The last update, Modo 17.1, is scheduled for release later this year, but there will be no further maintenance releases or patches. Foundry will investigate and provide workarounds for issues but does not anticipate any additional releases.
License Extensions
Existing users can obtain extended 10-year license terms to continue using Modo, although Foundry recommends migrating to alternative 3D workflows as soon as possible.
Forum and Documentation
The official Modo forum will shut down in December 2024, and product downloads, online documentation, and learning content will be removed in November 2025.
Additional Resources
Beta Programs and Previews
Until the support period ends, users with valid subscriptions or maintenance contracts can access beta programs and technology previews.
Community Feedback
Although the official forum will close, historical feedback and discussions may still be useful for troubleshooting and learning until the forum is shut down.
Given the discontinuation of Modo, users are encouraged to explore other 3D modeling and rendering software options to ensure continued support and updates for their workflows.
Modo - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Modo
Modo, a 3D CAD and animation software, offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool for various industries, including animation, VFX, games, and design.
Versatile Toolsets
Modo provides powerful and flexible sculpting, texturing, lighting, and rendering toolsets, allowing artists to create detailed 3D models and animations with ease.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Modo can be run on Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Customizable Interface
The software allows users to remap controls and hotkeys to match other pipeline applications, ensuring a seamless workflow.
Fast Modeling and Rendering
Modo is praised for its rapid concept modeling and rendering capabilities, which make the design process faster and more intuitive. Its rendering engine is often compared favorably to other popular tools like V-ray.
User-Friendly
Despite its advanced features, Modo is built to be accessible to non-technical users, allowing anyone to get started quickly.
Extensive Community and Resources
Modo has a very good user community and offers free asset resources, which are highly beneficial for learning and project development.
Affordable Pricing
Modo offers an affordable price policy, especially when compared to other 3D applications, with a perpetual license that includes a 1-year maintenance plan.
Scripting and Automation
The software supports scripting in various programming languages, such as Python and QT5, which enhances its customizability and automation capabilities.
Disadvantages of Modo
While Modo is a powerful tool, it also has some notable drawbacks.
Bugs and Stability Issues
Some users have reported old bugs that have not been fixed, such as issues with snap and mouse behavior.
Limited Texturing and Fluid Simulation
Modo is noted to be behind in texture quality and fluid simulation compared to other software in the industry.
Steep Learning Curve for New Users
New users may find certain features, such as the “shader tree,” not very intuitive, requiring a learning curve to fully utilize the software.
Animation Playback Speed
Although improved, the animation playback speed can still be slow, especially with deformable objects.
Feature Limitations
Some features are missing or not fully developed, such as the inability to convert curve pipes to quad meshes, which can be confusing for users.
Overall, Modo is a versatile and powerful tool for 3D modeling, texturing, and animation, but it does come with some limitations and areas for improvement.
Modo - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Modo to Other Products
When comparing Modo to other products in the 3D modeling and design tools category, especially those with AI-driven features, several key points stand out:Modo’s Unique Features
Modo, developed by The Foundry, is renowned for its intuitive and efficient 3D modeling, animation, texturing, and rendering capabilities. Here are some of its unique features:Direct and Procedural Modeling
Modo offers a seamless integration of direct and procedural modeling tools, allowing users to edit models at any stage. The latest version includes features like Unsubdivide, enhanced Chamfer Edit, and support for overlapping boolean islands.Holistic Workflow
Modo treats rigging and animation as integral parts of the asset creation process, rather than isolated features. This includes tools like Rig Clay and Command Regions that enhance viewport interaction.Performance and UI
Modo has seen significant performance improvements with the adoption of Python 3 and QT5, enhancing UI and script performance. The MeshFusion Workflow overhaul also makes the tool more efficient and user-friendly.Customization and Community
Modo allows users to create custom tools and gestures, and its active community along with ample learning resources make it a favorite among professionals.Potential Alternatives
Blender with AI Plugins
Blender is a free and open-source alternative that can be enhanced with AI plugins. It supports a wide range of 3D modeling tasks, from animation to visual effects. While it has a steep learning curve and requires powerful hardware, its flexibility and strong community support make it a viable option. However, AI plugins in Blender may not be as polished as those in specialized tools.Autodesk ReCap Pro
Autodesk ReCap Pro is particularly useful for converting real-world data into accurate 3D models, making it a great tool for industries like construction and architecture. It integrates seamlessly with other Autodesk products but has a steep learning curve and is expensive for individual users. Unlike Modo, it is more specialized in creating digital twins rather than general 3D modeling.AI-Driven Tools (Kaedim, Sloyd.AI, Luma AI)
Tools like Kaedim, Sloyd.AI, and Luma AI leverage AI technologies such as machine learning and generative adversarial networks to create 3D models from 2D designs or photographs. These tools are more focused on automating the 3D modeling process and are particularly useful for architects and designers who need to quickly iterate and refine their designs. However, they do not offer the comprehensive suite of features that Modo provides for modeling, animation, and rendering.Conclusion
Modo stands out for its balanced approach to 3D modeling, animation, and rendering, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of creative and technical tasks. While alternatives like Blender offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness, and AI-driven tools like Kaedim and Sloyd.AI provide automated modeling solutions, Modo’s holistic workflow and continuous feature enhancements make it a strong choice for those seeking a comprehensive 3D design tool. Modo - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Modo
What is Modo and what is it used for?
Modo is a 3D modeling and animation software that includes powerful and flexible toolsets for sculpting, texturing, lighting, and rendering. It is used by artists and designers across various industries, including animation, VFX, games, architecture, and design, to create assets and shots.What operating systems does Modo support?
Modo can be run on Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it versatile for users across different platforms.What are the key features of Modo?
Modo offers a range of features such as a shading section, custom workflows, rigging, conditional commands, data import/export, collaboration tools, scripting, and a customizable user interface. It also includes tools for direct and procedural modeling, texture painting, and high-quality GPU rendering with OctaneRender.How does Modo integrate with other software in a pipeline?
Modo can easily be implemented into existing pipelines due to its support for various file formats, allowing it to inter-operate with most pipeline systems. Additionally, users can remap controls to match other pipeline applications, ensuring a seamless workflow.What are the performance improvements in the latest version of Modo?
The latest version, Modo 17.0, has seen significant performance improvements, including a faster and more interactive application. It features updates to direct and procedural modeling tools, resulting in speed improvements of up to 30 times for individual tools. It also leverages multiple threads for calculations, enhancing interactivity and performance.How much does Modo cost?
Modo is available through monthly or annual subscriptions, with a starting price of $62.00 per month. There is also a free trial available, but no free version of the software.What kind of support does Modo offer?
Modo provides support through various channels, including FAQs, a knowledge base, phone support, and email support. There are also tutorials and documentation available to help users get started and customize the software to their needs.Can I customize the user interface in Modo?
Yes, Modo allows users to customize the user interface. You can remap controls, set viewport controls and hotkeys to match other pipeline applications, and customize the layout to meet your specific needs.Does Modo support offline rendering?
Yes, Modo 17.0 includes the Prime version of OctaneRender, which provides fast and high-quality GPU rendering. This integration enhances the offline rendering capabilities of the software.Are there tutorials and resources available for learning Modo?
Yes, there are several resources available to help you get started with Modo. These include written tutorials, video tutorials, and documentation on how to navigate the interface, use common toolsets, and customize the layout. You can find these resources on the Foundry website and through their learning platform. Modo - Conclusion and Recommendation
Current State and Features
Modo, developed by Foundry, has been a significant tool for 3D modeling, especially for artists, designers, and visual effects professionals. The latest version, Modo 17.0, introduced substantial improvements, including enhanced performance, interactive tools, and integration with OctaneRender for high-speed GPU rendering.
User Benefits
Modo would have been highly beneficial for:
- 3D Artists and Designers: Those involved in game development, visual effects, and other creative fields could leverage Modo’s advanced modeling tools, procedural modeling, and rendering capabilities.
- Media and Entertainment Professionals: The tool’s enhancements in speed and interactivity made it a valuable asset for workflows requiring precision and efficiency.
Future Outlook
However, Foundry has announced that they will be winding down the development of Modo after the release of version 17.1. This decision means that while existing customers will continue to receive support until the end of their current contracts, there will be no further feature or maintenance releases.
Recommendation
Given the cessation of development and support, it is not recommended to invest in Modo for new projects or as a long-term solution. Here are some key points to consider:
- Limited Future Support: The lack of future updates and patches may lead to compatibility issues with new operating systems and other software.
- Alternative Solutions: Users should start considering alternative 3D modeling tools that are actively supported and updated to meet evolving industry needs.
- Current Users: For those already using Modo, it might be wise to plan a transition to another tool to avoid potential disruptions in their workflows.
In summary, while Modo has been a powerful tool in the past, its future is limited due to the cessation of development. It is essential for users to explore other options to ensure they have access to continuously supported and updated software.