For those pursuing 3D character development, MakeHuman offers a user-friendly, cost-effective toolkit for creating unique and realistic human models. However, if your needs are more centered around animation, in-depth visual rendering and an extensive ready-to-use library, Poser is the route to consider.
Key Differences Between MakeHuman and Poser
- Platform Cost: MakeHuman is priced starting $2/month, while Poser is a one-time payment of $249.95.
- Target Use: MakeHuman is ideal for high-speed creation of realistic 3D humans, Poser is optimized for producing 3D animations and images.
- Software Language: MakeHuman uses Python, OpenGL, and Qt; Poser supports Python 3.
- Platform Compatibility: MakeHuman is compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows. Poser is available for Windows and Mac OS X.
- Detailing: MakeHuman offers macro and micro attribute controls, Poser offers immediate design and posing of pre-rigged figures.
| Comparison | MakeHuman | Poser |
|---|---|---|
| Core Purpose | Open-source tool for creating virtual humans | Optimized for 3D modeling of human figures |
| Interface | Uses a Graphical User Interface; | User-friendly interface |
| Unique Capabilities | Manipulation of controls allows blending of human attributes | Offers workspace like a virtual photography studio |
| Pricing | Starts at $2 per month | One-time payment starting at $249.95 |
| Export Capabilities | Export to other 3D software like Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, Cinema4D | Exports in various 3D formats |
| Latest Release | Version 1.2.0 in November 2020 | Version 12 in 2021 |
| Software Compatibility | Linux, Mac OS X, and Windows | Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X |
| Morphing Technology | Uses 3D morphing technology for character transformation | Offers morphing tools, body and hand pose presets, and a walk simulator for animation |
| Rigging Character | Enables basic and advanced rigging character | Offers full body morphs and facial expression morphs |
| Professional use | Used for professional pipelines and academic research | Used in various professional fields like broadcast animation, interactive media, comics, education, medical visualization, and gaming |
What Is MakeHuman and Who’s It For?
MakeHuman is an influential open-source platform developed for designing 3D human characters. Built by an interdisciplinary team of programmers, artists, and academics, the software allows swift creation of various virtual people through the manipulation of macro and detail attributes. Based on Python, OpenGL, and Qt, it boasts a comprehensive library and parametric modelling. This cutting-edge tool is designed for industry professionals, researchers, and artists who require top-quality 3D characters for gaming, CG industry, and scientific research.
Pros of MakeHuman
- Extensive customization options
- Export compatibility with multiple 3D software
- Pose/Animate features for easy bone structure control
- Extensive library for rapid character creation
- Free middleware for photorealistic humanoid prototypes
Cons of MakeHuman
- Limited to human characters
- Constrained by Python’s performance for complex models
- Updates are not very frequent
What Is Poser and Who’s It For?
Produced by Bondware, Poser is a premium 3D computer graphics program geared towards the modelling of human figures. Lauded globally by digital artists, the software provides a rich platform for rendering professional 3D animations and images. With an extensive library of pre-rigged figures, poses, and props, Poser proves essential for professionals in broadcast animation, interactive media, video games, and many more spheres. It’s the trusted choice for producing high-quality artistic effects, photorealistic styles.
Pros of Poser
- Packed library of pre-rigged human and animal figures
- Great capacity for 3D character art and animation
- Adept lighting and rendering tools
- Realistic effects including skin, caustics, and volumetrics
- Facilitates designing dramatic and dynamic props
Cons of Poser
- More expensive compared to alternatives
- Interface might be complex for beginners
- Not ideal for inorganic modelling
MakeHuman vs Poser: Pricing
MakeHuman provides a cost-effective creation of virtual humans with pricing starting at $2 per month, while Poser offers a more intricate interface at a one-time cost of $249.95.
MakeHuman
Offering an economic approach to 3D character creation, MakeHuman’s pricing is a competitive $2 per month. This budget-friendly cost allows access to their wide range of services, including the creation and manipulation of unique 3D human characters.
Poser
Poser takes a different pricing model, providing its suite of features for a one-time payment of $249.95. Despite the higher upfront cost, this comprehensive one-off payment system provides unlimited access to a library of pre-rigged figures, powerful rendering tools, and more.
MakeHuman or Poser: The Final Verdict
For those torn between MakeHuman or Poser, here’s our insight.
For Developers on a Budget
MakeHuman appeals to this segment. As an open-source application, it is an affordable alternative.Pricing starts at $2 per month
- Python core
- Uses parametric modeling
- Compatible with popular 3D software
For Quality Graphics Enthusiasts
Those prioritizing aesthetics over budget should gravitate towards Poser. The product prides itself on high-quality graphics with a pertinent cost, starting at $249.95
- Detailed human and animal figure modeling
- Host of animation tools
- SuperFly render engine in Poser 12
For Research Benefactors
In fields such as biomechanics and surgical development, MakeHuman‘s realistic humanoid projections garner the crown. Its figures are ideal for scientific applications and academic research
- Human models with a wide range of attributes
- Used in virtual reality research
- Models possess UV for quicker 3D work
In comparing MakeHuman and Poser, MakeHuman’s affordability and research applicability edges it for some users. However, for those seeking detailed graphics and prepared to pay, Poser reigns.
