We know what you’re looking for. Something quick, easy, and quality to get your project started. If you need the best free 3D models for your next video game or animation design project, we’re here to help–it’s what we do.
Although nothing in life is absolutely free, there are cost-effective solutions for 3D models, especially if you are new to software, experimenting, or need to get an idea set up ASAP.
Below, you’ll get our recommendations for the best 3D models you can get at no cost.
Just download and start creating.
Short on time? Here’s the list.
1. Cargo
2. Unreal Engine Marketplace
3. SketchFab
4. Poly Haven
5. Thangs
6. TurboSquid
7. CGTrader
7 free 3D models to get your project started.
WARNING! Before downloading assets from our recommendations, remember there’s typically a catch when it comes to free 3D models.
1. Free 3D models created via open source might infringe on copyright. That means if someone made a TIE fighter model for free use, you can’t use it in your published game (sorry).
2. Just because a 3D model is free doesn’t mean you can publish it. You also need the license.
So, if you plan to make your project public, ensure you have a license (commercial or non-commercial) for the 3D model. Also, double-check the details of each 3D model and platform before you get too far on your project; otherwise, you could run into legal issues.
Alright, with that bummer out of the way, it’s on to the list.
1. Cargo
Building a project from scratch with only free 3D models can make it difficult to create unity in your design. It will take extra work on the back end to make your Frankenstein’s monster of free models look complimentary.
With Cargo from KitBash3D (that’s us), you don’t have to hack your way to a seamless design. You can download our library of 15,000+ customized assets in themes like fantasy, cyberpunk, sci-fi as well as modern and historical cities. With Cargo’s 1-click import to your 3D software, you can build your animation world in seconds that looks like you’ve spent months.
Upside: Access to 15,000 themed assets with 1-click import for all the top 3D software
Downside: To access more features like exclusive vehicle kits and an expanded license, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan (trust us, it’s worth it)
2. Unreal Engine Marketplace
If you’re already an Unreal Engine user, you have access to free 3D models through the UE Marketplace. Tap into free assets from the professionals at Epic Games, ranging from humanoid characters to sports equipment.
Upside: High-quality 3D models produced by Epic Games
Downside: The free assets are only for Unreal Engine users
3. SketchFab
SketchFab specializes in 3D models for animation and augmented reality (AR) projects. Its marketplace library contains a variety of free assets, plus SketchFab’s previewer allows you to see a 360-degree view of the asset.
Upside: User-friendly search functionality and previewing for a variety of free 3D models for animation and AR
Downside: SketchFab’s 3D models are limited to mainly object assets
4. Poly Haven
Sometimes, less is more when sifting through lists of 3D models. Poly Haven is the place to visit if you’re looking for realistic 3D model objects. Poly Haven also carries a Blender add-on for seamless drag-and-drop import.
Upside: Detailed and realistic 3D objects, including plants, rocks, and furniture
Downside: Poly Haven’s 3D models all have a similar look, so you’ll need to make sure it matches the tone of your project
5. Thangs
Thangs houses millions of 3D models via their marketplace of model creators. It also has an add-on that seamlessly integrates into Blender and a cloud-based sync tool.
Upside: The Thangs library is continuously expanding with a repository of 14 million free 3D models
Downside: Because it’s a marketplace, you need to sort through a lot of IP (intellectual property) related free 3D models to find something that works for an original project
6. TurboSquid
TurboSquid is a robust 3D model asset library supported by Shutterstock that works with all the top animation engines. Plus, their search functionality allows you to filter by format, poly count, license, and more.
Upside: If you already have a Shutterstock login, you can access TurboSquid’s library
Downside: Its 3D models are limited
7. CGTrader
CGTrader is another 3D model marketplace where creators buy and sell their models for animation, AR/VR, advertising, movies, and 3D printing.
Upside: CGTrader’s 3D model selection is varied, compared to other 3D model marketplaces
Downside: 3D printing users also use CGTrader, so you’ll need to sift through trademarked free 3D models used for figurines and Dungeons & Dragons miniatures
You’ve got your free 3D models. Now go build.
Now that you’ve got a selection of free 3D models, it’s time to go build your next project. Use this “free” time to experiment and push your craft, and when you’re ready for the next step, you’ll know where to start spending cash.
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