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Autodesk 3ds Max vs LightWave 3D: catalog facts
Autodesk 3ds Max	LightWave 3D
Best for: Professional 3D artists and visualisation studios on Windows	Best for: Independent 3D artists and small studios on Windows or Mac
Paid Commercial software sold by Autodesk.	Paid Paid software.
Windows	Windows, macOS
Modelling, animation and rendering in one package Long-established in games and architectural visualisation	Modelling, animation, simulation and rendering in one application Long history in broadcast and visual effects work All 3 strengths for LightWave 3D Modelling, animation, simulation and rendering in one application Long history in broadcast and visual effects work Versioned documentation for each release
Windows only Expensive for individuals All 3 limitations for Autodesk 3ds Max Windows only Expensive for individuals Closed source	Paid licence required No Linux version
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Autodesk 3ds Max autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/overview Catalog checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for LightWave 3D lightwave3d.com Catalog checked September 24, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.