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LightWave 3D vs Maya: catalog facts
LightWave 3D	Maya
Best for: Independent 3D artists and small studios on Windows or Mac	Best for: Industry-standard 3D modeling and animation suite for film, TV and games
Paid Paid software.	Paid Commercial subscription software from Autodesk.
Windows, macOS	Windows, macOS, Linux
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	Industry-standard tool with broad studio adoption Covers modeling, animation and effects in one application
Paid licence required No Linux version	Expensive subscription pricing aimed at studios and professionals Steep learning curve for newcomers
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 LightWave 3D lightwave3d.com Catalog checked September 24, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Maya autodesk.com/products/maya/overview Catalog checked September 22, 2026

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