3D CAD modeling has changed how new ideas are developed and brought to the market. While the concepts that drive design and development are generally the same as they have been, the benefits that 3D modeling offers make it superior to other methods in multiple ways. Most individuals involved in design or engineering services in any industry are already aware of 3D modeling, even if they don’t know much about it or why it’s so valuable. However, a lack of information sometimes keeps new companies and entrepreneurs from taking advantage of this technology. When that is the case, pricing and rate information are often the missing piece of the puzzle.
About 3D modeling and 3D rendering services
3D modeling and 3D rendering have become staples in many industries. This technology allows ideas to be brought to life quicker than ever before. They also allow the object to be observed and manipulated without putting the work into creating a physical prototype. 3D product modeling services are commonly utilized to develop concepts. They also frequently function as living master drawings in the manufacturing industry. Printed paper drawings are outdated and inaccurate after a single revision, but a file containing a 3D model is easily saved and shared with your team.
3D renderings could be described as a presentation-worthy image or clip of a 3D model. These clips and images are created and manipulated detail by detail. The models shown within them, the lighting, the texture of surfaces, reflections—all of these factors and more are on the table to work with when creating a 3D rendering. The result is often nearly indistinguishable from a professional photo.
Benefits of outsourcing 3D modeling and 3D rendering
Many potential benefits make professional 3D modeling and 3D rendering services so appealing. For one thing, 3D renderings are based on 3D models. If you already have an accurate 3D model of your new product, then getting some photorealistic 3D renderings of the design is very simple. Mostly, 3D models are utilized for design and development purposes. This is true whether you’re dealing with a consumer product, a mechanical item, or a new home. On the other hand, 3D renderings are better suited for presentation and marketing purposes.
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In many scenarios, both are far more affordable than alternative options. Many businesses and entrepreneurs find the cost of 3D rendering services very appealing compared to photography. There’s also the fact that 3D models and 3D renderings allow for more creative freedom and can be changed or revised quickly without much time or additional expense.
In the case of outsourcing this type of project, you get to take advantage of another professional’s time, experience, and expertise without having them on a salary. Remember, 3D CAD designers and firms tend to charge more than the hourly rate of an employee who does the same job, but once all factors are included, they typically cost less.
Price and project examples by industry
Let’s start with the cost of a dedicated employee as a point of reference. This will help to put the rest of the figures into perspective. Depending on where you look and the specific titles you choose to look at, a full-time 3D modeling service is going to require a salary somewhere between $40,000 and $80,000 per year. That’s just their salary. There are also the taxes to consider, as well as benefits.
With competitive benefits packages, the total cost of a full-time employee to a business is usually around double the salary. For an excellent mid-way point of reference, let’s say it would cost at least $100,000 per year to hire a full-time 3D CAD designer for your business. Now that we have a base figure, let’s look at what you might expect to pay a freelancer or a firm.
What are product design 3D rendering prices?
Creating 3D models of new products and ideas is among the things that CAD designers and engineers do best. For product design services, you can expect to pay at least $40 to $60 per hour. Outsourcing a 3D modeling project is similar to other fields regarding pricing. A variety of factors can affect the price. These can include whether you’ve hired a firm or an independent professional, the size of the firm, the size of the project, the complexity of the project, your desired deadline, and even the current workload of that firm or professional.
Firms charge more than independent professionals because they usually have more overhead. In terms of value, it’s very tough to beat an independent CAD designer working from their home or a modest office. Rendering is a separate service from 3D modeling. It usually commands a higher hourly rate, although you will also see plenty of per-project pricing here. You can expect to spend at least $100 per hour for 3D product rendering. Many basic projects take a few hours and an entire workday.
Mechanical design 3D modeling and rendering hourly and project rates
The rates for 3D modeling and 3D rendering focusing on mechanical design are very similar to those for product design. For 3D modeling work, you’ll be in the neighborhood of $50 per hour or more. 3D rendering for a mechanical design project is at least $100 per hour but may run closer to $200 per hour. While the rates for freelance mechanical design services and product design projects are similar, mechanical design projects often cost a bit more. This is mainly because of the complexity of the project, the additional need for precision, and the fact that some trial and error may be involved in some situations.
How much does 3D modeling cost for architectural design?
Creating the plans or images of a new home or structure can be a fascinating process for everyone involved. As you may have noticed above, the rates for 3D modeling and 3D rendering with different types of projects are affected by the level of complexity. That being said, when these projects are for architectural design, the rates tend to be closer to the low end of the spectrum.
It’s not uncommon to see rates between $40 and $50 per hour here, although top talent usually charges significantly more. One of the things to consider with architectural projects is the fact that multiple models and renderings may be needed over the entire course of the design process. So, while the hourly rates may be a little lower, the amount of time that goes into 3D modeling or 3D rendering can be significant.
| Project Type | Hourly | Per Project |
| Product Design 3D Modeling | $40-$60 | |
| Mechanical Design 3D Modeling | $50+ | |
| Architectural Design 3D Modeling | $40-$50 | $400 per room and up |
| 3D Rendering | $90-$200 | $300-$500+ for small projects. Up to $2,500 and more for large projects |
Tips for outsourcing 3D modeling projects
As with other projects, outsourcing 3D rendering and 3D modeling work to independent professionals or firms is usually a breeze. There will always be some factors beyond your control, but here are a few tips to help ensure that things go as smoothly as possible.
1. Communicate clearly
Communication is one of the most important things when working with any other professional. Remember, they want you to be satisfied with their work when the project is done. However, they can’t give you exactly what you want if you don’t convey that clearly.
If you have a special request, then, by all means, let them know from the start. This will save you and the 3D solid modeling freelancer time and frustration. The same concept applies to things that you know you do not want. For example, if you’re after a 3D rendering for your new product but don’t want a lifelike-type image, then be upfront about it.
2. Remember to listen
This tip ties in with what was just mentioned. Let’s say that you’re seeking a 3D rendering expert and it’s your very first time handling this kind of project. If you don’t know exactly what you need, discuss it with your designer or freelance CATIA engineer. As long as you can tell them why you want the model or rendering and what you plan to do with it, they can provide some significant input on what would be the best fit for you.
3. Be flexible when possible
Time is valuable regardless of which field you’re in, but it’s worth paying even more attention to when getting quotes for a project. If you have planned far enough ahead that you aren’t in a hurry to get your 3D model or rendering, you may be able to get a discount. The same goes for time constraints that the designer has to deal with. If they bring up concerns like these with you and you’re willing to give them some additional flexibility, it may be a wise decision.
Move forward with your 3D modeling or rendering project today
Having a few rough numbers in mind can help when planning a new project for your business or idea. However, it’s also important to remember that all projects are different. You may find that the work you require costs more or less than expected. The only way to know for sure is to start getting quotes. If you’re ready to start looking for the best 3D modeling freelance designer for your project, we’re prepared to make that process as easy as possible.
How Cad Crowd can assist
At Cad Crowd, we have a deep and diverse pool of freelance designers and prototype design engineering services. All of them are experienced and have been vetted. When you choose to work with a Cad Crowd designer, you also benefit from our standard procedures. For instance, if you find a designer on your own, you may have to relinquish some rights, or you may find yourself worrying about privacy.
Both of these are covered with the way we do things. Non-disclosure agreements protect your privacy, and you retain all of the intellectual property rights from the project. Finding the right professional for your project at Cad Crowd is simple. You can start the process today by getting a quote.
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