I recently got an iPad and was hoping to use Blender for some 3D modeling projects. After searching the App Store, I couldn’t find it. Is there a way to run Blender on an iPad, or are there any alternatives that offer similar functionality? Any help would be much appreciated!
Blender isn’t available for iPad, unfortunately. The app store doesn’t have it, and if you were hoping to tap into Blender’s power on iOS, it’s a no-go. Apple’s hardware, while impressive, doesn’t support Blender natively. Even trying to run Blender via remote desktop apps can be clunky and less than ideal because of performance issues.
That said, there are alternatives. Shapr3D is a pretty solid choice if you’re looking to do some 3D modeling on your iPad. It’s more streamlined for touch interfaces and has a range of features that should cover most needs. If you’re into more sculpting than strict modeling, check out Forger. It’s like having a mini ZBrush on the go.
But if you’re dead set on the power of Blender, consider getting a robust laptop or desktop. There’s not much that can replace Blender’s breadth and depth in iPadOS land. If you must stick to iPad, then pairing it with a desktop might be a way to bridge the gap—use the iPad as an input device while doing the heavy lifting on a connected PC.
So yeah, not the answer one hopes for, but those alternatives like Shapr3D can still provide quite a punch in your 3D modeling adventures. Shapr3D, in particular, is fine-tuned for the iPad experience and packs a decent suite of tools for professional work. Hope this helps!
I know, it’s kinda a bummer that Blender isn’t available for iPad. But adding to what @nachtschatten said, you might also find Procreate useful, especially if you’re into creating textures or doing some concept art alongside your 3D modeling. Procreate’s not a full 3D modeling suite, but its powerful drawing tools could complement your 3D projects nicely.
If you’re set on Blender and need more flexibility on the go, another alternative is using a remote desktop app like TeamViewer or Splashtop. Sure, performance can be wonky, but for quick tweaks or rendering supervision, it might save you in a pinch. Plus, if you pair that with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, you might get a more bearable experience out of it.
Also, check out Nomad Sculpt. For pure sculpting work, it’s pretty robust and might fill that gap for those ZBrush-like needs when you’re on the move. Sometimes it’s about combining several tools to achieve what you’d normally do on Blender.
One more thing: consider getting an iPad with the M1 chip if you don’t already have one. The hardware can handle quite a lot, and new apps optimized for it might offer more powerful 3D modeling features in the future. In the meantime, Shapr3D and Forger can be good workarounds, but don’t completely rule out cross-platform workflows. The tech between desktops and mobile devices is closing the gap, even if it’s not there yet.
The seemingly low availability of robust 3D modeling tools on iPadOS (like Blender) highlights a gap in the market; developers might surprise us soon with more versatile solutions. So keep an eye out!