What's New in Autodesk 3ds Max 2026
- Thitirat Kongsantad
- Jun 7
- 2 min read
Key Improvements Over 3ds Max 2025
Feature Area | 3ds Max 2025 | 3ds Max 2026 |
Retopology Tools | Retopology Tools v1.5 with limited cloud processing capabilities | Retopology Tools v1.6: Improved processing time with base algorithm ReForm updates; Flow Retopology now allows up to 50 cloud-based jobs per month, enhancing efficiency for complex meshes. |
Modeling Enhancements | Standard modeling tools with basic spline and vertex operations | Vertex Weld Modifier now supports splines, enabling cleaner geometry; 3-Point Rectangle Creation allows for angled rectangle creation, improving modeling precision. |
Material and Shading | Traditional material workflows with limited interoperability | OpenPBR introduced as the default material, offering a streamlined, physically-based workflow compatible with MaterialX and OpenUSD; includes new OSL maps like Perlage and Flow Map Transform for advanced texturing. |
Animation and Rigging | Basic CAT and Biped tools with known stability issues | Enhanced CAT and Biped: Improved stability and control, addressing long-standing issues; viewport performance optimized for smoother animation workflows. |
Rendering with Arnold | Integration with Arnold 7.3 and MAXtoA 5.7 | Arnold 7.4 with MAXtoA 5.8: Introduces transmission shadow density control, improved global light sampling, optimized Cryptomatte with GPU support, and enhanced RenderView features for better rendering performance. |
USD Support | Basic USD import/export functionalities | USD for 3ds Max 0.10: Includes a new Layer Editor for better control over USD layers, support for light linking, and viewport visibility for USD lights, enhancing pipeline integration. |
Performance Improvements | Standard performance with occasional lags in complex scenes | Optimized Modifiers: Boolean Modifier up to 40% faster, Array Modifier with a 15% speed boost, and improved performance in Conform, Displace, and Skin Modifiers; fluid simulations benefit from smarter multithreading. |
User Interface Enhancements | Traditional UI with limited search capabilities | Object Search Widget added to the Command Panel, allowing for faster object creation and improved workflow efficiency. |
Why Autodesk 3ds Max 2026 Is the Best Version to Use Today
Advanced Retopology Tools
With the updated Retopology Tools v1.6 and increased cloud processing capacity, artists can handle complex meshes more efficiently, saving time and resources.
Enhanced Modeling Capabilities
The addition of spline support in the Vertex Weld Modifier and the new 3-Point Rectangle Creation method provide greater flexibility and precision in modeling tasks.
Streamlined Material Workflow
The introduction of OpenPBR as the default material simplifies the creation of realistic materials and ensures better compatibility across different platforms and rendering engines.
Improved Animation Tools
Enhancements to CAT and Biped tools, along with optimized viewport performance, result in a more stable and responsive animation experience.
Superior Rendering Performance
The integration of Arnold 7.4 brings significant improvements in rendering quality and speed, including better handling of transparent shadows and more efficient light sampling.
Robust USD Integration
The updated USD support facilitates seamless collaboration across different software platforms, making it easier to manage complex scenes and assets.
Optimized Performance
Performance enhancements across various modifiers and simulation tools ensure a smoother and more efficient workflow, even in complex projects.
User-Friendly Interface
The new Object Search Widget streamlines the object creation process, allowing users to work more efficiently and focus on creativity.
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