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Topic starter
12/02/2025 11:07 am
Just want to learn 3ds Max for personal projects, no commercial work planned.
The subscription is way too expensive just for learning. I know there is a student version, but I'm not a student anymore. The trial version is too short to learn properly.
Does anyone know of any other options? I'm not trying to do anything illegal, just wondering if there are alternatives I don't know about.
12/02/2025 11:25 am
Honestly, check out the indie license - $280/year. I know it's not free, but it's WAY cheaper than a full subscription. You can also use it commercially up to $100k revenue. Best legal option if you're serious about learning.
Topic starter
12/02/2025 11:26 am
@williamcarve Thanks, but even $280 is a lot just to learn... Not planning to make money with it right now, just want to experiment and build a portfolio.
12/02/2025 11:27 am
Does your local college offer any short courses? Even a basic 3D course would get you student access. Plus you get actual training.
12/02/2025 11:28 am
hate to be this guy, but why not start with Blender? its free and you can learn the basics of 3d, then switch to max later when you can afford it?
13/02/2025 10:15 am
They used to have gmax for learning but killed it years ago. Now it's either student (need proof), indie ($280), or full price. No other legal options unfortunately.
20/02/2025 4:33 pm
Most studios want to see your skills, not what software you used. Learn the fundamentals in Blender, then when you're ready for pro work, get Max or Maya. The skills transfer pretty well.
Topic starter
27/02/2025 12:28 pm
Thanks everyone. Guess I'll look into some short courses - might be worth it for the student license plus actual training. Really appreciate all the honest advice!