Maya vs Poliigon: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Maya and Poliigon comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Maya
3D animation and modeling by Autodesk
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need animation features specifically
- • Maya is a professional 3D animation software for film and game production
- • It provides modeling, rigging, animation, and rendering tools
Poliigon
Access a vast library of PBR textures, 3D models, and HDRIs for realistic 3D rendering.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need 3d design features specifically
- • Provides high-quality PBR textures, 3D models, and HDRIs.
- • Assets are production-ready for realistic 3D rendering.
| At a Glance |  Maya |  Poliigon |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Animation | 3D Design |
Rating | 90/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Maya | Poliigon |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 90 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Animation3D Design | 3D DesignStock Assets |
How Maya and Poliigon Compare
Maya
3D animation and modeling by Autodesk
Paid · 90/100 score
Poliigon
Access a vast library of PBR textures, 3D models, and HDRIs for realistic 3D rendering.
Free
Maya is a animation tool. Poliigon is in 3d design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Poliigon is free. Maya is paid.
Go with: Poliigon
Want the highest-rated option?
Maya scores 90/100. Poliigon is unrated.
Go with: Maya
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Maya
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Maya is paid. Poliigon is free. Go with Poliigon if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Maya is a animation tool. Poliigon is in 3d design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Maya
- Higher score: 90/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Poliigon
- Completely free
- Better fit for 3d design
The Bottom Line
Maya (90/100) is our pick. That said, Poliigon is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maya or Poliigon better?
Maya scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Maya is paid and Poliigon is free.
What are Maya and Poliigon used for?
Maya: 3D animation and modeling by Autodesk. Poliigon: Access a vast library of PBR textures, 3D models, and HDRIs for realistic 3D rendering..
What does Maya cost vs Poliigon?
Maya is a paid tool. Poliigon is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.