Sketchfab vs Maya: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Sketchfab and Maya 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Sketchfab
The leading platform for 3D & AR on the web, enabling creation, sharing, and showcasing of 3D models.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need 3d design features specifically
- • Host, view, and embed interactive 3D and AR models online.
- • Powerful online 3D editor with PBR toolset for detailed model customization.
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
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | 3D Design | Animation |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Sketchfab | Maya |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | 3D DesignAR/VR Development | Animation3D Design |
How Sketchfab and Maya Compare
Sketchfab
The leading platform for 3D & AR on the web, enabling creation, sharing, and showcasing of 3D models.
Free tier available
Maya
3D animation and modeling by Autodesk
Paid · 90/100 score
Sketchfab is a 3d design tool. Maya is in animation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Sketchfab has a free tier. Maya is paid only.
Go with: Sketchfab
Want the highest-rated option?
Maya scores 90/100. Sketchfab 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?
Sketchfab is freemium. Maya is paid. Sketchfab lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Sketchfab is a 3d design tool. Maya is in animation. 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
Sketchfab
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for 3d design
The Bottom Line
Maya (90/100) is our pick. Sketchfab has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sketchfab or Maya better?
Maya scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Sketchfab is freemium and Maya is paid.
What are Sketchfab and Maya used for?
Sketchfab: The leading platform for 3D & AR on the web, enabling creation, sharing, and showcasing of 3D models.. Maya: 3D animation and modeling by Autodesk.
What does Sketchfab cost vs Maya?
Sketchfab is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Maya is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

