Autodesk 3ds Max for Windows PC: Download Guide, Tips & Features

Readers like you help support Windows Mode. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. All opinions remain my own.

Looking to design realistic 3D models for games or films? Autodesk 3ds Max on your Windows PC offers top-notch tools to create detailed models, lifelike renders, and smooth animations, used by pros across industries.

You can download Autodesk 3ds Max 2026 on your Windows PC with a 30-day free trial via our trusted affiliate link, with subscriptions starting at $235/month or $1875/year.

Built by Autodesk since 2005 (originally Discreet), it works on Windows 10 and 11, trusted by millions for game development, film, and design.

If you’re a student, architect, or game designer crafting 3D visuals, you need a tool that’s fast and versatile.

This guide covers installing it on Windows, its key features, and tips to get started.

Share your best 3ds Max project below, or contact us for help.

Table of Contents

How to Download & Install Autodesk 3ds Max on PC

To get Autodesk 3ds Max 2026 on your Windows PC, download it via our trusted affiliate link. Here’s how:

Official Affiliate Link
1. Visit the page: Autodesk 3ds Max.
2. Click Download to start your 30-day free trial.
3. Run the installer (about 2.5 GB) and sign in with an Autodesk account.
4. Choose trial or subscribe to activate.

Quick Tip: 💡 Use the Material Editor to tweak textures for realistic renders fast.

Buy & Download via Official Site

Manage options

What is Autodesk 3ds Max About?

Autodesk 3ds Max, launched in 1996 by Discreet (now Autodesk), is a 3D modeling, animation, and rendering app for creating assets for games, films, and architectural visuals.

It includes tools like Arnold for rendering and Retopology for model optimization.

Users on X praise its speed and modifier stack, ideal for designers and studios.

Core Features: Design and render 3D models with pro-level precision.

Why Use Autodesk 3ds Max on Windows?

It’s fast, industry-standard, and perfect for detailed 3D work.

Model complex 3D assets with polygon and spline tools
Animate with CAT and keyframe systems
Render with Arnold for photorealistic lighting
Optimize models with Retopology tools
Integrate with Unreal Engine for game pipelines

Get 3ds Max 2026 with a HUGE discount

Popular Games and Movies/Shows Made with 3ds Max

3ds Max has powered major productions, including:

Games: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (CD Projekt Red), Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (Infinity Ward), Starfield (Bethesda)
Movies/Shows: Avengers: Endgame (Industrial Light & Magic), The Mandalorian (ILM), Transformers: The Last Knight, Blade Runner 2049