- Terrain2STL
Terrain2STL is a free-to-use service that allows users to create 3D models of terrain from any location across the globe. The tool turns topographical data into digital STL files, which can then be printed using a 3D printer. This means you can create a scaled three-dimensional representation of a real-world location, like any hill, valley, or mountain you choose. Terrain2STL is excellent for creating educational aids, recreational models, or even terrain for tabletop games.
The data this software utilizes is sourced from Space Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, meaning it’s incredible accurate. To create a terrain model, you simply select the desired location on the map provided on the website, specify the attributes like size and detail level, and generate a model. Designers, architects, game developers and hobbyists can make great use of this tool.
- SketchUp
Another great application for designing 3D models is SketchUp. While its primary use isn’t terrain modeling, it does come equipped with a specific extension – SketchUp Sandbox. The extension is designed to provide highly detailed terrain models. This software gives users the capability to build, import and export 3D models from Google Earth. With this, users can sculpt 3D terrain images to fit their design needs.
SketchUp offers an incredibly intuitive user interface which encourages interactive model creation and editing. For detailed work, this platform takes precedence over many others due to its complex manipulation tools. With the ability to overlay aerial images onto the 3D models, SketchUp ensures accurate and high-quality terrain model creation.
- Open Topography
OpenTopography is primarily a data portal, designed to provide the public easy access to high-resolution, topography data. The primary feature that sets OpenTopography apart is the incorporation of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. This technological feature delivers amazingly high-resolution 3D terrain models.
Leveraging technologies such as LiDAR scanning allows this platform to provide data with detail and accuracy that’s simply untouchable by traditional methods. From geological study to topographical research, OpenTopography should be a go-to resource for comprehensive terrain data.
- Terrain.party
Terrain.party is a free and dependable resource for recreating real-life areas in 3D. This web application allows you to select an area on the map and download its height map in an easy-to-use format. This model can be imported to 3D modeling software tools such as Blender and World Machine to develop realistic landscapes.
Besides being user-friendly, Terrain.party usually generates maps within a square, with a maximum output of 60km by 60km. This application is highly appreciated by game developers since these height maps can be imported to game engines, contributing to the detailed landscapes seen in popular games like Cities Skylines.
- DroneDeploy
DroneDeploy compares favorably with other 3D terrain modeling tools. It’s a cloud-based software that supplies terrain and 3D modeling solutions using drone-captured images. Its 3D modeling capability is accurate and fast, which classifies it among the top tools in this category.
However, DroneDeploy is not entirely free. It offers a 14-day free trial after which you need to subscribe. Despite this limitation, the unique selling point is the ability to create 3D models from images taken by drones. The software combines these images to create a high-resolution, highly detailed 3D model.
- World Machine
World Machine is a sophisticated tool for professionals seeking highly detailed terrain models. It provides realistic, high-fidelity output that retains astonishing detail even at the smallest scales. World Machine provides fully procedural terrains but allows for designer-controlled manipulation, striking a balance between automation and user intentionality.
While World Machine has a paid version, it does offer a free version called ‘Basic Edition.’ This entry-level version is ideal for those who are new to terrain modeling and want to learn the ropes before committing to a fully-featured purchase.
Each of these online tools offers unique features and capabilities. Depending on your requirements, experience level, and intended use, these platforms could offer a wide range of possibilities for creating free 3D terrain models. Your first step into the world of 3D terrain modeling can start on any of these six platforms.
