Embedding 3D Models:
The Easy (And Paid) Way
So you just wanna put some 3D models on your website without learning to code Javascript or getting too deep into the ins & outs of WebGL?
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Luckily, there are sites that give you this option, but some of them come with a hefty price!
Sketchfab is the most popular website to host 3D models, embed them on your website or share via social media.
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It allows you to open a free account, upload 3D models, add annotations (text pin-pointed on certain areas on your model), combine animations with your model, and even view it using WebVR & WebAR.
But once you embed a Sketchfab model on your website, that's when the problems appear:
As designers, we want our HTML iframes to integrate seamlessly into our website's design. This is where Sketchfab's business model pops-up - if you want to get rid of logos, bars, or use a transparent background, you're gonna have to go PRO and pay hundreds of $'s every month! For this reason, Sketchfab is not recommended for our use.
On the surface, Vectary seems like a good option. For only $17.50 a month, you can integrate 3D models seamlessly onto your website. They have their own 3D modeling software that runs in your browser and they even have a capability Sketchfab currently lacks - triggering interactive animations on your model (like the Swiss Knife example above):
For beginners, this is quite nice. For the long-run, this is not recommended.
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First of all, those subscription fees add up. While significantly cheaper than Sketchfab, it's still something to consider.
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Secondly, if you already plan on learning a professional 3D software (like Blender or Maya), Vectary's 3D modeling software pales in comparison.
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Thirdly, if you want those interactive capabilities (without writing code), we'll review another option further down - Verge3D.
If we wanna be straight forward and just drop 3D models all over the place, this lesser-known player, p3d.in, is the way to go.
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For just $6 a month you can go PRO, get 6GB of online storage for your models, and seamlessly embed your 3D models on your website. They even support WebAR.
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You can upload all 3D file formats (like OBJ or FBX or GLTF or GLB), they support full PBR maps, you can change HDRI lighting, add Post-Processing, customize the 3D viewer, etc.