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?
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.
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.
First of all, those subscription fees add up. While significantly cheaper than Sketchfab, it's still something to consider.
Secondly, if you already plan on learning a professional 3D software (like Blender or Maya), Vectary's 3D modeling software pales in comparison.
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.
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.
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.