Top Next Gen AI 3D Model Generators: Tested for 3D Printing

Introduction

AI-generated 3D models have advanced significantly in recent weeks. In a previous video, I explored some of the best free AI tools for 3D model generation and tested their effectiveness for 3D printing. Given the rapid innovations in this space, I’m back to evaluate some new and improved AI mesh generators. Specifically, I'll focus on text-to-3D and image-to-3D technologies, examining both established tools and newcomers.

The Design Process

For many in the 3D printing community, the design process is one of the most enjoyable aspects. Creating something that exists only in your imagination is incredibly rewarding. However, there are times when it’s impractical to start from scratch. This is where text-to-3D and image-to-3D tools can be incredibly useful. These platforms allow users to input a prompt or image, which the AI then uses to generate a model. The creation is not wholly original, arguing that all AI models draw from pre-existing human creativity, but they can serve as an excellent inspiration.

Tools Under Review

In this article, I’ll cover several platforms within two categories: text-to-3D and image-to-3D. Noteworthy mentions include:

Text-to-3D Generators

Roden Gen 1 by Deos Tech
Charmed AI
3D AI Studio
Meshy AI

Image-to-3D Generators

Instant Mesh

The focus will be to see how well these tools can produce practical 3D objects suitable for printing.

Text-to-3D Testing

Starting with text-to-3D, the goal is to generate models based on textual prompts. In a previous project, I successfully created a rocket ship and other designs. For this test, I decided to generate a character model—a robot king seated on a throne. The results varied:

Roden Gen 1 immediately produced a 2D concept image based on my description. It provides an efficient workflow, allowing for rapid model adjustments before generating the final 3D model. The final product showcased impressive clarity and detail, making it suitable for 3D printing.
Meshy AI offered several draft options after a few minutes. While one model stood out, it suffered from a lack of definition and required substantial modifications for printing.
3D AI Studio showed a significant level of detail but came with its own complications. The initial draft while visually appealing required cleaning up for a flat base suitable for printing.
Charmed AI provided creative interpretations, such as a robot with a crown instead of a Stetson, but also struggled to adhere to the prompt effectively.

Overall, Roden Gen 1 yielded the highest quality result, making it the standout tool for character generation.

Image-to-3D Testing

For the image-to-3D tests, I aimed to reconstruct Boston Dynamics’ Atlas HD robot based on various images:

Instant Mesh struggled with detail in the image, producing a model with several inaccuracies and a bumpy texture.
3D AI Studio performed better, generating a cleaner model with reasonable accuracy but still needed refinements.
Charmed AI produced a model which was clean yet did not closely represent the original image.
Roden Gen 1 excelled by accurately identifying the robot's features from multiple angles, resulting in a well-defined model ready for 3D printing.

Conclusion

The advancements in AI-generated 3D models are remarkable, with Roden Gen 1 setting a new standard for both text and image-based generation. The variances in quality among different tools highlight the importance of choosing the right platform based on your needs. Whether you seek inspiration or practical models for printing, there is a growing assortment of capable tools to explore.

Keyword

AI
3D Model Generators
Text-to-3D
Image-to-3D
3D Printing
Mesh Generators
Deos Tech
Roden Gen 1
Charmed AI
Instant Mesh
3D AI Studio
Meshy AI

FAQ

1. What are text-to-3D generators?
Text-to-3D generators allow users to input written prompts to create 3D models based on text descriptions.

2. How does image-to-3D generation work?
Image-to-3D generation involves uploading a photo, after which the AI analyzes the object within and creates a 3D model.

3. Which tools performed best for 3D printing?
Roden Gen 1 delivered the highest quality models in both text-to-3D and image-to-3D tests, making it a favorite among users for practical applications.

4. Are these AI tools free to use?
Some of the platforms like Roden Gen 1, Charmed AI, and Meshy AI offer free versions, although there may be restrictions on model quality and volume.

5. Can I improve the generated models?
Yes, many platforms allow further refinements and adjustments to the models generated based on user feedback and specific requirements.