ArmorPaint
ArmorPaint is a standalone software designed for physically-based texture painting that allows you to paint 3D models in real-time using a node-based system and GPU acceleration.
Foundry Mari
Mari is a high-end 3D painting software designed to handle complex texturing projects with high-resolution textures and millions of polygons across multiple UDIM tiles.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ArmorPaint | Foundry Mari |
|---|---|---|
| Website | armorpaint.org | foundry.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $68/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2019 | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Ljubljana, Slovenia | London, UK |
Overview
ArmorPaint
ArmorPaint is a specialized tool for 3D artists who need to create high-quality, physically-based textures for games and digital assets. You can paint directly on your 3D models in a real-time viewport, seeing your changes instantly thanks to its GPU-accelerated engine. The software uses a node-based approach for materials, giving you the flexibility to build complex surfaces by connecting different functional blocks rather than relying on static layers.
You can import your own 3D models and export the resulting texture maps to popular game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity. Because it runs as a standalone application on your desktop, you don't need to worry about subscription fees or cloud-based limitations. It is particularly useful if you are looking for an affordable, open-source alternative to industry-standard texturing suites while maintaining a professional-grade workflow.
Foundry Mari
Mari gives you the power to paint high-resolution textures directly onto 3D models without slowing down your creative process. You can manage massive datasets and complex assets with ease, thanks to its ability to handle thousands of textures across multiple UDIM tiles. It eliminates the need for constant importing and exporting, allowing you to see your changes in a high-fidelity preview that matches your final render.
You can work with a non-destructive layer system or a powerful node graph to build intricate materials and effects. Whether you are working on hero assets for film or high-end game cinematics, Mari provides the artist-friendly tools you need to achieve photorealistic results. It integrates into your existing pipeline with extensive API support and industry-standard file format compatibility.
Overview
ArmorPaint Features
- Node-Based Materials Build complex, realistic materials by connecting nodes to define properties like roughness, metallic, and height maps.
- GPU Acceleration Experience lag-free painting on high-resolution models by utilizing your computer's graphics card for all rendering tasks.
- Real-Time Viewport See exactly how your textures will look in the final game engine as you paint them on your 3D models.
- Baking Tools Generate essential texture maps like ambient occlusion, curvature, and world-space normals directly within the software.
- Layer Masks Control exactly where your materials appear on the model using non-destructive masks and painting tools.
- Plugin System Extend the core functionality of the software or automate your workflow by using custom JavaScript plugins.
Foundry Mari Features
- UDIM Workflow. Manage thousands of high-resolution textures across multiple tiles to create incredibly detailed hero assets for film and games.
- Non-Destructive Layers. Build your textures using a familiar layer-based system that lets you tweak and change elements at any time.
- Advanced Node Graph. Create complex materials and shaders visually by connecting nodes for ultimate flexibility and procedural control over your look.
- Projection Painting. Paint directly onto your 3D geometry with a buffer system that lets you preview and adjust strokes before committing them.
- Real-time Shaders. View your work in a high-fidelity viewport that supports industry-standard shaders like PBR, Arnold, and V-Ray.
- Python API. Automate repetitive tasks and customize your workflow by writing scripts that integrate Mari deeply into your studio pipeline.
Pricing Comparison
ArmorPaint Pricing
- Full access to GitHub repository
- Compile the software yourself
- Community-driven updates
- No cost for personal use
- Customizable engine code
- Everything in Source Code, plus:
- Pre-compiled executable files
- One-time purchase price
- Lifetime free updates
- Direct support for development
- Easy installation on Windows/Linux
Foundry Mari Pricing
- Full access to Mari toolset
- Unlimited UDIM support
- Node graph and layer system
- Standard support and updates
- Individual license for one user
- Everything in Individual, plus:
- Floating license options
- Advanced technical support
- Volume licensing discounts
- Enterprise deployment tools
Pros & Cons
ArmorPaint
Pros
- Affordable one-time payment with no subscriptions
- Extremely fast performance due to GPU acceleration
- Lightweight installation with minimal system footprint
- Open-source nature allows for deep customization
- Frequent updates and active community development
Cons
- Smaller feature set than industry giants
- Learning curve for the node-based workflow
- Limited documentation compared to commercial suites
Foundry Mari
Pros
- Unmatched capability for handling massive texture resolutions
- Powerful node graph for complex material creation
- Industry-standard tool used by top VFX studios
- Excellent projection painting and buffer management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for the node graph
- Requires high-end hardware for optimal performance
- Interface can feel cluttered for simple projects