Rhino 3D
Rhino 3D is a versatile computer-aided design software that uses NURBS mathematical models to help you create, edit, analyze, and render complex 3D shapes and freeform surfaces.
Planner 5D
Planner 5D is an architectural design tool that allows you to create detailed 2D and 3D floor plans and interior designs using an extensive library of items and AI-powered features.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Rhino 3D | Planner 5D |
|---|---|---|
| Website | mcneel.com | planner5d.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 90 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1980 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Seattle, USA | Vilnius, Lithuania |
Overview
Rhino 3D
Rhino 3D gives you the freedom to design virtually any shape you can imagine with uncompromised accuracy. Unlike mesh-based tools, it uses NURBS geometry, meaning you can create mathematically precise curves and surfaces that are ready for high-end rendering or physical manufacturing. Whether you are sketching a quick idea or building a complex bridge, the platform provides the tools to handle every stage of the design process.
You can expand your capabilities through a massive ecosystem of plugins or use the built-in Grasshopper tool to explore generative designs without writing code. It is a favorite among architects, industrial designers, and jewelry makers because it does not impose limits on your creativity. You own your license forever with a one-time purchase, making it a stable long-term investment for your professional toolkit.
Planner 5D
Planner 5D is a user-friendly design platform that helps you visualize your dream home or office space without needing professional architectural skills. You can start from scratch or use a template to build detailed 2D floor plans, then instantly toggle to a 3D view to explore your creation from every angle. The software provides a massive catalog of furniture, textures, and colors, allowing you to experiment with different interior styles and structural layouts in real-time.
You can use the platform across multiple devices, including web browsers, tablets, and smartphones, ensuring your projects are always accessible. Whether you are planning a simple room refresh or a complete home renovation, the tool helps you communicate your vision to contractors or visualize the final result before spending a dime on materials. It serves homeowners, amateur designers, and real estate professionals who need quick, high-quality visualizations.
Overview
Rhino 3D Features
- NURBS Modeling Create mathematically precise curves and surfaces that maintain perfect smoothness even when you scale them for large-scale manufacturing.
- Grasshopper Integration Build complex, generative shapes using a visual programming editor that lets you automate design logic without writing any code.
- SubD Tools Combine the precision of CAD with the flexibility of organic modeling to create high-quality, editable shapes quickly.
- High-End Rendering Generate stunning, photorealistic images of your designs directly within the software to impress clients and stakeholders.
- Drafting and Annotation Convert your 3D models into 2D technical drawings and documentation with dimensions and notes for clear communication.
- Mesh Repair Fix and prepare 3D scans or messy mesh data for 3D printing and CNC milling with specialized cleanup tools.
Planner 5D Features
- 2D/3D Mode Switching. Draft your floor plans in a traditional 2D top-down view and switch to 3D to walk through your virtual space.
- Extensive Item Catalog. Browse thousands of furniture items, appliances, and decor to furnish your rooms with realistic textures and colors.
- AI Plan Recognition. Upload a photo of a printed floor plan and let the AI automatically convert it into an editable digital 3D model.
- Automated Furniture Layout. Use the 'Magic Cube' feature to instantly arrange furniture in a room based on your specific style preferences.
- High-Quality Rendering. Generate photorealistic images of your designs with realistic lighting, shadows, and textures to see exactly how your space will look.
- Cross-Platform Sync. Start your design on your laptop and continue editing on your phone or tablet with seamless cloud synchronization.
Pricing Comparison
Rhino 3D Pricing
- One-time purchase price
- No subscription fees
- Includes Grasshopper
- Full technical support
- Permanent license ownership
- Windows and Mac versions
- Full professional features
- Significant educational discount
- No recurring costs
- Valid for commercial work
- Permanent license ownership
- Proof of status required
Planner 5D Pricing
- 2D/3D editor access
- Limited furniture catalog
- Basic textures
- Community project access
- Sync across devices
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Full 6,000+ item catalog
- Custom item resizing
- High-definition renders
- Academy design courses
- Ad-free experience
Pros & Cons
Rhino 3D
Pros
- Unmatched flexibility for creating complex organic shapes
- One-time purchase model avoids annoying monthly subscriptions
- Massive library of third-party plugins and add-ons
- Extremely accurate geometry suitable for actual manufacturing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners and hobbyists
- Rendering engine is slower than some specialized competitors
- Requires a powerful computer for very large files
Planner 5D
Pros
- Extremely easy to learn for non-professionals
- Massive library of furniture and decor items
- Seamless switching between 2D and 3D views
- Works smoothly on mobile devices and tablets
Cons
- High-quality renders require additional credits
- Free version has very limited item selection
- Object snapping can be finicky at times