Our verdict: Daz Studio is the quickest free way to build posed 3D characters and scenes without modeling skills. The software is free, but it is designed to sell content from the Daz store. Expect an account, the Install Manager and a steady push toward paid assets.
About Daz Studio
Daz Studio is made by Daz 3D in Utah. You download it together with Daz Install Manager (DIM), which installs the app and keeps your purchased and free content organized. A free Daz account is required before the download starts.
Scenes are built from ready-made assets: fully rigged Genesis figures, clothing, hair, props and environments. Figure shapes can be morphed and mixed, and clothing adapts to any body shape. Bridges export characters to Blender, Maya, Unreal Engine, Unity, 3ds Max, Cinema 4D and Roblox. A paid Daz Premier membership adds extra features and store discounts.
What it does well
- Genesis figures. Fully rigged human and creature figures, from realistic to toon style.
- Morphing and shaping. Combine and morph figure shapes to create unique characters.
- Auto-fitting clothing. Clothing and hair adapt to any body shape or gender.
- Daz Install Manager. Downloads and organizes the app and all your content.
- Bridges. Export characters to Blender, Unreal, Unity, Maya and other tools.
Who it is for
Good fit
Illustrators, comic artists and game developers who need posed human characters fast.
Look elsewhere
Users who want to model from scratch or avoid store-driven software and accounts.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free app with free starter content
- Pose realistic characters without modeling
- Bridges to major 3D tools and game engines
Cons
- Account required to download
- Most quality content is paid
- Some features reserved for the paid Premier membership
How to install Daz Studio
Create a free Daz account on the download page, then install Daz Install Manager, which installs Daz Studio and the free starter content. Set the content library folder in DIM to a drive with plenty of space; character packs grow quickly. Skip the membership offers unless you plan to buy content regularly.
Questions about Daz Studio
Is Daz Studio free?
Yes. The app and Daz Install Manager are free with a Daz account. Store content and the Premier membership are paid.
Can I use Daz characters in Blender?
Yes. The free Daz to Blender bridge exports characters with their rigs and materials.
