In the 3D modeling tools of the software, the Vertex Weld modifier has been updated to support both spline objects and mesh objects. Using Vertex Weld to close a spline means that additional modifiers, including extrusion, bevel, or beveled profiles, can still be applied, and a successful result can be achieved. There is also a new three-point method for creating rectangular spline objects, which allows for creating objects at angles other than right angles.
In 3ds Max 2026, the retopology tools have been updated, including the new Flow Retopology module, which was introduced in 3ds Max 2025.2 last July. It simulates the functionality of existing Retopology tools but allows users to send retopology tasks to run in the cloud instead of on the local machine. The current version, Flow Retopology for 3ds Max 1.2, now ships with 3ds Max 2026, and the usage limit has been increased from 30 to 50 cloud retopology tasks per month. Version 1.6 of the Retopology Tools plugin itself updates the Mesh Cleaner modifier and reduces processing time when using the ReForm algorithm.
Autodesk has made OpenPBR the default standard material in 3ds Max 2026. This open standard replaces the Autodesk Surface and Adobe Standard Material, which were supported starting from version 2025.3.
Key updates:
- Three new OSL maps have been added, including the Perlage map for creating textured circular patterns (like those found in clock mechanisms).
- The Substance plugin has been updated to version 3.0.5, enabling direct import of materials from the Substance 3D online library into the Slate Material Editor.
These changes greatly simplify the process of creating realistic materials and textures in 3ds Max.
For animators, the changes in 3ds Max 2026 are similar to the updates in version 2025.3: bugs in the CAT and Biped tools have been fixed, and the performance of key modifiers, including Array, Conform, Displace, and Skin Modifiers, has been improved. Additionally, the 3ds Max Fluids update has resulted in a processing speed increase of "up to 10%".
It is worth noting that 3ds Max 2026 introduces an updated version of the MAXtoA plugin (5.8.0) with support for Arnold 7.4.0.0, including a new parameter, transmission_shadow_density, which controls the shadows cast by transparent objects in OpenPBR and Standard Surface shaders. The improved Global Light Sampling now takes material glossiness into account, significantly enhancing render quality in scenes with many light sources. The support for Cryptomatte has been expanded with GPU acceleration and optimizations for CPU performance. There are also updates to the integrations with MaterialX and USD, as well as improved implementations of OpenPBR and the Arnold RenderView interface. However, Arnold 7.4 requires recompiling shaders and plugins that were created for previous versions.
Among other features, 3ds Max 2026 introduces the Preserve Stack Position switch, which allows users to return to the previous object modifier, and a new object search widget in the Create section of the Command Panel.
3ds Max 2026 is compatible with Windows 10 and higher. It is available through subscription only. The subscription costs $235 per month or $1945 per year. In many countries, artists earning less than $100,000 per year and working on projects valued under $100,000 per year are eligible for the indie subscription, which currently costs $320 per year.