I've been out of the 3D scene for years now. I have never used Blender but have used 3DsMax, Lightwave.
How does Blender compare against contemporary 3D suites? Is it the whole GIMP vs Photoshop non-debate? (I can't stand GIMP BTW)
How does Blender compare against contemporary 3D suites? Is it the whole GIMP vs Photoshop non-debate? (I can't stand GIMP BTW)
I think it is not. I would say Blender is at professional level.
It is not like GIMP or Inkscape that I can hardly call them professional.
Many Blender users coming from other 3D sofware often said that Blender UI is weird and stop them from using it further. I guess it is a matter of habit.
That's the same feeling I had of Blender, hence I put them into the category of GIMP.
It's worth the effort to learn though, it's a hugely productive UI once you get used to it.