Both high and low poly modeling are incredibly similar and can also process the same images. However, the simple difference in the no. of polygons used in a model separates them at the core.

Manufacturers and marketing companies use 3D models and mapping to represent their products before going on to the next stage. To produce these 3D models, the developers use a high level of blending, CGI resources, and VR/AR interactions.

These processes all depend on the no. of polygons you will be using on your project. While some scenes will use a high no. of polygons, others use a smaller no. of them.

High and low poly modeling, as the name suggests, are processes used during blending to process high and low polygon models in a scenario. Both approaches are essential in CGI blending. This article deals with both pros and cons as well the differences between the two.

Low Poly Modeling

As the term suggests, this technique creates models with less complex and lower numbers of polygon meshes. It occurs in real-time applications and is highly used in games that make use of 3D computer graphics.

Applications of Low-poly Modeling

Low poly modeling is used in projects that make use of 3D computer graphics. Such applications include:

  • Game Engine
  • Subdivision Modeling
  • Rigging and animations
  • Low-poly topologies

Pros

  • Lot easier to load, count and edit in a machine with lower specs
  • Lightweight and require less storage space
  • They make use of less complicated polygon meshes

Cons

  • The finished product cannot have a high level of detail
  • Lower maneuverability since they make use of less complicated geometry
  • The quality of the topography will not be that good since a lot of GPU power will be needed to give more visual rendering

High Poly Modeling

High poly modeling is the same as low poly modeling in the base. However, low poly modeling requires a higher number of polygons with more vertices.

The end product will be far greater than when it is done with low poly modeling, as the models will be smoother and will appear more photorealistic.

Applications of High Poly Modeling

The high poly modeling method is excellent for creating all models. While using this method to create simple models is inefficient, more complicated models can be easily created. Some of the scenarios where high poly modeling is applied are:

  • Digital sculpting or arts
  • Simulation programs
  • 3D architecture models
  • High VFX movie creations
  • Mapping

Pros

  • Far more detailed models with more zoom-ins
  • Increased rendering capabilities
  • Models have a high percentage of realism and higher resolution
  • It can be used to blend process scenarios that include motion

Cons

  • Require ample memory space to store and a device with a strong GPU
  • It is complicated and hard to use
  • Due to a high number of polygons being processed, crashes might occur, or the program might lag in speed

Differences between High and Low Poly Modeling

While Low poly modeling should be used to create models that require more interaction, models that are not generally static and need higher controllability should be made with high poly modeling.

Every 3D model is made from various 2D polygons. The polygons with more vertices are processed with high poly modeling, while ones with lower vertices count are created with low poly modeling.

In a 3D model, both types of modeling might be used in a scenario, depending on the places that require them. However, there are differences between them. Using low poly modeling to create more realistic details (like a crease on a shirt) would be time-consuming and irrational. There are many factors that these two methods differ in.

Complexity of Geometry

CG artists will require a lot of time to build and check the geometry of a model. A high Poly method is used to process chipping, visible seams, holes in the surface, etc.

Low Poly models cannot offer much control over Geometry. However, that is what makes them attractive to create the geometry of logos or app design.

Texture Quality

It is easy to import the texture from any external sources and even improve it further or make slight changes, like color. The textures can also be created from scratch.

The matters related to low poly modeling cannot be too complicated. Due to such limitations, CG artists make their textures based on previous data and keep their pixels minimum.

Processing Time

High poly models take longer to process due to their nature of dealing with data with more complexity. CG artists often use render farms to accelerate the process. Of course, whether the process is accelerated or not, the end product will still be highly photorealistic.

They are optimized and created very quickly. So creators use them in VR/AR developments, in which the engines need to process the data instantaneously.

Static or Motion

High poly modeling renders produce motion with great details. So these models are featured in animation and zoom effects. The models can also be controlled as wished without any restrictions, as long as they are programmed.

These models work effectively with rendering. They have fabulous interactive features, making them a great inclusion in games and VR/AR systems. However, they cannot offer much maneuverability and any zoom effect.

Conclusion

The type of modeling depends entirely on you and what you are going to create. With high poly modeling, you could get greater freedom to develop models without restriction; only veterans can cope with their usage complexity.

Even poly models are pretty popular among both professionals and those who are not so professional. So do not look down on them. If you intend to render a simple visual, low poly modeling might be a good choice for you. However, the one you’ll choose should match your preferences and this is what I ask you most to consider.