When comparing Zbrush Core Mini vs Lightwave 3D, the Slant community recommends Lightwave 3D for most people. In the question“What is the best 3D modeling software?” Lightwave 3D is ranked 6th while Zbrush Core Mini is ranked 19th. The most important reason people chose Lightwave 3D is:
In addition to Lscript, Lightwave supports Python.
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Pros
Pro Free
This is a free educational version of Zbrush Core. It allows you to get used to the Zbrush UI without paying for it.
More or less, a transitional package to Zbrush or Zbrush Core.
Pro Support for Python scripting
In addition to Lscript, Lightwave supports Python.
Pro Been around for years, and is still capable of good animations, and great renders.
The 3DS MAX version 5 days. So Lightwave will always hold a special place for me. It was ahead of the game back in the day, with its renderer. And was widely used for films, among other things. Though it hasn't advanced much in the modeling section, and UI over the years. You can still make some really nice things in it, and get some highly realistic results.
Pro Powerful animation tools
Pro Great value for the price
Pro A perfect tool for freelancers
Pro Powerful nodes shaders
Pro Plays well with other software
Pro Beginner friendly with a very smooth learning curve
Pro Very stable
Pro Great community support
Pro Production proven
Used heavily in famous Hollywood movies, TV shows, commercials and video games.
Pro Designed for individual artists
Cons
Con Limited
It doesn't have all the features of Zbrush or Zbrush Core.
Con For Non-Commercial use only
Cannot sell any products you make using this software.
You'll have to upgrade your files to Zbrush Core or the standard Zbrush. Also will need License for either Zbrush Core or the Standard Zbrush depending on which one you upgrade to.
Con Two applications: one for modelling and another for layout
Con Not beginner-friendly
Lightwave has mediocre tutorials and a complex multi-application workflow.