If you’ve ever wondered whether you can upload your 3D models to an online store and actually make money from it, the answer is simple: yes, you can. I’ve been doing this for a few years now, and I’d like to share some practical advice that can save you time and help you get started.
To make things even easier, I’ve included a few YouTube videos I find especially valuable. Personally, I really enjoy the insights from creators like Grant Abbitt and Hubert Knoblauch—their years of experience are packed into these tutorials, and they’re well worth watching.
What to Keep in Mind Before You Start
Success doesn’t come from uploading just anything and hoping for the best. A few key things matter if you want to see real results:
- Focus on quality.
Before you list your model, ask yourself honestly: Would I pay for this? If the answer is no, keep refining until the quality feels professional. - Avoid oversaturation.
Some categories—like basic chairs, tables, or cars—are already overcrowded. That doesn’t mean you can’t compete in those niches, but make sure your models stand out with fresh style, unique features, or extra polish.
Where to Sell Your 3D Models
There are plenty of marketplaces out there, but not all of them are equal. Based on my own experience, here are four of the most reliable and well-known platforms to consider:
- Superhive – great for independent 3D creators, especially if you work in Blender.
- FAB – Epic Games’ new marketplace (replacing Sketchfab and Unreal Store) with strong visibility for Unreal Engine users.
- CGTrader – one of the largest and most established 3D platforms worldwide.
- Unity Asset Store – ideal if your models are game-ready and optimized for Unity.
If you start selling, I would focus uploading models to these platforms, in order to save time “wasted” on the upload process, and invest more time into creating new models. Now, let’s look at each in more detail.
Superhive (formerly Blender Market)
- High royalties: Creators can earn up to 90% commission (70% with free plan), one of the best rates out there.
- Blender-focused: Perfect if your models, add-ons, or assets are tailored for Blender users. You can still attach other formats as well (actually it’s desired).
- Trusted platform: All products are curated and reviewed, which builds buyer confidence.
PRO TIP: Use base meshes to speed up your workflow and create characters even faster
- Community support: You can choose to donate a small portion of earnings directly to Blender’s development fund.
- Note: The quality standards are strict—your assets must meet their guidelines to be approved.
FAB (by Epic Games)
- Generous revenue share: You keep 88% of your sales.
- Epic Games ecosystem: Fully integrated with Unreal Engine and actively promoted by Epic. You can still attach other formats as well (actually it’s desired).
- Large exposure: Reach a broad community of developers, from hobbyists to AAA studios.
PRO TIP: A good base mesh can save up to 80% of the character design time.
- Multi-engine use: Assets can also be used outside of Unreal, opening up more opportunities.
- Note: FAB is still evolving, so discoverability and ranking systems may continue to change as the platform grows.
CGTrader
- Established marketplace: Active since 2011 with a strong reputation and wide buyer base.
- Flexible royalties: Earn between 60%–85%, depending on your sales over the past 12 months.
- Versatile audience: Buyers range from indie creators to large studios, covering many industries.
Unity Asset Store
- Direct access to Unity users: Your models are displayed right inside the Unity Editor.
- Game-focused: Best suited for game-ready assets, tools, and environments.
- Standard revenue share: You keep 70% (Unity takes a 30% cut)
Final Thoughts
Selling 3D models online is absolutely possible, and it can grow from a nice side income into a serious business if you approach it the right way. Focus on quality, originality, and choosing the right marketplace for your work.
Start small, learn from each upload, and don’t forget to check out the recommended YouTube creators—absorbing their tips can save you months (or even years) of trial and error.
