Many times, modelers use a combination of 3D and 2D modeling techniques in the creation of a 3D model. With the combination of these methods, we receive the easy rendering processes that come with 3D model creation, and the ease in creating models that come with 2D model creation processes.

There are three main benefits to using 3D models, rather than 2D models. One, 3D models are flexible and can be changed or animated quickly, with quicker rendering time. Rendering time refers to the amount of time that it takes to give a model life, or animate it. Which brings us to the second benefit to using 3d models, this ease of rendering allows to physically create the model, rather than having to imagine the effects? Next, the accuracy is discussed. 3D models create an accuracy that cannot be created with 2D models. If a builder or a designer is able to picture the object or design in which they are building and consult with the rendering throughout the creation process, this ensures less mistakes are going to be made in the creation of the model.

Aside from these benefits come the disadvantages of creating 3D models, these are: the difficulty and practice that it takes a model to create lifelike models. Some of these effects are difficult to learn, and techniques mean additional time spent learning the software and creating the 3D model.

The significant differences that arise between the two forms of modeling are: the space in which the object is defined, and the ability to render such things as perspective, shadow and lighting, as well as other photorealistic effects.

In some professions, such as the medical profession, 2D models have been preferred in x-rays and other diagnostic forms because of the simplification that comes with reading the results, and abstract information can be difficult to detect within 3D models, therefore making representations difficult to create, and even more difficult to read!