What it does
Blockbench is a GPL-licensed low-poly model editor available as a download or web application. It combines cuboid and mesh modelling with texture tools, UV templates and an animation editor.
Blockbench brings low-poly geometry, pixel textures and animation into one editor. Cuboids provide a starting shape, while mesh tools allow more detailed forms. It also has dedicated model formats for Minecraft Java and Bedrock, with features tied to those formats.
Texture work stays close to the model: generate a UV layout and template, paint on the 3D surface or in the 2D editor, and create or import a colour palette. For movement, rig the model, set position, rotation and scale keyframes, then adjust transitions in the graph editor. The built-in plugin store adds formats and tools beyond the core editor.
The desktop app and browser version are free. Its GPLv3 software licence does not take ownership of the models, textures, animations or screenshots you create. Developers can also build proprietary or paid plugins and themes under the project's explicit exception.
Strengths
- UV editing, painting and animation share the same application.
- Dedicated Minecraft formats and JavaScript plugins extend the modelling workflow.
- Created models, textures and animations remain the artist's own assets.
Best for
- Minecraft model and animation authors
- Low-poly artists using pixel textures
Sources
- Blockbench (Oct 27, 2026)
- Blockbench repository and licensing (Oct 27, 2026)