30+ Free Valentine’s Day Coloring Pages


My mom was a terrible mom. Literally one of the worst in the world, but one thing she always did for me was to make holidays special and it’s something that I treasured and really loved growing up. I always looked forward to the holidays, knowing she’d do something cool.

I knew she cared because she tried really hard to make holidays special. Growing up in a single mom home was tough, for her AND for me, but I could always count on having fun on holidays.

👉 I really think EVERY parent should do that for their kids!

If it’s Valentine’s Day, grab a small box of candy conversation hearts and these free Valentine’s Day coloring pages and give them as a present to your little ones to DIY and color with them and have some nice, relaxing FUN!

You can make the day special for your kids in such an easy, simple way, just like my mom did for me! Something I treasure to this day. ❤️

Free Valentine’s Day Coloring Pages

These free coloring sheets printables include:

  • Giraffe hugging a heart and winking
  • Cute fox in a field with heart balloons
  • Dinosaur holding a rose bouquet
  • Bowl of heart cookies – Happy Valentine’s Day
  • Zebra holding a heart card
  • Teddy bear with a bow – You are beary cute
  • Tiger cub holding a heart    
  • Flowers and a butterfly with hearts on its wings
  • Adorable hippo holding a heart
  • Baby bird on a branch holding an envelope with a heart
  • Cute giraffe holding a heart
  • Sweet fox sitting down with heart balloons
  • Little zebra holding a heart
  • Hearts and a delicious milkshake with cherry and sprinkles on top
  • Bunny rabbit holding a heart
  • Envelope with hearts inside – Sending you love
  • Kitty cat with hearts
  • Baby reindeer in the forest with heart balloons
  • Small elephant holding a heart
  • Kawaii kitten holding a heart + heart balloons and flowers
  • Baby giraffe holding hearts with patterns
  • Gorgeous hippo holding a heart
  • Lovely cupcake with heart balloons and a cherry on top – Be mine
  • Tiny Tiger holding a heart
  • Teddy bear holding a heart
  • Squirrel holding a heart
  • Love letter with heart glasses – Lots of love
  • Heart-shaped waffle with Cherry – I Love You
  • Adorable giraffe with heart spots and heart
  • Happy butterfly with heart wings in a flower garden
  • Cute bunny holding a heart plush
  • Smiling unicorn on clouds under a rainbow with heart balloons
  • Ice cream sundae with hearts – You’re sweet

Download your cute v-day coloring pages below…

Want more? Here’s another cute Valentine’s Doodle Coloring Page. ❤️

How to share Kindle e-books with your household


One of the greatest joys of reading is sharing what you love. When you buy a physical book, and you love it, you pass it along to friends and family members who might glean some of the same happiness, or sadness, or wonder that you had when you read it. But sharing that joy isn’t always so easy when you’ve got an e-book instead of a physical book. Handing your entire Kindle over to someone just doesn’t feel realistic — but that isn’t the only way to share an e-book.

Amazon used to allow readers to loan Kindle e-books to friends or family temporarily, however the company quietly did away with the feature. Now if you want to loan out a book, you can only do so through the Family Library.

Mashable Trend Report

Kindle e-readers have a lending feature built in called the Family Library. It’s a great way to share your book collection with your friends and family: It links together two adults and up to four children, from an adult’s account, to share Amazon Prime benefits and Kindle e-books. To set it up, you’ll need to link all the accounts together through Amazon Family.

Once you’ve got that set up, then you can start sharing with the whole household. Here’s how to share books within your Amazon Family.

How to share Kindle books within your Amazon Family

Step 1:
Navigate to your Content Library

Under the Account & Lists tab, navigate to the Content Library section.

The Account & Lists tab with the Content Library link circled in red


Credit: Screenshot / Amazon / Mashable

Step 2:
Navigate to your Books

Once you’re in the Content Library, navigate to the Books section where all of your EPUB files, library loans, and Kindle Store purchases live.

The Digital Content page on Amazon


Credit: Screenshot / Amazon

Step 3:
Select book and share with family

Browse through your book library to select the book in your library you’d like to share. Once you’ve found the book, select the More Actions tab and find Manage Family Library. Then you can select who in your Amazon Family can also access that title.

The More Actions tab with Manage Family Library circled in red


Credit: Screenshot / Amazon / Mashable

Best 50 Sites to Hire Freelance 3D Modeling Experts and Remote 3D Designers for Companies


3D modeling services refers to the use of specialized software to create an image or visualization of an object. In other words, a 3D model is CGI (computer-generated imagery) and it exists only as a digital file in a virtual world. The model itself can be entirely imaginary (such as a product concept, yet-to-be-built architectural design, fantastical creatures, game characters, and scenery) or digital twins, like when an automaker builds a detailed digital archive of an existing vehicle.

Thanks to the rapid development of computer technologies, 3D modeling is applicable to just about every industry. Over the years, modelers have used specialized software to build a wide variety of digital objects for various purposes, such as:

  • Design ideas: 3D modelers are able to visualize product design concepts either from scratch or based on rough sketches by designers. The result is, as mentioned earlier, a digital prototype. The products can be anything from a simple pair of flip-flops to a complex industrial machine with all the mechanical components inside.
  • Characters: even if the characters in games and animated films are based on real people, what you see on screen are 3D models. Some architectural renderings also use 3D models of people to increase the photorealism effect.
  • Scientific concepts: 3D modeling has been frequently used in educational settings to help students gain a better understanding of biology, physics, geography, and history. Digital models allow students and professionals to interact with a variety of objects (digital twins) in a controlled environment.

So, 3D modeling is useful and just as ubiquitous as you might expect, but it’s not something that anybody can master in just a few days’ time. It’s a good thing that the World Wide Web has given access to quite a lot of places where you can source skillful 3D modeling professionals, both agencies and solo freelancers, to work on your next projects.

RELATED: 3D Modeling Services – Factors Affecting the Speed of Your Project

Remote 3D designers/agencies

As far as designs are concerned, 3D modeling offers an efficient way to visualize ideas and develop prototypes–digital prototypes, at least. In some advanced product development projects, a 3D model might be subjected to a simulation analysis to evaluate the performance and functionality (of the digitally created prototype) before moving forward to the production stage. Designers and engineers can therefore refine their ideas and make countless alterations on the screen, without actually having the physical design in their hands. 

cadcrowd-logo

1. Cad Crowd

You can’t just hire any digital artist on a whim. A proper 3D modeling requires some serious skills, a good understanding of 3D software, and, more importantly, an excessive dose of creativity. Experience in similar projects is equally important, as it demonstrates the modeler’s abilities to tackle common design challenges on the job as well. Although in certain projects the modeler basically follows what’s already described in the brief, the job often puts the modeler in situations where they have to deal with unexpected difficulties in various aspects like level of details, styling, and uniqueness.

Additionally, familiarity (or rather, proficiency) in cloud-based workflow is becoming a greater necessity, especially if you’re talking about remote projects. But Cad Crowd has everything covered on your behalf. Unlike the vast majority of general freelancing platforms, Cad Crowd positions itself as a 3D CAD specialist; the vast majority of freelancers, experts, and firms registered with the site are CAD professionals, offering a wide variety of industry-relevant services.

Cad Crowd has just the right talents to tackle all sorts of CG-related tasks, including but not limited to 3D modeling of any object, 3D rigging services, texturing, rendering, animation, and concept art. Through the “Managed Services” feature, you have the benefit of keeping the project confidential in every sense of the word. The project remains closed to the public and is accessible only by the 3D modeler handpicked by Cad Crowd. As a matter of fact, only you and the modeler can see the project description, the submitted work, and file attachments.

If privacy and confidentiality are non-negotiable, Managed Services from Cad Crowd is the way to go. As an alternative, there’s also the ‘Design Contest” option, where you post a 3D modeling project either to the public or to a selection of freelancers. However, contests are probably best reserved for smaller projects, such as 3D printable designs, simple product ideas, game character models, or floor plans. As long as the project brief is simple enough that you can explain everything in one page, a design contest seems like a good option. Freelancers will compete against each other to submit their best works and earn the prize money.

It’s worth mentioning that every 3D modeler who participates in your design contest is bound by Cad Crowd’s non-disclosure agreement. Because the options of “Managed Services” and “Design Contest” are available for clients, Cad Crowd is kind of operating as both a design agency, where it acts like a project manager to bridge communication between the modeler and the client, and a freelancing platform that connects you with professional, independent solo freelance 3D modelers. 

Website: Cadcrowd.com

RELATED: 3D Modeling vs. 3D Rendering Services

game-ace logo

2. Game-Ace

Quite a lot of online/remote 3D product modeling agencies specialize in the gaming industry, and Game-Ace is one of those. While the website plainly says that they’re a custom game development studio, the description seems to indicate that it can take 3D modeling orders of any kind, including characters, vehicles, environment, weapons, etc. Considering the fact that modern games are increasingly focusing on realism, there’s no reason you shouldn’t consider the studio for your next 3D modeling project.

The agency operates in more or less the same fashion as just about every other custom service online, in which it takes your order for a tailored product and delivers it exactly to your specification and budget. As long as you’re asking for 3D hard surface modeling, chances are the professionals at Game-Ace can get the job done no matter what the objects are. Game-Ace is based in Nicosia, Cyprus, with representatives located in various countries, including Germany, Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Canada.

Website: Game-ace.com

Juego Studio

3. Juego Studios

An ISO-9001:2015 certified game development company, Juego Studios has worked with giants like Disney, Coca-Cola, Warner Bros., and Johnson & Johnson, among others. The studio is headquartered in Bengaluru, India, but it has established branch offices in London (UK), Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Miami (US), and Texas (US). It’s powered by a relatively big team of more than 100 professionals, including 3D artists, storytellers, innovators, and game developers.

Since Juego Studios was founded in 2013, it has worked with at least 80 clients across 20 countries worldwide. Once again, Juego Studios is mainly a game design company, which naturally also does 3D modeling work. In fact, 3D sculpting design services (a type of 3D modeling) is one of the core professions in the entire game development industry. This means you don’t have to plan to build a game from scratch to hire their services. It doesn’t matter if you need a 3D model of shiny jewelry or an oil rig, Juego Studios is happy to take the order.

Website: Juegostudio.com

Anideos

4. Anideos

Despite being a video production company at heart, Anideos offers a whole range of other services in the digital art industry, including book illustration, concept art development, and, of course, 3D modeling. Anideos isn’t actually a freelancing platform, but it allows you to hire each of the services individually. For example, a client can hire an artist to build a 3D model without having to order the animation service as well.

Think of Anideos as an agency, or a recruiter if you like, that takes your order and has it completed by a qualified professional in its network. One of the most commendable things about Anideos is that it provides long-term support following project completion. If at some point after the project, you’ve discovered that the 3D model needs refinements due to visual flaws, Anideos is ready to take the model back and fix it all up for you.

Website: Anideos.com

3d Ace logo

5. 3D-Ace

Unlike the similarly named Game-Ace that positions itself as a game studio but also offers 3D modeling services, 3D-Ace is kind of a generalist as far as 3D CAD is concerned. At least according to 3D-Ace themselves, the studio is dealing in the art outsourcing business and providing services in three main categories: 3D modeling, 3D animation services, and VFX.

When it comes to the 3D modeling part, 3D-Ace mainly employs the polygonal modeling technique. That said, the in-house team is more than skillful enough to take different approaches, such as NURBS, photogrammetry, digital sculpting, and all other solutions that aren’t typically associated with games. Every single model is formatted and optimized for any specific type of media (render, animation, software, etc.), so make sure your project brief contains clear information about where you want to use the model and for what purpose.

Website: 3D-ace.com

Ufo 3D

6. UFO 3D

Maintaining prompt communication should be easy with UFO 3D, thanks to its stand-alone mobile platform available for iOS. It probably is one of the very few 3D modeling services that have their own mobile apps to help you manage every project on the go, so it’s a little bit more reassuring than most in that regard. UFO 3D is backed by a pretty big team of nearly 300 digital artists, with a combined expertise to take on just about every CGI project you can throw at them. This may include 3D modeling, animation, 360° view, drawings, sketches, 3D AR/VR architectural experts, architectural visualization, and AR.

In fact, UFO 3D says there’s no scale limitation to the size and type of project it can handle. The free revision offer is also quite promising. The agency is willing to make as many adjustments as you need, as long as the changes don’t exceed 60% of the scope of the project. A limitation in revision is not uncommon in the business, but a 60% maximum is pretty impressive. Registered clients also get free access to a massive library of assets containing tens of thousands of 3D models (mostly furniture pieces and accessories) and more than 6,000 scenes.

Website: Ufo3d.com

RELATED: 3D Modeling: An Overview of History & Industry Applications

Vegacadd

7. VegaCADD

While VegaCADD is operating primarily in the architectural visualization business sector, the solution also offers custom 3D modeling services. Admittedly, most projects in its current portfolio revolve around furniture designs and decorations, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t order 3D modeling of any other object. VegaCADD caters to both low-poly and high-poly modeling techniques, meaning the models should be good enough for product visualizations, animations, and even game visuals.

Over the last six years or so, the agency has managed to successfully tackle 785 projects for various purposes in different fields. The usual 3D model formats are DWG, DWF, and DWFx, but you’re welcome to personalize the order and ask for any specific file output. VegaCADD is based in California, United States, and is part of Rayvat Rendering Studio. Their corporate headquarters, however, are located in Gandhinagar, India. 

Website: Vegacadd.com

8. Aristek Systems

You may notice that Aristek System actually is a custom software development company, but the website clearly says that it also offers solutions in the 3D modeling sector. The company’s work in the sector consists of four major disciplines, including CAD, product modeling, animation, and rendering. In the CAD part, the in-house 3D design team takes your design ideas and transforms them into digital drawings. This eliminates the need to have ready-made sketches when ordering a 3D model, because the company has this part covered.

They first produce two-dimensional digital drawings based on your idea, wait for your feedback and approval, revise if necessary, and then build the 3D model. In case you want to take things a little bit further with animation or a complete lifestyle rendering (with additional objects in the background), Aristek System can take on the job as well, for a full-range, turnkey 3D design service.

Website: Aristekservices.com

The Motion Tree

9. The Motion Tree

Some 3D modeling agencies are quite secretive about their pricing and deliberately keep the information behind a registration wall. The Motion Tree is not such a firm. It offers several different services and is upfront about the pricing in all of them. The 3D modeling service is available for $25; the service includes creating the sketches and turning them into 3D models. However, the service doesn’t actually include texturing work, as it will cost you $10 extra.

In case you also need a silo rendering (photorealistic CGI put against a plain background, usually white), you must pay an additional fee of $10 as well. The two most expensive services are lifestyle rendering (similar to silo rendering, except the background is not in plain color, but an assortment of other objects arranged in such a way in the scene) and product animation services, costing $79 and $99, respectively. 

Website: Themotiontree.com

nAo Design

10. nAO

A hardware product development company, nAO divides its services into five major categories: Product Design, Design Research, Engineering, Manufacturing Support, and AI-Powered Product Concepts. The company’s 3D modeling work lies under the first and the last categories. Product Design is all about creating concepts and transforming them into realistic models based on predetermined parameters, whereas the AI-powered option involves collecting and analyzing an extensive amount of data about any particular design and exploring feasible concepts using artificial intelligence.

For the AI-powered design generation, nAO charges $2500, for which you get three product concepts, high-resolution rendering of the selected concept, a 3D model, and one time revision. Remember that nAO also offers engineering and manufacturing support. In case you need to take a product concept further into an actual production run, the company is eager to provide additional services such as prototyping and manufacturing optimization. Most products in the company’s portfolio are IoT devices and high-tech systems. 

Website: Nao.design

Peschkedesign

11. Peschke

Having been around in the creative industry since 1973, Peschke is quite possibly one of the oldest design studios in the world. It’s a multidisciplinary studio that does everything from UX/UI and content creation to software development and product design. Pouring a combined expertise in materials science, ergonomics, and production engineering design professionals, Peschke is best known for its “circular” approach to design by aligning product development work with the principles of circular economy.

In short, their designs are meant to contribute to the global effort to reduce waste and minimize consumption. Their CAD and visualization offerings are made up of several different services: 3D modeling, design comparisons, renderings, animations, and virtual reality. Some of their previous clients include AKG Acoustics, ENGEL, Waagner-Biro, and Grabner Instruments. Peschke is based in Vienna, Austria. 

Website: Peschke.at

RELATED: Why is 3D Modeling Important for Product Manufacturing Companies?

Thepro3dstudio

12. ThePro3DStudio

Many design studios offer 3D modeling services merely as part of their product development businesses, but ThePro3DStudio only focuses on the modeling part. That said, there is a good enough variety in the range of services it provides. For example, the studio offers to build your 3D model in either a 3D-printable format, digital sculpting, or both. The studio also doesn’t have any specific considerations about the types of objects you want to make; they might be gadgets, furniture pieces, apparel, fashion accessories, cosmetics, and more. 

You get to choose whether you want to pay an hourly rate or on a project basis for the task. More importantly, the studio says to keep the client heavily involved throughout the project, from the ideation stage to the actual design iteration. You’ll be asked for reviews and feedback on a regular basis (for approval) every step of the way before the studio proceeds to the next phase. This makes sure that the final model or design is exactly to your preference. 

Website: Professional3dservices.com

Spine-3D

13. Spine 3D

Spatial Interactive Experiences (stylized as SPINE, and then becoming Spine 3D) is a visualization studio located in South Florida. Specializing in architectural objects, the visualization services include 3D modeling, rendering, animation, virtual tours, 360° view, virtual reality of buildings, interior designs, landscapes, floor plans, real estate projects, or just about everything else typically related to construction. And yet the studio’s portfolio, especially in the “product visualization & experiences” section, contains an assortment of photorealistic models of seemingly random objects, such as a crane attachment, a wristwatch, a wolf, a door lock, a lighting fixture, some cars, and a few medical equipment.

Website: Spine3d.com

Design1st

14. Design 1st

Everything about Design 1st revolves around three processes: designing, engineering, and prototyping. The studio focuses on “manufacturable design concepts” rather than imaginary objects like fantastical characters or sci-fi weapons you see in games. In other words, Design 1st isn’t interested in any non-feasible concepts, and it works only in the realm of technical plausibility.

Based on the information available from the website, you don’t actually have to provide sketches or concepts of any sort when ordering a 3D model. Design 1st only needs a plausible idea or a vision of a product to start working through the entire process of generating a visualization. The process begins by identifying the target user before it moves on to an exploration into visual concepts of the product in question.

The first visual concepts are usually hand-drawn images, and then the 3D modeling work kicks off. You’ll be heavily involved in the project until you’re happy with the produced 3D model. Assuming you want to continue the collaboration with rapid prototyping designers or CNC machining, Design 1st has the expertise in those services as well.

Website: Design1st.com

Brash Inc

15. Brash

The services Brash provides include PCB design, model making, mechanical engineering, robotics/mechatronics, firmware development, full-stack web development, and industrial design. With offices located in North America (United States and Canada) and Europe, the company has worked with businesses of all sizes and provided turnkey product development services across industries. The good thing about Brash is that no client is required to go through the entire product development process, from ideation all the way to production. Brash is ready to jump at any point in the process. You don’t have to go through every single step, meaning you can order only what you need; in this case, the 3D modeling phase. 

Website: Brashinc.com

Porticos

16. Porticos

According to Porticos themselves, many of their clients do not really need the entire range of product development services, from concept generation to post-production. The company has been around for more than 20 years, catering to clients from various industries and with highly specific needs. Just because you only need to have a product idea 3D-modeled and nothing else, it doesn’t mean you can’t ask for their assistance.

In addition to 3D modeling and new product development services, Porticos takes pride in its “engineering investigation” work, which includes everything from design review and cost engineering to failure analysis and component obsolescence. This service screams reverse engineering, which is definitely useful if you want to build or “model” a new product based on an existing design. 

Website: Porticos.net

RELATED: How 3D Modeling Services Are Changing the Fashion Industry

Tesla mechanical designs logo

17. Tesla Mechanical Designs

A big highlight of Tesla Mechanical Designs is that they claim to implement the DFM (Design for Manufacturing) approach in all of their modeling work. DFM services basically refers to the process of designing an object with manufacturability in mind. Every single thing in the design, including the material, tolerance, surface finish, geometry, etc., should be, by definition, production-ready.

When it comes to 3D modeling, especially if it’s a product concept, you want it to be as precise as possible to the physical object. Tesla Mechanical Designs claims to place emphasis on accuracy to the point where the design can be replicated easily for future uses. You’ll be glad to know that they also cater to mechanical part modeling, indicating that they work not only on the external (exterior part) of a product design, but also the inner mechanism, too.

Website: Teslamechanicaldesigns.com

Concepto-studios-logo

18. Concepto Studios

Some popular products by well-known brands in which Concepto Studios was part of the design team include the Remington’s HyperFlex rotary shavers, BLACK+DECKER Xpress Steam Cord Reel Iron, and Philips Zenit 5.1 Speaker System.

Concepto Studios provides the entire series of services you typically expect from a product development company, such as research, branding, design, 3D visualization, design engineering experts, prototyping, packaging, and manufacturing; basically everything you need to turn an idea into a physical product. But then again, you don’t have to use them all. If you’ve already done your research or put the designs into sketches, and you only need the 3D modeling part done, there’s no need to pay for the full spectrum of services. 

Website: Conceptostudios.com

Pixready

19. PIXREADY

Considering the fact that PIXREADY has only been in the business for around five years, it’s quite impressive that they’ve completed more than 1200 projects already. Granted, not every single one of those projects was product 3D modeling, for the simple reason that they also offer architectural visualization, product configurator, and animation. Their 3D modeling services cater to different needs; it doesn’t matter if you need the models for prototyping purposes, virtual try-ons, DFM documentation, or marketing assets. Prices start from $100 for a basic model and $350 for the more complex type.

Website: Pixready.com

CGI Furniture

20. CGI Furniture

As the name implies, CGI Furniture only does 3D visualization services for one type of product: furniture. Like PIXREADY, you have several options based on how you intend to use the models. For advertising purposes, for example, you should pick the high-poly model as it highlights the texture, colors, and surface finishes better than the low-poly option. That being said, the low-poly is probably best for AR and VR uses, such as during a virtual walkthrough of a design. 3D furniture rendering services also have a massive library containing thousands of ready-to-use 3D models and scenes that you can purchase and (likely) modify.

Website: Cgifurniture.com

Jackson-hedden-logo

21. Jackson Hedden

One of Jackson Hedden’s finest creations, the Archie & Alfred Dog Harness, was awarded the best dog leash by People Magazine. In their Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) directory, the list of clients includes 3M, Bentley, Boston Scientific, and Axolight. As part of Jackson Hedden’s primary services, they offer design research, sketch ideation, CAD documentation, and visualization.

With a bold claim that says “we make everything,” the firm never shies away from implementing an out-of-the-box approach to design, but without abandoning the contemporary design principles. Whether you want to have a brand-new product design 3D-modeled or an existing design reengineered and improved, Jackson Hedden should be on your shortlist of remote 3D designers to hire.

Website: Jacksonhedden.com

Modelry

22. Modelry

With over six million 3D specialists registered with the site, Modelry is a pretty massive place to outsource your 3D modeling project. The thing is, Modelry doesn’t connect you directly with any of those specialists. The platform takes your order for a custom 3D model and delivers the model as requested. They don’t really say whether the job is outsourced by one of the freelancers or done by the in-house team, but the most important thing is that the client receives the files either way.

A single custom-built 3D model costs from $42. One of Moderly’s latest offerings is the “3D Datasets” feature, which includes custom datasets tailored to your specifications and fully licensed generative AI applications. Modelry also provides a free 3D model storage and hosting service up to 20GB.

Website: Moderly.ai

RELATED: How to Design 3D Models for 3D Printing & New Prototypes

Freelance 3D modeler

And now to the sites where you can find and hire individual (or a team of) freelancers instead of design firms.

anytask logo

23. AnyTask

You’ll immediately notice that AnyTask is a general freelancing platform just by looking at the homepage. There is a massive search bar at the top of the page, followed by an assortment of thumbnails showcasing the platform’s recommended freelancers. All the 3D modeling professionals are listed under the “Visual Design” tab, especially in the “3D & Architectural Design” category, where you’ll see other options like floor plans and AutoCAD mechanical engineering professionals as well.

Let’s say you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for in the list of freelancers or that you’re still unsure if anybody is able to complete the project well; AnyTask gives you the option to post the project on a job board free of charge. Interested modelers will send you an offer, and you can continue the conversation from there. AnyTask does provide the platform to connect you with freelancers, but it will not in any way interfere with the collaboration. AnyTask does charge a small fee for every transaction done through the platform. The cost is automatically added to the project cost, and the modeler gets to keep 100% of the earnings.

Website: Anytask.com

CGHERO logo

24. CGHero

In some respects, CGHero is like Cad Crowd in the sense that both are freelancing platforms that offer full-service management. Also, they specialize in services revolving around the computer-generated design field. When working with CGHero, all you have to do is provide a simple brief that includes the project type, software preference, skill requirements, and production format. The platform immediately takes over from there and proceeds to create the detailed descriptions of the tasks involved.

It will then match the project with 3D modelers registered to the site. You’ll receive updates about the project, and when everything is done, you’ll gain access to all the files. The project management platform has all the features you need to monitor progress, provide reviews or feedback, and track activities during any given project. All the funds are held in an escrow account and released only when the work is done. The intellectual properties and copyrights are also transferred to you on project completion. 

Website: Cghero.com

braintrust logo

25. Braintrust

With everything seeming to be AI-generated these days, Braintrust jumps on the bandwagon by providing you with an AI-powered hiring assistance when you need a top talent to work on your 3D modeling project (or any project for that matter, because Braintrust is a general freelancing platform). There’s an AI job description generator, which automatically creates a job posting supposedly effective to attract top talent; it also has an AI-based candidate matching process that selects only five candidates (out of a million talent members) for your project; even the video interviews to screen the candidates are conducted by AI.

Braintrust partners with more than 25 workforce platforms to ensure you get the best possible candidate for projects of any size and the right tools to manage the collaboration. If the AI isn’t entirely convincing enough for you, Braintrust also offers a Remote Job Board that you can use to post projects for free.

Website: Usebraintrust.com

CGtrader

26. CGTrader

More than 40,000 freelance 3D designers find a home in CGTrader, which claims to be the largest platform to find 3D modelers, riggers, animators, 3D printing professionals, and everything in between. The hiring process is pretty straightforward in CGTrader. You need to describe your project as clearly as possible using a simple form. It’s advisable to add some images to the description to help freelancers understand the brief better.

Next, the platform selects a number of qualified designers to send quotes based on the project brief. You should receive the quotes in your inbox. The quotes should come attached with the freelancers’ profiles, making it easier for you to browse their portfolios and evaluate their previous works. In case you find the whole process too cumbersome for some reason, just use the search function and filter the results based on skills, ratings, and software preferences. CGTrader requires you to pay the budget in advance, but the fund is only released when you’re pleased with the model submitted.

Website: Cgtrader.com

RELATED: 5 Powerful Tips for Sculpting with 3D Modeling Freelancers and Services Companies

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27. Freelancehunt

When you think of Ukraine these days, freelancing platforms might not be the first thing to cross your mind, but there is indeed such a thing in the country despite the ongoing international conflict. Since 2005, Freelancehunt has been steadily growing to become the largest freelancer market in Eastern Europe. It currently has a database of more than 175,000 professionals registered with the site; nearly 3,000 of them are 3D modelers.

Website: Freelancehunt.com

contracom logo

28. Contra

You have access to over 800,000 professionals from various disciplines in Contra. Searching for a 3D modeler (or freelancer of any other skill set, for instance, 3D architectural visualization experts) is a straightforward process. All you have to do is sort through the freelancers by category, software tools, hourly rate, language, etc., and you’ll be provided with a list of suitable candidates. However, you must be a registered member to do all that and access all other features.

Website: Contra.com

Creativelylife logo

29. Creatively

Among the best features of Creatively is that you get to post as many projects as you need and contact (via DM) up to 400,000 freelancers in its network. Creatively says it has an innovative recruiter feature–although it doesn’t actually elaborate how unique the process is–to help you match a project with the ideal 3D CAD modeling professional. It’s a subscription-based platform, costing you at least $199 per month, but thankfully, there’s a 10-day free trial. 

Website: Joincreatively.com

microlancercom logo

30. Microlancer

The minimalistic user interface seems to be the main appeal of Microlancer. Taking a deeper look into the website (or job listing) reveals that the term “micro” is used quite literally here, in the sense that clients are allowed to post even tiny projects on the board. Apart from that, everything else feels pretty much the same as many other platforms; you post a project, wait for proposals from freelancers, and choose one to get the job done. Posting a project is free, and you get the option to boost the listing (to increase visibility) for a fee.

Website: Microlancer.io

usemecom logo

31. Useme

Most freelancers in Useme are based in Europe, mainly in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Serbia. Despite not being a global freelance market, Useme claims to have at least 170,000 freelancers registered with the site. You get full access to the entire database of freelancers, and it comes with a limitless job posting feature. However, Useme charges a small platform fee taken from a percentage of your project budget for every successful transaction.

Website: Useme.com

Remote

32. Remote

A lot of things in Remote are similar to those of Contra. Instead of letting you use the website to freely post a project and hire a freelancer, first, you need to register for a membership to be able to access the job board. Subscription fee starts at $119 per month. According to Remote itself, clients will be able to access some of the most popular remote job boards to improve their chances of getting the best possible 3D CAD rendering freelancer for any project.

Website: Remote.com

RELATED: Tips to Become a Freelance 3D Visualization and 3D Modeling Pro

Toptal-logo

33. Toptal

Here’s the big claim by Toptal: thousands of freelancers apply to the platform, but no more than 3% are accepted. They position themselves as the elites of the freelancing world, promising quality over quantity. Toptal isn’t a free platform; you need to be a registered member to proceed with the “talent search” feature. The subscription fee is $79 per month

Website: Toptal.com

yunojuno logo

34. YunoJuno

Creating a YunoJuno account is free, but there’s a 12% commission fee (billed to the client, not the freelancer) for every completed project. That 12% fee covers an expedited matchmaking service and sourcing support. At the moment, YunoJuno claims to have a database of more than 100,000 freelancers with a broad range of combined skill sets from marketing to design. And yes, 3D modeling is included as well.

Website: Yunojuno.com

Upwork-logo

35. Upwork

A general freelancing platform that needs no further introduction, Upwork gives you a nice blend of user-friendliness and the promise that there will always be freelancers interested in your 3D modeling project, as long as you price it properly. Once a job is posted, you’ll receive proposals from a number of modelers. Since the lowest bidder might not always be the best option, make sure to check their profiles and portfolios before you make that hiring decision.

Website: Upwork.com

truelancercom logo

36. Truelancer

You can hire CAD designers in two ways with Truelancer. You can post a project, review proposals from freelancers, and choose one you think is best suited for the task. Alternatively, you may want to browse the freelancers’ profiles, evaluate their portfolios, and invite them to apply for your project. Truelancer doesn’t charge a platform fee, but it passes on the “third-party” payment processing fee to the client’s deposited fund.

Website: Truelancer.com

fiverr logo

37. Fiverr

Quite possibly the first website that comes to mind when looking for a freelancer, Fiverr lives up to its name by keeping the cost low, although the same introductory price of $5 only applies to the most basic of services. While you can post a 3D modeling project and have Fiverr handle the matchmaking task, it might be just easier to browse the freelancers’ profiles and contact them directly. 

Website: Fiverr.com

Freelancer

38. Freelancer

According to their latest number, Freelancer (the platform) has connected more than 78 million clients and freelancers from 247 countries combined. The hiring system works through a bidding process; freelancers are required to submit proposals or bids on your project. Freelancer, like Upwork and Fiverr, is a general freelancing platform, meaning you can post a project of any category, even the highly specific ones, such as 3D modeling or Autocad drafting & design services. Freelancer also has a mobile app to help you manage a project anywhere, anytime.

Website: Freelancer.com

RELATED: 3D Modeling in Advertising – Better Promotion with 3D Rendering Services

peopleperhour

39. PeoplePerHour

Once you post a project to PeoplePerHour, an AI-powered matchmaking system does the work and sends a notification to freelancers it thinks are most suitable for the project. You receive proposals from them, pick the best one, and deposit the project fund. PeoplePerHour also allows you to search and contact freelancers directly and invite them to complete a task. 

Website: Peopleperhour.com

Guru logo

40. Guru

The way Guru works isn’t entirely dissimilar to PeoplePerHour. You post a project (after signing up, of course), receive quotes from freelancers, and choose the best one to hire. Guru claims that a typical project should get responses from freelancers within just hours after posting. And there’s the search function, with which you can contact freelancers and ask them to send quotes for a project. 

Website: Guru.com

Blender Artist

41. Blender Artist Community

Just by looking at the homepage, you can tell immediately that you’re not in a typical freelancing platform. Blender Artist Community isn’t primarily a place where 3D artists are looking for work or companies looking to hire a freelancer, but it does have a section for both purposes in the “Jobs” section. In addition to the “Paid work” category, where you post a project and offer a monetary reward, there’s also “Volunteer work” in case you need help with some modeling but aren’t prepared to spend on it. 

Website: Blenderartists.com

DeviantArt-Logo

42. Deviant Art Forum

If the Blender Artist Community is mostly frequented by Blender (the software) users, Deviant Art is a much more open community for digital artists at large, no matter what software preferences they have. In the “Forum” portion of the community, you’ll come across the “Employment opportunities” section, filled with two categories: Artists for Hire and Hiring an Artist; both are pretty self-explanatory. You can, of course, browse both categories to discover the 3D modeler you need.

Website: Deviantart.com

FreeUp logo

43. FreeUp

You’d think that Toptal accepting a mere 3% of all freelancers applying to the site is pretty impressive, but FreeUp is even more outrageous for claiming that it accepts only 1% of all applicants. FreeUp says that all freelancers on the platform are fluent in English and have been interviewed and vetted for their technical skills. You can sign up for free, and there’s no monthly fee to use the platform. 

Website: Freeup.net

Worksome logo

44. Worksome

You can’t really classify Worksome as a job board or a freelancing platform. Worksome gives you an all-in-one platform to help you source freelancers and manage the collaboration from a single dashboard. It has a centralized system that enables a streamlined workflow to hire, contract, pay, and optimize the external workforce. You also have a feature to add your existing talent pool to the platform. 

Website: Worksome.com

RELATED: Why 3D Modeling Is Important For Constructing Architectural Projects By Companies

twine logo

45. Twine

Although there’s no mention that Twine only accepts a small percentage of freelancers registering with the site, the platform says to vet all the proposals submitted to your project. As usual, it’s also possible to browse the freelancers’ profiles and invite them to send their best pitches. Posting a project is free, and because this is a general freelancing platform, your project can be anything from simple data entry to the much more demanding 3D modeling tasks. 

Website: Twine.net

Giggrabbers

46. Giggrabbers

As far as hiring freelancers is concerned, Giggrabbers doesn’t actually provide something new. You post a project, wait for proposals, evaluate freelancers’ portfolios, and make a hiring decision. That said, Giggrabbers is the first freelancing platform to also offer crowdfunding features and exploratory tools to help clients grow their business. And for a whopping fee of $2000 per month (at least), you get the option to request a personalized package of freelancing services on a regular basis.

Website: Giggrabbers.com

Onsiteio

47. OnSite

It appears that OnSite gives nearly everything you could ever want from a freelancing platform, with such features as job posting, freelancers search, the ability to contact candidates via phone or email, and 0% commission. Unfortunately, the talent pool is not as massive as you’d get from the more established platforms like Cad Crowd. Also, OnSite charges you a flat fee of £100 (or around $123)

Website: Onsite.io

Weworkremotely

48. We Work Remotely

It might be difficult to check if this claim is true, but We Work Remotely says that the platform is home to the largest community of remote workers and employers. In terms of pricing, it’s rather on the expensive side of the spectrum, as a single job posting will cost you $299. For that amount, the job posting stays on the site for 30 days. 

Website: Weworkremotely.com

workingnotworking-logo

49. Working Not Working

There are more than 50,000 creatives, including 3D designers and artists, registered with Working Not Working, at least according to the platform itself. To access those talents, however, you need to be a premium member of the platform. Subscription fee starts at $499/month, for which you get just three job posts each month, personalized recommendations, performance tracking, and ATS.

Website: Workingnotworking.com

Working Nomads logo

50. Working Nomads

From the looks of it, Working Nomads is built primarily for freelancers rather than employers. It does have a feature for you to post jobs, but it costs $199 for a single project. In the event you’re in a situation when you might need to post multiple projects, save yourself some money by purchasing the bulk package. Working Nomads says the site is visited by over 3 million users annually, and every job post is promoted via the platform’s LinkedIn page.

Website: Workingnomads.com

What we think

Technical abilities and experience are of the utmost importance in a 3D modeler, but you will also need to take communication skills and adaptability into account. Identifying the ideal modeler for any given project often proves to be quite a cumbersome task, perhaps because everyone boasts to be the best you can find anywhere. Sometimes, it might be a good idea to leave the selection/matchmaking process to the agency/freelancing platform you’re working with.

Take Cad Crowd as an example; the team at Cad Crowd will thoroughly evaluate the specific requirements of your project, taking into consideration various elements like the desired style, software preferences, file formats, and the overall scope of work. Based on the evaluation, Cad Crowd connects you with the most suitable freelancers from its vast database for you to choose and hire. And as a result, you end up making a well-informed hiring decision. Contact us for a free quote.

author avatar

MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.

Connect with me: LinkedInXCad Crowd

Where To Find Soot To Wake Up Hypnos In Hades 2


Waking up Hypnos is one of Hades 2’s recurring goals. From the moment you start your journey in the sequel, the embodiment of sleep is in a deep slumber. This is manifested in the Fated List of Minor Prophecies as Soundest of Sleepers, tasking you to “rouse Hypnos from his slumber” without much indication as to how to accomplish it.

During Early Access, the game had two incantations related to the minor prophecy. Now, after the full release, you can finally access the third and final spell to wake up hypnos. Problem is, you’ll need a rare material for it. If you’re wondering how to get Soot in Hades 2 to complete the End to the Dumbest Slumber incantation, we’ve got you covered.

How to Unlock End to Dumbest Slumber

In order to tackle the Soundest of Sleepers prophecy in Hades 2, you have to complete three incantations. To access them, you first need to speak to Hypnos whenever you’re in the Crossroads. You need to gift him two bottles of Nectar and collect at least one Poppy, which is obtained by gathering Poppy Seeds and planting them in your garden at the Crossroads. The main NPC that you need to speak to is Medea in Ephyra, which is the first region when you’re attempting a surface run.

Medea is your go-to NPC for this questline.
Medea is your go-to NPC for this questline.

Completing these steps will unlock the End to Deepest Slumber incantation, which can be accessed from the cauldron. You’ll need one Molly, two Mandrake, and three Poppy flowers to complete it. Once that’s done, you’ll gain a Dream Vapor. Go ahead and gift it to Hypnos, and this will start a dream sequence.

During early access, the Olympic Update added the End to Dearest Slumber incantation. It has the same requirements as the previous one (albeit with an additional Mandrake), and you’ll once again enter Hypnos’ dream sequence. Sadly, this won’t be enough to wake him up, as there’s a third and final incantation.

As with everything in Hades 2, it might take you a few runs to actually see progress with conversations. Make sure to always be speaking to Medea when she’s available in Ephyra, and she’ll eventually unlock the incantations for you. Also, we have a guide covering all material sources in Hades 2 in case you need some help in that regard.

How to Get Soot for the End to Dumbest Slumber Incantation

Once you’ve completed both End to Deepest Slumber and End to Dearest Slumber, you’ll gain access to End to Dumbest Slumber. This requires two Poppy flowers, one Shaderot, and one Soot. The problem is that there’s no indication of where to find Soot.

In short, if you’re wondering how to get Soot in Hades 2, you first need to beat the main story. Without spoiling too much, you must have seen the game’s credits once. Then, you have to do a couple of underworld runs and, when you’re rummaging through the last region before the final boss, make sure to visit the NPC room when it becomes available. It took me three runs until the room appeared, but this may differ on your end. Then, gift at least one Nectar bottle to said NPC.

You won't be able to get your hands on Soot until you hit the game's credits.
You won’t be able to get your hands on Soot until you hit the game’s credits.

After speaking to said NPC, they will (quite unceremoniously) give you Soot, as well as a Keepsake. Once you’re back at the Crossroads, go ahead and tackle the incantation. All that is left to do is to gift Hypnos a Dream Vapor and watch another dream sequence. This will conclude the End to Dumbest Slumber incantation, which in turn will finally wake up Hypnos in Hades 2.

Now, go ahead and claim your reward from the Fated List of Minor Prophecies. You’ll receive two Nightmares for your trouble, which is a rare material. If you’re wondering what to use it for, we have an extensive guides hub to answer all of your Hades 2 questions.

Google’s cheaper AI Plus plan is now available in over 40 countries


Google’s new, cheaper AI Plus plan is now available in more than 40 countries, including Angola, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Senegal, Uganda, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

The company first launched its AI Plus plan in Indonesia earlier this month at Rp 75,000 ($4.50) per month. The plan costs around $5 in most countries, and Google says it will discount it by 50% for six months in a few locations like Nepal and Mexico.

The Plus tier unlocks access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, as well as tools for image and video creation like Flow, Whisk, and Veo 3 Fast. Users also get access to more features on the company’s AI research assistant NotebookLM, can use AI in Gmail, Docs and Sheets, and get 200GB of cloud storage.

The news comes a day after OpenAI expanded its sub-$5 ChatGPT Go plan to Indonesia. Notably, India, where OpenAI debuted ChatGPT Go, is missing from Google’s list.

Both companies offer a $20 per month base plan, but with these new, cheaper subscription tiers, they’re trying to reach more paying users in parts of the world where a $20 subscription can prove costly.

Personal Injury Lawyer in Roseland, NJ for Accident Legal Support


NJ Personal Injury Lawyer Accident
Deposit Photos

If you’ve been in an accident in Roseland, NJ, you’re probably overwhelmed with paperwork, insurance claims, and medical bills. It’s essential to know that a personal injury lawyer can be your advocate, helping you navigate these challenges and ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. But how exactly does a lawyer make a difference in your case? Let’s explore the pivotal role they play in securing a fair settlement for you.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims in Roseland, NJ

When maneuvering personal injury claims in Roseland, NJ, it’s imperative to comprehend the fundamentals to guarantee you’re sufficiently prepared. Start by understanding the types of incidents that qualify, like car accidents, slip and falls, or medical malpractice. Make sure you know what documentation is necessary, including medical records, police reports, and eyewitness accounts. Gathering these early on fortifies your case.

Timing is pivotal, so be aware of New Jersey’s statute of limitations, typically two years from the accident date. If you miss this deadline, your claim might be dismissed. Assess the damages you’ve suffered—both physical and emotional—and keep track of financial losses like medical bills or lost wages. Being organized and proactive will help confirm your claim is strong and valid.

The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer in Roseland, NJ plays an indispensable role in guiding you through the complexities of your claim. They’re not just legal experts; they’re your advocate, guaranteeing you get the compensation you deserve. Seeking legal help for injury cases in Roseland means having someone who will handle communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and navigate the legal system on your behalf. Their expertise is imperative in evaluating the true value of your claim, ensuring you’re not shortchanged by settlement offers.

They’ll also provide the necessary legal support if your case goes to trial, presenting a compelling argument to the court. With their knowledge of New Jersey law, they’ll make certain every step follows regulations, safeguarding your rights. Ultimately, a personal injury lawyer’s goal is to maximize your compensation and minimize your stress.

Key Steps to Take After an Accident

After an accident, it’s imperative to remain calm and take deliberate actions to protect your well-being and rights. First, ensure everyone’s safety. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Even if injuries seem minor, medical evaluation is indispensable. Next, document the scene. Use your phone to take photos of damages, injuries, and any contributing factors like road conditions. Exchange information with the other party, including names, contact details, and insurance info. Don’t admit fault or make statements that could be used against you later. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too. Finally, report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Keep a detailed record of all communications and documents related to the incident.

How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation

Once you’ve taken the necessary steps following an accident, seeking the assistance of a personal injury lawyer in Roseland, NJ can considerably enhance your potential compensation. A skilled lawyer knows the ins and outs of the legal system, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly and deadlines are met. They’ll gather pivotal evidence, like medical records and witness statements, to build a strong case.

Your lawyer will also negotiate with insurance companies, who often try to minimize payouts. By understanding the true value of your claim, they can fight for the compensation you deserve, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, if your case goes to trial, they’ll provide expert representation, advocating for your rights and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Choosing the Right Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Case

Selecting the right personal injury lawyer in Roseland, NJ can be one of the most critical decisions you’ll make after an accident. You want someone who understands your needs and fights for the compensation you deserve. Start by researching local lawyers with a strong track record in personal injury cases. Consider their experience, reputation, and client reviews. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during consultations—it’s your case, after all. Discuss their approach, fees, and communication style to verify they align with your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Damages Can I Claim in a Personal Injury Case?

In a personal injury case, you can claim damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. It is crucial to document everything and consult a lawyer to understand your specific entitlements.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Lawsuit Typically Take to Resolve?

A personal injury lawsuit usually takes anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve. It depends on factors like case complexity, negotiations, and court schedules. Patience is key, as every case’s timeline is unique.

Can I Handle My Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawyer?

You can handle your personal injury claim without a lawyer, but it’s risky. You might miss out on compensation you’re entitled to. Lawyers understand legal nuances and can negotiate effectively, potentially securing a better outcome for you.

What Should I Do if the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?

If the insurance company denies your claim, don’t panic. First, review their denial letter carefully. Gather additional evidence supporting your claim, then consider appealing the decision. Consulting with a lawyer can also strengthen your case.

Are There Any Upfront Costs for Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer?

You typically won’t face upfront costs when hiring a personal injury lawyer. Most work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. It’s important to confirm this arrangement with your lawyer.

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10 Best Natural Deodorants I Tested Day to Day (2025)


These Deodorants Are Just OK

Variety of deodorant containers mostly sticks on top of a raspberry colored cloth

Photograph: Louryn Strampe

Kopari Performance Plus Deodorant for $20: This deodorant smells great—like a floral, beachy coconut. It’s more fresh than sweet, and I’d say it’s unisex-leaning-feminine. It goes on clear and smooth, and it didn’t stain my clothes at all. However, it didn’t last me through a workout without reapplying, unlike some other brands I tried. I think it’s fine, but I wouldn’t call it a “performance deodorant.” If you’re looking for a clear formula and you don’t mind reapplying, it might be worth a shot.

Fur Ingrown Deodorant for $19: My relationship with this deodorant is as complicated as my relationship with my underarm hair. Sometimes I don’t shave it for months; sometimes I shave it every other day. This deodorant contains ingredients like willow bark (to prevent ingrown hairs) and niacinamide (to brighten underarms). It did both of those things very well. But it didn’t do a great job at preventing odor throughout the day, and the smell is very green and earthy, which didn’t agree with my body chemistry. It might really appeal to some people though—online reviewers seem to love it or hate it—so I recommend smelling it in a store before purchasing.

Curie Clean Deodorant (two-pack) for $28: This formula smells good when first applied, but quickly fades away after an hour or two. It also stained my clothes more than some others I tried. During my second use, it caused some irritation, so I discontinued it. I didn’t notice myself sweating more or less compared to other kinds of natural deodorant. However, the brand does have a great Detox Mask that can help with the transitional period when switching to natural deodorant. It’ll be featured more prominently in an upcoming guide.

Dove Aluminum-Free Deodorant for $11: Dove’s deodorant is mostly fine, and I like how affordable it is. But the texture is really smooth and leaves my underarms feeling strangely sticky, even after letting them dry. The fragrances aren’t powerful or long-lasting enough for my own personal preference. They also all have a powdery undertone that I was not a fan of. I did notice some BO partway through the day during my testing. Since this is so subjective, your mileage may vary. The packaging also came taped shut, and the tape left behind sticky residue on the outside of my deodorant that was impossible to remove without rubbing alcohol.

Lume Whole Body Deodorant (three-pack) for $39: This pricey deodorant smelled terrible to me. I received the Invisible Cream formula in Minted Cucumber, which smelled like pool chlorine and hand soap. I refused to put it on my body. I also received the Clean Tangerine Smooth Solid formula, which initially smelled marginally better but still had a weird hand-soap element to it. It left white marks all over my clothes and oddly smelled like cheese once applied. I washed it off and called my testing done. Reader, I love you, but I’m not going to smell like cheese all day just to see if the smell magically transforms after a few hours. Senior commerce editor Kat Merck also tried the Lavender Sage Invisible Cream, and she said it reminded her of laundry that was left overnight in the washing machine—and that the deodorant made her smell worse than she would have had she not worn any in the first place. Lume does have many fans across the internet, so again, this may be something that can be boiled down to personal preference. I suggest smelling it in a store before purchasing.

Bite Refillable Deodorant for $44: I like the minimalist aesthetic of this refillable deodorant. The sleek metal case is almost miniature, and the entire setup is completely plastic-free. However, it’s easy to push the deodorant stick up too high, which can be messy if the temperatures are warm. In fact, I found the formula too soft in general, and it tended to get gunky and gummy throughout the day, both on my armpits and on the case. I also didn’t love the Neroli scent. I think this could work well if you want the most minimalist, nondescript natural deodorant possible, but there are other refillable options that smell better and last longer.

Best Natural Deodorants Bit Brand with tin packaging

Photograph: Louryn Strampe

Saltair AHA Deodorant for $12: I was initially really impressed by the scent I tried from Saltair. Pink Beach smells like a summer sunset on the ocean. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts to make it work, I couldn’t apply this formula without my armpits feeling sticky and irritated. I used it on clean, dry, hairless skin, and I let my armpits dry fully before lowering my arms. But I had this constant feeling of tacky, sweaty irritation that eventually led to a rash, so I discontinued testing.

How I Tested and What’s Up Next

I‘ve been wearing natural deodorant since 2020. I wore each of these deodorants at least three times—once during a calm day at home and twice during a workout at the gym. I also tested whether they stain by putting on a black T-shirt after application. I am currently testing deodorants from Jukebox and additional scents from Megababe, as well as various liquid AHA deodorants.

Common Ingredients, Explained

Here’s an explanation about some of the ingredients you may see in your research.

Aluminum: Natural deodorants (usually) mask odor and don’t emphasize sweat reduction. Antiperspirants (usually) mask odor and prevent sweat. The sweat prevention comes from aluminum salts, which block sweat ducts under your arms. There were a few studies that talked about elevated breast cancer or Alzheimer’s disease risks from using aluminum, but there’s no definite link between them (according to the FDA, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute, among others). It’s probably fine to use antiperspirants with aluminum in them. Some people with kidney disease are advised to avoid aluminum, and others want to “play it safe” and avoid aluminum. As for me, I sort of feel better when I sweat? In any case, that’s the lowdown on aluminum. TL;DR: The science says it’s fine for most people.

Parabens: Parabens are preservatives that have been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, but at much lower rates than the body’s natural estrogen. Parabens are somewhat common ingredients in food, medicine, and beauty products, though they’re less common as more people try to avoid them. Some parabens are banned in the EU until more research can be done. The FDA has concluded that parabens are safe. It’s relatively easy to avoid parabens if you choose to. Most antiperspirants don’t contain parabens; most natural deodorants don’t, either.

Phthalates: Phthalates make plastic more flexible and durable, and they can also be used in some beauty products as stabilizers. Some studies have concluded that they’re safe; others suggest links between phthalates and skin irritation, cancer, or early death. But those links were not causal. Phthalates do have a California Proposition 65 warning. The recommended deodorants below are phthalate-free. Many antiperspirants do contain phthalates, but not all of them.

Baking soda: Some natural deodorants use baking soda as an absorptive agent to prevent sweat and as an antibacterial agent to prevent odor. Some people can develop a rash from using baking-soda-based formulas, due to the reaction between the baking soda and their body’s natural pH balance. It’s hard to tell whether or not you’re sensitive to baking soda until you try it, but if you typically have sensitive skin, you may want to try a formula without baking soda. We have some recommendations below.

The Transition Period, Explained

When you make the switch from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, you might go through a transition period lasting from one to four weeks. Long story short, after years of not sweating while using antiperspirants, you might find yourself sweating a whole lot more as your body adjusts when switching to natural deodorant. It’ll level out eventually, but for me personally, I smelled like a gym full of teenage boys for two weeks. Some people don’t have a transition phase at all. I also developed a heat rash from sweating so much during the middle of summer—my skin was irritated, which meant I couldn’t use deodorant at all, therefore raising the Stink Factor. Now, though, I sweat less than I ever did while using antiperspirants.

Be prepared to stick it out. I have an issue with the term “detox,” because our bodies already have a detoxifying process (called the kidneys). However, a clay mask like the Curie Detox Mask can be helpful in drawing out excess moisture and calming down irritated skin that you might experience during the transition period. Otherwise, just keep your underarms dry and be gentle on your skin. It won’t last forever.

It’s hard to empirically test deodorant. Scent preferences vary from person to person, and they can change based on your body chemistry. Some people might prefer a different formula, some people shave and some don’t, and some people care more about sweat absorption than scent. Do you shower every single day? Do you work out frequently? Do you naturally sweat a lot or a little? All of these things can factor in to whether or not you’ll like a deodorant. Here’s what the tables below mean.

Available scents: How many scents you can choose from as of press time.

Free from: These ingredients are not in the deodorant.

Scent strength: “Strong” lasts all day. “Medium” fades halfway through the day. “Faint” means it faded fast or was barely noticeable in the first place.

Sweat level: “Low” means I didn’t notice any sweat. “Medium” means I noticed some sweat but didn’t feel the need to reapply the deodorant. “High” means I sweat a lot and felt the need to reapply throughout the day.

Clothing stains: “None” means it didn’t stain my clothes. “Few” means it might show up on a black T-shirt. “High” means it will absolutely show up on your clothes, regardless of color.

Functional ingredients: A list of the main ingredients that help absorb sweat and prevent odor.

Formula details: Is it vegan? Is it a stick, cream, or roll-on? I’ll let you know here.

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Computer Setup Done Right: When to DIY vs Call the Pros


Your shiny new computer arrives, and excitement quickly turns to overwhelm as you stare at a tangle of cables, cryptic setup guides, and driver installation prompts. You’re not alone—studies show that 73% of users experience some form of computer setup frustration with new technology, often leading to suboptimal performance or even hardware damage. The good news? Knowing what you can tackle yourself versus when to call in professional help can save you countless hours of troubleshooting and potential costly mistakes.

Setting up a computer properly from the start isn’t just about getting it to turn on—it’s about creating a reliable, secure, and efficient workspace that serves you well for years to come. Whether you’re a small business owner establishing your first office network or a home user upgrading to a more powerful system, understanding the fundamentals of computer setup can make the difference between a smooth, productive experience and ongoing technical headaches. At PC Geeks, we’ve witnessed countless scenarios where proper initial setup prevented months of frustration and costly repairs down the road.

computer setup

The Essential Dos of Computer Setup

Proper computer setup begins before you even press the power button. Ensuring adequate ventilation around your system prevents overheating issues that plague many users down the road. Your computer needs breathing room—typically three to six inches of clearance on all sides with vents. Positioning your tower on a hard, flat surface rather than carpet also improves airflow and reduces dust accumulation.

Cable management might seem purely aesthetic, but organized cables actually improve system performance and longevity. Proper cable routing prevents airflow blockages and makes future upgrades or troubleshooting significantly easier. Taking time to secure power cables, USB connections, and network cables also prevents accidental disconnections that can interrupt important work or cause data loss.

Prioritize Security from Day One

Installing essential security software before connecting to the internet creates your first line of defense against malware and cyber threats. While modern operating systems include built-in protection, comprehensive security suites offer additional layers of protection that become increasingly important as cyber threats evolve.

Creating strong, unique passwords for all accounts during initial setup prevents future security vulnerabilities. Using a password manager during this process establishes good security habits from the start and eliminates the temptation to reuse weak passwords across multiple accounts.

Critical Don’ts That Can Cost You

Skipping driver updates might seem like a time-saver, but outdated drivers are responsible for roughly 85% of system crashes and performance issues. Graphics cards, network adapters, and motherboard chipsets all require current drivers to function optimally and securely.

Rushing through software installations without reading prompts often results in unwanted bloatware, changed browser settings, or accidentally declined important security features. Those “quick setup” options rarely optimize your system for your specific needs and usage patterns.

Don’t Compromise on Power Protection

Plugging expensive computer equipment directly into wall outlets exposes your investment to power surges, brownouts, and electrical fluctuations that can cause immediate damage or gradual component degradation. A quality surge protector or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is essential insurance for your technology investment.

When Professional Help Makes Sense

Setting up business networks, configuring multiple user accounts with specific permissions, or integrating various devices and printers often requires expertise that goes beyond basic computer knowledge. Professional technicians can ensure your network is both functional and secure while avoiding common configuration mistakes that create vulnerabilities.

Time-Sensitive Business Needs

When your business depends on technology functioning correctly from day one, professional setup eliminates the risk of extended downtime due to configuration issues or compatibility problems. The cost of professional setup often pales in comparison to lost productivity from system problems.

Hardware Compatibility Concerns

Mixing components from different manufacturers, upgrading legacy systems, or working with specialized hardware often presents compatibility challenges that aren’t immediately obvious. Experienced technicians can identify potential issues before they become problems and recommend solutions that ensure reliable operation.

Making the Right Choice for Your Situation

The decision between DIY computer setup and professional assistance ultimately depends on your comfort level, available time, and the complexity of your requirements. Basic home setups with standard hardware often work well as DIY projects, while business environments or complex configurations benefit significantly from professional expertise.

Don’t let computer setup frustration derail your productivity or compromise your system’s performance. At PC Geeks, we’ve helped thousands of users get their systems running optimally from day one. Whether you need guidance on a DIY approach or complete professional setup services, our experienced team is ready to ensure your technology works as hard as you do. Contact us today to discuss your computer setup needs and discover how we can help you avoid common pitfalls while maximizing your system’s potential.

Clarifai Ranks at the Top for Performance and Cost-Efficiency


Artificial Analysis, an independent benchmarking platform, evaluated providers serving GPT-OSS-120B across latency, throughput, and price. In these tests, Clarifai’s Compute Orchestration delivered 0.27 s Time to First Token (TTFT) and 313 tokens per second at a blended price near $0.16 per 1M tokens. These results place Clarifai in the benchmark’s “most attractive” zone for high speed and low price.

Inside the Benchmarks: How Clarifai Stacks Up

Artificial Analysis benchmarks focus on three core metrics that map directly to production workloads:

  • Time to First Token (TTFT): the delay from request to the first streamed token. Lower TTFT improves responsiveness in chatbots, copilots, and agent loops.

  • Tokens per second (throughput): the average streaming rate, a strong indicator of completion speed and efficiency.

  • Blended price per million tokens: a normalized cost metric that accounts for both input and output tokens, allowing apples-to-apples comparisons across providers.

On GPT-OSS-120B, Clarifai achieved:

  • TTFT: 0.27 s 

  • Throughput: 313 tokens/sec

  • Blended price: $0.16 per 1M tokens

  • Overall: Ranked in the benchmark’s “most attractive” quadrant for speed and cost efficiency

These numbers validate Clarifai’s ability to balance low latency, high throughput, and cost optimization—key factors for scaling large models like GPT-OSS-120B.

Below is a comparison of output speed versus price across major providers for GPT-OSS-120B. Clarifai stands out in the “most attractive quadrant,” combining high throughput with competitive pricing.

Output Speed vs Price (10 Sep 25)  (2)

Output Speed vs. Price

Below chart compares latency (time to first token) against output speed. Clarifai demonstrates one of the lowest latencies while maintaining top-tier throughput—placing it among the best-in-class providers.

Latency vs Output Speed (10 Sep 25)  (1)

Latency vs. Output Speed

 

GPU and Hardware-Agnostic Inference at Scale with Clarifai

Clarifai’s Compute Orchestration is designed to maximize performance and efficiency regardless of the underlying hardware.

Key elements include:

  • Vendor-agnostic deployment: Seamlessly deploy models on any CPU, GPU, or accelerator in our SaaS, your own cloud or on-premises infrastructure, or in air-gapped environments without lock-in.
  • Autoscaling and right-sizing: Dynamic scaling ensures resources adapt to workload spikes while minimizing idle costs.

  • GPU fractioning and efficiency: Techniques that maximize utilization by running multiple models or tenants on the same GPU fleet.

  • Runtime flexibility: Support for frameworks such as TensorRT-LLM, vLLM, and SGLang across GPU generations like H100 and B200, giving teams the flexibility to optimize for either latency or throughput.

This orchestration-first approach matters for GPT-OSS-120B, a compute-intensive Mixture-of-Experts model, where careful tuning of schedulers, batching strategies, and runtime choices can drastically affect performance and cost.

What these results mean for engineering teams

For developers and platform teams, Clarifai’s benchmark performance translates into clear benefits when deploying GPT-OSS-120B in production:

  1. Faster, smoother user experiences
    With a median TTFT of ~0.27 s, applications deliver instant feedback. In multi-step agent workflows, lower TTFT compounds to significantly reduce response times.

  2. Improved cost efficiency
    High throughput (~313 tokens/sec) combined with ~$0.16 per 1M tokens allows teams to serve more requests per GPU hour while keeping budgets predictable.

  3. Operational flexibility
    Teams can choose between latency-optimized or throughput-optimized runtimes and scale seamlessly across infrastructures, avoiding vendor lock-in.

  4. Applicable to diverse use cases

    • Enterprise copilots: faster draft generation and real-time assistance

    • RAG and analytics pipelines: efficient summarization of long documents with lower costs

    • Agentic workflows: repeated tool calls with minimal latency overhead

Try out GPT-OSS-120B

Benchmarks are useful, but the best way to evaluate performance is to try the model yourself. Clarifai makes it simple to experiment and integrate GPT-OSS-120B into real workflows.

1. Test in the Playground

You can directly explore GPT-OSS-120B in Clarifai’s Playground with an interactive UI—perfect for rapid experimentation, prompt design, and side-by-side model comparisons.

Try GPT-OSS-120B in the Playground

2. Access via the API

For production use, GPT-OSS-120B is fully accessible through Clarifai’s OpenAI-compatible API. This means you can integrate the model with the same tooling and workflows you already use for OpenAI models—while benefiting from Clarifai’s orchestration efficiency and cost-performance advantages.

Broad SDK and runtime support

Developers can call GPT-OSS-120B across a wide range of environments, including:

  • Python (Clarifai Python SDK, OpenAI-compatible API, gRPC)

  • Node.js (Clarifai SDK, OpenAI-compatible clients, Vercel AI SDK)

  • JavaScript, PHP, Java, cURL and more

This flexibility allows you to integrate GPT-OSS-120B directly into your existing pipelines with minimal code changes.

Python example (OpenAI-compatible API)

See the Clarifai Inference documentation for details on authentication, supported SDKs, and advanced features like streaming, batching, and deployment flexibility.

Conclusion

Artificial Analysis’s independent evaluation of GPT-OSS-120B highlights Clarifai as one of the leading platforms for speed and cost efficiency. By combining fast token streaming (313 tok/s), low latency (0.27 s TTFT), and a competitive blended price ($0.16/M tokens), Clarifai delivers the kind of performance that matters most for production-scale inference.

For ML and engineering teams, this means more responsive user experiences, efficient infrastructure utilization, and confidence in scaling GPT-OSS-120B without unpredictable costs. Read the full Artificial Analysis benchmarks.

If you’d like to discuss these results or have questions about running GPT-OSS-120B in production, join us in our Discord Channel. Our team and community are there to help with deployment strategies, GPU choices, and optimizing your AI infrastructure.



Earth season 2? The show’s creator and star weigh in


Most Alien movies end in explosions and bloodshed, but with FX’s Alien: Earth, creator Noah Hawley took a different approach. To unpack the show’s season 1 finale, Polygon spoke to Hawley and star Sydney Chandler, who broke down the final moments and teased what could be coming next.

Ed. note: Spoilers ahead for the end of Alien: Earth season 1.

Unpacking the ending of Alien: Earth

Alien: Earth ends on a cliffhanger. The robot-human Hybrids have revolted against their masters (both human and synthetic) and locked them up in a jail cell. The Hybrids also have control of a Xenomorph, which has bonded with their leader Wendy (Chandler) after she learned to speak its language.

In other words, it looks bad for anyone not on team Hybrid. But instead of unleashing that Xenomorph on her enemies, Wendy simply proclaims her plans to “take over the world” before the show cuts to black and the credits roll. The end.

Sydney Chandler as Wendy in Alien Earth Image: FX

This may seem anticlimactic — or even risky, what if Alien: Earth gets canceled? — but for Hawley, that’s exactly the point.

“A big part of what I try to do as a visual storyteller is always to engage the audience’s imagination,” he says. “Too much of what we watch treats us as passive viewers. So if the worst thing that happens is that the audience has to finish this story, I trust them to come up with some good ways to go forward.”

As for Chandler, she sees the show’s relatively bloodless finale as a logical endpoint to the story, and argues that Wendy’s even-tempered behavior in Alien: Earth is in keeping with her character.

“I don’t see her [Wendy] wanting a bloodbath,” the actor says. “She wouldn’t want to kill them. She’s too intellectual for that. She’s going to want to pull some strings. She’s going to want to draw that out.”

I’m pretty confident, given the show’s success, that we’ll get to make more. — Noah Hawley

If anyone in Alien: Earth deserves to die, it’s Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin), the petulant tech trillionaire who created the Hybrids and then tossed aside for a chance to control the Xenomorph and a handful of other alien specimens. But even there, Chandler doesn’t think Wendy would be out for blood.

“There’s a similarity between her and Boy K,” she says. “They can be easily bored and they’re both very smart. She’s curious about what will happen next, just as he is in his own screwed-up way.”

Chandler adds: “That final line is her saying checkmate to Boy K.”

Will there be an Alien: Earth season 2?

Timothy Olyphant in Alien Earth Image: FX

As of this writing, Alien: Earth hasn’t been renewed for season 2, though it seems likely that could happen at any moment. But in the meantime, Hawley doesn’t seem too worried that his show will end on a huge unresolved cliffhanger.

“I’m pretty confident, given the show’s success, that we’ll get to make more,” he says, before admitting that there’s still no guarantee. “The risk is the reward.”

Chandler is slightly less confident, but she’s holding out hope we haven’t seen the last of Wendy, Boy Kavalier, and the rest of the Alien: Earth ensemble.

“I’m hoping, hoping, hoping we get to go again to see what those dynamics will turn out to be,” she says. “As Noah said: Not enough people died in season 1. So if we go to season 2, it’s happening, which is terrifying. As an actor, you’re like: Please don’t let it be me.”