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ShaderMap
What it is
ShaderMap is a Windows application for creating rendering and physically based rendering maps from source images, 3D models, and light-scan photo stacks. It bakes normal, ambient occlusion, curve, color ID, and depth maps from model geometry, then generates roughness and metalness maps for PBR workflows. Maps can be packed into RMA or RMAD formats. The Normal Editor supports painting and modifying normal maps with tools and layers. Batch groups can be processed through LUA scripting and project configurations. Maps may be exported to an external image editor and returned after saving. A C/C++ SDK supports plugins for maps, geometry importers, and filters under the MIT License. ShaderMap works offline, although automatic updates and the support feed need internet access. The free Basic License is free and disables PRO features, with ads up to three times daily. One-time licenses are Student $19, Personal $29, and Commercial $49.
For and against
For
- Bakes multiple maps from 3D geometry
- Generates roughness and metalness PBR maps
- Normal Editor includes painting tools and layers
- Supports batch processing through LUA
- Works without internet for core use
Against
- Free version disables all PRO features
- Free version may show ads at startup
- Automatic updates require internet access
- System requirements list Windows 7, 8, or 10
The verdict
ShaderMap combines map baking, PBR generation, editing, scripting, and plugin support. Choose a paid license when PRO features or commercial use are required.
Who it suits
It suits Windows artists and technical teams building texture and PBR map workflows. The paid Commercial license is intended for users needing commercial licensing.
Plans and prices
Basic License
Standard maps and materials · Map filters · Normal Editor · Ads up to 3 times per day
Read 8 Oct 2026 · shadermap.com
Student
All PRO features · 1 installation per seat · No commercial license listed
Read 8 Oct 2026 · shadermap.com
Personal
All PRO features · Up to 3 installations per seat · No commercial license listed
Read 8 Oct 2026 · shadermap.com
Commercial
All PRO features · Up to 3 installations per seat · Commercial license
Read 8 Oct 2026 · shadermap.com
On the record
- Batch processing
- ShaderMap supports batch processing groups of source maps through LUA scripting and project configurations.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- External editor
- Maps can be exported to an external image editor and brought back into ShaderMap after saving.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Free license limits
- The free version disables all PRO features and may show ads up to three times per day at application start.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Integrations
- ShaderMap supports external image editors and plugins; the maker does not name specific editor integrations on the pages reviewed.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Map baking
- It can bake normal, ambient occlusion, curve, color ID, and depth maps from 3D model geometry.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Normal editing
- The Normal Editor lets artists paint and modify normal maps using tools and layers.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Offline use
- An internet connection is not required to use ShaderMap, though automatic updates and the support feed need internet access.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- PBR
- It generates roughness and metalness maps and can pack maps into RMA and RMAD formats.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Plugin SDK
- The C/C++ SDK supports plugins for maps, geometry importers, and filters, and is released under the MIT License.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- ShaderMap generates rendering and PBR maps from source images, 3D models, and light scan photo stacks.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Security and privacy
- The privacy policy says the company uses reasonable security safeguards for personal information and collects customer details at checkout for account, license, download, and contact purposes.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- Support
- Users can seek help through the ShaderMap support forums to ask questions, report bugs, and get assistance.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
- System requirements
- The downloads page lists Windows 7, 8, or 10, a 32- or 64-bit CPU, 2 GB RAM, 2 GB free disk space, and a graphics card with Shader Model 3.0.shadermap.com · read 8 Oct 2026
