Duplicate and Linked Duplicate

Blender, the popular open-source 3D modeling software, offers users a range of powerful tools to create stunning visual effects and animations. Among these tools are the options to duplicate objects, commonly used for creating multiple copies or instances of an object within a scene. However, Blender provides two different methods for duplicating objects: duplicate and linked duplicate. Understanding the distinction between these two methods is crucial for achieving the desired results in your projects.

Duplicate: When you choose to duplicate an object in Blender, you create an entirely independent copy of the original. This means that any modifications made to the duplicated object will not affect the original or any other duplicates. Each duplicate retains its unique properties, such as position, scale, rotation, and material properties. Duplicates can be moved, scaled, and rotated independently, making them ideal for situations where you need distinct variations of an object.

Linked Duplicate: In contrast to duplicating an object, selecting the linked duplicate option in Blender creates a reference or instance of the original object. This means that any changes made to the linked duplicate will be reflected in all other instances of that object. Linked duplicates share the same mesh data, meaning they are essentially the same object with multiple positions in the scene. 

So, when should you use them in Blender? The choice primarily depends on the specific requirements of your project. It is your job to select right software to work on Animation.Duplication in Blender is crucial for maximizing your workflow efficiency.

In conclusion, understanding this difference in Blender is crucial for the desired results in your 3D projects. Experimenting with these duplication techniques will undoubtedly unlock new possibilities in the world of 3D modeling and animation.