When optimizing high poly 3D models, the best poly count depends on the model’s end use (e.g., gaming, visualization) and target hardware—balance detail with performance for your specific platform.
- **Gaming**: Use 100k–500k+ polygons to bake details (like normal maps) onto lower-poly assets; keep only details that transfer well. - **Real-time visualization**: If hardware allows, 500k–2M+ works, but cut non-essential areas (e.g., hidden undersides) to save resources.
For beginners, use decimation tools to reduce count gradually, preserve key features, and test on your target platform to fine-tune.