In the realm of digital creativity, Paint 3D once stood as a bold experiment from Microsoft, a venture into the world of 3D design and mixed reality. While it may not have achieved the iconic status of its classic predecessor, the original Paint application, it certainly left an impression during its time. As the tech giant shifted its focus away from 3D endeavors and towards enhancing the beloved Paint, Paint 3D quietly faded from the Microsoft Store, leading many to believe it was lost to the annals of software history.
However, for those who wish to revisit this unique application, it’s worth noting that Paint 3D is still accessible. Despite its absence from the official store, tech enthusiasts can still install Paint 3D on both Windows 10 and the latest Windows 11 updates, including version 24H2. This piece of software, conceived during the early days of Windows 10, continues to function seamlessly, inviting users to explore its creative possibilities once more.
How to install Paint 3D on Windows 11 and 10?
Installing Paint 3D is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:
- Begin by downloading the necessary appx file for the version you desire. You can find a collection of recent Paint 3D versions through this link (which includes VCLibs packages) or this link (without packages, via @TheBobPony). For those interested in nostalgia, a separate collection of older Paint 3D releases dating back to 2016 is available through @gus33000.
- Once downloaded, extract the files to a location that is convenient for you. Navigate to the folder containing the installation files and locate the appx file you wish to install. For instance, you might find Microsoft.MSPaint_2024.2405.19017.0.AppxBundle. To make file extensions visible, click on View > Show > File Extensions, or sort the folder by Type to easily identify APPX files.
- Double-click the appx file to initiate the installation process. A prompt will appear; click “Install.” For added convenience, you can select the “Launch when ready” option, allowing Paint 3D to open automatically once the installation is complete.
- With the installation finished, you can now immerse yourself in the world of 3D creativity with Paint 3D.
Additionally, if you prefer a fresh start, you can install Windows 10 from scratch using Microsoft’s official ISO images, which still come with Paint 3D pre-installed for consumer installations.
