is Unreal Engine Best for animation or 3DS Max ?

One is a game engine and the other is a 3d modeling program. Maya is arguably the best for animation.

both Unreal Engine and 3ds Max are powerful tools that can be utilized effectively. However, their purposes and capabilities differ, so it's important to consider your specific requirements and workflow before deciding which one is best for your needs.

Unreal Engine, developed by Epic Games, is primarily known for its real-time rendering capabilities and its use in creating immersive interactive experiences, such as video games and virtual reality applications. While Unreal Engine does offer animation features, its strength lies in real-time rendering and creating dynamic, interactive environments. It provides a robust framework for creating stunning visual effects and lifelike simulations, making it an excellent choice for showcasing products in engaging and interactive ways.

On the other hand, 3ds Max, developed by Autodesk, is a comprehensive 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software widely used in various industries, including product design, architecture, and entertainment. 3ds Max provides a wide range of tools specifically tailored for animation, allowing you to create intricate and detailed product animations with precise control over keyframes, rigging, and character animation. It offers advanced features such as physics simulations and particle systems, enabling the creation of visually stunning and realistic product animations.

Ultimately, the choice between Unreal Engine and 3ds Max depends on your specific requirements and the type of animation you wish to create. If you are primarily focused on real-time interactivity, creating immersive environments, or showcasing products in a virtual setting, Unreal Engine's real-time rendering capabilities and dynamic environment would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you require precise control over detailed product animations, character animations, or if you are looking for a comprehensive 3D modeling and animation toolset, 3ds Max may be the better option.

It's also worth mentioning that these tools are not mutually exclusive, and many professionals often use them in conjunction with each other. For example, you can create the product animation in 3ds Max and then import it into Unreal Engine to leverage its real-time capabilities for interactive presentations or virtual experiences.

Ultimately, the "best" choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and familiarity with the software. I recommend exploring both Unreal Engine and 3ds Max to see which one aligns better with your workflow and desired outcomes for your product animation projects.

you can animate in both soft, just understand one is a game engine for real time applications the other a modeling and animation software.
If you ask such questions learn to model first before thinking on "animation".