When is it better to high poly model a detail vs painting a normal map

justifun

When you are modelling a high poly detailed model directly in a 3D package, or even in Zbrush. What are some examples of when you should and should not model that detail vs painting in a normal detail using something like nDo?

EarthQuake

When its easier to model it than paint it.

Obvious examples are large form details, usually easier to model. Small patterns are virtually always easier to do in 2d.

MM

also, sculpting all the details into the highpoly means you cannot change it in textures.

often, high frequency details need to be revised several times during texture process so it can be more efficient to do it with textures.

however, keep in mind that unless you are texturing in 3d or have some technique to avoid UV distortion then you will end up with some non-uniform details while doing it with textures alone. for example if you wanted to add a grid like pattern uniformly to an organic shape then painting it in 2D wont give you perfect uniform details in 3D. if you are sculpting all of it then chances are you can make it more uniform in 3d space.

so it all depends on how much edit-ability you want and what quality level you are after.