by Hamen·Modeling
Images © Hamen. Used for product review; image policy.
Note that as of Blender 3.3.0, Shade Smoothing with Auto-Smooth is built into Blender itself, so this add-on is most relevant for the earlier versions it lists.
Shade Smooth Tools is a simple Blender add-on from Hamen that automatically applies Shade Smooth with Auto-Shade-Smooth enabled. It adds two new buttons to a UI panel: one for Shade Smooth with Auto-Shade-Smooth automatically activated, and one for Shade Flat with Auto-Shade-Smooth automatically de-activated.
The add-on works with one or more selected objects, and it functions in both directions — smoothing objects as well as flattening them. According to the developer, this saves time over the longer term.
As of Blender 3.3.0, Shade Smoothing with Auto-Smooth became built into Blender itself. Shade Smooth Tools is documented and lists compatibility with Blender 2.93, 3.0, 3.1 and 3.2 under the GPL license. A demo video is available on the developer's page.
Shade Smooth Tools is best for blender users on versions 2.93 through 3.2 who want one-click Shade Smooth and Shade Flat with Auto-Shade-Smooth handled automatically.
Shade Smooth Tools is completely free to download and use.
Shade Smooth Tools lists compatibility with Blender 2.93, 3.0, 3.1 and 3.2. It is worth knowing that as of Blender 3.3.0, Shade Smoothing with Auto-Smooth became built into Blender itself, so the add-on is aimed primarily at those earlier releases where the automated buttons filled a gap. For the current version and any updated compatibility details, check the developer's page before installing on your setup.
Shade Smooth Tools works with one or more selected objects, so you can apply its operations across multiple selections rather than one at a time. The add-on functions in both directions: it can apply Shade Smooth with Auto-Shade-Smooth enabled, and it can also apply Shade Flat with Auto-Shade-Smooth disabled. Both operations are triggered from the two buttons it adds to a UI panel in Blender.
Shade Smooth Tools is listed here as free and is released under the GPL license. Licensing terms and availability can change over time, so for the most current details and to download the add-on, visit the developer's page. Documentation is included with the add-on to help you get started, and a demo video is also available through the developer.
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