Where do I install plugins for Cinema 4D?

Problem

In Cinema 4D R20 and newer, the installation directory no longer includes a Plugins folder. While you can create one there, this older method may not work reliably with these versions.

Solution: Use a Custom Plugins Path

Cinema 4D R20 and newer let you set a custom plugin folder in Preferences. Here’s how:

1) Create a Plugins Folder

Create a folder anywhere on your computer to store plugins.* You can even use a cloud storage folder (e.g., Dropbox or Google Drive) to share plugins between machines. Tip: Name it something simple like “Plugins”.

2) Add the Folder in Cinema 4D

1. Open Cinema 4D.
2. Go to Edit > Preferences (or press Ctrl/Cmd + E).
3. Select Plugins in the left-hand list.
4. Click Add Folder.

3) Select the Plugins Folder

When prompted, navigate to and select the folder you created in step 1.** Once selected, it will appear in the Search Paths list with a checkmark, showing it’s enabled.

4) Restart Cinema 4D

Close and relaunch Cinema 4D. On launch, Cinema 4D will load all plugins from the added folder.

Most plugins will appear under the Extensions menu, though some (like Greyscalegorilla) may add their own top-level menu.

* You cannot use a plugins folder located inside Cinema 4D’s installation directory for this method—these are ignored when set as a Search Path.

** You can also create the folder directly from the file selection dialog. 

If Plugins Are Not Loading

Make sure the plugin is compatible with your Cinema 4D version—many need updates for each major release. If it’s compatible but still not loading, please open a support ticket.