i think the learning curve for blender is lower than for other 3D software ( like maya, 3DsMax Lightwave etc...),
because so many users make Youtube tutorials.
-more than users of the others; cause they need to earn their money back, for payed licence fees.
Also , the commercial giants are often slow to implement new features, but Blender
updates so often, it is always exciting and surprising what new features appear.