Many research papers indicate the use of various linear and non-linear interpolation techniques for the shading of three-dimensional objects. This paper presents a comparative study of the linear and non-linear interpolation techniques for the shading of threedimensional objects. It presents an analysis of different linear and non-linear interpolation techniques with respect to various parameters of shading. It analyses the affect of variation in specular highlight exponent on the quality of shading when the objects are shaded with linear and nonlinear interpolation techniques. The impact of varying the number of triangles in the underlying mesh on the shading quality obtained by these techniques is also compared. The interpolation schemes have also been analyzed for the Mach Band Effect when the intensity is interpolated across an underlying polygon. Finally, the cost of few non-linear interpolation algorithms that give good visual results has been compared to identify better and cost effective shading solutions for different situations like shading on handheld devices.