7 Best 3D Printing Software [Reviewed and Ranked]
3D Slash
#1|Beginners.
Cura
#2|Intermediate and advanced users.
Meshmixer
#3|Professionals.
3D printing software plays a crucial role in the process of creating a 3D printed object, as it is used to create the digital model of the object and prepare it for printing.
The first 3D printing software was developed in the 1980s, and since then, a number of different software options have emerged, each with its own set of features and capabilities.
Early 3D printing software was primarily focused on simple geometries and was limited in terms of the complexity of the objects that could be created.
As 3D printing technology has advanced, so have the capabilities of 3D printing software, and it is now possible to create highly detailed and complex objects using a wide range of software options.
There are a number of different types of 3D printing software available, including:
- modeling software,
- slicing software, and
- file repair software.
Modeling software is used to create the digital model of the object to be printed, while slicing software is used to divide the model into layers that can be printed by the 3D printer.
File repair software is used to fix any issues with the digital model, such as holes or gaps, that could prevent it from being printed correctly.
What Is The Best 3D Printing Software?
1. 3D Slash
3D Slash is an easy-to-use 3D printing software that allows users to create and edit 3D models.
It features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, a library of shapes and textures, and a wide range of editing tools.
3D Slash also supports STL (“Standard Triangle Language” or “Standard Tessellation Language”), OBJ, and 3MF (3D Manufacturing Format ) file formats, making it ideal for 3D printing.
It is suitable for beginners or for users who want a quick and easy way to create and edit 3D models for printing.
Plans and Pricing
FREE -> FREE
Premium -> $2/mo
Schools -> $12/mo
Professionals -> $20/mo
2. Ultimaker Cura
Cura is a powerful open-source 3D printing software developed by Ultimaker.
It provides a range of features, such as support for a wide range of 3D printer models, a slicing engine, and an intuitive user interface.
It also supports a wide range of 3D file formats, including OBJ, STL, and 3MF.
3. Autodesk Meshmixer
Meshmixer is a powerful 3D printing software developed by Autodesk.
It features a wide range of features, such as a 3D sculpting tool, an auto-repair tool, a 3D painting tool, and a 3D printing tool.
Meshmixer also supports a variety of 3D file formats, including OBJ, STL, and 3MF.
4. Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a comprehensive 3D design and engineering software that is suitable for a wide range of applications, including 3D printing.
It offers a variety of advanced modeling and simulation tools, as well as integration with other Autodesk software.
Fusion 360 is suitable for professional designers and engineers and is a powerful tool for creating complex and detailed 3D models for printing.
5. Simplify3D
Simplify3D is specifically designed for 3D printing and offers a range of features such as automatic bed leveling, print preview, and support generation.
It is suitable for use with a wide range of 3D printers and materials and is a powerful tool for optimizing 3D prints and achieving high-quality results.
6. Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D modeling software that is widely used in the 3D printing community.
It offers a range of advanced modeling and animation tools, as well as support for a wide range of file formats.
Blender is suitable for both beginners and advanced users and is a powerful tool for creating and editing 3D models for printing.
7. MeshLab
MeshLab is another free and open-source 3D modeling software that is specifically designed for processing and editing 3D triangular meshes.
It is often used for file repair and preparation for 3D printing.
FAQ About 3D Printing Softwares
Here are some common questions and answers about 3D printing software:
3D printing software is used to create digital models of objects that can be printed using a 3D printer. It is also used to prepare the digital model for printing, including slicing the model into layers, generating supports, and optimizing the print settings.
When choosing a 3D printing software, you should consider your specific needs and goals. Some things to consider include the level of complexity and detail you need, your budget, the type of 3D printer you have, and the file formats you need to work with. It may be helpful to try out a few different software options to see which one works best for you.
Yes, there are several free 3D printing software options available, including Blender, Cura, and MeshLab. These software options offer a range of features and capabilities, and can be a good option for those who are just starting out with 3D printing or who are on a tight budget.
Some 3D modeling software, such as Fusion 360 and Meshmixer, have built-in 3D printing capabilities, which allow you to print directly from the software. Other software options, such as Blender and SketchUp, do not have built-in 3D printing capabilities, but you can export the model in a file format that is compatible with a slicing software, which can then be used to prepare the model for printing.
Not necessarily. Some 3D printing software is designed to work with specific 3D printer models or brands, while others are more general and can work with a wide range of 3D printers. It is important to check the compatibility of the software and printer before purchasing or using them together.
Drawing The Curtain
There are a wide variety of 3D printing software options available, each with their own set of features and capabilities.
The seven options listed above are some of the most popular choices among professionals and hobbyists.
Ultimately, the best software for you will depend on your specific needs and the type of 3D printer you are using.
It is highly recommended to try out a few different options and conduct your own research to find the software that is the best fit for you.
