Best free cad for 3d printing

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2022 Best Free CAD Software For 3D Printing

In this latest 2022 update, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the best free CAD software for 3D printing which can cater to people from students to professionals. These free software have some limitations but as starters, these software can be relied upon for learning and modelling purpose. These best CAD software for 3D Printing are a great source to quickly get some hands-on experience of designing.

Contents

• 1 Best Free CAD Software for 3D Printing
  • 1.1 Tinkercad
  • 1.2 3D Slash
  • 1.3 ZBrushCoreMini
  • 1.4 FreeCAD
  • 1.5 Sketchup Free
  • 1.6 Fusion360
  • 1.7 Blender
  • 1.8 PTC Creo Elements/Direct Modelling Express (Version 6.0)
  • 1.9 Autodesk Maya & 3ds Max
• 2 Conclusion

Best Free CAD Software for 3D Printing

Let us look at some of the best free 3D CAD software for 3D printing available for beginners, intermediates and experts.

Tinkercad is the simplest and one of the best free CAD software for 3D printing. It is a web-based 3D design tool. It starts with basic tutorials and helps you understand all the functionality step-by-step. You can learn the lessons anytime you want and as many times you want. This tool can be easily attractive to all new learners, enthusiasts, students, and even kids for that matter.

3D Slash is one of the best free cad programs for 3D printing learners. It is an easy-to-use software which lets you create models using a simple block building technique, much like Tinkercad. It is fun to use and interactive. Free STL files downloaded from Thingiverse can be edited in 3D Slash.

ZBrushCoreMini is the scaled down version of the original and vastly popular ZBrush. These software programs are offered by Pixologic. The same company that brought Sculptris. But in mid-2020, Sculptris was discontinued and thus it is no longer available for download or support. The ZBrushCoreMini sits between Sculptris and the professional ZBrush software. This new software is a free digital sculpting solution with a streamlined interface designed to be incredibly easy for users of all ages and skill levels to learn.

ZBrushCoreMini is a 64-bit application and so will run on all modern computers. It also perform better than Sculptris but interestingly it also includes the Sculptris Pro features. Pixologic encourages all Sculptris users to switch to the new software.

FreeCAD

As the name suggests, FreeCAD is a free and open-source parametric CAD software for 3D printing. It is a great starting point for engineers aiming to learn modelling. Since it operates on parametric modelling, designers can create complex models and also easily modify it. The UI is not aesthetically appealing but delivers great results.

It is a good start for engineers and non-engineers may find it a bit difficult to deal with at first.

SketchUp Free is one of several products in the SketchUp software range that provides a free 3D printing CAD software. This is a web-based version offered to Engineers, Architects, Designers, and others frequently use it to avoid the hassle of downloading the software suite. Users can try the software and get a taste of the capabilities and then move on to the more premium software solutions such as SketchUp Pro.

Furthermore, the Sketchup library, known as 3D Warehouse, allows users to import user-generated and manufacturer-produced models directly into the existing design.

This software is widely used in the automotive and architectural industries.

Autodesk Fusion360 is a revolutionary next generation software which combined the CAD/CAM/CAE tools for a complete collaborative product innovation and development platform. It integrates the complete design to manufacture process in one complete package. It simply is the best free CAD software for 3D printing.

Fusion360 takes a cloud-based which lets you use the software irrespective of the OS and you can access your work from anywhere in the world.

It is available freely for a period of 3 years for students and Startups.

Blender is an open source and free CAD for 3D printing and provides a complete solution. It is commercial software and supports the entirety of the 3D pipeline—modelling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking, even video editing and game creation. This software is mainly used in the animation industry. It can be called as the entry level professional software for 3D modelling and one of the best free CAD software for 3D printing.

PTC is a big name in the 3D modelling, designing field. The organisation has churned out numerous software solutions like the Computer Aided Design (CAD), Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), Service Lifecycle Management (SLM), etc.

PTC Creo Elements/Direct Modelling Express 6.0 is another of such solution for budding designers who have fair bit of modelling background. Though this module is freely available, it is not targeted towards a new learner. The user needs to have a fair bit of background in using direct of parametric modelling software before using direct elements.

It is preferred for experienced designers who have a hang of 3D modelling software for 3D printing.

Both these Autodesk software are good alternatives in addition to the above mentioned free CAD software for 3D printing.

Maya is much more than a regular 3D modelling software as it creates more life-like models. It is mostly used for animation, simulation and rendering purposes.

3ds Max is one of the most comprehensive modelling software and mostly used by game developers and graphic artists. This software is suited to users who have a background in animation and modelling on professional software like Maya.

Both these software are paid but they are freely available for students and Startups, similar to Fusion360 for a period of 3 years. Both these software are highly professional and rank high in some of the best free CAD software for 3D printing across all the modelling software.

With the rise in popularity of 3D printing and designing, the ned for engineers to learn 3D modelling has also increased. Designers today are expected to be familiar with CAD software for 3D printing. Although there are many other similar software programs, this list of the printing, best free 3D modelling software for 3D printing is a great place to start your design learning journey. This comprehensive list of the best free CAD software for 3D printing will give new learners a direction to start 3D modelling and enter the world of 3D printing.

About Manufactur3D Magazine: Manufactur3D is an online magazine on 3D printing which publishes the latest 3D printing news, insights and analysis from all around the world. Read more such informative articles on our 3D Printing Education page. To stay up-to-date about the latest happenings in the 3D printing world, like us on Facebook or follow us on LinkedIn.

Best Free 3D Modeling Software (for Beginners) Ranking for Spring 2021 / Sudo Null IT News Users can export their models and either 3D print them or post them online for others to download for free or for money.

These programs range from easy-to-use for beginners to professional programs that can take years to learn. That's why we've created our list of the best free 3D modeling software to help you make your choice.

Some free online programs run entirely in the browser, others need to be downloaded. But they are all, at least in the short term, free.

List of best free programs for 3D modeling in 2021:

1. TinkerCAD-Best program for beginners

2. 3D Slash-simple program for beginners

3. Freecad-Free source code

5. A well-developed set of tools for creating professional 3D models.

6. The presence of new tools that allow you to take a completely new approach to creating 3D designs.

1. TinkerCAD is the best free program for beginners

Country of origin - USA. Available to work in the browser.

This is one of the many 3D CAD programs from Autodesk giant TinkerCAD. The tool looks deceptively primitive, easy to use, but again and again it makes it to the top of the best free programs.

TinkerCAD allows you to create detailed 3D models using basic shapes by joining them together. The learning process is much easier than in other programs. It is perfect for beginners and kids to teach kids how to 3D print. It is most often used in schools and classrooms around the world. You can get started in minutes in your browser without downloading. What's more, you can download the TinkerCAD app and play with the models on your smartphone or tablet!

Autodesk makes a wide variety of software for various industries. TinkerCAD is perfect for beginners in 3D design to make something cool. You can export the model to STL and any other format and send it to a 3D printer. Once you gain the necessary experience, you may need a more sophisticated program such as AutoCAD. But at the same time, TinkerCAD remains a great program to start your career as a 3D designer.

2. 3D Slash is a simple free program for beginners

Basic version is free, premium version costs $2 per month.

Ideal for beginners. 3D Slash is not like a regular program, more like a friendly, interactive 3D world where you can create whatever you want. The development team clearly thought out how to make the user interface as natural as possible, understandable to non-designers, without a complex learning process. The functionality is intuitive and convenient.

At the same time, you are not limited to basic forms. You can create impressive and more complex objects. The standard version is free, the premium version comes with a small monthly fee. School and professional plans are also available.

3. FreeCAD is free and open source

FreeCAD was released back in 2002, and although it is still in beta testing, its development is well advanced. It is designed to make the process of creating 3D versions of real objects as efficient and simple as possible.

A very useful feature is the ability to start with a static 2D sketch, from which you can then build the final 3D model. FreeCAD works well on Windows and Mac, you can easily export the model as STL, OBJ or even DXF files, for example for CNC.

Although FreeCAD was developed primarily for machine tools, it can also be used for 3D printing. What's more, FreeCAD is open source, so you can work with Python.

FreeCAD is ideal for users with some design experience, as some of the tools can be difficult for beginners. But overall it is a very powerful free 3D modeling tool.

4. SketchUp

Basic version is free, Pro version costs $299 per year. The country of the developer is the USA.

A veteran of the 3D modeling software industry, created in 2000 by Lastsoftware. In 2006, Google bought it to implement this versatile and powerful tool in its services. It has since been sold to Trimble Inc., who have offered a free version. SketchUp is a great choice for beginner designers. It, like TinkerCAD, is easier to learn than most other 3D programs. Contains almost all the tools you might need.

Though mostly used by architects, SketchUp is gaining popularity in 3D printing. The tools are surprisingly well suited to 3D CAD file creators. You can download the SketchUp STL extension to create files in STL.

SketchUp has a simple interface that is not overloaded with information. You can easily figure it out in a few hours and create a very realistic 3D model on the first day.

5. Blender - Extended Freeware

The country of origin is the Netherlands.

Possibly the most popular 3D design software. Blender has a huge active community that shares its STL files and 3D models as well as information on the web. A quick Google and YouTube search will turn up thousands of links where users showcase their 3D designs and share their Blender 3D experience. Such popularity is primarily due to the fact that the program is 100% free and open source. You can create almost anything in it. The choice of tools is huge.

The learning process is more complex than in previous programs. However, thanks to its toolset, Blender is a versatile 3D modeling program. It is used in a variety of applications ranging from VFX for movies, video games, 3D model design to 3D printing. In addition, Blender comes with an integrated game engine as well as detailed modeling tools and video editing capabilities. This incredible free software is ideal for game developers and experienced 3D modelers.

6. MeshMixer

Country of origin - USA.

Meshmixer is a unique program that does not fit into any particular category. Another development from Autodesk, Meshmixer sets itself apart from the competition in that it allows you to edit existing models using a variety of tools, including animation, buckle/fill, repair. Meshmixer is well suited for design modification and quality assurance. Useful for both beginners and experts. Allows you to improve and prepare your models for 3D printing.

Another important advantage of the program is the possibility of using it in topological optimization. With simple tools, parts can be made lighter and more economically. This is especially useful for subsequent 3D printing in industries such as aerospace and automotive, where the weight of the model is very important.

All in all, Meshmixer is a versatile option for those who need to improve their 3D model. Beginners can change their models, experts can optimize industrial designs.

7. Fusion 360

The program is free for personal use for a year, the Pro version costs about $500 per year.

Country of origin - USA.

Another Autodesk development for schools and academic institutions. It is undoubtedly a tool for experts, but easy enough to use for an educated beginner. Fusion 360 is a sharing program that allows you to share STL files via the cloud for collaborative editing and model optimization.

Powerful tools for virtually any industrial 3D design. It has built-in functions for estimating the load that the components of a 3D model will face. This allows designers to find potential weaknesses before printing. Once created, you can easily export the model to an STL file or any other format. The program has recently become free for students, startups, and more. If you have some experience or want to improve your 3D design skills, this 3D software is perfect.

8. Vectary

Free program with premium features for $12 per month.

Vectary launched in 2014 and calls itself the most accessible 3D and AR design platform. This is a free web-based 3D modeling program. Vectary offers templates with pre-rendered and lit screens that you can place your 3D models in front of for product photography and other artistic purposes. A simple work interface with the necessary set of tools makes working with lighting and modeling easy. You can easily export your finished design or scene as an AR model.

The free package includes access to Vectary Studio for creating and designing models, as well as the ability to export your creations to OBJ or STL formats. For other formats, you will need an update. You can create up to 25 projects for free, as well as access a library of 3D assets, materials, and Vectary icons. A paid upgrade gives you access to AR preview tools, as well as project sharing features and teams for better and faster feedback between multiple people.

9. SelfCAD

Free education software. For the rest, it costs $4.99 per month.

Country of origin - USA.

SelfCAD focuses on being the best browser-based, no-download free 3D modeling software for students around the world. It is popular in American schools teaching 3D design to students. Simple and easy to use, requiring a short training period, SelfCAD has all the necessary tools for creating models. It also has slicing tools to prepare STL or G-code files for 3D printing.

SelfCAD is a simple 3D design program with a very clear interface, suitable for beginners.

10. BlocksCAD

The program is provided free of charge. There are paid educational versions for schools.

Country of origin - USA.

BlocksCAD is educationally oriented and was created for STEM students in grades 3-8. It is a cloud-based free 3D modeling software that promotes learning about mathematics, computational thinking, coding concepts, and designing models for 3D printing.

The free gallery has a wide selection of projects that can be used in personal and classroom work, ranging from snowmen, jewelry rings, fish, and even the infamous cafeteria. Works great with OpenSCAD, designed to be simple, fun and easy for kids to work with. 3D models can be created using colorful, easy-to-manage blocks and exported either as STL files or as files to be opened and edited in OpenSCAD. For beginners, BlocksCAD offers extensive tutorials on the basics of 3D modeling and how to use 3D software.

11. OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD is a free downloadable program. It looks intimidating, because it “envelops” with codes and scripts. This is a powerful tool. But keep in mind that it is for those who are used to coding. The program was created back in 2010 by Marius Kintel and Clifford Wolf. New updates and patches are released regularly. OpenSCAD is loved by 3D designers who prefer a scripted rather than an artistic design method. It is also worth noting that a 3D part in OpenSCAD can be created using only the mouse, but this is not the only feature of the program.

Overall, we are impressed with OpenSCAD: it offers something new and free of charge. However, at least intermediate knowledge of scripting languages ​​is required. Otherwise, it is better to use one of the other options from our list.

12. Wings 3D

Wings 3D is a completely open and free 3D modeling software that has been actively developed and improved since 2001. The program is not as modern and easy to use as Vectary or TinkerCAD, but works very well with characters, desktop models and other 3D modeling projects. Pretty easy to work with model customization features like sculpting, joining, cutting, bending - simple even for beginners.

Each menu item is context-sensitive, so when you right-click, different options appear depending on what you might need. This advanced tool saves time and makes it a great 3D modeling tool for beginners and experts alike.

Translated from the 3DSourced website

Top free 3D printing software in 2021

How to prepare a 3D model for printing or learn how to create models from scratch? What software is best for beginners? All these questions can be answered in our article. The applications presented in the review are completely free or have free versions for students, teachers and open source projects.

Why did we put this section before all the others? The answer is very simple. By knowing the whole 3D printing process, you can better understand how each software is involved in the preparation and printing of 3D parts.

If you have become a happy owner of a 3D printer, but have absolutely no idea what to do with it and how to get started, then this part of the article is for you.

Different programs are used to print 3D models:

• 3D modeling/design/CAD software;
• Software for editing, viewing and restoring STL files;
• Slicing software;
• 3D printer host.

Before you start working, you need to create a 3D model. To do this, you can use different programs for modeling. We wrote in detail about free versions of software for 3D modeling here.

A small life hack for beginners. If you are not ready to create a model on your own, you can choose and download the right one from the marketplaces. There are also free download links in the maker communities - sometimes the proposed 3D models can be not only interesting, but also useful.

Once a 3D model has been created, it must be converted to a printable format. For desktop 3D printers, this is the STL format. Some created or downloaded files have defects that lead to failures during printing. It is for editing STL files that there is special software that helps prepare the model for playback on the printer.

The slicer program helps to convert the STL file into a printer-friendly G-code. The functionality of such programs allows you to split a 3D model into thousands of flat 2D layers, which will be sequentially reproduced on a printer.

Finally, the 3D printer host provides communication between the computer and the printer. It allows you to receive information for printing, as well as change the parameters of the device in real time via a PC. Often the Slicer and host are combined into one 3D printing software that is supplied by the printer manufacturer.

Dear readers of the 3DToday portal, we want to inform you that a new section "Knowledge Base" has been opened on our LIDER-3D online store website. In this section, we share owls, experience, settings and secrets of the world of additive technologies, go to the section at this link.

Examples of some already posted articles in the Knowledge Base section: Post-processing of models after 3D printing, 10 calibration models for your 3D printer, How and with what 3D printers are printed, Printing with HIPS plastic, ABS printing settings, Recommendations for Resin Post-Processing HARZ Labs, Best Free 3D Modeling Software for Beginners.

Cura

One of the popular slicer software that comes with all Ultimaker printers. However, its functionality is suitable for use in conjunction with other 3D printers. Since this software is one of the most popular among makers, you can not waste time on profile settings - for most printers they can be found in the program itself.

The software is designed to change important print settings. Start with the “Recommended” mode to select improved quality settings for your printer and easily adapt to the program.

More precise control of all parameters is possible in the “Custom” user mode. By switching to this mode, you can manage more than 400 different settings.

Cura is not only a simple and intuitive slicer for home users. The software can be used as the main software for your printer, as well as integrated with CAD systems such as SolidWorks or Siemens NX.

The program is constantly updated and supplemented, which allows you to make 3D printing on your printer better.

►►►Link to office. site Cura

PrusaSlicer

This software is based on Slic3r and, unlike the prototype, has gained great popularity among users. The main difference is a large list of customizable parameters and additional features that make the work more convenient.

An easy-to-use user interface, built-in support for Prusa printers, and multi-plastic settings make it easy to get started with your 3D printer. The slicer also allows you to place additional supports, work with different materials and use smooth features with variable layer height.

The PrusaSlicer can be used with both FDM and resin printers. Settings panels for users with different experience in 3D printing help to significantly improve the quality of finished models.

A great bonus for those who have worked with Slic3r before - PrusaSlicer supports most of the original features and accepts Slic3r configuration packages when importing profiles.

►►►Link to office. website PrusaSlicer

MatterControl 2.0

MatterControl is a CAD modeling software, slicer and simultaneous host for a 3D printer. With host functions, you can directly control printing by connecting the printer via USB. The program also allows you to cut STL files for export to an SD card for offline printing and, of course, create projects in a separate section of the CAD software.

Structured interface makes it easy to create models and prepare them for printing. A file browser and a library of geometric primitives make it easy to import data into print. Geometric figures can be used as supports, which helps to achieve high quality printing of complex details.

Advanced print settings and a user-friendly viewer make this software one of the best for comprehensive control of the 3D printing process. In addition to the host and slicer functions, MatterControl has design tools that allow you to design parts. The resulting 3D models are easy to export to a slicer and print. Thus, the program allows you to control the entire process - from creating a model to cutting it and sending it to print.

►►►Link to office. PrusaSlicer 9 website0003

3DPinterOS

3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based program for managing a 3D printer. It combines the functions of a slicer, a host, and an STL file editor. The program can create a print queue, manage the printer and plug-in system based on STL data analysis and recovery applications, and perform cloud slicing.

The free Starter package allows users to download G-codes and send them to print, remotely control the printing process, and get support on a like-minded forum. For a modest fee, you can access additional features, including the ability to collaborate on a project.

In fact, this program is a universal tool for converting print files to STL format. That is why 3DPrinterOS is suitable for small businesses, education, production and design.

►►►Link to office. website 3DPinterOS

KISSlicer

The abbreviation of this application “Keep It Simple Slicer” can confuse inexperienced users. It's actually quite a complex 3D printing tool. Conflicting user reviews, however, allow us to conclude that the program is popular and has sufficient functionality to work with 3D printers.

The free version of the program is suitable for most users who work with printers with a single extruder. KISSlicer helps simplify certain aspects of slicing with Profile Wizards for printer-specific settings and Tuning Wizards for optimizing materials. The paid version of the program allows you to work with printers with 2 extruders.

Although the application settings are quite complex, it's worth the effort - the slicer allows you to have full control over the entire printing process.

►►►Link to office. site KISSlicer

Slic3r

This software is for open source slicers. Its main difference is advanced features that are not found in any other application.

Despite the fact that Slic3r releases almost no updates to its program, it is the base for many other open source software. For example, many programs use 3D honeycomb cavity filling, which is a special merit of the Slic3r developers.

In 2018, a new version of the software was released with new integrated functions. So, this version has new fill patterns, experimental support for SLA and DLP printers, 3MF format, and USB printing.

On the software website you can find a detailed manual that gives an idea of ​​all the functions of Slic3r. A great bonus of the program is the direct integration with OctoPrint for printing at the touch of a button.

►►►Link to office. website Slic3r

SliceCrafter

Browser-based slicer from IceSL developers. Using the program, you can quickly load STL files, cut them, and then prepare the G-code for printing. In the browser program, you can use almost all the options that IceSL offers.

Although many users find this version less powerful, it is suitable for beginners who do not want to set up more complex 3D printing programs.

►►►Link to office. site SliceCrafter

IceSL

IceSL is an excellent tool for 3D modeling and printing. Several working windows allow you to edit the model directly through a Lua script, select different settings for slicing the model, and view the result in real time. Despite the apparent complexity of working with the software, IceSL allows for elegant parametric modeling.

Slicer settings menu allows beginners to quickly and easily prepare a 3D model for printing. In the latest version of the program, it became possible to specify different values ​​for print settings at a certain layer height. All this allows you to make smooth transitions from dense to light filling and gradation of the thickness of the layers from fine to coarse.

►►►Link to office. site IceSL

OctoPrint

This program is a host for 3D printers that allows you to control printing and change settings. The software also allows you to remotely control the printer using a Wi-Fi module connected to the device.

OctoPrint accepts G-code from almost any slicer, while the host allows you to visualize the received files before and during printing. In addition, cutting files can be done directly in the program, using it as a slicer.

OctoPrint offers not only a wide range of tools for remote print management, but also several ways to keep track of your tasks. You can set up push notifications or send alerts through different messengers.

The software is open source and has an active user community that offers many plug-ins to extend the program's functionality. On the community page, you can find many add-ons that will be useful when printing.

►►►Link to office. site OctoPrint

Repetier-Host

Rep-Rap developers favorite host - Repetier is a high performance print management and file preparation software.

Repetier-Host is positioned as a universal software that helps manage printers with a large number of extruders (up to 16 extruders), and also supports almost any 3D printer on the market.

The program has remote access functions through the Repetier Server, which allows you to control your printer through a browser on a PC, tablet or smartphone.

►►►Link to office. Website Repetier-Host

AstroPrint

Like 3DPrinterOS, this program is a cloud-based solution for controlling and managing your 3D printers. Also, using AstroPrint, you can change slicer settings, manage printer and material profiles. A free account allows you to save print information and access all settings through a browser or the AstroPrint mobile app.

This software is unique in that it is compatible with Thingiverse and MyMiniFactory as well as free versions of CAD software such as 3D Slash and Leopoly. The application also has tools for cutting 3D models with the ability to send files for printing from a smartphone.

The software will be useful for those who work in large scale networks such as 3D farms, enterprises and universities.

►►►Link to office. website AstroPrint

3D-Tool Free Viewer

3D-Tool Free Viewer is designed to check the structural integrity of STL files and the ability to print a document on your printer. Additional functions, such as "Cross Section" also allow you to look inside the 3D model and evaluate some parameters.

This program can be useful if you want to check your STL file for errors. The user-friendly interface of the software allows you to measure the size, surface area and volume of all parts of the figure, as well as change the distance, angles and radius at the touch of a button.

For those who do not have sufficient knowledge and experience in CAD, the program offers a quick way to check the STL file and prepare it for 3D printing.

►►►Link to office. website 3D-Tool Free Viewer

MakePrintable

This useful web service allows you to check STL files for errors and fix critical values ​​that may affect printing. Unlike other free programs, MakePrintable gives you complete control over the process. You can choose the level of print quality, make the mesh hollow, fix the polygon count, and even merge multiple targets into one.

Although the program no longer offers a free version with limited functionality, users may find several ways to use the program. The program has different payment options - for a single file download (about $ 2 per file) or a "Maker" package with the ability to upload up to 30 files per month (monthly price about $ 15).

The advantage of the program is the compatibility of plug-ins with Blender and SketchUp.

►►►Link to office. MakePrintable 9 website0003

Meshmixer

Meshmixer is a super modern and free 3D printing software from the Autodesk family for viewing, checking, editing and repairing STL files. This program helps you identify potential problems and fix them automatically. For example, the program identifies insufficient wall thickness.

The program is positioned as a universal tool for 3D meshes, offering many tools for working with mesh, 3D modeling, surface embossing and others.

Whether you're trying to fix an STL file, prepare a model for printing, or construct multiple objects, Meshmixer is ideal for all of these purposes.

►►►Link to office. website Meshmixer

MeshLab

MeshLab is an open source application that allows you to edit STL files and also has tools for working with 3D triangular meshes. The software's capabilities help you check, render, repair, and transform meshes, and even solidify models and close holes.

The application is great for editing 3D models created in CAD. Despite the fact that the latest version was released in 2016, the program is still popular with makers.

►►►Link to office. website MeshLab

NetFabb

NetFabb is a slicing software that includes advanced analysis and recovery of STL files. One of the most powerful tools, NetFabb aims to streamline the user experience by offering support creation, mesh repair, and a wide range of generative design tools.

The program is free for students, as part of an Autodesk subscription. The 3-year student license allows you to choose one of the following versions:

• NetFabb Standard allows you to quickly prepare a model for printing;
• NetFabb Premium with advanced options for creating grids, supports and automatic packaging of parts;
• NetFabb Ultimate allows you to calculate assembly failures, provides modeling tools, customizable toolpath strategies, and helps automate the process of preparing a model for 3D printing;
• NetFabb Simulation helps you simulate certain metal printing technologies prior to production.

►►►Link to office. NetFabb site

About programs for 3D modeling, which even a beginner will understand, we wrote in this article. Here are equally useful, easy-to-use, and most importantly, free programs for three-dimensional modeling and 3D printing.

3D Builder

3D Builder application offers its users to quickly visualize and edit 3D models. The software helps to create and import files in 3D printing formats. Using simple editing tools, even entry-level users can create 3D images.

The application has its own extensive library of 3D models. You can also upload an external file or use the Kinect V2 sensor to scan and import a new 3D image. By joining the 3D Builder community and downloading the 3D Printing SDK, you can expand the capabilities of this free program.

►►►Link to office. website 3D Builder

Figuro

This browser-based modeling software combines the accessibility of TinkerCAD with the power of more advanced 3D modeling tools. The program is suitable for those who want to improve their design skills without going too deep into details.

The creation of objects in Figuro is based on the principle of polygonal modeling - you generate polygons by modifying them and combining them with each other. If you are using the program for the first time, we recommend using additional tools for checking and repairing STL files.

The program has a simple and pleasant user interface. An extensive gallery allows you to evaluate the capabilities of the software and get inspiration for creating new objects.

►►►Link to office. Figuro 9 website0003

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is a professional 3D modeling CAD program. Unlike other software, the software allows you to cover the entire process of planning, testing and 3D design.

The program has powerful tools for solving industrial design problems. Fusion 360 allows you to simulate the design of objects under design as well as the loads that they will face after commissioning.

Design collaboration, cloud file sharing, and import/export of various CAD file types make the application a pleasure to use.

Fusion 360 is free for students, startups and hobbyists. At the same time, amateur projects must not be commercial, startup income must not exceed $ 100,000 per year, and the student license of the program is limited to three years.

►►►Link to office. site Fusion 360

FreeCAD

Multifunctional CAD software allows you to perfectly develop design skills. Parametric modeling software creates models according to the given parameters. The big advantage is the ability to drag and control objects directly with the mouse.

A feature of this program is the ability to return to the history of the creation of an object and edit its parameters. Despite the fact that the software is free, it has all the necessary tools for full-fledged work.

FreeCAD allows users to draw 2D shapes as a basis for creating additional objects. The program is suitable for product design, mechanical engineering, architecture and other areas.

►►►Link to office. FreeCAD website

OpenSCAD

Unlike other presented programs, OpenSCAD focuses more on the CAD aspect of 3D modeling. The software works as a 3D camillator that reads a script file describing a 3D model and then converts the object into a 3D model.

The open source program is constantly updated with new features. For example, the latest update has a new Customiser panel. Get support and advice on using the application and working with updates in the user community.

The software does not have interactive components, but it helps to better control the modeling process and control the design parameters settings. OpenSCAD is considered to be the ideal tool for students.

►►►Link to office. OpenSCAD website

Blender

A popular CAD program with a steep learning curve. This software is not the best choice for a beginner, but is ideal for those who are familiar with 3D modeling concepts and want to create more complex models.

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