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Best software for 3d printing reddit


gettingstarted - 3dprinting

  • Getting Started
    • Why 3D Printing?
    • Getting started with 3D Printing
    • Where to get a model printed
    • What printer to get
    • Where to find models
    • Material Choices
    • Slicers
    • Printing and Troubleshooting
    • Post Processing
    • How to make models
    • Further Info
If you're new around here, welcome! We thought we'd put a few links together to springboard your foray into the fabulous (and sometimes frustrating!) world of 3D printing. :)
If you are contributing to this wiki please keep this page incredibly concise and extremely high level, keep further detail for the Detailed Info pages.

Why 3D Printing?

3D printing (a.k.a Additive Manufacturing) is now pretty well established in industry as a prototyping tool, and is becoming more common as a process for creating finished custom or low-run parts.

In the home, printers can be a marvelous tool for solving practical household problems for example by repairing items, or creating new items that are fully customised for their position or use case. They also can be used for fun, and are popular for making tabletop gaming minis, and toys.

For inspiration browse the top posts of this subreddit.

Getting started with 3D Printing

The various types of 3D printing technologies all create real-world three-dimensional objects from digital models via the addition of material. These processes are able to produce novel structures that other manufacturing techniques cannot. Usually the 3D printing process looks like this:

  1. Get a digital 3D model (by downloading or making one)

  2. Slice it (use a program to generate instructions for the printer)

  3. Print it (and troubleshoot it)

  4. Post-process it (remove support material, clean up areas, paint etc)

Where to get a model printed

If you don't want to buy a printer (and you just want to have something printed), you can engage the help of a 3D printing service. Some popular choices include:

For a full list of service-providers (including design and model hosting services), please see the Services page.

What printer to get

If you're totally new to printing, the best place to ask for help when deciding what printer is right for you is our stickied monthly Purchase Advice Megathread.

Generally personal printers come in two main categories;

  1. FDM (FFM) printers are best suited to larger objects and functional parts and work a bit like a like a hot glue gun that moves around, extruding plastic filament and building up an object layer by layer.

  2. DLP (Layer Masking) printers are best suited to extremely detailed prints, and use light to cure resin in layers, masking it with an LCD screen.

There are, however, many other types of 3D printing technologies, which are explained here.

Where to find models

If you don't want to make your own models to print, there are many sites that host models for download. The more popular ones are:

  • Printables: upcoming and community-focused, feature-rich

  • Thingiverse: biggest model host, often buggy

  • Thangs: free models, which can be searched by geometry

  • My Mini Factory: free and paid models, guaranteed to print

  • GrabCad: functional/ technical models

  • YouMagine: Open source models

  • pinshape: free and paid models

  • yeggi: 3D model aggregator/search

  • CGTrader: free and paid models, not all of them made to be printed

A community-curated list of model host services can also be found on the services page.

The RepRap foundation also keeps a list of printable model-host services here.

When selecting a model you need to ensure they are manifold, here's an explanation of what that means and guide on fixing them. You can also try these free, automated services; Netfab, and Microsoft's tool

Material Choices

When you are just starting out with FDM 3D printing PLA is the recommended choice. It's very easy to work, relatively strong, with and comes without many of the safety concerns of other materials. A deeper discussion of materials can be found here.

If you are starting on a resin printer, check out our Resin Info page.

Slicers

Slicing software takes a 3d model and turns it into instructions for the 3D printer. The instructions are generally exported in GCode which essentially is a list of locations to move to, amount of filament to extrude, etc.

The popular choices for slicing software are:

  • Ultimaker Cura: free, open source, highly customisable. Getting Started, Full Manual

  • Prusa Slicer (Based on Slic3r), Beginning with Prusa Edition (old version)

There are, however, many other options, most of which are discussed here

Be sure to check the layer preview to see if it makes sense in your slicer before printing (no unsupported overhangs, no parts missing, etc). More info on the Slicers Page

Printing and Troubleshooting

Follow your manufacturer's instructions in setting up your printer and starting your first print. It's a good idea to print a test print first (usually printers come with one).

If it succeeds congrats on your first print! You can now start slicing and printing your own models or some calibration prints

If your print fails you can begin troubleshooting.

This video helps you get to know the parts of your machine, so you know what we're talking about! :)

By far the most common reason for prints failing is an issue with levelling/tramming:

Full-resolution printable copy can be found here.

This visual reference, and this video may also help.

Once you have your prints sticking and printing, these guides can help you identify and solve any other issues you're experiencing:

  • Our Troubleshooting and Calibration wiki page

  • A Printa Pro PrintaGuide

  • rigid.ink poster and visual guide

  • Matterhackers Troubleshooting Guide

  • Simplify 3D Visual Troubleshooting Guide

  • Ultimaker Visual Troubleshooting Guide

  • RepRap Wiki Pictorial Troubleshooting Guide and Descriptive Troubleshooting Guide, these are a bit more technical/ advanced

  • It's also worthwhile seeking information from the manufacturer of your machine.

  • You can try searching for similar issues that other folk have experienced in the following communities: /r/3Dprinting, /r/FixMyPrint, the 3D Printers Discord

If the above suggestions don't solve your issue then it's time to seek help from the community:

  • This video is a great overview on how to seek help with prints.

  • The best places to ask for help are here on /r/3Dprinting, /r/FixMyPrint, the 3D Printers Discord. When asking for help be sure to provide the following:

    • A highly descriptive title (even if you don't know exactly what everything is officially called, please do your best to describe the issue in plain English. This not only helps you get the help you want, but also helps the rest of the community by keeping the sub searchable, so others can benefit from the help you receive.)
    • Photos of the issue, screengrabs of the layer view in your slicer, screengrabs of the model itself.
    • A description of what the machine was doing as it produced this issue.
    • Your basic settings such as: nozzle and bed temperature, speed, nozzle/line width and later height, the printer you're using and the material you're printing in. Or better yet, a screengrab or an export of your settings (you can upload files free without an account here)
    • Any other information you think could be relevant such as modifications or hypotheses.

Post Processing

Most prints need some work after they come off the printer to turn them into a finished part. Supports need to be removed, and surfaced may need to be smoothed. Here are some tutorials:

  • How to finish 3D Prints guide

More info on the Post Processing page

How to make models

Can't find what you want online? Why not design and make it? Model-making software is split into 4 main categories, depending on your goal:

Full-resolution, printable copy here

These are just the top picks, model making is discussed in more depth on the Making Models page

More communities:

  • /u/Devtholt keeps a Multireddit of all 3d printing subreddits including some specifically for help, or tailored to certain printers or printer manufacturers. Also has some subs that are related to 3D printing peripherally, such as /r/lasercutting and /r/CNC

  • 3D Printers Discord great platform for troubleshooting and socialising.

  • RepRap Forums

The top modeling software for 3D printing in 2022

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing is more affordable than it’s ever been. Although some hobbyists buy a printer for crafts and to experiment with, it’s also an excellent engineering tool for innovative electronics or robotic projects.  

Typically, printers offer complimentary 3D models or free downloads that are ideal to start with. Eventually, you’ll likely want to design more customized parts. There are several 3D modeling software programs that offer a range of versatility and options. Some programs are free, and others will cost you. Some are easy to use, and others require a learning curve that takes time to master. 

Below are a few of the options available to suit different user needs and preferences.

Free 3D modeling software
Open-source tools or software with free trials are ideal for first-time users. They provide a platform to learn, practice and identify your end goals for 3D design and development. 

Here are a few complimentary software programs…

SketchUp
Better known for architectural designing, SketchUp is equally relevant for 3D printing and is one of the easiest 3D modeling software available — making it ideal for beginners. It runs on a web browser, Chromebook, or iPad, and with a plugin, users can easily create STL files for print. Its basic platform is free and perfect for rapid prototyping. A subscription service is available for professional or commercial use (starting at $119/year).

SketchUp’s advantage is its simplicity and abundance of tools, including more than 4M+ pre-built 3D models (although these are not specific to electronics). You can build your first custom 3D model in a few hours or have a detailed model ready within a day. However, you’ll have to upgrade to SketchUp Pro ($299/year) for proper 3D printing and extended functionalities.

Blender
Blender is a relatively advanced open-source 3D modeling software free of cost. It’s commonly used for sculpting, architectural designs, VFX, video editing, video games, and 3D printing. Unlike SketchUp, Blender requires patience and effort as the software is sophisticated. Most find the results are worth the effort, and it does offer community support. There are several free online tutorials for learning Blender, plus the open-source community is proactive in sharing their 3D designs and STL files.

Rhino
Rhino is one of the best 3D modeling software programs for curved surface designs. Most modeling tools only handle basic geometrical shapes, but Rhino is a master with NURBS, curved designs, and can adapt LiDAR scans. It’s free for a 90-day trial, and the commercial version costs $995 (with a permanent license), and works on Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows.

Rhino includes a plugin solution, a developer platform, and a scripting language to fine-tune 3D designs. For non-developers, it comes with a Grasshopper tool that offers parametric modeling without any code. The tool is widely used for industrial, automotive, architectural, graphic, and CAD/CAM designs.

DAZ 3D
DAZ 3D is a fun-to-use free 3D modeling software for artists. Designed for animation movies and video game development, it’s useful for designing lifelike characters, face morphing, animation, and custom designs. There are additional paid 3D assets available, including custom shapes, people, and animals.

The 3D models or characters designed in DAZ 3D easily import into Blender using the DAZ-to-Blender bridge, which can then be printed in a few simple steps.

There are several online tutorials for learning DAZ Studio, which should enable character-building within a day. If you enjoy designing electronic toys or lifelike robots, DAZ studio is for you. You can even upload photographs and create a character based on one.

FreeCAD
An open-source parametric 3D modeling software, FreeCAD is excellent for designing real-life objects, including mechanical designs. You can start with a 2D sketch and turn it into a 3D model. These 3D models can be exported in STL, OBJ, DXF, STEP, SVG, IFC, IGES, and DAE file formats, of which STL, DXF, and OBJ can be printed. It uses Python for scripting the 3D models.

FreeCAD is an advanced program that’s evolved over two decades for mechanical engineers. It can be downloaded for Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, and Linux. It offers several tools including a robot simulation module, CAM/CNC workbench, finite element analysis tools, dedicated BIM, and experimental CFD. There’s a FreeCAD online manual and Wiki can be referenced for learning.

TinkerCAD
TinkerCAD is a free online tool for circuit designing and simulation. The models are created by combining geometrical shapes. A browser-based 3D software, TinkerCAD is ideal for kids to learn how to print. It can export 3D models into STL files, which can be printed into real-life objects by any 3D printer.

Aside from 3D modeling, TinkerCAD’s tools can be used to prototype digital electronic circuits, including for use with Arduino, ATiny, and Micro:Bit. It has a simulator for microcontroller boards and can run-test embedded codes before physical interfacing. It can also be used to inspect how components respond virtually using an interactive code editor to simulate virtual projects.

For 3D printing, TinkerCAD is a basic tool, so an advanced program is required for product or engineer designs.

OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a developer-friendly 3D modeling software free of cost. It downloads for Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, and Linux. A unique modeling tool, OpenSCAD heavily relies on scripting and coding for creating models. Although it’s possible to create 3D models with a mouse, the software is best used for its scripting capabilities — making it potentially intimidating for non-programmers.  

It’s recommended that beginners familiarize themselves with Blender or FreeCAD before switching to OpenSCAD. It uses a functional programming language with C++ syntax. 

3D Slash
3D Slash is interactive, easy to use, and ideal for beginners, offering a free trial version for browser or desktop applications. The premium platform is only $2 per month. 3D Slash also offers several advanced features for creating detailed designs, best used via the desktop app. This software can export models in STL, OBJ, DAE, and FBX formats; all are 3D-print ready. 

Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a professional 3D modeling software that combines design, engineering, electronics, and manufacturing capabilities. It’s the first and only 3D modeling tool with integrated Cloud-based CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software. The free trial of the software can be downloaded online, with commercial use available for a licensing fee of $500/year. 

This software has been designed for professional use, however, beginners can get through it with some training. Fusion 360 exports 3D models into DXF, FBX, OBJ, STL, STEP, 3DM, and other file formats that are 3D-print ready. It has several built-in features that can be used to evaluate the physical properties of a model even before it’s printed.

Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D is a professional 3D modeling software with a 14-day free trail. The commercial version costs $60 per month. It’s used for 3D modeling, VFX, game development, virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, architecture, and motion graphics. It also allows for capturing 3D models from a series of photographs.

Cinema 4D offers several tools for interactive modeling, re-topology, and advanced spline modeling. It includes parametric, polygonal, and volume modeling, as well as sculpting, fusion compositions, and several other useful features. It exports models into OBJ, STL, VRML, COLLADA, and any LWO formats that can be 3D printed.

Meshmixer
Meshmixer is an older version and a free alternative to Fusion 360 for beginners. The software has not been retired but is no longer in development. Many of the features in Fusion 360 are inherited from Meshmixer, which is available for Microsoft Windows.

This software works with triangular meshes and is useful for repairing 3D scans and models before printing. Hollowing is one of its commonly used tools that allow for printing lighter models. Additional tools include branching support structures and automatic print bed orientation, layout, and packing. Meshmixer is used for mesh mixing, 3D sculpting, re-meshing, mesh smoothing, surface stamping, stability, and thickness analysis.

Wings 3D
Wings 3D is a free, open-source 3D modeling software written in Erlang, a functional programming language. It has a simple interface with context-sensitive menus and several tools for meshing and selection. It also supports lights and materials and has a built-in UV-mapping facility.

Winds 3D is easy to learn and can be used for 3D modeling, printing, and engineering design, but not animation. The software is available for personal and commercial use and is actively maintained by a community. It downloads for Mac OS X, Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Unix systems. On Mac OS X, it requires Mohave, and for Windows and Linux, it requires OpenGL 2.1.

Vectary
Vectary is a browser-based 3D modeling software that’s available for free or as a premium version ($12/month). It acclaims to be the most accessible platform for 3D modeling and augmented reality. It requires no coding and includes a vast 3D assets library. There are zero limits for file size.

Up to 25 projects can be created and exported to OBJ and STL file formats for 3D printing with the free version, including access to the 3D assets library. The licensed version is ideal for collaborative projects and offers project sharing, access and digital asset management, and versioning features.

Vectary allows 3D scaling, various colors and materials, simulating lighting effects, descriptions and labels, and real-time sharing for collaborative projects. It’s a worthy software for beginners and experts who want to build, simulate, and realize 3D models in augmented reality before physically printing them.

Houdini Apprentice
Houdini Apprentice is a free version of Houdini FX for non-commercial use. Houdini FX is a powerful animation tool for VFX, video game development, and video editing used by popular Hollywood studios like Walt Disney, Dreamworks, Pixar, and Sony Pictures. The movies like Frozen were animated using Houdini FX.

The free Houdini Apprentice is an excellent tool for beginners to try 3D modeling and animation. Its nodal workflow interacts with engineering designs in a manner that’s not possible with conventional 3D modeling tools. The software has several out-of-the-box features that simplify problem-solving and design engineering.

Houdini Apprentice is worth trying to experience its nodal workflow and model testing, but after experience on Blender, Solidworks, or other typical 3D programs. Plus, Houdini allows you to use VFX animation typically used in movies.

SelfCAD
A beginner-friendly 3D modeling software, SelfCAD can be used for sketching, sculpting, 3D modeling, design, rendering, STL slicing, and animation. The software is tuned for 3D printing and lets users slice STL and G-code files online. SelfCAD aims to make 3D designing and printing accessible to everyone. No prior experience in CAD/CAM is required to use the software.

There’s a free and commercial version ($14/month or $599 for a permanent license), available as desktop (PC and Mac) and browser-based applications. A hybrid version also allows syncing online and offline projects anytime and anywhere. There are also discount available for students and educators.

The tool has a short learning curve, with several tutorials available online. This is one of the affordable software that combines 3D modeling and printing in a seamless workflow.

Rocket 3F
Rocket 3F is a Microsoft Windows-based 3D tool for polygonal modeling. It’s useful for modeling, re-topology, sculpting, push-pull, hard edging, and non-linear sub-division edge creasing. Rocket has a free and pro version ($99). The premium version has a fully customizable user interface and a more extensive toolkit. The software exports 3D models into OBJ, DAE, and FBX file formats.

BlocksCAD
A Cloud-based 3D modeling tool, BlocksCAD is designed for educating students in 3D designing and printing. The software is easy to learn and offers several 3D assets available free of cost. The models can be exported to print-ready STL files. A paid version for schools includes educational features like lesson planning and student management.

Filed Under: 3D Printing, Tech Articles
Tagged With: 3dprinting, additivemanufacturing, software
 

REC Wiki » Best 3D Printing Software in 2022

3D printing is a multi-step process, because you first need to design a 3D model, check it for errors, convert it to machine code, and only then the 3D printer goes into business . In this article, we will share examples of programs that can help at every stage of preparatory work and directly during 3D printing.

Contents:

1. 3D modeling software:

  • Tinkercad
  • ZBrushCoreMini
  • 3D Builder
  • SketchUp Free
  • Fusion 360
  • FreeCAD
  • Blender

2. Editing and repairing STL files:

  • Meshmixer
  • MeshLab

3. Slicers:

  • Cura
  • PrusaSlicer
  • ideaMaker
  • ChiTuBox Basic
  • Lychee Slicer
  • Kiri:Moto
  • IceSL

4. Control programs:

  • OctoPrint
  • MatterControl 2.0
  • AstroPrint

5. G-code Visualizers

  • UVTools
  • WebPrinter
  • Gcode Analyzer
  • Design Software
1.
3D modeling software

If you are ready to create from scratch, you will have to learn special 3D modeling software. Many of them, especially professional computer-aided design systems, can be expensive investments, but on the other hand, there are plenty of quite capable and at the same time free offers on the market.

Tinkercad

Tinkercad is a browser-based application from Autodesk that is great for no-experience users, even kids, because of its simplicity. In this program, 3D models are built on the basis of basic blocks - simple geometric shapes that are joined together and then "filed" to the finished look. You can also convert 2D vector images into 3D models. Of course, you have to pay for simplicity - in the case of Tinkercad, rather primitive functionality that makes it difficult to create truly complex models. But such a task is not worth it: having gained basic skills on Tinkercad, you can always move on to more complex and more capable programs on our list.

Official website

ZBrushCoreMini

ZBrushCoreMini is primarily a 3D sculpting tool, especially popular among those who create human and animal figures, computer game characters, comics, and the like. This software is mainly aimed at beginners and users with moderate experience, but at the same time, it is full of impressive features that make the work easier. For example, dynamic tessellation algorithms constantly analyze the surface of the working model and automatically add polygons so that detail is not violated.

ZbrushCoreMini is offered free of charge and is positioned as an entry-level program for learning and gradually moving to more capable and complex options - ZBrush and ZbrushCore.

Official website

3D Builder

This program was developed by Microsoft and was included with Windows 10 for some time, although now it needs to be downloaded and installed separately. 3D Builder allows you to edit models in STL, OBJ, and 3MF formats, as well as create models from scratch. In this regard, the program is quite primitive, but it is simple and understandable even for novice modelers.

One of the interesting features of 3D Builder is the ability to simplify meshes by reducing the number of polygons, file weight and processing time in the slicer - useful in cases where the original designer obviously went too far with polygons. Additionally, you can import models from the library and even use Kinect sensors to 3D scan and import models of physical objects.

Official website

SketchUp

SketchUp is a web application with a great combination of simplicity and functionality. The user-friendly interface is intuitive and greatly facilitates learning, and the set of tools is quite diverse even for advanced users - hence the wide popularity of this program.

The free version was formerly called SketchUp Make, but is now simply called SketchUp Free. It includes everything you need for 3D modeling for 3D printing, just don't forget to download the module for exporting STL files - it's also free. The kit comes with 10 GB of storage for projects in the cloud and access to the 3D Warehouse, a repository with open source user-generated content.

Official site

Fusion 360

Professional CAD developed by Autodesk and famous for its ease of use and advanced functionality. This includes parametric modeling and mesh analysis and load distribution tools, including through generative design with topological optimization. The program is great for those who are engaged in 3D printing of functional products, for example, for industrial applications.

Some versions of Fusion 360, such as hobby and student versions, are even available free of charge. FreeCAD FreeCAD The program relies on a parametric approach: at any point in history, you can scroll back and make changes to the parameters. The program even includes finite element analysis and a robotic system simulator.

Official site

Blender

One of the most popular 3D modeling programs, but quite difficult to master. Not the best choice for a novice designer, but a great tool for those who have already gotten their hands on simpler editors. Fortunately, the popularity of Blender has led to a huge number of guides, tutorials, and visual examples published by experienced users for beginner colleagues.

Developers are trying to make the program more convenient without sacrificing functionality: the interface has recently been updated, rendering has been improved, and 3D design and animation capabilities have been expanded. And yes, it's open source and freeware, so you don't risk anything.

Official site

2. Editing and repairing STL files

If you find an interesting 3D model on the Internet, this does not mean that it can be immediately sent to a 3D printer. Many models are created for completely different needs, such as animations or video games, and in principle are not intended for 3D printing. But there is a solution: before processing such models into G-code, they must first be repaired so that the slicer can do its job well. The following programs on our list will help you cope with the repair.

Meshmixer

Meshmixer is an advanced and free program from Autodesk that allows you to view and check 3D models for errors in polygonal meshes that can ruin 3D printing. If such problems are detected, the program can automatically repair meshes. One example of an application is finishing 3D scans to a state suitable for 3D printing.

Additional functionality includes mesh blending, 3D sculpting, surface writing, cavity creation, support branching, mesh smoothing, and more.

Official website

MeshLab

MeshLab is another open source program for editing polygonal meshes. MeshLab has the necessary tools for editing, checking, cleaning and converting meshes with the ability to combine meshes into one model and patch holes that can lead to incorrect processing of models into G-code.

Official website

3. Slicers

After receiving a 3D model, it must be converted into machine code - a series of commands understandable to CNC machines, including 3D printers. Slicers are responsible for this task - programs that accept digital models (usually in the form of files with STL, OBJ or 3MF extensions), analyze their structure, and then compile lists of actions for 3D printers, called G-code (Gcode). Such lists contain all the information necessary for the equipment: to what temperature to warm up the extruders and tables, whether to use airflow, along what trajectory and at what pace to lay the plastic.

Cura

Cura is a slicer from the Dutch company Ultimaker, designed primarily for proprietary 3D printers, but open source and compatible with most other FDM/FFF systems. The program is easily customizable with various plugins. Since this is a very popular program, the chances are that it already has a profile with optimal settings for your 3D printer. If not, then nothing prevents you from creating a profile manually or using profiles prepared by other users.

The program has several levels of difficulty depending on the level of training - basic, advanced, expert and complete. The higher the level, the more access to customizable options. At a basic level, the program takes the bulk of the work on itself, helping inexperienced users.

Cura is constantly being developed and improved through regular updates and is also offered free of charge, although a paid version of Cura Enterprise is available to professional users with licensed plug-ins from the Ultimaker Marketplace, technical support and additional security measures.

In addition to converting 3D models to G-code, Cura can also take on the role of a control program, but this will require a constant connection between the 3D printer and the computer throughout the 3D printing. Professionals appreciate another feature of Cura - seamless integration with professional computer-aided design systems such as SolidWorks and Siemens NX.

In general, Сura is suitable even for novice users, especially since a huge number of training videos and step-by-step guides are available for this program, both from developers and enthusiasts.

Official website

PrusaSlicer

3D printer manufacturer Prusa Research, under the leadership of the legendary Czech engineer Josef Prusa, whose designs are copied and refined around the world, has developed its own open source software based on the Slic3r slicer. PrusaSlicer quickly gained popularity as it not only retains the original program's extensive customizations, but also adds a number of useful features not found in Slic3r.

A redesigned interface, support for Original Prusa branded 3D printers, and profiles with settings to work with many common polymers are just some of the improvements. Additionally, algorithms for generating support structures have been improved, support for multimaterial 3D printing and the ability to dynamically adjust the layer thickness have been added.

PrusaSlicer can process models not only for FDM 3D printers, but also for stereolithographic systems printing with photopolymers. As with Cura, the user can select a difficulty level with appropriate access to fine-tuning.

Official website

ideaMaker

Raise3D's slicer is optimized for branded additive hardware in the same way that PrusaSlicer is optimized for Original Prusa 3D printers, and Cura is optimized for Ultimaker 3D printers, but this does not mean that it cannot be use with third party systems. The organization of workflows and the interface is somewhat more complicated than in Cura and PrusaSlicer, but on the other hand, ideaMaker allows you to set up individual layers and apply textures for product customization.

ideaMaker users can connect to the cloud platform and access hundreds of 3D printer profiles and materials created by other operators, or create their own library of settings.

Add the ability to customize support structures, split models for more efficient 3D printing of large parts, integrated mesh repair tools, and OctoPrint compatibility, and you have a flexible, versatile program to suit the needs of most 3D printers.

Official website

ChiTuBox Basic

This is a specialized slicer for those who use stereolithographic 3D printers that print with photopolymer resins. Most budget LCD masked stereolithography (MSLA) 3D printers rely on motherboards and firmware from ChiTu Systems, which also developed this software.

Users gain control over technology-specific parameters such as layer exposure time, as well as access to predefined profiles with settings for many popular 3D printers. The slicer takes into account such moments as the orientation of the model and the automatic construction of support structures with the possibility of manual optimization.

Official website

Lychee Slicer

A program from the independent Franco-Belgian team Mango 3D, not associated with 3D printer manufacturers, but with support for many popular stereolithographic 3D printers, including those from Elegoo, Anycubic, Phrozen and Creality.

One of the features of this program is the high level of automation. If you wish, you can simply click on the "magic" button (it's called Magic), and the slicer will do everything by itself: it will orient the model on the platform, generate supports, and so on. Although, here you are lucky: the results are not always optimal, but usually adequate for relatively simple models. Otherwise, everything can be configured manually.

The program is offered in free and paid versions. The functionality of the free version is slightly reduced, but it has everything you need.

Official site

Kiri:Moto

Browser solution for those who lack computing power. Kiri:Moto can prepare 3D models for both 3D printing and laser engraving or milling. The settings are somewhat more primitive than in locally installed slicers, but are sufficient for most users.

Official website

IceSL

IceSL is a combination software that combines slicing with 3D modeling. In the left window, you can edit 3D models using scripts in the Lua language, which makes it possible to perform parametric modeling. On the right side, the 3D printing settings are displayed. For beginners, pre-configured settings are available, while experienced users can take advantage of features such as specific adjustment of parameters for individual layers with automatic gradation of intermediate areas. For example, this allows you to gradually reduce or, conversely, increase the filling density of the product as it is built, or gradually change the thickness of the layers.

Official website

4. Control programs

Control programs are designed for exactly this - managing workflows during 3D printing. Although you can insert a G-code drive into almost any 3D printer and press the start button, this is not always convenient, especially when you have to work with several 3D printers at the same time, and even more so when you do it remotely. This is where control programs come to the rescue. In addition, some of them offer additional functionality, including slicing and even editing 3D models.

OctoPrint

A web-based appliance that requires connection to a 3D printer via a microcomputer such as a Raspberry Pi equipped with a Wi-Fi module. This system allows you to control 3D printers remotely. OctoPrint accepts G-code from almost any slicer and provides the ability to visualize - view files before and during 3D printing. Alternatively, STL files can be loaded and processed directly in OctoPrint.

OctoPrint not only provides all the necessary tools for remote management, but also allows you to track the work in progress using notifications via various instant messengers.

This is a completely free, open source program with many plug-ins created by enthusiasts and available on the official website.

Official website

MatterControl

MatterHackers offers its own control program, slicer and 3D editor in one package. MatterControl allows you to directly control and observe 3D printing, slice, export G-code to SD cards for offline printing, and even create 3D models from scratch. The 3D printer will need a Wi-Fi or USB connection to run MatterControl.

The interface is well structured: on the left side there is a file browser and a library of simple geometric shapes. Interestingly, these shapes can be dragged into the 3D model and used as support structures.

Basic functionality is available in the free basic version, advanced users can pay to upgrade to MatterControl Pro.

Official website

AstroPrint

AstroPrint is a cloud-based management platform that allows you to remotely monitor and control multiple 3D printers simultaneously, store files, convert 3D models to G-code, and track workflow statistics. The functionality ranges from basic in the free version to advanced with different levels of paid subscriptions.

The 3D printer will require a Wi-Fi module to fully work with AstroPrint. In conjunction with the Raspberry Pi, the system is similar in functionality to OctoPrint: you can process models and send the finished code to a 3D printer via a web interface without the need for additional software. Another plus is integration with popular repositories of 3D models Thingiverse and MyMiniFactory, as well as 3D editors 3D Slash and Leopoly.

Official website

5.
Programs for visualizing G-code

What if you find an old file with a G-code, but you have no idea what it is and why - maybe garbage, or maybe an excellent, but long-forgotten model without a clear marking in the file name? The programs in this section will help you visualize the contents of such files.

UVTools

This program combines file browsing with layer editing and even model repair for stereolithographic 3D printing. The program can also be used as a plug-in for PrusaSlicer, adding support for third-party photopolymer 3D printers - although PrusaSlicer is open source, support for stereolithographic systems is still limited to branded equipment. At the same time, UVTools allows you to print calibration samples to check the exposure time and other parameters, which can be useful, for example, when working with new photopolymers that have not yet been tested.

Official website

WebPrinter

A simple browser tool for quick G-code preview, developed by the same team that created the IceSL slicer and 3D editor. The application works very simply: follow the link, upload the file with the G-code and see how the 3D printer will grow the model according to the commands provided. Unfortunately, the functionality is limited: for example, the application does not provide information about temperature settings. On the other hand, you can quickly figure out what kind of model is hidden in a file with an incomprehensible name.

Official website

Gcode Analyzer

An old but still very capable and popular G-code analysis web application. The 3D simulation doesn't work very well, but the 2D and G-code previews work great. In 2D mode, you can conveniently view individual layers, moving from layer to layer and following the construction path step by step using two sliders. G-code viewer displays a complete list of commands, allowing you to see what a particular line of code is doing.

Official website

Adapted translation of The Best Free 3D Printing Software of 2022 article.

The 3 Best 3D Printing Software to Translate Your 3D Designs

In the past threads of previous articles on this website, we have shared how you can create a 3D image or model from your 2D photos. Have you ever imagined that you are printing these works as if you were making a sculpture? Think no more because we will present the best 3D printing software. We will give you a full review of th4 three the best 3D printing software chose. Now that we're all set, let's take a look at three of the best 3D printing software.

Best 3D Printing Software

  • Part 1: Top Three 3D Printing Software
  • Part 2: Bonus: Best 3D Movie Maker for Windows and Mac
  • Part 3: Frequently Asked Questions

Part 1: The 3 Best 3D Printing Software

There is a significant amount of 3D printing software available. Programs that allow you to cut your work into G-code and even control the production of your 3D printed product. To create 3D sculptures, you will need three things: 2D to 3D Model Converter, 3D printing software, and a 3D printer. Luckily, we've covered the first two things you need, but the third requirement is out of our scope. However, you cannot print without print media.

1.Ultimeker Kura

We made sure that the first software on this list is attractive and tolerable. This article introduces Ultimeker Kura , a free, affordable and standalone program. It is easily one of the best 3D

printer design software due to its affordability using plug-ins. Plugins are extension programs that allow users to add new features that will greatly improve the user experience.

This software is relatively easy to use and offers features that allow users to manage important 3D printing settings in a simple interface. One of the best things about using Cura is that it's constantly being updated, which means it's still constantly evolving. Great software prioritizes updates and refinements. With more and more updates, they keep their software up to date.

Most importantly, Cura is known for having a 3D printer host program feature to directly control and manage your 3D printer. In addition to this, since it is a well-established software, there are many tutorials and guides on the Internet that you can watch and read if you want to learn something new about Cura.

2. Prusa Research

Prusa Research is the company behind Prusa 3D printers. It is an open source slicer available for Windows, Mac and Linux. It is a popular 3D printing software and tool for many reasons; it has various adjustable Slic3r settings. It also has many features not found in the original program.

Its redesigned interface and numerous improvements over the main version of the software. Some key features include custom features, structures, and functions.

All in all, this is an all-round software that provides just about everything you want from the best 3D printing software. It's easy to download, hobbyist-friendly, and best of all, it's free! It really does everything it's supposed to, but much better!

3. Lychee Slicer

Last on our list is the best slicer software, Lychee Slicer. This is an attractive third party option for cutting resin. It's the smoothest, most comfortable, and most innovative desktop resin printing you'll ever experience.

It has an automatic model orientation feature that helps users start preparing the model. However, you can skip this feature by clicking the icon of this program. magic button and let Lychee Slicer do all the work. It also has model manipulation, its purpose is to gouge and slice the model, and it can print a detailed print preview feature that switches to show a banana for zoom.

This is a charming program that works and stands out independently. It has everything you need for the best 3D printer software.

Now that we have covered the first part of the article, we would like to move on and introduce you to the bonus part of this article, because you are the best reader!

Part 2: Bonus: Best 3D Movie Maker for Windows and Mac

We are happy to help you create 3D models to bring the best 3D printer software to the market. Now that you know how to create a 3D model from a 3D image, we would like to show you a software that will help you create 3D videos or movies with the easy steps provided by us.

AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate is a great tool to convert your video and audio files to another file format, giving you the flexibility to play and use your files.

One such feature, as already mentioned, is the 3D construction set. It allows users to convert their 2D videos into a cinematic 3D version. With a simple video upload procedure, anyone can do it. Users can choose whether they want Anaglyph 3D, the classic combination of red and blue in 3D cinemas, and split-screen 3D, also called Side by Side 3D because there are two screens with different filters and resolutions that play at the same time. Coming back to the main features of the software, it supports almost all file formats for your video and audio files. Crop, Cut, Merge and crop your videos. Create amazing music videos with its MV feature. You can also enhance your videos with the Video Enhancer tool, which allows users to High-End Resolution, Optimize Brightness and Contrast, Remove Video Noise, Reduce Video Shake.

All this in one program! So how exactly do you make a 3D movie with AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate? In the following parts, we will show you how to create an IMAX movie on your computer or laptop. Let's start!

1Download AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate from the website.

After installation, start the program. Click Toolbox in the top selection on the initial interface, then select 3D Construction Set.

2Click Add Video to 3D Maker. Select the video you want to convert. Then you can move on to the editing part.

3To convert your video to 3D. Click on either Anaglyph 3D or Split Screen 3D setting to set a 3D effect for your video.

4 If you are satisfied with the video, export the video by clicking Create 3D.

That's all you need to create a 3D cinema in your home. We hope you enjoy using it!

Part 3: Frequently asked questions about how to resize images in Word

Are 3D printers expensive?

This is indeed mainly because it is used by professionals or businesses to create, for example, sculpture. It is worth noting that engineers and designers usually use it to create parts of their work. Most entry-level printers cost between $300 and $500, while professional 3D printers cost between $1,500 and $20,000.

PLA is stronger than wood?

Yes, the experiment showed that PLA filament is stronger than WoodFill filament.

How much does a 3D artist earn?

They make quite a lot – a 3D artist salary ranges from $19,140 to $114,171.

Conclusion

We are proud that you made it this far in the article. You now have a basic knowledge of which 3D printing software is best for your 3D printing needs. We also hope you enjoy using AnyMP4 Video Converter Ultimate to convert videos and create 3D movies.

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