Cura 3d print software download

Powerful, easy-to-use 3D printing software

Trusted by millions of users, Ultimaker Cura is the world’s most popular 3D printing software. Prepare prints with a few clicks, integrate with CAD software for an easier workflow, or dive into custom settings for in-depth control.

Slicing features

At the heart of Ultimaker Cura is its powerful, open-source slicing engine, built through years of expert in-house development and user contributions.

Intent profiles print specific applications at the click of a button
Recommended profiles tested for thousands of hours ensure reliable results
‘Custom mode’ gives over 400 settings for granular control
Regular updates constantly improve features and printing experience

Integrated workflow

If you own a 3D printer, software matters. Get the most from your printer with software designed to suit your workflow.

Seamless integration with all Ultimaker products
CAD plugin integration with SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Autodesk Inventor, and more
Compatible file types: STL, OBJ, X3D, 3MF, BMP, GIF, JPG, PNG

Easy to use

Manufacturing doesn’t need to be complicated. We design our software so anyone can use it – both experienced or rookie 3D printer users.

Prepare your 3D model for print in minutes with recommended settings
Simply choose speed and quality settings, and you can start printing
Ultimaker Cura is free and open source software

Ultimaker Marketplace

Being open and collaborating is in our DNA. Now we bring this to the professional 3D printing market with the Ultimaker Marketplace.

Download material profiles from leading brands for your application
Avoid manual setup when using third-party materials
Download useful plugins to customize the print preparation experience, star-rated by our community

An Ultimaker Cura experience that keeps your infrastructure rock-solid

Ultimaker Cura Enterprise delivers stability and security with features that are tailor-made for businesses.

Utimaker Cura Enterprise can be deployed, configured, and managed with cross-platform systems distribution
Ultimaker Cura Enterprise receives two updates a year. These are thoroughly tested by our community and ensure the most stable desktop application. We support updates for 12 months after release (including security patches and bug fixes)
Each release of Ultimaker Cura Enterprise is independently scanned, tested, and analyzed for vulnerabilities. We publish a summary of that report and we commit to continuously improving security

Backup & sync your materials & plugins

Save projects to the Digital Library

Access 3D printing e-learning courses

Join a community of 40,000+ active users

3D printers that simply work

Our award-winning 3D printers are robust, reliable, and easy to use. They deliver quality parts time and again. Designed and tested to run 24/7, they allow you to achieve the results you need more quickly and easily.

Learn about our 3D printers

Software ready for Industry 4.0

Trusted by millions of users across 14 languages, Ultimaker Cura slices your model and integrates with any workflow through Marketplace plugins. Then scale production and digital distribution with Ultimaker Digital Factory.

Download the PDF

Material choice like never before

Ultimaker offers the widest material choice on the market. Through our Material Alliance, choose the perfect filament for your application – from advanced polymers to carbon fiber composites.

Learn about our materials

Support dedicated to your success

Wherever you are in the world, Ultimaker support is close by. Our global network of service partners offer professional installation, training, and maintenance in your language and time zone.

Learn about our support

Ultimaker Cura 4.3: Available now

We’ve released a new upgrade of our print preparation software. Join millions of users worldwide and benefit from an advanced slicing engine that offers integration with the Ultimaker Marketplace, and a cloud-connected workflow for ultimate flexibility. Validate your concepts faster with expanded compatibility with popular 3D file formats, quickly and easily orient your models on the build plate, maximize detail quality with automatic recognition of small features – and more. Don’t miss out! Update today.

Ultimaker S3. This release includes a new profile for our latest S-line 3D printer: the
Ultimaker S3, which we officially announced at TCT today. Learn more about the Ultimaker S3 by reading the blog.

The Ultimaker S3 build plate

Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle. At TCT we announced the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle, which is fully integrated into this version of Ultimaker Cura, as well as Ultimaker Connect and Ultimaker Cloud. An Ultimaker S5 connected with a Material Station will show all available material combinations in the configuration selector. Learn more about the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle in the blog.

Material combinations displayed when the Ultimaker S5 is connected to the Material Station

More 3D file formats. Ultimaker Cura 4.3 is compatible with even more 3D file formats than
before, allowing you to integrate CAD software, 3D scanning software, and 3D modeling software into your workflow with ease. Natively open Collada, GLTF, OpenCTM, and PLY formats, to name a few. Downloading plugins from the Ultimaker Marketplace brings in support for many more.

Open more 3D file formats in this version, including Collada

Align faces to the build plate. Orienting your models with the rotation tool or the lay flat tool can be a hassle with complex geometries. This new time-saving feature lets you select a face of your model to rest on the build plate, so you can get the orientation you need quickly and easily.

Align faces to the build plate easier than before

Support infill/interface line directions. Improve reliability with more precise control over certain aspects of your print. Choose the angle that support-infill and interfaces print at, thanks to a contribution from vgribinchuck. Input a set of angles you want lines generated at, and these will be placed sequentially throughout your 3D print.

Randomize infill start. Randomize which infill line is printed first. This reduces weak points in your model, at the cost of an additional travel move.

Print small features slower. Smartavionics has contributed a setting which recognizes small perimeters and reduces print speed in order to boost the reliability and accuracy of small printed features. This is especially useful for small perimeters such as printed holes, as they tend to get ripped away from the build plate easily due to their low contact area.

Easy selector for z seam positions. Z seams are now easier to position on your model, thanks to a contribution by trouch. A drop down selection box has been added to custom mode, giving you a list of presets to place the z seam on your model.

Colorblind assist theme. Nubnubbud has added a new theme for colorblind users which makes more distinction between colors, such as the yellow/green line colors in the layer view.

Bug fixes

This version addresses a number of issues from previous versions, including tray icons remaining after application close, silent mode installation and uninstallation, ‘arrange all models’ and much more. Read the release notes for a full rundown of changes.

Download now

All of these features and more are available in Ultimaker Cura 4.3 today. Download it now and get the most modern 3D printing workflow available. Tell us what you think on the forum.

Download Ultimaker Cura 4.3

Get deep insights from Ultimaker experts to improve your print preparation workflow, including:

• When to use per-object settings and modifier meshes

• How to optimize print profile settings

• Best practices for strengthening holes

• And lots more handy tips and tricks!

Top 20 Free 3D Printing & 3D Printing Software

Looking for 3D printing software? We've rounded up the top 20 software tools for beginners and professionals alike. Most slicers are free.

What is a slicer? This is a program for preparing a digital model for printing. Models for 3D printing are usually distributed in STL files. To turn an STL file into G-code (a language that a 3D printer understands), a slicer program is required. It is called a slicer because it cuts (to slice - English) a 3D model into many flat two-dimensional layers, from which a 3D printer will add a physical object.

Which slicer should I choose? In this article, we will tell you which slicer is best for 3D printing for each stage of your work. Which one is better for preparing a 3D model for printing? But what if you need to create a 3D model from scratch? And if you are only taking the first steps in 3D?

Don't be afraid: we've answered all of these questions, including the required skill level for each program and where you can download it. The great thing is that most of these programs are completely free and open source.

Cura
CraftWare
123D Catch
3D Slash
TinkerCAD
3DTin
Sculptris
ViewSTL
Netfabb Basic
Repetier
FreeCAD
SketchUp
3D Tool
Meshfix
Simplify3D
Slic3r
Blender
MeshLab
Meshmixer
OctoPrint

#1: Cura

For beginners who need a slicer to prepare STL files for 3D printing

Cura is the default slicer software for all Ultimaker 3D printers, but can be used with most others , including RepRap, Makerbot, Printrbot, Lulzbot and Witbox. The program is completely open source, its capabilities can be extended using plugins.

This program is very easy to use and allows you to manage the most important 3D printing settings through a clear interface. Start in Basic mode to quickly get up to speed and change print quality settings. If finer control is required, switch to Expert mode.

Cura can also be used to directly control the printer, but then the printer and computer must be connected to each other.

Download: Cura

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#2: CraftWare

3D printers by the Hungarian startup CraftUnique to support their CraftBot crowdfunding machine. However, the program works with other printers.

Like Cura, CraftWare allows you to switch from "Easy" to "Expert" mode, depending on how confident you feel. It's a colorful app that features a visual G-code visualization with each function represented by a different color. But the most outstanding feature is the individual support service. As far as we know, only the paid program Simplify3D has this.

Please note, however, that this program is still in beta, so bugs may occur.

Download: CraftWare

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac

#3: 123D Catch

-systems, smartphones and tablets, which allows you to convert images of objects into a 3D model. Pictures can be taken with a smartphone/tablet or digital camera.

You need many photos of an object from different angles - the more the better - after which they will be compiled into a 3D model.

123D Catch is more of a fun app than a professional 3D printing tool, but after some tambourine dancing, you can get good results, especially when paired with an STL editor like MeshLab or Meshmixer.

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Android, iOS, Windows Phone

#4: 3D Slash

and surprisingly simple, and refreshingly new. With 3D Slash, you can design 3D models using your dice skills.

You can start with a large block and, like a virtual sculptor, remove small cups from it with tools such as a hammer or drill, or start from empty space and build a model from cubes and other shapes. You can paint with flowers or use template pictures.

Other features worth mentioning are tools for creating logos and 3D text. The Logo Wizard imports an image and creates a 3D model, while the Text Wizard allows you to enter and format text, and then turn it into 3D.

Recommended!

Download: 3dslash.net

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux, Browser

#5: TinkerCAD

- A computer-aided design (CAD) system for 3D printing, which is a good starting point for beginners. Since its capabilities are limited compared to Blender, FreeCAD and SketchUp, many users switch to more powerful tools after some time.

As in 3D Slash, here you can build models from basic shapes. At the same time, unlike 3D Slash, TinkerCAD allows you to create vector shapes in 2D and convert them into three-dimensional models.

Come in: Autodesk TinkerCAD

Price: Free

Systems: Browser

#6: 3DTin

For beginners who want to create 3D printable models

another easy and intuitive online tool choice for beginners in 3D modeling. All you need is a Chrome or Firefox browser with WebGL enabled.

Choose from a huge library of 3D shapes and add them to your sketch. All sketches are stored in the cloud, access to them is free if you honor the Creative Commons license. Everything can be exported to STL or OBJ formats.

Enter: 3DTin

Price: Free

Systems: Browser

#7: Sculptris

For beginners who want to create 3D printable models

clay. This is a fantastic 3D modeling program if figurines are your main task. For example, you can make a bust of your favorite video game or comic book character. Sculptris is completely free and bills itself as a stepping stone to the more complex (and expensive) ZBrush tool.

Download: Pixologic Sculptris

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac

#8: ViewSTL

For beginners who want to view STL files

ViewSTL is the easiest way to view STL files . Simply open a web page and drag the STL onto the dotted box.

The STL online viewer allows you to display the model in one of three views: flat shading (for a quick view), smooth shading (for a high-quality image), and wireframe.

Enter: ViewSTL

Price: Free

Systems: Browser

#9: Netfabb Basic

some nice features that allow you to analyze, "repair" and edit STL files before moving on to the model cutting stage.

A good choice if you need more than just a slicer and want to be able to quickly fix STL files without having to learn programs like MeshLab or Meshmixer.

Don't let the 'Basic' in the title fool you, Netfabb Basic is actually a very powerful 3D printing tool. It's "basic" only in the sense that it doesn't cost €1,500 like Netfabb Professional!

Download: netfabb.de

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

No. 10: Repetier

For advanced to prepare STL files for 3D printing

9002 the next level of 3D printer slicer software, but if you want to stay open source, you should look into Repetier. It is the great grandfather of 3D printing software and a favorite of the RepRap community.

To date, the program is moving by leaps and bounds from the level for beginners to advanced users. Packaged in an all-in-one configuration, it supports up to 16 extruders, multi-slicing via plug-ins, and virtually every fusing 3D printer on the market. Get ready to tinker!

What's more, Repetier Host works remotely via Repetier Server, so that the 3D printer can be controlled via a browser, tablet or smartphone.

Download: Repetier

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#11: FreeCAD

The program is a great option for developing your design skills. More technically, this parametric 3D modeling program allows you to easily change the project by rolling back through the history of the model and editing the parameters.

Download: freecadweb.org

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#12: SketchUp

For beginners who want to create 3D printable models

SketchUp is the perfect combination of simplicity and the perfect combination functionality, with a user-friendly interface and a relatively flat learning curve (i. e., as experience grows with the time spent), the ideal program for developing three-dimensional models.

The Make SketchUp version is free and will include everything you need for 3D modeling if you also download and install the free STL exporter. There is also a professional edition for architects, interior designers and engineers.

Download: sketchup.com

Price: Free (SketchUp Make), $695 (SketchUp Pro)

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#13: 3D-Tool Free Viewer

view and validate STL files

3D-Tool Free Viewer is a sophisticated tool that, among other things, allows you to check the structural integrity and printability of your file. With the Cross-Section function, for example, you can look at the model from the inside and check the wall thickness. Very useful if you want to check your STL file for killer errors before printing.

Download: 3D-Tool

Price: Free

Systems: PC

#14: Meshfix

your model for errors.

Price: Free

Systems: Browser

#15: Simplify3D

For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing print. A flexible algorithm checks the model for problems, fixes them, shows a preview of the printing process (ideal for identifying potential problems), and then slices it.

This slicer offers the best infill pattern options in the competition. For models that require supports, Simplify3D will create the appropriate structures on its own and give you full control over their placement. For printers with a dual extruder, when printing with different materials, the Dual Extrusion wizard will help, as a result of which, for example, it will be easier to remove the dissolving filament.

Simplify3D supports 90% of today's commercially available desktop 3D printers and is compatible with Marlin, Sprinter, Repetier, XYZprinting, FlashForge, Sailfish and MakerBot firmware. Simplify3D can also be used to directly control the printer, but then the printer and computer must be connected to each other.

Download: simplify3d.com

Price: $149

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#16: Slic3r

source code, which has a reputation as a carrier of super new functionality, which you will not find anywhere else. The current version of the program is able to show the model from multiple angles, so that the user gets a better preview experience.

There's also an incredible 3D honeycomb infill, the first of its kind that can extend over multiple layers rather than repeating itself like a stamp. This significantly increases the strength of the internal filling of the model and the final printout.

Another option is direct integration with Octoprint. Once the files on the user's desktop are sliced, they can be directly uploaded to Octoprint with one click.

Download: Slic3r

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#17: Blender

For professionals who want to create 3D printable models

Blender is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) system with a steep learning curve. Not at all the best choice for beginners, but what you need if you are quite experienced and need something more complex for modeling and printing.

In short, Blender is one of the most powerful tools out there. Its community is always ready to help, there are a lot of educational materials. It's also open source, so enthusiasts often write extensions to make it even better and more powerful.

Download: blender.org

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#18: MeshLab

For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing

MeshLab - advanced editor. It allows you to remove parts of a 3D model, merge two models into one, patch holes. If you need a program to modify models for 3D printing or some kind of "repair" work, MeshLab is the right choice.

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

#19: Meshmixer

For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing files. It's especially good for identifying potential problems and fixing them automatically. For example, it will show paper-thin walls that can lead to problems with 3D printing. Meshmixer is part of the Autodesk family of 3D printer software, so it should work well with tools like TinkerCAD.

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac

#20: OctoPrint

start, pause or interrupt 3D print jobs. Combined with Wi-Fi capable devices, it makes for a great monitor for remotely monitoring the 3D printing process.

Octoprint understands the G-codes of almost all 3D printers and slicers and includes a gCodeVisualizer to visualize this code before or during printing.

If you want to work away from your 3D printer and control it remotely, Octoprint is the best you can find.

Download: Octoprint.org

Price: Free

Systems: PC, Mac, Linux

Source

Program CURA

Choosing Printer
CHOOK
Plug-ins
Preparation for cutting
G-code editing
Pros
Disadvantages

Free download of Cura
FAQ

Model needs to be converted to 3D printer before printing This can be done using special software. Cura is one of the representatives of such software, which will be discussed in the article. Today we will analyze in detail the functionality of this program, talk about its advantages and disadvantages.

Printer selection

Each printing device has different characteristics, which allows you to work with many materials or process complex models. Therefore, it is important that the generated code be tailored to work with a specific printer. When you launch Cura for the first time, you are prompted to select your device from a list. The necessary parameters have already been applied to it and all the settings have been set, which frees you from performing unnecessary manipulations.

Printer settings

Above, we talked about choosing a printer when you start working with the program, but sometimes you need to manually configure the device. You can do this in window "Printer Settings" . Here the dimensions are set, the shape of the table and the G-code option are selected. In two separate tables, the standard and final view of the code is available for viewing.

Pay attention to the adjacent tab "Extruder" , which is located in the same settings window. Go to it if you want to set an individual nozzle configuration. Sometimes a code is also selected for the extruder, so it will be displayed in similar tables, as it was in the previous tab.

Selecting materials

3D printing projects use a variety of materials supported by the printer. The G-code is created taking into account the selected materials as well, so it is important to set the required parameters even before cutting. A separate window displays supported materials and provides general information about them. You have access to all the editing functions of this list - archiving, adding new lines, export or import.

Working with loaded model

Before cutting, it is important not only to perform the correct device settings, but also to carry out preliminary work with the model. In the main window of the program, you can load the necessary file of a supported format and immediately proceed to work with the object in a separate selected area. It contains a small toolbar responsible for scaling, moving and editing model parameters.

Plug-ins

Cura has a set of plug-ins that add new features required for printing certain projects. A separate window displays the entire list of supported plugins with a brief description of each. You just need to find a suitable one and install it directly from this menu.

Preparing for cutting

The most important function of the program in question is the conversion of a 3D model into a printer-friendly code. It is with the help of these instructions that printing is performed. Before you start slicing, pay attention to the recommended settings. The developers brought everything important in one tab. However, editing parameters does not always end there. Cura has a Custom tab where you can manually set the required configuration and save an unlimited number of profiles so that you can quickly switch between them in the future.

Editing a G-code

Cura allows you to edit an instruction that has already been created if it is found to be defective or the configuration was not quite accurate. In a separate window, you can not only change the code, you can also add post-processing scripts and edit their parameters in detail.

Benefits

Cura is free;
Added Russian interface language;
Support for most printer models;
Ability to install additional plug-ins.

Disadvantages

Only supported on 64-bit OS;
Model cannot be edited;
There is no built-in device setup assistant.

When it is necessary to convert a 3D model into instructions for a printer, it is worth resorting to the use of special programs. In our article, you could get acquainted in detail with Cura, a multifunctional tool for cutting 3D objects. We tried to tell about all the main features of this software. We hope the review was helpful to you.