Ultimaker Cura is a widely utilized software for slicing in consumer 3D printing, and it’s popular for a good reason. Ultimaker, a 3D printer manufacturer, created the software, but it’s open-source and free, making it compatible with most desktop 3D printers. Using the correct 3D printing software to scale up your 3D printing designs is critical. The best 3D printing software can help you achieve your objectives, from reducing waste during rapid prototyping to turning 3D models into tangible products. This article evaluates and reviews the 17 best 3D printing software and my top five recommendations for choosing the best one.
3D printing software has improved at a breakneck pace in the last decade. From construction and manufacturing to technology and healthcare, 3D printing is still in its early stages. Still, it has the potential to generate lifelike models from software, improve design efficiency, and speed up the manufacture of many complicated items.
However, to produce and print these detailed designs, specialized 3D printing software is required. In recent years, 3D printing software has flooded the market with new features, incredible new capabilities, and seamless connections with computer hardware.
Let’s begin with the most excellent 3D printing software available.
What is 3D Printing Software?
Developing 3D modelling software used to be quite expensive. Furthermore, operating it would necessitate a specific set of skills. However, 3D printing software tools have recently improved their engineering and design capabilities.
With computer-aided design (CAD) models, 3D printing transforms 3D models into physical objects you can touch and use in the real world.
The software uses the 3D model as input and instructs the 3D printer to make a replica. The material and colour cartridges for printing the model are loaded into the 3D printer.
Furthermore, before generating the final print, the 3D model is optimized for printing to ensure that the design does not break or deform during the printing process.
Today, these technologies include advanced capabilities like cloud collaboration and virtual reality compatibility to mimic the 3D model efficiently. You also receive a user-friendly interface, which has allowed non-technical persons to enter the industry.
There are also a few other terms to be aware of:
- Slicer (also known as slicing software) converts 3D models into precise printer instructions and is utilized in most 3D printing operations.
- Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a 3D printing technology that uses a continuous filament of a computer-controlled, thermoplastic material to produce objects.
- Individual parameters (precise lengths, heights, and widths, which are adjustable during and after the modelling process) determine the model in parametric 3D printing.
- G-Code is a standard programming language for 3D printers that includes commands for moving parts around inside the machine.
How Do You Choose the Best 3D Printing Software?
With so many tools on the market, it’s critical to understand which one is ideal for your needs.
Before you choose the correct 3D printing software, take the following points in mind:
- Sculpting, editing history, and using 2D models to build 3D models are all examples of customization options to look for. Thanks to the excellent customisation tools, you’ll be able to generate gorgeous 3D model prints.
- Collaboration — With cloud-based 3D design software, you and your team can collaborate more effectively on 3D models and design tools. Thanks to the cloud, users can access the program anywhere to help with 3D modelling and printing.
- The more file formats the application supports, the easier it is to import and incorporate new elements into the 3D model.
- Simulation – The VR simulation capability can assist designers in identifying design flaws and faults early on. It saves time and resources by allowing you to view model histories.
- Scalable – Look for 3D modelling software that includes powerful adjustment capabilities for scaling the 3D model design to any size. You can make 3D models of any shape and size using it.
19 Best 3D Printing Software of 2023
- FreeCAD
- Autodesk Fusion 360
- Tinkercad
- Rhino3D
- Ultimaker Cura
- OctoPrint
- Lychee Slicer
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- MeshLab
- Creo
- Solidworks
- CATIA
- OpenSCAD
- BlocksCAD
- SketchUp Make
- Sculptris
- OnShape
- Meshmixer
- 3D Slash
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is the most excellent 3D printing software, with a user-friendly interface and the ability to generate real-life models of any size. This powerful open-source software is adaptable, simple to learn, and completely free, as the name implies.
The software is ideal for generating tiny and large prototypes, models, and other projects. It uses parametric modelling, which implies that forms are created using pr
operties that may be altered and recalculated on the fly. This enables more accurate modelling and makes it simple to change any design by going back into the model history and adjusting the parameters. It also can create a 2D base for a 3D model, giving it more versatility.
Rather than a drag-and-drop interface, the parametric approach to modelling allows users to construct more complicated things. As a result, FreeCAD is suitable for a broad spectrum of designers, from beginners to experts. This software isn’t the most beginner-friendly on the list (and it may be too complex for certain professionals), but it’s worth learning for many amateurs and professionals alike.
Overall, FreeCAD is more capable than the most basic free modelling software, but it is more beginner-friendly than professional versions, making it an excellent choice for enthusiastic amateurs. Its features are great for product design, mechanical engineering, and architecture, demonstrating the software’s versatility in various industries. Beginners will find it easier to visualize models before bringing them to life because designs are developed in real-world units (such as inches or feet). Brilliant designers may utilize Python code to build functions and accomplish almost anything in FreeCAD, giving professional users even more versatility.
Key Features:
Software Type: CAD software.
Price: Free.
Intended For: Beginner to advanced users.
Pros:
- Geared to creating real-life models of any size.
- Parametric modelling software.
- Easy-to-use 2D sketcher feature.
- Open-source and completely free.
Cons:
- The interface isn’t as attractive as some other options.
Autodesk Fusion 360
Dedicated hobbyists and professional designers alike prefer Autodesk software. One of Autodesk’s CAD (computer-aided design) software solutions most suited for 3D printing is Fusion 360. (and much more). For product modelling and manufacturing, the cloud-based software is utilized for 3D modelling, CAD, CAM (computer-aided manufacturing), CAE (computer-aided engineering), and PCB (print circuit board) design.
This professional-grade software, the best 3D printing software for pros, includes solid, mesh, and freeform modelling, sculpting tools, generative design and simulation tools, and easy online collaboration capabilities. Best of all, it is suitable for practically any audience and is not simply aimed at skilled designers. Like other Autodesk tools, it’s an expert application, but it’s still acceptable for novices ready to learn.
Many businesses utilize Autodesk Fusion 360 for quick prototyping and product design.
Professional designers, machinists, and engineers in practically any business will benefit from the application since it enables more precise designs. Users can construct whatever shape they want and test and execute 3D creations, giving them more options than free software.
Because of the collaborative cloud function, which makes it simple to exchange and edit ideas via the web, this program is precious for design teams. Like many other cloud-based tools, it saves the complete model history, making it simple to reference modifications in the future.
There are both free and paid versions. Professional users must pay a subscription fee, but students with an educational license can use the software for free. A limited free version is also available for amateurs, and anyone can use the free trial period.
Key Features:
Software Type: CAD Software.
Price: Free version for students or free, limited version for hobbyists, $495 annually for business use.
They are intended For Intermediate to professional users.
Pros:
- Professional-grade tools.
- Cloud-based features make for easy collaboration.
- Free and paid versions.
Cons:
- Only has a monthly subscription option.
- Steeper learning curve.
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is the best 3D printing software for beginners since it has a simple drag-and-drop interface. It is not only simple to use, but it is also absolutely free. It’s also browser-based, so you may use any web browser to view it online. Designs can be saved in the cloud and accessed from any device afterwards. Are you looking for a beginner-friendly option? Read our Anycubic Vyper 3D Printer review.
The design process in Tinkercad revolves around basic geometric shapes. Users can make 3D models of almost anything by dragging and dropping pre-designed forms (or importing their own) and manipulating them. The adjusting and resizing tools allow you to piece together relatively complicated models, even from a specific starting point.
Because of its simple UI and intuitive design tools, Tinkercad is accessible to people of all skill levels. The program has a simple learning curve, but there are plenty of tutorials and instructions for learning 3D modelling if you need them. However, it might be restrictive for more advanced users because it is user-friendly. It’s a popular choice among students (even young children) who wish to dabble in 3D modelling because it’s free and easy to use. The website even provides teaching tools for individuals who want to utilize Tinkercad to teach new designers, young or old, about 3D modelling ideas. With top-budget 3D printers, you don’t have to spend much money to get started.
Key Features:
Software Type: CAD Software.
Price: Free.
Intended For: Beginners.
Pros:
- Browser-based.
- Designed for complete beginners.
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface using basic shapes.
- Large shape and object library.
Cons:
- Maybe too essential for advanced users.
Rhino3D
Rhino3D is a feature-rich and versatile premium software choice for people interested in advanced 3D modelling. The program is built on the NURBS mathematical model, allowing users to create mathematically accurate designs. Users can design almost anything because the software has no originality, intricacy, degree, or size restrictions.
Rhino 3D is one of the most versatile CAD design programs available, and with its free-form 3D modelling capabilities, it lives up to that billing. With this application, designers can alter solids, curves, points, surfaces, and meshes in any way they choose. This software is a beautiful alternative for making odd-shaped items and extending your imagination because it has robust free-form modelling tools.
While this tool has a higher learning curve, it’s ideal for individuals who want to make complex or intricate 3D models. The software can create everything from tiny, intricate jewellery to giant, elaborate constructions.
Rhino 3D is a premium software solution with a one-time permanent license that some users may find appealing (rather than a monthly subscription fee). The higher price tag of $995 implies it’s not the most excellent solution for complete beginners, but those prepared to take on this software will be rewarded with robust capabilities. The one-time cost is a decent trade-off considering the program’s outstanding adaptability for those eager to create to their hearts’ content. Plus, it can be less expensive than confident subscription-based choices over time.
Key Features:
Price: $995 one-time subscription.
Intended For: Advanced and professional users.
Pros:
- Versatile and feature-filled modelling software.
- Uninhibited, free-form 3D modelling tools allow users to create anything.
- One-time cost.
Cons:
- Pricey
- Steep learning curve
Ultimaker Cura
Ultimaker Cura is a highly popular software for slicing in consumer 3D printing due to its wide usage. Although the software was developed by Ultimaker, a 3D printer manufacturer, it is open-source and free, which makes it compatible with most desktop 3D printers. Cura offers a user-friendly interface suitable for all users, while also providing advanced features that are ideal for more experienced users. Users with more experience can delve deeper or utilize a variety of plugins to access over 400 advanced settings.
The list of compatible 3D printers in this software is extensive, and it offers simple recommended presets for the most popular models. Cura supports various 3D file formats, including STL, OBJ, X3D, and 3MF. Cura displays a model preview and warns of any at-risk locations in print after preparing certain file types for printing. This warning feature is ideal for beginners who want to ensure their model is safe.
Cura also displays an expected printing time and estimated material usage for each project, giving you a better sense of the printing requirements. It’s also a well-rounded software for various 3D printing tasks, with a robust interface with typical 3D CAD applications like Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks. The free, essential version will suffice for most hobby printers, but professional teams may want to consider one of Cura’s expensive premium plans.
Specs:
Software Type: Slicer
Price: Free Essentials version, paid premium versions
Intended For: Beginners to advanced users
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Wide printer compatibility
- Regular software updates
- A large community of active users
Cons:
- Some features can be hard to find for beginners
OctoPrint
OctoPrint is a 3D-printing control program as well as a slicer software. This open-source software is both a slicer and a monitoring platform that enables controlling the 3D printing process more accessible than before. OctoPrint uses a WiFi-enabled device (such as a Raspberry Pi) to connect to the printer, allowing you to operate and monitor the machine remotely via a web interface from anywhere.
While Octoprint’s slicing capabilities are impressive, its remote control and monitoring capabilities set it apart from the competition. Print tasks can be started, paused, and stopped remotely. Print progress, extruder temperature, projected remaining print time, and the opportunity to see webcam footage of your print progress are all displayed on the UI. This means you can start a large project you neglected to start before leaving home or interrupt the print if something goes wrong via the webcam.
Octoprint may be set up to send update notifications to your smartphone in addition to remote control and monitoring, keeping you informed even when you aren’t actively viewing your printer. The UI is user-friendly for beginners, but advanced users can install plugins.
Specs:
Software Type: Slicer and printer controller application
Price: Free
Intended For: Beginners to advanced users
Pros:
- Allows for remote control and monitoring of 3D printers
- The control and monitoring interface is easily accessible via a web browser
- Compatible with most 3D printers
Cons:
- Recommended to use on a Raspberry Pi. Setup is more complicated on other devices.
Lychee Slicer
Most consumer 3D printers are FDM (fused deposition modelling) printers, which build a shape from the bottom up by extruding a heated substance (such as plastic filament) into thin layers. Many alternatives are SLA (stereolithography) printers, which use a different design method than resin printers. SLA printers use a laser to turn a photosensitive liquid (resin) into a 3D object layer by layer. To understand a 3D model, SLA printers still require slicer software. However, many slicers are designed for FDM printers and lack the functionality necessary for SLA printing. The Lychee Slicer, designed for SLA users, tries to address this need.
The user-friendly program is ideal for individuals who are new to resin printing. The “Magic Mode” button automatically orients, supports, and hollows the chosen model and is available to novice users. Manual alternatives are also available for individuals who want greater control over their slicing program and prefer to add manual support.
Users can preview or simulate the model before and during printing using the preview feature. While your printer is running, you may use the Realtime Preview feature to check the print’s progress and see what your final image will look like. Lychee Slicer is available in both free and paid versions, with a limited free version for hobbyists and a paid version with enhanced advanced features. Start by looking through our list of the best resin 3D printers.
Specs:
Software Type: Slicer
Price: Free version and paid pro version
Intended For: Beginners to advanced users
Pros:
- Designed for SLA 3D printers
- Excellent automatic support creation and hollowing options
- One-click “Magic Mode” optimization setting
Cons:
- Limited tutorials and learning materials
Autodesk AutoCAD
AutoCAD, another great 3D printing technology created by Autodesk, is best suited for professional use.
Overall, it’s a powerful 3D printing program with many features for creating 3D models. It allows users to attach and import PDFs, annotate drawings, and extract object data from tables. All of these elements aid in better data presentation and real-time analytics.
You also have access to both Windows and Mac versions of AutoCAD and industry-specific platforms and tools, including AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Electrical, and more.
Key Features:
- It is most suitable for creating detailed 3D models, perfectly optimized for 3D printing.
- It also offers a web and smartphone application.
- AutoCAD can easily convert 3D models into STL files for efficient 3D printing.
- It provides the latest version of the DWG file format to draft files across various forms efficiently.
- The software comes loaded with preloaded information and plugins about building product designs, including doors and windows.
- Easily modify and create robust mechanical designs for 3D printing.
Pricing:
Its paid version is available for $1449/year. AutoCAD also offers a free and fully functional version that can be used by educational faculty and students.
MeshLab
MeshLab is another open-source 3D modelling program specializing in editing and processing 3D meshes. Users may quickly modify, render, supply texture, and convert it into meshes using all of its functions. You may also promptly slice and prepare the design for 3D printing.
Key Features:
- Its 3D rebuilding capacity is effective in producing gorgeous designs.
- Is 3D colour mapping and texturing possible?
- 3D printing, offset, hollowing, and closure
- Its efficiency allows the user to speed up the 3D printing operation.
- It provides simple ways to clean the mesh effectively.
- The measurement tool can calculate the distance between two mesh locations by reading linearly.
Cons:
- The navigation is clumsy, and numerous vital options are missing.
- The same buttons have numerous purposes.
Pricing:
Meshlab is a free, open-source platform.
Creo
Creo is a product design software program developed by Parametric Technology Corporation.
The tool’s incredible functions, including motion, structural, and thermal, are the main reason for its appeal. It also has outstanding modelling, surfacing, finite element analysis, and tooling capabilities, among other things, to effectively create, simulate, and print 3D models.
Key Features:
- Users can leverage its augmented reality capabilities for more accessible and more efficient simulation of 3D designs
- It offers multiple tools for designers to create stunning designs
- It comes with one of the best topology optimization technologies
- It leverages data from models used in the real world to generate more brilliant designs
- Creo’s Model-based definition feature allows the user to create 3D models that have all the data embedded in them to define the product
Cons:
- The plethora of features could look overwhelming for new users for the first time
- You will have to change the metric default template always
- Not compatible with systems of lower configuration
Pricing:
The tool comes at a one-time license fee of $2,310. You also get a 30-day free trial to check out the product before making your final purchase.
Solidworks
Dassault Systemes created Solidworks, one of the most used 3D design programs. It comes with various tools and capabilities for creating 3D models for industrial use.
Solidworks also has several sophisticated and distinctive capabilities that enable experts to develop inventive 3D designs.
Key Features:
- It offers unique features, including reverse engineering and validation tools to create 3D models easily
- It leverages a unique system of NURBS to create incredibly detailed curvatures
- Solidworks uses dimensional sketching to ensure hassle-free resizing
- The software offers 3DEXPERIENCE® to efficiently manage every aspect of development and smooth delivery of products
- Its 2020 version offers enhanced performance features for better efficiency
- The software provides a straightforward design, simulation, and manufacturing-enabled simplified workflow
Cons:
- You would need a secondary program to download and edit STL files
Pricing:
The subscription cost of the software is available on a request basis.
CATIA
CATIA was created to fulfil Dassault Aviation’s internal requirements. However, as a multi-platform suite, it has steadily gained tremendous appeal. Dassault Systemes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform is also included in the software.
Key Features:
- It is one of the capable options that engineers can leverage for applications for large organizations
- Users can track all the changes done to the 3D model for efficient revision of the product
- The software efficiently manages all the data during product development
- Its extensive set of tools offerings is perfect to meet the specific requirements of different organizations
- It is used by some of the largest corporations in the world, including Boeing, to design complex systems
- Through this software, users can collaborate online for product modelling and share designs of 3D models
Cons:
- It is one of the most expensive offerings on the market
- Beginners will find it extremely difficult to use the software
Pricing:
Initially, CATIA offered a free trial. For the paid plan, you have to request a quote to know the subscription cost of the software.
OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a free and open-source software platform for building highly efficient and dependable 3D models. Professionals working on big and sophisticated projects will benefit from the tool. It’s also simple enough for programmers and coders to use.
Key Features:
- It comes equipped with Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG), and the Extrusion of 2D outlines
- The software is most suitable for creating simple shapes and designs that are parametrically defined priorly
- Users can leverage either constructive solid geometry or the extrusion of 2D outlines to create 3D models
- It offers a robust community of 3D designers to discuss issues and get instant solutions
- The software is available on Linux, Mac, and Windows
- With numbered changes to the design, the software offers measurable results for the end 3D models
Cons:
- Since it is wholly based on descriptive language, it’s not user-friendly for beginners
- Not good with creating complex shapes
Pricing:
It is entirely free and open-source software.
BlocksCAD
BlocksCAD was created with educational goals in mind. Its primary purpose was to teach people how to use OpenSCAD, a professional program for making 3D models for usage in the real world. The software also offers a YouTube channel for learning proposals to promote efficient information transfer.
Key Features:
- The commands are represented by colored blocks synonymous with the blocks of the construction toy, LEGO.
- Its code is entirely compatible with OpenSCAD to allow users to give final finishing through more advanced professional software
- It offers a YouTube channel that has tutorial videos
- It offers a simple and easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- It offers limited features, which is why it is not capable of creating and printing professional 3D models
- Designers can’t draw components that are partly inside each other
Pricing:
The software is available free of cost.
SketchUp Make
SketchUp is a powerful software program that is ideal for architectural design. It provides professionals with 3D modelling and printing services, including designers, architects, manufacturers, builders, and engineers. The software makes it simple to turn thoughts into 3D models.
Key Features:
- It allows the users to document 3D designs in 2D
- The software offers a collaborative workspace through the sharing of 3D model designs and other relevant information
- Its immersive VR experience enables designers to simulate the design before printing
- It offers several templates that users can make as a base to start creating 3D designs
- It provides an excellent option for beginners who are new to 3D modelling and printing
- Offers an engaging and intuitive user interface
Cons:
- The software comes with limited capabilities to design complex 3D models
- Its paid versions are expensive
Pricing:
Initially, you can try out its free trial version. After that, the paid plans start from $119 per year and range up to $1199 per year.
Sculptris
Sculptris creates unique 3D sculptures using digital sculpting. The software lets you create 3D models by sculpting any mesh with various brush strokes. The method appears similar to carving a lump of clay in real-time.
Key Features:
- Users can digitally sculpt 3D models
- Offers a more natural learning curve through a user-friendly interface
- It leverages surfaces with countless triangles to eliminate the worry of creating snapped figures
- The software allows incorporating details to various parts by using different-sized brushes
- You can leverage its Symmetry Mode to make sure that the model is symmetrical from both sides
Cons:
- Being an entry-level software for beginners, it allows limited functionalities
- Can’t be used to create complex 3D models and prints
- It is no longer in development. So, it might not run on new hardware and operating system versions
Pricing:
Sculptris is available free of cost.
OnShape
One of the most capable 3D modelling and printing solutions is cloud-based 3D software. Compared to other software on the market, the robustly developed program is simple to use. The good news is that it is entirely cloud-based, which allows you to save a lot of space.
Key Features:
- Being built on the cloud from scratch, it offers end-to-end collaboration features
- It is compatible with all platforms and devices, including desktops, smartphones, and tablets
- It is built considering the needs of designers, engineers, and manufacturers
- It is the best option for agile teams that require close collaboration and integration
- It offers capable tools to create detailed and immersive 3D models for printing
- The software provides a single master version of the CAD program data eliminating the hassles of copying files or software license
Cons:
- It is challenging to find commands for the Onshape product
Pricing:
For basic functionalities, you can use the free version. You might want to invest in a paid plan for more advanced functions, starting from $125 per month per user if billed annually.
Meshmixer
One of the most popular tools on our list is Meshmixer. Its ability to deal with triangular meshes is the main reason for its popularity. It also has tools for quickly editing and sculpting 3D models.
Key Features:
- Users can quickly convert or alter a 3D model by creating an a.stl file. obj file.
- It has a simple and intuitive user interface.
- The software can soften the texture for a better 3D model finish.
- Meshmixer can turn any mesh into a solid three-dimensional object.
- It stores the most recent version of the model automatically.
- Surface-lasso, brushing, and restrictions are among the advanced selection options available.
Cons:
- The software faces the issue of abrupt crash
- At some points, the 3D parts viewer becomes complex and difficult to inspect
Pricing:
Meshmixer is available entirely free of cost.
3D Slash
If you’re a non-technical individual who wants to learn about 3D modelling and printing, 3D Slash is the place to go. The tool has a simple interface and is enjoyable to use. Its extensive capabilities and one-of-a-kind user interface make printing 3D models a breeze.
Key Features:
- It allows rounded forms or STL/OBJ into 3D models.
- The new edition combines the features of the Basic and Expert versions into a single package.
- It has a High Definition Mode that allows for more exact 3D modelling and editing.
- With the Syringe tool, you can apply colour underneath the block.
- The software has a VR mode that allows users to view the 3D model in virtual reality.
- It is capable of efficiently editing an STL file.
Cons:
- Not recommended for professionals that require more extensive functionality and customization.
- Insufficiently capable for industrial application
Pricing:
Paid plans begin at $2 per month and go up to $20 per month. You can also choose the freemium option.
Blender, Netfabb, Pixologic ZBrush, Repetier, and other tools have yet to be vetted and added to the list.
Conclusion
These were some of the best 3D printing applications on the market. All of these tools are capable of meeting your requirements.
There is no such thing as the best solution for choosing software. To make the optimal decision, critically evaluate each tool against your requirements. You need to find the proper 3D CAD software for you, whether you’re a hobbyist, an entrepreneur, or a videogame designer.
