3D printing has been one of the most innovative technological developments in recent decades. The average consumer can now print 3D objects with a printer that is more affordable than ever before.
But if you’ve purchased a 3D printer and want to start designing your own objects to print, then you’re going to need 3D printing software to do it. We’ve created this guide to help you review your options. Continue reading to find out more.
The 10 Best 3D Printing Softwares 2023
What is 3D Printing Software exactly?
3D printing software allows you to design digital models that can be printed using a 3D printer. This software can be a bit complicated if you’ve never used it before. These key terms will help you get started.
Slicer Software
Slicer software converts your code to code that can be used with your 3D printer.
Fused Deposition Modeling
FDM is the most popular type of 3D printing. To create three-dimensional objects, it involves layering a series thermoplastic filaments onto a plate.
3D Modeling Software
3D modeling software lets you create mathematical representations 3D shapes on a standard PC.
STL File
When you save a CAD file for 3D printing, STL files will be created. To print the objects you have created, your 3D printer will require STL files.
Autodesk Fusion 360
- Interface that is user-friendly
- Software tools that are powerful
- A useful feature for prototyping
Tinkercad
- CAD software extremely affordable
- Users are satisfied at high rates
- Multi-material support
Cura
- With customizable support structures, it is easy to use
- Computer-aided design software programs can be customized
- Many STL files and file types can be imported and run
Lychee slicer
- Offers automatic model orientation
- Features many resin STL files
- There’s a free version available
AstroPrint
- Cloud-based modeling software
- Prints can be prepared and sent through a web-based interface
- Integral compatibility with MyMiniFactory and other software
Get FreeCAD
- Open-source CAD software
- Advanced features for users to create models using parametric modeling
- This program allows you to sketch basic shapes 2D.
Solidworks
- Great for managing large assemblies
- Quick renderings of the digital model
- G Code is a powerful tool that allows for more precise control than any other.
Meshmixer
- It makes it easier to identify and fix potential problems before printing.
- Drag-and-drop mesh editing and modeling
- Provides design and repair tools for many different situations
Blender
- Due to the popularity and accessibility of this slicing program, there are many tutorials.
- Highly powerful software with advanced settings
- There are many extensions available for advanced users such as game developers and additive manufacturers.
Rhinoceros 3D
- Instead of a subscription, pay a one-time fee
- It makes it simple to export files or G code
- Analytics that help you monitor your health
Top 10 Best 3D Printer Software February 2023
Autodesk Fusion 360
Autodesk Fusion 360 is the top overall 3D printing software because of its extensive features, user-friendly interface and useful slicing settings.
- Interface that is user-friendly
- Software tools that are powerful
- A useful feature for prototyping
- A CAD software can be quite expensive
If you’re looking for one design software that can do it all, Fusion 360 may be your best bet. It can be used to create and store models, as well as to feed FDM and resin printers. You can also use it for detailed subdivision modeling and complex print jobs.
The features and print settings are ideal for mechanical engineers and personal use. If you’re willing to pay for your 3D modeling software, then it will be tough to find a better option than this.
Tinkercad
Tinkercad has a tier for free that is affordable and stands out among other slicing engine.
- CAD software extremely affordable
- Users are satisfied at high rates
- Multi-material support
- Slicing software isn’t the best
The majority of free 3D modeling software lacks many features. Tinkercad is different. This program includes everything you need to create high-quality projects for printers remotely, and it’s all completely free. It may not be easy for the more advanced users to find all they need. Intermediate and novice users will likely find the information they need.
Cura
Cura is unique because of its flexible web interface, which allows users to create custom models in their own ways.
- With customizable support structures, it is easy to use
- Computer-aided design software programs can be customized
- Many STL files and file types can be imported and run
- Sometimes customer support is a little lacking
Are you tired of learning new open-source and closed software? Cura might be the right choice for you. Cura lets you create dashboards that are tailored to your needs, instead of being forced to follow the instructions of a program. This printing software doesn’t have the best support, but the shallow learning curve is really nice.
Lychee slicer
Lychee simplifies the 3D printing process with its automatic model orientation and other useful G Code features.
- Offers automatic model orientation
- Features many resin STL files
- There’s a free version available
- Users of this free CAD software won’t get access to every tool and function
With Lychee, you get 3D modeling software that’s designed to make every project easier. You’ll be able to design a three-dimensional object faster with an automatic model orientation that reduces how long it takes to navigate model history and land at your desired shape.
The best part? There’s a completely free version of this printing software. You won’t get access to every feature with this version of the program, but it allows you to try Lychee out before paying.
AstroPrint
Astroprint is a cloud-based software for creating slicers. It has many built-in integrations.
- Cloud-based modeling software
- Prints can be prepared and sent through a web-based interface
- Integral compatibility with MyMiniFactory and other software
- There’s no WiFi functionality on the free account
Astroprint is an excellent choice when you need cloud-based printing software that lets you create designs from any location. This 3D printing program is far more compatible than others. This allows you to invent in ways that other products are not able to match.
A basic Astroprint account won’t include the Wi-Fi module. You can still use the software if you wish.
Get FreeCAD
FreeCAD comes with some nice advanced features and is open-source software that’s constantly being improved and upgraded.
- Open-source CAD software
- Advanced features for users to create models using parametric modeling
- This program allows you to draw basic shapes 2D.
- It takes a lot of learning to master this skill.
As far as open-sourced printing software goes; it’s tough to beat FreeCAD. This product is constantly being improved upon thanks to its open-source nature, so you’ll always have new features and upgrades to play around with. There can be a steep learning curve for some users, but it’s a really powerful tool that’s definitely worth taking a look at.
Solidworks
Solidworks is an excellent choice for designers who work with large assemblies or those who want to have more control over their projects.
- Great for managing large assemblies
- Quick renderings of the digital model
- G Code is a powerful tool that allows for more precise control than any other.
- Is it a slow 3D modeling program
Solidworks 3D printing software allows you to choose from three different slicing engine options depending on your requirements. It’s much easier to make your unique ideas come to life, regardless of how complicated.
However, the software is a little slower when it’s used with single-head machines. The upgraded functionality might make up for this.
Meshmixer
Meshmixer has some special features and send-push notifications which make it easier to identify design issues before printing.
- It makes it easier to identify and fix potential problems before printing.
- Drag-and-drop mesh editing and modeling
- Provides repair tools as well as design features to suit many use cases
- This computer-aided manufacturing program is no more being updated
Meshmixer’s drag-and-drop editor interface makes it easy to identify and fix potential issues during the design process. This allows you to create better designs and prevent costly repairs.
Blender
Blender is the most well-known 3D printing software. You can find tons of resources and tutorials for Blender.
- Due to the popularity and accessibility of this slicing program, there are many tutorials.
- Highly powerful software with advanced settings
- There are many extensions available for advanced users such as video game developers and additive manufacturing.
- It is challenging to learn 3D modeling software
Blender is a powerful 3D printing software that’s become of the industry’s most-used products. The software with the most tutorials and extensions online is Blender, out of all the ones on the list. Blender is a free program to start using, but the interface can be a bit complex to get used to if you’re a beginner.
Rhinoceros 3D
Rhinoceros 3D features provide helpful monitoring analytics to minimize complications during the design phase.
- A one-time payment instead of a subscription
- It makes it simple to export files or G code
- Analytics that help you monitor your health
- This 3D printing software is significantly slower because of the extensive parametric model preparation
Rhinoceros 3D makes 3D Printing easy thanks to its useful analytical features. The product charges a one time fee and not a monthly subscription fee, unlike some competitors. You can pay once, and you can continue to use the software forever.
Who are the Users for 3D Printing Software Software
3D printing software is now affordable enough to be used by the common consumer. These machines are used in a variety of engineering and manufacturing industries to make products and parts.
How do you choose the best 3D printing software?
It will take some research to find the right 3D printing software. Here are some key factors to consider as you research 3D printing software.
Prices
It is always important to consider the price. There are many 3D printing software options that can be downloaded for free. These often lack the same features as paid software.
The following features are included
Also, you should consider the various capabilities of a piece software. Some will give you greater control over your designs, while others will provide more tools to catch potential errors.
Printing and Modelling
It’s also important to verify that the type of printing and modeling you want to do is supported by the software you’re going to use. Different 3D printing software has different capabilities, so it is important to check compatibility for your printer type as well as your preferred modeling preferences.
Customer Support
3D printing software can be super complicated and difficult to use – especially if you’re a new user. If the software that you use has solid customer support, then it’ll be much easier for you to get around any issues that you experience so that you can get back to your designs faster.
Customer Reviews
It is worth reading customer reviews as they can give you a rough idea of your experience with the software. Just make sure to take these with a grain of salt, as they’re highly subjective.
Final Thoughts
All of the software we have listed can work well for different users. It really comes down to the type of 3D printing that you’d like to do and what your skill level is.
Fusion 360 is our overall top pick because it offers both performance and simplicity. But you may also benefit from trying Tinkercad for an affordable option and Cura for software that’s super easy to get started with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
3D printing software lets you create models that can then be fed into 3D printers. It’s how you design the things that you 3D print.
Printing is possible with many 3D design programs. Paid programs can be different. Some programs require a subscription fee while others can be purchased for a one time fee.
Online, you can find many 3D printer code that you can use without any software. However, if you wish to print your own designs you will need to use 3D printing software.
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