Looking for 3D printing software? Then you have come to the right place. We have compiled an extensive list with software for all your 3D printing needs: from 3D modeling to slicing, from beginner to professional, we have got you covered. Jump right to the section that you are most interested in: the 3D Modeling Tools section covers all kind of CAD software, the Slicers & 3D Printer Hosts section contains the latest print preparation applications and last but not least, the Other Handy Tools contains software that may come in handy when repairing a 3D model.
3D Modeling Tools
Listed below are the most common and widely used 3D modeling softwares. There are three main categories: CAD Tools, Freeform Modeling Tools and Sculpting Tools. Whereas the tools of each category can generate models suitable for 3D printing, the way the inputs are generated are different: CAD tools are largely based on using geometrical shapes to build models while Freeform modeling tools allow more freedom by allowing you to create freeform shapes. Sculpting tools are pretty much like using digital clay that you can push, pull, pinch and grab to form your models.
K-3D is a 3D modeling as well as 3D animation software which comes with 3D rendering support. It provides some useful features, such as: 3D Primitives, Different type of objects, boolean modeling operations, Instantiation, etc. Its Linux version also provides feature for collaboration modeling. Use these free 3D modeling software solutions to quickly turn your design ideas into realistic 3D construction models. Construction professionals are constantly coming up with new ideas for innovative designs, and it's helpful to have software that can quickly turn these ideas into three-dimensional (3D) representations. SketchUp is a premier 3D design software that truly makes 3D modeling for everyone, with a simple to learn yet robust toolset that empowers you to create whatever you can imagine. The 3D printing community of this software is rather small, and so finding good 3D printing tutorials for it is a little more difficult than for the other programs mentioned in this list. To try it, you can simply start with their free 30 days trial version. Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use app for 3D design, electronics, and coding.
For beginners who are looking to get some quick results, we have included a section on Customizers. These work with pre-existing models that you easily customize by modifying some simple settings. A great way to get to your first custom-made 3D model – make sure to check them out!| Software | Developer | User Level | Price | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAD Tools | ||||
| (Sponsored link) | VECTARY Inc. | Beginner to Intermediate | Freemium | VECTARY is a free, online 3D modeling tool and community platform where you can create, share and customize 3D models. The Free Plan offers you a fully functional and easy-to-use toolset, with unlimited public models to create and share, and a limited number of private models. |
| 123D Design | Autodesk Inc. | Beginner | Freemium | 123D Design is a powerful, yet simple 3D creation and editing tool. The free version gives you access to most features and allows you to create and use 3D models for non-commercial purposes. |
| 3DSlash | 3DSlash | Beginner | Free - $20/month | 3D SLASH is a free, fun & fast 3D modeling app for non-designer people of all ages. Create your own design in no time like a modern stone-cutter. User-friendly experience with its Minecraft look & feel and great features : picture projection, import / export of STL files and more. |
| CubeTeam | Otherlab Inc. | Beginner | Free | CubeTeam is a multiplayer 3D painting and modeling program that lets you and your friends imagine worlds out of cubes and then print them in 3D. CubeTeam is free, runs in a web browser, and has powerful editing tools that let you create in a virtually limitless environment. |
| Cubify Invent | 3D Systems Inc. | Beginner to Intermediate | €39 ($49) | Cubify Invent is an easy-to-learn 3D modeling tool aimed at helping users to quickly create 3D printable files. The software which comes with free tutorials does only run on Windows though. |
| Design Spark Mechanical | RS Components/Allied Electronics | Beginner to Intermediate | Free | DesignSpark Mechanical is a 3D modeling software developed by the electronics distributor RS Components/Allied Electronics. The software equips all engineers with 3D design capability and it is said to be fast and easy-to-use. |
| Fusion 360 | Autodesk Inc. | Intermediate to professional | Free - $25/month | Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D modeling software tool that has professional capabilities but is far more user friendly than other professional modeling packages. Fusion 360 has become one of the go-to software options for makers and is seen as the next level software for users who have outgrown a basic package such as TinkerCAD. |
| FreeCAD | FreeCAD Community | Intermediate | Free | FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler built for product design and engineering. Feature rich and with a high learning curve, FreeCAD is rather for advanced users. The software is multi-platform, and runs flawlessly on Windows and Linux/Unix and Mac OSX. |
| Geomagic Design | 3D Systems Inc. | Intermediate | €1799 | Geomagic Design is a comprehensive and robust mechanical CAD design tools, allowing ideas to go from concept to production for professional engineers, makers, students and hobbyists. Geomagic Design is available in three versions: Personal, Professional and Expert, each tailored to the needs and budgets of the respective user base. |
| Inventor | Autodesk Inc. | Intermediate to professional | $7295 | Inventor 3D CAD software offers an easy-to-use set of tools for 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation. |
| Makers Empire | Maker's Empire Pty Ltd. | Beginner | Freemium | Makers Empire 3D is very easy to use 3D design and printing software. It is built to be usable by kids as young as 5. The paid version includes a primary/elementary school learning program (Teacher's Dashboard, resource, curriculum and professional development). It runs on: iPad/iPhone/Android/Mac/Win/Chromebook. |
| Morphi App | The Inventery Inc. | Beginner | Freemium | Morphi is a simple, powerful 3D design application currently available for iPad and Mac. Morphi empowers people of all skill levels to create 3D models from anywhere with touch, online or offline, using 3D shapes, text, hand drawing, high contrast images and streamlined 3D modeling tools. |
| Rhino 3D | Robert McNeel & Associates | Intermediate to professional | €995 | Rhinoceros (aka Rhino) is a stand-alone, commercial NURBS-based 3D modeling software commonly used for industrial design, architecture, marine design, jewelry design, CAD / CAM and rapid prototyping. Rhino's popularity is based on its diversity, low learning-curve, relatively low cost, and its ability to import and export over 30 file formats, which allows it to act as a 'converter' tool between programs in a design workflow. |
| SketchUp | Trimble Navigation Ltd. | Beginner to Intermediate | Free - €378 | SketchUp is a 3D modeling program for applications such as architectural, interior design, civil and mechanical engineering. Its powerful yet easy to use interface make it ideal for beginners in 3D modeling. A freeware version, SketchUp Make, and a paid version with additional functionality, SketchUp Pro, are available. Note that the free version does not allow you to export to *.stl for 3D printing, you'll need to install a plug-in to do so. |
| Solidworks | Dassault Systèmes Solidworks Corp. | Intermediate to professional | $3995 | SolidWorks is a 3D mechanical CAD program widely used amongst engineers and designers. The software features powerful simulation, motion, and design validation tools, advanced wire and pipe routing functionality, reverse engineering capabilities, and more. |
| TinkerCAD | Autodesk Inc. | Beginner | Freemium | TinkerCAD is a browser based 3D modeling program ideal for beginners. You can save your designs online or share them with others. Export *.stl files to print with your own 3D printer or send your designs to one of popular 3D printing services. |
| Freeform Modeling Tools | ||||
| 3ds Max | Autodesk Inc. | Professional | $3675 | 3ds Max 3D modeling software provides a comprehensive modeling, animation, simulation, and rendering solution for games, film, and motion graphics artists. |
| Blender | Blender Foundation | Intermediate to professional | Free | Blender is a free and open source 3D animation suite. It supports the entirety of the 3D pipeline—modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking, even video editing and game creation |
| Cinema 4D | Maxon Computer GmbH | Professional | $3695 | CINEMA 4D Studio is a 3D modeling, animation and rendering application for professional 3D artists wanting to create advanced 3D graphics. The software is capable of procedural and polygonal/subd modeling, animating, lighting, texturing, rendering. |
| Maya | Autodesk Inc. | Professional | $3675 | Maya, is 3D computer graphics software offering a comprehensive creative feature set for 3D computer animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering. It is used to create interactive 3D applications, including video games, animated film, TV series, or visual effects. |
| Scultping Tools | ||||
| Geomagic Sculpt | 3D Systems Inc. | Intermediate | €99 | Geomagic Sculpt is an organic modeling tool that enables sculpting with virtual clay. The software has mash-up capability and exports 3D print ready *stl files. |
| Leopoly | Leonar3Do International Inc. | Beginner | Freemium | Leopoly is a web-based, social 3D sculpting application. Each of the created and saved models are available for the entire Leopoly community for shaping them further. Note that you cannot export your 3D models unless you have a paying account. |
| Sculptris | Pixologic Inc. | Intermediate | Free | Sculptris is a virtual sculpting software program, with a primary focus on the concept of modeling clay. Currently available for MacOS and Windows. |
| SculptGL | Stephane Ginier | Intermediate | Free | SculptGL is a browser-based 3D sculpting application well suited for intermediate users. The application does allow you to export in *.stl format, an interesting feature for anyone who has their own 3D printer. |
| ZBrush | Pixologic Inc. | Professional | $795 | ZBrush is a digital sculpting tool that combines 3D/2.5D modeling, texturing and painting. It uses a proprietary 'pixol' technology which stores lighting, color, material, and depth information for all objects on the screen. |
| Customizers | ||||
| 3DRacers | 3DRacers Ltd. | Beginner | Free | 3DRacers is a 3D printed indoor racing game, based on Arduino. Use the browser-based editor to configure your car and have the finished design emailed to you, all in .stl format. 3D print the car parts, assemble the model and go racing! |
| Cookie Caster | Dreamforge Inc. | Beginner | Free | CookieCaster lets you design, share and create custom cookie cutters. If you have your own 3D printer, you can download the 3D model of your design for for printing at home. If you don't own a printer you can have your design printed via the 3D printing service, Shapeways. |
| Candle Caster | Kurt & Manuel Meister | Beginner | Free | Candle Caster is a super easy to use tool that lets you create molds to cast your own candles. Extrude your favorite shape, adjust the height and width then set the wick diameter. Once done, your design can be exported in .stl format, then 3D printed. |
| Charmr | Autodesk Inc. | Beginner | Free | Autodesk Charmr is a customizer that lets you turn a photo into a one-of-a-kind customized, 3D-printable piece of jewelry. The finished design can be 3D printed either via a 3D printing service or downloaded as .stl for home 3D printing. |
| Lithophane Generator | Mark Durbin | Beginner | Free | The Lithophane Generator allows you to create a 3D printable lithophane in a just a few seconds. Simply upload photo of your choice - anything you want whether it be a wedding photo or a photo of your favorite scenery - into the browser window, modify the settings and generate an STL file for 3D printing. |
Slicers & 3D Printer Hosts
This section lists all software required to prepare and execute a 3D print. The Print Preparation column indicates whether the software allows you to prepare your 3D model for printing by such actions as scaling, rotating and placing the model on the print bed. Slicing generates the G-code necessary to feed into your 3D printer.
Note: the Cross Platform Tools work with all 3D printer brands making them ideal if you own a 3D printer without any native software. All the programs listed here require you to install a piece of software on your computer. The Cloud Based Solutions are browser based, they all require an internet connection such that the slicing, mesh repair and print queue management can be executed in the cloud.
| Software | Developer | Print Preparation | Slicing | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Platform Tools | ||||
| Ultimaker Cura | Ultimaker | Yes | Yes | Cura is a free slicer and host software developed by Ultimaker. As Cura is open-source, its use is not limited to Ultimaker 3D printers. Intuitive, fast and easy to use, Cura is our pick for 3D printing beginners looking for a robust yet simple to use 3D printer front end. |
| CraftWare | CraftWare | Yes | Yes | CraftWare is a free, fast, and easy-to-use slicer software that can also prepare and manage your prints. CraftWare's impressive gcode visualizer and manual support setting mode make it an excellent alternative to many of the more established 3D printer host softwares. |
| KISSlicer | KISSlicer | Limited | Yes | KISSlicer is a cross-platform G-code generator for 3D printers. Generates excellent slicing results albeit a somewhat dated user interface. Exists both in free and premium versions. |
| Repetier Host | Hot-World GmbH & Co. KG | Yes | Yes | Repetier Host is an open-source 3D printer front-end. It uses Slic3r as default slicing engine but Skeinforge is also available. |
| ReplicatorG | ReplicatorG | Yes | Yes | ReplicatorG is an open-source 3D printer front-end using Skeinforge as slicer. The software will drive MakerBot, Thing-O-Matic, CupCake CNC, RepRap printers or generic CNC machines. |
| Simplify3D | Simplify3D | Yes | Yes | Simplify3D is a widely used premium slicer and 3D printer host. The software combines several powerful features allowing you to repair, prepare, preview and slice your 3D models. Its lightning fast slicer combined with advanced support generation and a feature rich preview mode make this software a very interesting option for slightly more advanced users. |
| Slic3r | Slic3r | Yes | Yes | Slic3r is a popular cross-platform slicer. This open source slicer is fast, generates good results but its settings needs some tweaking initially. |
| OctoPrint | Gina Häußge | Yes | Yes | OctoPrint is an open-source web interface for your 3D printer. It allows you to control and monitor every aspect of your 3D printer and your printing jobs right from within your browser: follow your print via the webcam feed, get constant feedback on the progress of your print, monitor and adjust temperatures and start, stop or pause your print job. Powerful plug-ins even allow Ocotprint to send you push notifications, integrate Octoprint messages into your messaging tool of choice or gather advanced print statistics. |
| Cloud Based Solutions | ||||
| 3DPrinterOS | 3D Control Systems Ltd. | Yes | Yes | 3DPrinterOS is a platform that gives users the ability to search or upload 3d printable content, quickly and easily repair designs, customize settings, slice in the cloud and send files for printing anywhere in the world. 3D Printer owners and new users alike can share CAD files and multiple 3D printers all from a single cloud interface. |
| Formide | Printr BV. | Yes | Yes | Formide is an online platform that enables you to control 3D printers and manage projects. It allows you to organize different printers, files, materials and slice profiles via its built-in cloud-slicer Katana. Through the power of the cloud, Formide enables you to queue print jobs, remote monitor your prints and receive instant feedback – wirelessly and effortlessly. Note that you need 'The Element', a piece of hardware to enable Formide's capabilities. |
| AstroPrint | 3DaGoGo, Inc. | Yes | Yes | AstroPrint is a browser-based software application that lets you slice, store and print your 3D files from any web enabled device. In addition, you can monitor your 3D printer and organize designs in the cloud. With AstroPrint you can manage from your printer from any web enabled device, the responsive UI makes it simple to 3D print from your phone, tablet, or computer. |
| MatterControl | MatterHackers, Inc. | Yes | Yes | MatterControl is a free, open-source 3D printer front-end that lets you organize and manage your 3D prints. MatterControl features an intuitive approach to 3D printing, allowing users to queue multiple parts for printing without pre-slicing, preview and manipulate designs, as well as integrating a library that enables users to organize and search their design files. You can connect your 3D printer to the cloud via MatterControl Touch, a touchscreen tablet that acts as a dedicated 3D printer control console. |
Other Handy Tools
Below are a few more tools that can come in very handy, be it for fixing 3D models or preparing them for printing.
| Software | Developer | Price | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| MakePrintable | Mixed Dimensions Inc. | Free - $25/month | MakePrintable is a web service where you can upload your 3D model before printing. The software will then analyse the design and give you statistics on its printability. You then configure the output characteristics and the algorithm will re-mesh your model for 3D printing removing all problems, providing you with a model ready for 3D printing. |
| MeshFix | Marco Attene | Free | MeshFix is an open-source 3D model repair tool that fixes various defects in meshes, such as holes, non-manifold elements and self-intersections. The output is a water-tight triangle mesh, ready for 3D printing. Only available for Windows. |
| Meshmixer | Autodesk Inc. | Free | Described as 'Swiss Army Knife' for 3D meshes, Meshmixer is a state-of-the-art software for editing triangle meshes. The software has mesh repair capabilities but also functions like scultping, hollowing, scaling, mirroring, cutting and building support structures making it invaluable for 3D printing. Best of all, Meshmixer is free and available for Windows, OS X, and Linux. |
| NetFabb | Autodesk Inc. | 30 day free trial - $150/month | Netfabb is 3D print preparation tool that offers a wide range of pre-print features such as repairing meshes, adjusting wall thickness, reducing file size, merging or subtracting parts. The software also has a powerful function to create, analyse and adjust supports for 3D prints. |
Shares
I bet Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, the 3D printed marathon shoes, must've motivated you to build something cool. It's only wise that you would want to try a 3D printing software before investing in a 3D printer. However, choosing a good free 3D printing software can prove to be a hassle. There are too many options where each caters to a diverse range of applications.
To make things a bit simpler, we've compiled a list of the best 3D printing software for beginners. But before we take a look at the list, there's one thing you should know. If you're already using Photoshop, then you can get started right away. Photoshop also lets you create 3D models from scratch and print them using services like Shapeways 3D.
Also on Guiding Tech How to Use Netfabb to Measure STL Files on Windows Read More1. TinkerCAD
Kicking off the list is TinkerCAD, an online 3D design application which is perfect for beginners. 3 dimensional drawing software free. It makes use of a simple block building concept, which essentially gives you access to basic shapes using which you can make your 3D models. That makes it an excellent tool for creating geometric designs.
TinkerCAD is fairly simple to get familiar with, and it also offers a bunch of amazing tutorials to speed up the learning process. Once you're done making a model, it lets you share or export the file easily.
And if you don't own a 3D printer, you can also make use of its third-party printing service integration to get your model delivered to your doorstep in no time. Audio video editing software.
Try TinkerCAD2. Cura
Next up is Cura, another great 3D printing application for beginners from Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. Unlike TinkerCAD, Cura is a slicing software for 3D printers which you can use to create a 3D model and slice it into layers as G-Code for the printer.
On top of that, you can also use Cura as a failsafe measure for your models. It can let you know if there are any problems with your model's structure that might cause issues with the printing.
That feature is a blessing for beginners since it ensures that you don't waste any printing material or time on creating models with structural issues.
Try Cura3. Sculptris
While TinkerCAD is great for creating geometric designs, you should give Sculptris a shot if you want to create something a bit more organic. It's quite simple to use and offers a few key features that will help you create stunning 3D sculptures.
Working on Sculptris feels a lot like working with modeling clay, which makes it one of the best options if you're looking to create 3D models of things like cartoon characters; something that you can't do with TinkerCAD.
However, you'll only be able to create very basic 3D sculptures with Sculptris. You'll need to rely on other premium software like ZBrush to refine your designs later.
Try Sculptris4. SketchUp
If 3D sculpting isn't really your cup of tea and you'd much prefer software that relies on line drawings to help you create a 3D model, then you should try using SketchUp. The software is suitable for most skill levels as it has a natural learning curve. And once you get going, the software offers a couple of advanced features as well in the paid version.
Much like TinkerCAD, SketchUp is useful for creating geometric designs. The software is most commonly used for designing architectural projects. So if that's what you're aiming for, then you just can't go wrong with it.
The best part about using SketchUP is that it's also available as a web app. You can work on your design on any system as long as you have it saved on your account.
Try SketchUp5. Meshmixer
Meshmixer is another viable option if you're going to be sculpting organic models in 3D as it makes use of a triangular mesh to help you create smooth, even surfaces.
Just like Cura, the software also includes a feature which will help you check your model for holes and fix them in real-time.
Along with that, Meshmixer is also great for preparing your designs for 3D printing. It includes tools to slice the sculpture for the 3D printer, generate supports for structural integrity and even analyzes the design's fragility before you send it over for printing.
Try MeshMixer6. 3D Slash
Now if you're aiming for a retro, blocky aesthetic for your 3D models, then you should check out 3D Slash. The software allows you to upload your 3D model which it then breaks down into 3D building blocks.
You can then make any changes to the model using a variety of different tools. However, you will face some limitations in terms of functions in the free version of the software.
Along with the ability to pixelate just about any model, 3D Slash also offers a VR mode. You can use that mode to get a clear view of how your model will turn out using a VR headset. 3D Slash comes with one of the simplest user interfaces out of all the software on this list. That's what makes it a fantastic option for people of all ages.
Try 3D Slash7. FreeCAD
Rounding things off is FreeCAD, a parametric 3D modeling tool which will help you create precise geometric designs like replacement parts for your gadgets. The software isn't as good for creating new designs as it is for altering existing ones because of its parametric component.
Editing existing designs is fairly simple; you just need to head to your model history and change the parameters. It's that simple.
So if you're not hell-bent on creating your 3D models from scratch, then you should try FreeCAD. However, if you'd much rather create your custom model, then you'd be better off with either of the other options.
Try FreeCADAlso on Guiding Tech #windows apps Click here to see our windows apps articles page
Create Amazing 3D Models
I hope you've got a fair idea of what you can achieve with these 3D printing software. How about you give them a shot and create your first 3D model? If you've tried your hand at 3D modeling, then I'd recommend to check out some tutorials these software have to offer to get started.
Just keep in mind that 3D printing can prove to be a pretty expensive hobby, so make sure you've inspected your designs thoroughly before you hit that print button. Why stop a shoe, when you can 3D print a dream home?
Next up: Looking to pick up another cool hobby? Check out the next article for some amazing Raspberry Pi projects that you can try.
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.Read Next4 Cool Raspberry Pi Projects That Will Awaken Your Inner InventorAlso See
This section lists all software required to prepare and execute a 3D print. The Print Preparation column indicates whether the software allows you to prepare your 3D model for printing by such actions as scaling, rotating and placing the model on the print bed. Slicing generates the G-code necessary to feed into your 3D printer.
Note: the Cross Platform Tools work with all 3D printer brands making them ideal if you own a 3D printer without any native software. All the programs listed here require you to install a piece of software on your computer. The Cloud Based Solutions are browser based, they all require an internet connection such that the slicing, mesh repair and print queue management can be executed in the cloud.
| Software | Developer | Print Preparation | Slicing | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Platform Tools | ||||
| Ultimaker Cura | Ultimaker | Yes | Yes | Cura is a free slicer and host software developed by Ultimaker. As Cura is open-source, its use is not limited to Ultimaker 3D printers. Intuitive, fast and easy to use, Cura is our pick for 3D printing beginners looking for a robust yet simple to use 3D printer front end. |
| CraftWare | CraftWare | Yes | Yes | CraftWare is a free, fast, and easy-to-use slicer software that can also prepare and manage your prints. CraftWare's impressive gcode visualizer and manual support setting mode make it an excellent alternative to many of the more established 3D printer host softwares. |
| KISSlicer | KISSlicer | Limited | Yes | KISSlicer is a cross-platform G-code generator for 3D printers. Generates excellent slicing results albeit a somewhat dated user interface. Exists both in free and premium versions. |
| Repetier Host | Hot-World GmbH & Co. KG | Yes | Yes | Repetier Host is an open-source 3D printer front-end. It uses Slic3r as default slicing engine but Skeinforge is also available. |
| ReplicatorG | ReplicatorG | Yes | Yes | ReplicatorG is an open-source 3D printer front-end using Skeinforge as slicer. The software will drive MakerBot, Thing-O-Matic, CupCake CNC, RepRap printers or generic CNC machines. |
| Simplify3D | Simplify3D | Yes | Yes | Simplify3D is a widely used premium slicer and 3D printer host. The software combines several powerful features allowing you to repair, prepare, preview and slice your 3D models. Its lightning fast slicer combined with advanced support generation and a feature rich preview mode make this software a very interesting option for slightly more advanced users. |
| Slic3r | Slic3r | Yes | Yes | Slic3r is a popular cross-platform slicer. This open source slicer is fast, generates good results but its settings needs some tweaking initially. |
| OctoPrint | Gina Häußge | Yes | Yes | OctoPrint is an open-source web interface for your 3D printer. It allows you to control and monitor every aspect of your 3D printer and your printing jobs right from within your browser: follow your print via the webcam feed, get constant feedback on the progress of your print, monitor and adjust temperatures and start, stop or pause your print job. Powerful plug-ins even allow Ocotprint to send you push notifications, integrate Octoprint messages into your messaging tool of choice or gather advanced print statistics. |
| Cloud Based Solutions | ||||
| 3DPrinterOS | 3D Control Systems Ltd. | Yes | Yes | 3DPrinterOS is a platform that gives users the ability to search or upload 3d printable content, quickly and easily repair designs, customize settings, slice in the cloud and send files for printing anywhere in the world. 3D Printer owners and new users alike can share CAD files and multiple 3D printers all from a single cloud interface. |
| Formide | Printr BV. | Yes | Yes | Formide is an online platform that enables you to control 3D printers and manage projects. It allows you to organize different printers, files, materials and slice profiles via its built-in cloud-slicer Katana. Through the power of the cloud, Formide enables you to queue print jobs, remote monitor your prints and receive instant feedback – wirelessly and effortlessly. Note that you need 'The Element', a piece of hardware to enable Formide's capabilities. |
| AstroPrint | 3DaGoGo, Inc. | Yes | Yes | AstroPrint is a browser-based software application that lets you slice, store and print your 3D files from any web enabled device. In addition, you can monitor your 3D printer and organize designs in the cloud. With AstroPrint you can manage from your printer from any web enabled device, the responsive UI makes it simple to 3D print from your phone, tablet, or computer. |
| MatterControl | MatterHackers, Inc. | Yes | Yes | MatterControl is a free, open-source 3D printer front-end that lets you organize and manage your 3D prints. MatterControl features an intuitive approach to 3D printing, allowing users to queue multiple parts for printing without pre-slicing, preview and manipulate designs, as well as integrating a library that enables users to organize and search their design files. You can connect your 3D printer to the cloud via MatterControl Touch, a touchscreen tablet that acts as a dedicated 3D printer control console. |
Other Handy Tools
Below are a few more tools that can come in very handy, be it for fixing 3D models or preparing them for printing.
| Software | Developer | Price | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| MakePrintable | Mixed Dimensions Inc. | Free - $25/month | MakePrintable is a web service where you can upload your 3D model before printing. The software will then analyse the design and give you statistics on its printability. You then configure the output characteristics and the algorithm will re-mesh your model for 3D printing removing all problems, providing you with a model ready for 3D printing. |
| MeshFix | Marco Attene | Free | MeshFix is an open-source 3D model repair tool that fixes various defects in meshes, such as holes, non-manifold elements and self-intersections. The output is a water-tight triangle mesh, ready for 3D printing. Only available for Windows. |
| Meshmixer | Autodesk Inc. | Free | Described as 'Swiss Army Knife' for 3D meshes, Meshmixer is a state-of-the-art software for editing triangle meshes. The software has mesh repair capabilities but also functions like scultping, hollowing, scaling, mirroring, cutting and building support structures making it invaluable for 3D printing. Best of all, Meshmixer is free and available for Windows, OS X, and Linux. |
| NetFabb | Autodesk Inc. | 30 day free trial - $150/month | Netfabb is 3D print preparation tool that offers a wide range of pre-print features such as repairing meshes, adjusting wall thickness, reducing file size, merging or subtracting parts. The software also has a powerful function to create, analyse and adjust supports for 3D prints. |
Shares
I bet Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, the 3D printed marathon shoes, must've motivated you to build something cool. It's only wise that you would want to try a 3D printing software before investing in a 3D printer. However, choosing a good free 3D printing software can prove to be a hassle. There are too many options where each caters to a diverse range of applications.
To make things a bit simpler, we've compiled a list of the best 3D printing software for beginners. But before we take a look at the list, there's one thing you should know. If you're already using Photoshop, then you can get started right away. Photoshop also lets you create 3D models from scratch and print them using services like Shapeways 3D.
Also on Guiding Tech How to Use Netfabb to Measure STL Files on Windows Read More1. TinkerCAD
Kicking off the list is TinkerCAD, an online 3D design application which is perfect for beginners. 3 dimensional drawing software free. It makes use of a simple block building concept, which essentially gives you access to basic shapes using which you can make your 3D models. That makes it an excellent tool for creating geometric designs.
TinkerCAD is fairly simple to get familiar with, and it also offers a bunch of amazing tutorials to speed up the learning process. Once you're done making a model, it lets you share or export the file easily.
And if you don't own a 3D printer, you can also make use of its third-party printing service integration to get your model delivered to your doorstep in no time. Audio video editing software.
Try TinkerCAD2. Cura
Next up is Cura, another great 3D printing application for beginners from Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. Unlike TinkerCAD, Cura is a slicing software for 3D printers which you can use to create a 3D model and slice it into layers as G-Code for the printer.
On top of that, you can also use Cura as a failsafe measure for your models. It can let you know if there are any problems with your model's structure that might cause issues with the printing.
That feature is a blessing for beginners since it ensures that you don't waste any printing material or time on creating models with structural issues.
Try Cura3. Sculptris
While TinkerCAD is great for creating geometric designs, you should give Sculptris a shot if you want to create something a bit more organic. It's quite simple to use and offers a few key features that will help you create stunning 3D sculptures.
Working on Sculptris feels a lot like working with modeling clay, which makes it one of the best options if you're looking to create 3D models of things like cartoon characters; something that you can't do with TinkerCAD.
However, you'll only be able to create very basic 3D sculptures with Sculptris. You'll need to rely on other premium software like ZBrush to refine your designs later.
Try Sculptris4. SketchUp
If 3D sculpting isn't really your cup of tea and you'd much prefer software that relies on line drawings to help you create a 3D model, then you should try using SketchUp. The software is suitable for most skill levels as it has a natural learning curve. And once you get going, the software offers a couple of advanced features as well in the paid version.
Much like TinkerCAD, SketchUp is useful for creating geometric designs. The software is most commonly used for designing architectural projects. So if that's what you're aiming for, then you just can't go wrong with it.
The best part about using SketchUP is that it's also available as a web app. You can work on your design on any system as long as you have it saved on your account.
Try SketchUp5. Meshmixer
Meshmixer is another viable option if you're going to be sculpting organic models in 3D as it makes use of a triangular mesh to help you create smooth, even surfaces.
Just like Cura, the software also includes a feature which will help you check your model for holes and fix them in real-time.
Along with that, Meshmixer is also great for preparing your designs for 3D printing. It includes tools to slice the sculpture for the 3D printer, generate supports for structural integrity and even analyzes the design's fragility before you send it over for printing.
Try MeshMixer6. 3D Slash
Now if you're aiming for a retro, blocky aesthetic for your 3D models, then you should check out 3D Slash. The software allows you to upload your 3D model which it then breaks down into 3D building blocks.
You can then make any changes to the model using a variety of different tools. However, you will face some limitations in terms of functions in the free version of the software.
Along with the ability to pixelate just about any model, 3D Slash also offers a VR mode. You can use that mode to get a clear view of how your model will turn out using a VR headset. 3D Slash comes with one of the simplest user interfaces out of all the software on this list. That's what makes it a fantastic option for people of all ages.
Try 3D Slash7. FreeCAD
Rounding things off is FreeCAD, a parametric 3D modeling tool which will help you create precise geometric designs like replacement parts for your gadgets. The software isn't as good for creating new designs as it is for altering existing ones because of its parametric component.
Editing existing designs is fairly simple; you just need to head to your model history and change the parameters. It's that simple.
So if you're not hell-bent on creating your 3D models from scratch, then you should try FreeCAD. However, if you'd much rather create your custom model, then you'd be better off with either of the other options.
Try FreeCADAlso on Guiding Tech #windows apps Click here to see our windows apps articles page
Create Amazing 3D Models
I hope you've got a fair idea of what you can achieve with these 3D printing software. How about you give them a shot and create your first 3D model? If you've tried your hand at 3D modeling, then I'd recommend to check out some tutorials these software have to offer to get started.
Just keep in mind that 3D printing can prove to be a pretty expensive hobby, so make sure you've inspected your designs thoroughly before you hit that print button. Why stop a shoe, when you can 3D print a dream home?
Next up: Looking to pick up another cool hobby? Check out the next article for some amazing Raspberry Pi projects that you can try.
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.Read Next4 Cool Raspberry Pi Projects That Will Awaken Your Inner InventorAlso See#printer
Easy 3d Software For Beginners
#SoftwareDid You Know
There are over 30 GPS navigation satellites orbiting the earth.
3d Software
More in Windows
Easy 3d Modeling
Top 3 Fixes for Camera Not Working on Windows 10 PC
