Our selection of 3D printing software provides an overview of the best applications for slicing, modeling and file editing. Many of them are available free of charge or as beta versions.
The preparation of good print templates and models requires patience and experience. For all those who want to try their 3D printer first, there are many ideas and ready-to-print 3D models.
For everyone else – our software overview:
Slicing Software
The slicing software prepares 3D models for printing. The software translates the 3D models into instructions that the printer understands. The choice of slicing software has a big influence on the print quality.
Simplify 3D
Simplify3D is a 3D slicer for professionals. The slicer is compatible with almost all 3D printers, 300 different models are available for download. You can create your own profile for unknown devices.
Price: approx. 150€
Knowledge: Professional systems
System:Windows, Linux, Mac
Slic3r
Honeycomb Filling for Professionals
Slic3r features layered real-time slicing. The model can be strengthened and improved from the inside with a new honeycomb filling optic and desktop models can be uploaded directly to the integrated OctoPrint with just one mouse click.
Knowledge: Professional
System:Windows, Linux, Mac
Repeater
All-in-One Tool for Advanced Users
Repetier is an all-in-one solution for almost all FDM 3D printers, offering multi-extruder support for up to 16 extruders and multi-sclicer support. Remote access allows you to control your 3D printer from anywhere with a PC, tablet or smartphone. The software is particularly suitable for users who already know all 3D printing basics and want to tackle a new challenge with open source slicer software.
Knowledge: Advanced
System: Windows, Linux, Mac
Cura
Ultimaker Standard for All
Cura can not only be used for Ultimaker 3D printing devices, but also for many other 3D printers, e.g. Makerbot and RepRap. Cura translates STL, 3MF or OBJ files into the “language” of the 3D printer. Depending on your requirements, you can choose between “Basic” and “Expert” switch mode. The software can be extended via the plugin system.
Knowledge: Beginner
System: Windows, Ubuntu, Mac
Netfabb
Advanced Slicer
With Netfabb you can create, repair and edit STL files. The formats X3D, WRL, GTS, CLI, SLI, SLC, SSL, CLS and G-Code are also supported. Netfabb can be tested for 30 days for free and students can even use the tool for three years free of charge.
Knowledge: Advanced
System: Windows, Mac, Linux
CraftWare
Slicer for Beginners
CraftWare software comes with a precise gcode visualizer that allows you to view your model layer by layer and from any perspective before printing. Another plus-feature: Two-channel communication ensures real-time interaction between the software and the 3D printer at everytime. Depending on your requirements, you can choose between “easy” and “expert” select mode. Please note before downloading: The software is a beta version.
Knowledge: Beginner
System:Windows, Linux, Mac
3D Modeling Software
Modeling is the actual design of the 3D print object. The software is used to create a virtual three-dimensional copy of a physical object. 3D modeling is used in games, cinema films, the computer-aided construction of work pieces – and of course in 3D printing.
Dazzler
Open Source Modeling for the Ambitious
Blender is a free open source 3D software. It supports the entire 3D pipeline modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking. The always helpful community and a multitude of tutorials make it easy for beginners to get started with the complex application.
Knowledge: Professional
System: Windows, Mac, Linux
SketchUp Make
Modeling for Advanced Users
SketchUp also offers a free variant for 3D printing models, SketchUp Make, in addition to its paid Pro software. The application is easy to understand and offers a variety of functions at the same time.
Knowledge: Advanced
System: Windows, Mac, Linux
Tinker CAD
Online App for Everyone
Tinkercad is a simple online app for 3D designs and 3D prints for everyone, especially for 3D print beginners who want to create their first models. The software is used by professional and recreational designers, teachers, and even children to create toys, prototypes, home decorations, minecraft models, jewelry and more.
Knowledge: Beginner
System: Web browser
Sculptris
Modeling Tool for Beginners
Sculptris is a 3D modeling software for beginners. It uses brushes to model and process the textures. Sculptris is based on the concept of kneading and modeling clay.
Knowledge: Beginner
System: Windows, Mac
FreeCAD
Advanced CAD Models
FreeCAD is a parametric software with which you can easily modify the parameters of your models via the history. There are no limits to the size of the objects and you can extend the application as needed.
Knowledge: Advanced
System: Windows, Mac, Ubuntu
3D Slash
Block Building for Beginners
3D Slash is very easy to use, because it works with building blocks: Either you choose a block from which you chisel out the unwanted areas, or you assemble your model from building blocks. In addition, predesigned templates and different colors are provided for modeling.
Knowledge: Beginner
System: Windows, Linux, Mac
Merger 360
With Training Licence to Become a Professional
The 3D-CAD/CAM/CAE software is aimed at professional makers who want to design, test, execute and share their models via the cloud. Fusion 360 is equipped with helpful parametric tools and analysis tools for industrial design and supports almost all CAD formats. Fusion costs about 300 € per year. However, if you have an educational license, you can use the software with a large community for three years free of charge.
Knowledge: Professional
System: Windows, Mac
Utilities & Tools
Numerous auxiliary applications facilitate 3D printing and artwork creation, e.g. STL viewer and STL checker.
Mesh mixer
STL-Fixer from Autodesk
Meshmixer is a software for very advanced users to check STL files, modify them and above all to repair them. Since Meshmixer like TinkerCAD belongs to Autodesk, the two applications can be combined well.
Knowledge: Professional
System: Windows, Mac
Mesh lab
Mesh Optimization for Professionals
MeshLab recently received the Eurographics Software Award for its software. The tool, which was launched at the end of last year as a new updated and upgraded version, is aimed primarily at professionals who want to modify or repair 3D print templates, for example for reconstructions.
Knowledge: Professional
System: Windows, Mac, Linux
OctoPrint
Print Manager for Professionals
OctoPrint is a software to control and manage your print job. The tool can be used to start, pause or interrupt printing. With an Internet-capable computer, such as the Raspberry Pi, the process can also be conveniently controlled from another location. So if you want to handle your 3D printer without any cables at all and create a little space on your desk, this software is for you.
Knowledge: Professional
System: Windows, Mac, Linux
ViewSTL
Online Viewer for Beginners
With ViewSTL you can display STL files directly in your browser without having to install any software. The principle is very simple: You drag and drop the desired file into the window or you upload the model. By the way, the provider assures that the data will not be uploaded to their server! The STL files can be displayed either as a quick overview, as a high-resolution model or as a wireframe variant.
Knowledge: Beginner
System: Web browser
