23 Best Slicing Tools for 3d Printers

It mainly introduces the common 3D printing upscale software in 3D printing, 3D printer slicing software will provide greater help to users. By classifying such software, users can choose to use the most suitable software for them. The most important thing is that most of them are completely free and open source.

1. Cura

Cura can be called the standard slicing software for 3D printing software, it is compatible with most 3D printers , and its code is completely open source and can be extended by plug-ins.

Cura is very easy to use, in general mode, you can quickly print, you can also choose the "expert" mode, so more accurate 3D printing. Secondly, the software can directly control the 3D printer after connecting to the computer via USB.

2. EasyPrint 3D

EasyPrint 3D is not a single slicing software, the slicing function is only one of the functions, but also can be connected to the 3D printer via USB, so as to control its characteristics of operation.

From the use side, the software is very suitable for beginners to use, its easy operation makes printing is no longer difficult, at the same time, the software is also suitable for professional-level users, its function is not much different from Cura, but the operation side is very convenient.

3. CraftWare

CraftWare 3D printing slicing software developed by a Hungarian 3D printer equipment vendors, the software also supports the use of other 3D printers. And cura, like, support "simple" and "expert" mode switch, the specific use can be changed according to the user's habits on the line. And the biggest feature of this software is to support personal management, but the function must be paid.

4. 123D Catch

123D Catch is a free application for PC and mobile, which can synthesize photos taken by the user and convert them into 3D models. It works by taking multiple photos of the subject from different angles and locations (the more the better) and then composing them to create a 3D model.

5. 3D Slash

This is a relatively new 3D printing software, through which you can use modules to simply build 3D models.

In terms of use, it starts with the most original model and removes the excess parts of the model one by one through various cutting tools. You can also build models by building cubes, circles and other shaped items.

6. TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is known as one of the easiest modeling software in the world. The software does not need to download the related software, but only needs to be operated on the web. Compared to Blender, FreeCAD and SketchUp, its integrated features are not yet perfect, and many users will switch to other more comprehensive design tools after learning to use them.

7. 3DTin

3DTin is another online 3D modeling software, which is ideal for beginners to build 3D printing models due to its intuitive interface and relatively convenient operation, while the user only needs to launch a browser. The best feature of this software is that the model built by the user can be uploaded to the cloud and other users can download it based on means such as payment.

8. Sculptris

Sculptris is a virtual modeling software, its core focus is on the concept of modeling clay, if the user like to create figurines, then this software is very suitable for use.

9. ViewSTL

ViewSTL is a browser for previewing STL files, the user just needs to drag the STL file into the dotted box and choose to leave, while ViewSTL can directly browse the STL file.

10. Netfabb Basic

Netfabb Basic is a 3D slicing software with good features. The software will automatically analyze the model before the user slices it to repair and edit the STL file. If you don't want to use other tools like MeshLab or Meshmixer, this software can meet any of your needs.

11. Repetier

If none of the above software can meet the needs of users, then Repetier may be the next choice. repetier's features basically span the intermediate to advanced user groups. As an all-in-one solution, it supports multiple extruders (up to 16), and by being compatible with multiple slicing tools, the software supports almost all FDM 3D printers on the market.

12. FreeCAD

FreeCAD is a feature-rich CAD software that is the preferred design tool for intermediate users. With this software, users can model their models with data and modify parameters directly to complete their designs.

13. SketchUp

SketchUp has a friendly interface and is relatively simple for users who are transitioning from beginner to intermediate level. The software is characterized by the fact that it can be divided into different versions according to the user's profession, for example, several versions for architectural lines, interior design, etc.

14. 3D-Tool Free Viewer

3D-Tool Free Viewer is a relatively sophisticated STL viewing tool that allows users to check the structural integrity of STL files and make printing comments.

15. Meshfix

Meshfix is an open source 3D repair tool that is mainly used to correct various deficiencies in the model, such as holes and intersections in the model. The only bad thing about this software is that it can only run in Windows.

16. Simplify3D

Simplify3D is known by its users as the Swiss Army knife of 3D printing software tools. It not only fixes the problems that occur in the model, but also performs operations such as slicing. The software supports more than 90% of desktop 3D printers on the market and is compatible with Marlin, Sprinter, Repetier, XYZprinting, FlashForge, Sailfish and MakerBot firmware.

17. Slic3r

Slic3r is also an open source 3D slicing software, the most important feature of this software is that it can use honeycomb filling in the internal filling, so as to achieve more sturdy strength. Another feature is the direct integration with Octoprint. When the file is on the user's desktop, it can be uploaded directly to the user's "Print" box, thus facilitating the user's operations.

18. Blender

Blender is a popular modeling software, its main users are professional users, for novice users, it is not the best choice. For professional level users, the software can fully develop models that meet their requirements and 3D printing.

In short, Blender is recognized as the most powerful modeling tool, and the software uses an open source model, which allows many users to extend its functionality, making the software more in line with the needs of users and build more powerful features.

19. MeshLab

MeshLab is a relatively advanced STL editor, which allows users to directly delete the content of the 3D model, or two models into one. If users need to use 3D printing software to modify 3D models or repair operations, MeshLab may be a good choice.

20. Meshmixer

Meshmixer is an advanced 3D printing software with the ability to view, detect, repair and program STL files. It is suitable for finding potential STL problems and will automatically fix them. And the software as part of the Autodesk 3D printer software series, it is estimated that its nature is not very different from TinkerCAD.

21. OctoPrint

Octoprint is a 3D printer control software through which users can give several commands to 3D printers such as start, pause and stop through their cell phones after WiFi link. This software is perfect for users to monitor the work of 3D printers remotely through the Internet.

Secondly, Octoprint is compatible with G-code of almost all 3D printers and allows users to view the G-code file before doing 3D printing.

22. C4D

Literally means 4D movie, but it is still 3D performance software itself. It is a 3D drawing software developed by Maxon Computer in Germany, known for its high computing speed and powerful rendering plug-ins, and outstanding performance in all kinds of movies depicted with it, and as its more and more mature technology is valued by more and more movie companies, and also extraordinary performance in the field of TV packaging. Now that it has become the mainstream software in China, its future is bound to be brighter.

23. Zoom 3D

Centron 3D is a cost-effective high-end 3D CAD/CAM integrated software product with global independent intellectual property rights, providing customers with integrated solutions from entry-level product design, mold design and CAM processing. With the unique Overdrive hybrid modeling kernel, it supports A-class surfaces and 2-5 axis CAM machining. The latest version of Crowd 3D 2015 is available.