Its list of features is as extensive as you can imagine. With massive customization options and unparalleled compatibility, it’s not surprising that Simplif圓D is one of the top choices for pro users. It has a user-friendly interface but also has features for editing and repairing complex 3D models.

Simplif圓D is one of the widest used slicer software in the world, and its list of compatible 3D printers is probably hard to beat. If you’re just doing 3D printing for fun, then the additional overhead costs may not appeal to you.įortunately, there are a couple of free options out there – we made sure to include a few of them on our list. Moreover, most slicers typically come with a subscription price, which means that you’ll need to pay their rates regularly. Your 3D printer probably already cost you several hundred dollars, so you may not be so eager to spend a few hundred dollars more for slicer software. This is great for those who value mobility and being able to step away from their 3D printing projects without completely yielding control. One of the less common features of slicer software is the ability to monitor and control the printing process remotely. This means being able to divide models into separate pieces, add rafts or skirts, set shell thickness and infill patterns, or work with printers with dual extruders. FeaturesĪside from the basic function of slicing 3D models, a good slicer software platform should have extra features that allow you to edit or repair your models or to tweak them slightly for your specific 3D printer. Striking this balance is tough, and any slicer software that manages it deserves to be commended. This would mean having a graphical interface that’s intuitive and easy to understand without missing out on the ability to send custom gcodes to the 3D printer. A good slicer software should offer all the essential functions for experts but still be accessible to beginners. Your slicer isn’t a 3D modeling software platform, and it shouldn’t feel like one. While most 3D models that can be downloaded come in either STL or OBJ file formats, it wouldn’t hurt to have software that can open 3MF or X3D files. After all, what’s the point of preparing your model in a slicer if you can’t send the data to your 3D printer? Most 3D printers and slicers are pretty clear on this matter, so just check out their respective compatibility lists to avoid any future troubles.Ĭompatibility with file formats is another thing to consider.

The compatibility between your 3D printer and your slicer of choice should be your primary qualifier. When it comes to deciding which slicer is best for you, here are the factors you need to consider: 1.

However, these different software platforms aren’t all built equally. What to look for in 3D printing slicer softwareĪll slicers work the same way – they take a 3D model, make horizontal slices from it, and send the appropriate gcodes to the 3D printer to execute. If you think that your 3D printing process of output can still be improved with the right software, then here are our top five recommendations. While 3D printers usually come with a prescribed slicer software, you’re actually free to use any compatible alternative. This underlines the importance of the slicer software you use with your 3D printer. The whole process starts with the digital 3D model which is then divided into very thin “slices” that are used as the basis for the movement of the print head. In 3D printing, the actual 3D printer that seemingly does all the work is really only half of the equation. 3D Insider is ad supported and earns money from clicks, commissions from sales, and other ways.

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