16 Best 3D Printer Software (June 2024)

Review the best software available for managing and optimizing your 3D printing projects.

3D printing has exploded in popularity, opening up a world of possibilities for hobbyists, creators, and professionals alike. But even the best 3D printer is only as good as the software you use to control it. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the right software for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just getting started, choosing the right software is crucial for maximizing your 3D printing experience.

Find more on 25 Best 3D Printer Under $1000

In this article, we’ll explore 16 of the best 3D printer software programs available today, covering a wide range of features, functionality, and price points. We’ll break down each program’s strengths and weaknesses, helping you find the perfect match for your projects and skill level.

From beginner-friendly options that are easy to learn to advanced tools packed with professional features, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. We’ll also delve into the different types of software available, such as slicing software, design software, and cloud-based platforms, so you can understand the nuances of each category and choose the best fit for your workflow.

Whether you’re designing intricate models, printing functional prototypes, or creating personalized gifts, finding the right 3D printer software is essential for unlocking the full potential of your printer. Get ready to discover the best tools to bring your creative visions to life!

Read more on 22 Best 3D Printer Slicer

Check this blog on 33 Best 3D Printers to Buy in 2024

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Cura		$53.54 at Amazon	4.2 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
PrusaSlicer		$1,459.64 at Amazon	4.0 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Simplify3D		$0.00 at Amazon	3.8 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Ultimaker Cura		$168.99 at Amazon	4.2 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Fusion 360		$37.99 at Amazon	4.6 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Autodesk Netfabb		$75.44 at Amazon	4.3 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Meshmixer		$7.99 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Blender		$27.99 at Amazon	4.2 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
FreeCAD		$29.99 at Amazon	4.5 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Tinkercad		$39.99 at Amazon	5.0 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
SketchUp		$26.49 at Amazon	4.4 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
SolidWorks		$51.72 at Amazon	4.4 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Rhino 3D		$40.00 at Amazon	4.6 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
ZBrush		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
3ds Max		$24.97 at Amazon	4.0 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Maya		N/A at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
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Cura

$53.54 at Amazon

A popular and free open-source 3D printing software that is known for its ease of use and a wide range of features. It is a great option for beginners and experienced users alike.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: Slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and open-source
• Easy to use
• Wide range of features
• Large community support

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited advanced features compared to paid software
• Can be slow on older computers

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a free, easy-to-use 3D printing software
• You need a software with a large community support and lots of online resources
• You are looking for a software that is compatible with a wide range of 3D printers

Don't buy it if:

• You need advanced features like custom profiles or complex support structures
• You need a software that is very fast and efficient

Bottom Line:

Cura is a great choice for beginners and experienced users who want a free and easy-to-use 3D printing software. It has a wide range of features and is compatible with a large number of 3D printers. Cura is a great starting point for anyone new to 3D printing, but it might not be the best option for users who need advanced features or a very fast and efficient slicing engine.

PrusaSlicer

$1,459.64 at Amazon

A powerful and popular open-source 3D printing software developed by Prusa Research. PrusaSlicer is known for its accuracy, speed, and advanced features.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: Slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, advanced printing settings, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and open-source
• Very accurate and fast
• Powerful features, including advanced printing settings
• Excellent community support

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be more complex to use than Cura
• May not be as user-friendly for beginners

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You are looking for a free and open-source software with advanced features
• You need a software that is accurate and fast
• You are comfortable with a more complex interface

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a simple and easy-to-use software
• You need a software with a large user base and lots of online resources

Bottom Line:

PrusaSlicer is a great option for users who need a powerful and accurate 3D printing software. It is free and open-source, and it offers a wide range of features. PrusaSlicer is a good choice for experienced users, but it may not be the best option for beginners.

Simplify3D

$0.00 at Amazon

A paid 3D printing software that is known for its advanced features and intuitive interface. Simplify3D is a good option for users who want a powerful and versatile software.

You can find more information on 30 Best 3D Printer Under $300

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: $149.99
• Features: Slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, advanced printing settings, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Intuitive interface
• Powerful features
• Excellent customer support
• Good for both beginners and experienced users

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be expensive
• May not be necessary for simple prints

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need a powerful and versatile software
• You want an intuitive interface
• You are willing to pay for a premium software

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a free software
• You are looking for a simple software with basic features

Bottom Line:

Simplify3D is a powerful and versatile 3D printing software that is a good option for users who need advanced features and an intuitive interface. Simplify3D is a good choice for both beginners and experienced users, but it is not the best option for users who are on a budget.

Ultimaker Cura

$168.99 at Amazon

A popular and free open-source 3D printing software that is specifically designed for Ultimaker 3D printers. Ultimaker Cura is a great option for users who own an Ultimaker 3D printer.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: Slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and open-source
• Specifically designed for Ultimaker 3D printers
• Easy to use
• Wide range of features

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited compatibility with other 3D printers
• Can be slow on older computers

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You own an Ultimaker 3D printer
• You are looking for a free and easy-to-use software
• You need a software that is specifically designed for your 3D printer

Don't buy it if:

• You have a different brand of 3D printer
• You need advanced features or a very fast slicing engine

Bottom Line:

Ultimaker Cura is a great option for users who own an Ultimaker 3D printer. It is free, easy-to-use, and specifically designed for Ultimaker 3D printers. Ultimaker Cura is a good choice for beginners and experienced users, but it may not be the best option for users who have a different brand of 3D printer or who need advanced features.

Fusion 360

$37.99 at Amazon

A powerful and versatile cloud-based CAD/CAM software that can be used for 3D printing, as well as other manufacturing processes. Fusion 360 is a good option for users who need a comprehensive software for designing and manufacturing.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS
• Price: Free for hobbyists and students, paid for professional use
• Features: CAD modeling, CAM, slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Powerful and versatile software
• Cloud-based, so you can access your designs from anywhere
• Good for both beginners and experienced users

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be expensive for professional use
• Can be complex to learn

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need a comprehensive software for designing and manufacturing
• You want a software that is cloud-based and can be accessed from anywhere
• You are willing to pay for a premium software

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a free software
• You are only looking for a simple software for 3D printing

Bottom Line:

Fusion 360 is a powerful and versatile CAD/CAM software that is a good option for users who need a comprehensive software for designing and manufacturing. Fusion 360 is a good choice for both beginners and experienced users, but it may not be the best option for users who are on a budget.

Autodesk Netfabb

$75.44 at Amazon

A cloud-based 3D printing software that is specifically designed for professional users. Autodesk Netfabb is a good option for users who need a software with advanced features and professional support.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Web-based
• Price: Paid
• Features: Slicing, supports, infill, layer height, print speed, material selection, model repair, advanced printing settings, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Advanced features
• Professional support
• Cloud-based, so you can access your designs from anywhere

Reasons to avoid :

• Expensive
• Can be complex to learn
• Not as user-friendly as other software

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You are a professional user and need advanced features
• You need a software with professional support
• You are willing to pay for a premium software

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a free software
• You are looking for a user-friendly software
• You are on a budget

Bottom Line:

Autodesk Netfabb is a powerful and professional 3D printing software that is a good option for users who need advanced features and professional support. Autodesk Netfabb is not the best option for beginners, and it is expensive, but it is a good choice for users who need a powerful and reliable software.

Meshmixer

$7.99 at Amazon

A free and open-source 3D modeling software that is specifically designed for 3D printing. Meshmixer is a good option for users who want to edit and repair their 3D models before printing.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: Model repair, 3D printing preparation, 3D sculpting, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and open-source
• Specifically designed for 3D printing
• Easy to use
• Good for both beginners and experienced users

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited 3D modeling features
• Can be slow on older computers

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need a software for editing and repairing your 3D models
• You are looking for a free and easy-to-use software
• You want a software specifically designed for 3D printing

Don't buy it if:

• You need a software for creating 3D models from scratch
• You need a software with advanced 3D modeling features

Bottom Line:

Meshmixer is a free and open-source 3D modeling software that is specifically designed for 3D printing. Meshmixer is a good option for users who need to edit and repair their 3D models before printing, but it is not the best option for users who need a software for creating 3D models from scratch.

Blender

$27.99 at Amazon

A powerful and free and open-source 3D modeling software that can be used for 3D printing, as well as other applications. Blender is a good option for users who need a comprehensive software for creating and editing 3D models.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Powerful and versatile software
• Free and open-source
• Large community support
• Good for both beginners and experienced users

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be complex to learn
• Not specifically designed for 3D printing

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need a comprehensive software for creating and editing 3D models
• You are looking for a free and open-source software
• You want a software with a large community support

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a simple and easy-to-use software
• You need a software specifically designed for 3D printing

Bottom Line:

Blender is a powerful and versatile 3D modeling software that is a good option for users who need a comprehensive software for creating and editing 3D models. Blender is a good choice for both beginners and experienced users, but it may not be the best option for users who need a software specifically designed for 3D printing.

FreeCAD

$29.99 at Amazon

A free and open-source parametric 3D CAD software that can be used for 3D printing, as well as other applications. FreeCAD is a good option for users who need a software for creating parametric 3D models.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Price: Free
• Features: Parametric 3D modeling, 3D printing preparation, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and open-source
• Powerful and versatile software
• Good for both beginners and experienced users

Reasons to avoid :

• Can be complex to learn
• Not specifically designed for 3D printing
• May not be as user-friendly as other software

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You need a software for creating parametric 3D models
• You are looking for a free and open-source software
• You are comfortable with a more complex interface

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a simple and easy-to-use software
• You need a software specifically designed for 3D printing
• You are looking for a software with a large user base and lots of online resources

Bottom Line:

FreeCAD is a powerful and versatile parametric 3D CAD software that is a good option for users who need a software for creating parametric 3D models. FreeCAD is a good choice for both beginners and experienced users, but it may not be the best option for users who need a software specifically designed for 3D printing.

Tinkercad

$39.99 at Amazon

A free and easy-to-use web-based 3D modeling software that is specifically designed for beginners. Tinkercad is a great option for users who are new to 3D modeling.

Specifications :

• Operating System: Web-based
• Price: Free
• Features: Basic 3D modeling, 3D printing preparation, and more.

Reasons to buy :

• Free and easy-to-use
• Web-based, so you can access it from anywhere
• Specifically designed for beginners
• Good for creating simple 3D models

Reasons to avoid :

• Limited features
• Not as powerful as other software

What you need to know :

Buy it if:

• You are a beginner and want a simple and easy-to-use software
• You need a software that is web-based and can be accessed from anywhere
• You are looking for a software for creating simple 3D models

Don't buy it if:

• You need advanced features
• You are an experienced user and want a powerful software

Bottom Line:

Tinkercad is a free and easy-to-use web-based 3D modeling software that is a great option for beginners. Tinkercad is a good choice for users who are new to 3D modeling, but it is not the best option for users who need advanced features or a powerful software.

SketchUp

$26.49 at Amazon

A user-friendly 3D modeling software known for its intuitive interface and wide range of applications, from architectural design to product modeling.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows, macOS, Web
• Pricing: Free (basic version), Paid (Pro version)
• Key features: Easy-to-use interface, intuitive modeling tools, strong rendering capabilities, integration with other software

Reasons to buy:

• Simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for beginners to learn
• Powerful modeling tools for creating complex designs
• Strong rendering capabilities for producing high-quality visualizations
• Integration with other software, such as Google Earth and Trimble Connect

Reasons to avoid:

• Limited advanced modeling features compared to professional software
• Can be slow to render complex models
• Some users find the interface to be cluttered

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're a beginner looking for an easy-to-use 3D modeling software
• You need to create simple models for architectural design, product design, or other purposes
• You want to use a software with strong rendering capabilities

Don't buy it if:

• You need to create highly complex models with intricate details
• You require advanced modeling tools and features
• You are working with large datasets and need a software that can handle them efficiently

Bottom Line:

SketchUp is a fantastic choice for beginners and those looking for a user-friendly 3D modeling software. It offers a solid set of features, intuitive tools, and strong rendering capabilities, making it ideal for creating a wide range of designs. However, if you need advanced modeling features or are working with large datasets, you may want to consider a more professional software.

Solidworks

A professional-grade CAD software widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and consumer products.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows
• Pricing: Paid
• Key features: Advanced modeling tools, powerful simulation and analysis features, extensive library of parts and assemblies, integration with other software

Reasons to buy:

• Highly detailed and precise modeling capabilities
• Advanced simulation and analysis features for testing designs
• Extensive library of parts and assemblies to speed up the design process
• Seamless integration with other software for a streamlined workflow

Reasons to avoid:

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Can be expensive
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You are a professional engineer or designer working on complex projects
• You need to create highly detailed and accurate models
• You want to perform simulations and analyses to test your designs
• You need to collaborate with other engineers and designers

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner looking for a simple 3D modeling software
• You are working on small projects with limited complexity
• You have a limited budget

Bottom Line:

Solidworks is a top-tier CAD software that offers powerful modeling, simulation, and analysis features. It is perfect for professionals working on complex projects and requiring the highest level of precision and detail. However, its steep learning curve and high cost may make it unsuitable for beginners or those working on simpler projects.

Check this blog on 14 Best 3D Printer Under $200

Rhino 3D

$40.00 at Amazon

A professional-grade 3D modeling software renowned for its versatility and precision, commonly used in industrial design, architecture, and jewelry making.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows, macOS
• Pricing: Paid
• Key features: NURBS-based modeling, powerful surface and solid modeling tools, comprehensive scripting capabilities, compatibility with a wide range of plugins

Reasons to buy:

• Exceptional precision and control for creating complex shapes and surfaces
• Powerful surface and solid modeling tools for crafting intricate designs
• Comprehensive scripting capabilities for automating tasks and customizing workflows
• Extensive plugin library to expand functionality

Reasons to avoid:

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Can be expensive
• May require a powerful computer to run smoothly

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You are a professional designer working on projects requiring precision and detail
• You need to create complex shapes and surfaces with high accuracy
• You want to use a software with extensive scripting capabilities and customization options
• You need to work with a wide range of file formats and plugin integrations

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner looking for a simple 3D modeling software
• You are working on simple projects with limited complexity
• You have a limited budget

Bottom Line:

Rhino 3D is a professional-grade 3D modeling software that excels in precision and versatility. It is ideal for creating complex shapes, surfaces, and intricate designs, particularly in industries like industrial design, architecture, and jewelry making. However, its steep learning curve and high cost may make it unsuitable for beginners or those working on simpler projects.

ZBrush

N/A at Amazon

A powerful digital sculpting software that provides a wide range of tools for creating detailed 3D models, often used for character design, concept art, and game development.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows, macOS
• Pricing: Paid
• Key features: Highly detailed sculpting tools, intuitive brush system, extensive library of brushes, advanced subdivision modeling techniques

Reasons to buy:

• Powerful and intuitive sculpting tools for creating incredibly detailed models
• Comprehensive brush system with a wide range of options for sculpting, painting, and texturing
• Advanced subdivision modeling techniques for creating smooth and organic shapes
• Strong rendering capabilities for creating high-quality visualizations

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be overwhelming for beginners
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly
• Limited functionality for creating technical designs

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You are an artist or designer interested in creating highly detailed 3D models
• You are working on projects requiring organic shapes and intricate details
• You need a software with advanced sculpting and texturing tools

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner looking for a simple 3D modeling software
• You are working on technical designs or projects requiring precision engineering
• You have a limited budget

Bottom Line:

ZBrush is a powerful and intuitive digital sculpting software perfect for artists and designers looking to create highly detailed 3D models. It offers a wide range of tools for sculpting, texturing, and rendering, making it ideal for projects requiring organic shapes and intricate details. However, its complexity and demanding system requirements may make it unsuitable for beginners or those working on simpler projects.

3ds Max

$24.97 at Amazon

A professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software widely used in film, game development, and architectural visualization.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows
• Pricing: Paid
• Key features: Powerful modeling, animation, and rendering tools, advanced character rigging and animation, extensive library of plugins and materials, industry-standard software for production-level work

Reasons to buy:

• Powerful modeling, animation, and rendering tools for creating high-quality 3D content
• Advanced character rigging and animation features for creating realistic and complex animations
• Extensive library of plugins and materials to expand functionality
• Industry-standard software used by professionals in film, game development, and other creative industries

Reasons to avoid:

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Can be expensive
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You are a professional artist, animator, or designer working on complex projects requiring advanced tools and features
• You need to create high-quality animations, visualizations, or 3D content for production-level work
• You are working in industries such as film, game development, or architectural visualization

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner looking for a simple 3D modeling software
• You are working on simple projects with limited complexity
• You have a limited budget

Bottom Line:

3ds Max is a professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software used by professionals in film, game development, and architectural visualization. It offers a comprehensive set of features, advanced tools, and industry-standard capabilities, making it a powerhouse for creating high-quality 3D content. However, its steep learning curve, high cost, and demanding system requirements may make it unsuitable for beginners or those working on simpler projects.

Maya

N/A at Amazon

A professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software commonly used in film, game development, and visual effects.

Specifications:

• Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Pricing: Paid
• Key features: Powerful modeling, animation, and rendering tools, advanced character rigging and animation, extensive library of plugins and materials, industry-standard software for production-level work

Reasons to buy:

• Powerful modeling, animation, and rendering tools for creating high-quality 3D content
• Advanced character rigging and animation features for creating realistic and complex animations
• Extensive library of plugins and materials to expand functionality
• Industry-standard software used by professionals in film, game development, and visual effects

Reasons to avoid:

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Can be expensive
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You are a professional artist, animator, or designer working on complex projects requiring advanced tools and features
• You need to create high-quality animations, visualizations, or 3D content for production-level work
• You are working in industries such as film, game development, or visual effects

Don't buy it if:

• You are a beginner looking for a simple 3D modeling software
• You are working on simple projects with limited complexity
• You have a limited budget

Bottom Line:

Maya is a professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software known for its powerful tools and industry-standard capabilities. It is a favorite among professionals in film, game development, and visual effects, allowing for the creation of high-quality 3D content. However, its steep learning curve, high cost, and demanding system requirements may make it unsuitable for beginners or those working on simpler projects.

Choosing the right 3D printer software is crucial for a successful and enjoyable 3D printing experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one suits your needs best. Fortunately, the 16 software programs listed in this article offer a diverse range of features, catering to both beginners and advanced users. Whether you're looking for simple slicing, advanced modeling tools, or cloud-based collaboration capabilities, this selection provides something for everyone.

When selecting your ideal software, consider your skill level, the type of projects you plan to undertake, and your budget. Factors like ease of use, compatibility with your printer, and the availability of support resources should also be taken into account. Many software programs offer free trials, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect match for your printing needs.

With the right software in hand, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities with 3D printing. From creating stunning prototypes to printing intricate designs, the software you choose will be your digital companion throughout your 3D printing journey. Embrace the power of digital fabrication and let your imagination run wild!

Don't be afraid to explore and experiment with different software options to discover the one that empowers you to create your most ambitious projects. The world of 3D printing is constantly evolving, and with the right tools and software, you'll be well-equipped to stay ahead of the curve.