Top 3D Print Programs: A Comprehensive Guide to Software for 3D Printing

Every successful 3D print starts with a digital 3D model, and that’s where 3d Print Programs come into play. In the past, accessing and mastering 3D modeling software was a significant hurdle, requiring substantial investment in both time and money. Today, the landscape has dramatically changed. A wealth of user-friendly 3D print program options are readily available, many of which are even free. This guide explores some of the best software choices currently on the market, categorized by price, with free options listed alphabetically for your convenience.

A key distinction we’ll highlight is whether a 3D print program utilizes solid modeling. This method is crucial because it inherently creates “manifold” or “watertight” models. Manifold models are essential for 3D printing as they ensure all surfaces of the design have thickness, a prerequisite for physical fabrication. In contrast, polygon modeling, while excellent for visual applications like video games and film, can sometimes produce models with zero-thickness walls, making them unsuitable for direct 3D printing. While manifold models can be achieved with polygon modeling software, it demands more expertise and additional steps. Rest assured, all the 3D print programs featured in this list are capable of generating 3D printable models, but solid modeling software guarantees printability right from the start.

Furthermore, we’ve categorized each 3D print program based on the intended user skill level: beginner, amateur, advanced, and professional. Generally, the easier-to-use options are positioned earlier in the list, while the more powerful, feature-rich programs tend to appear later. However, there are notable exceptions throughout. The good news is that most of these 3D print programs offer free trials, and a wealth of free tutorial videos are available online for virtually all of them, making it easier than ever to get started with 3D design and printing.

3D Modeling Software for 3D Printing

These 3D print programs are specifically designed for creating the 3D models that are the foundation of any 3D printed object. The spectrum ranges from incredibly intuitive software perfect for those just starting out, to robust, professional-grade programs suited for seasoned experts with years of experience in the field.

Shapr3D CAD Modeling

Price: Free version available, Professional plan at $299/year
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Beginners to Professionals
Special Features: Intuitive multi-platform CAD experience for design on the go.

Shapr3D stands out as an exceptional 3D print program for both professionals and hobbyists. Its remarkably intuitive and modern user interface allows for rapid model creation without sacrificing precision. The innovative design extends to its cross-platform compatibility, functioning seamlessly on iPad, Windows, and Mac devices, with automatic file synchronization across your devices. The Visualization feature is particularly valuable, enabling users to preview designs in augmented reality (AR) to ensure the final 3D printed object will perfectly fit its intended environment. For anyone seeking a versatile and user-friendly 3D print program, Shapr3D is definitely worth exploring.

Tinkercad

Price: Free
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Beginners
Special Features: Designed for accessibility, it’s an ideal introductory 3D print program for solid modeling concepts.

Tinkercad is a browser-based 3D design application specifically created as a 3D print program for beginners. It employs an intuitive, block-building approach, allowing users to construct models by manipulating and combining a library of basic shapes. Tinkercad excels in its learning resources, providing numerous tutorials and guides to assist newcomers in realizing their design ideas. File sharing and exporting are straightforward, simplifying the workflow. The extensive library of user-generated shapes offers a wealth of starting points that can be customized and adapted. Direct integration with third-party 3D printing services further streamlines the process, enabling users to send designs for printing and have them delivered directly. While its simplicity can be limiting for advanced projects, Tinkercad serves as an excellent educational 3D print program for grasping the fundamentals of 3D modeling.

Tinkercad interface showcasing a simple 3D model

Blender

Price: Free
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Amateurs and Advanced Users
Special Features: Open-source, comprehensive suite with sculpting, animation, simulation, rendering, motion tracking, and video editing tools.

Blender is a powerhouse open-source 3D print program that encompasses a vast spectrum of 3D creation tasks, including modeling, animation, simulation, and more. As a 3D print program, it is incredibly versatile. While its extensive capabilities come with a steeper learning curve, Blender is perfectly suited for users ready to tackle complex 3D models. Originally developed for 3D animation and rendering using polygon modeling techniques, Blender has evolved into a highly accessible and capable 3D print program. A standout feature is its photorealistic rendering, allowing users to visualize their 3D printed designs with a high degree of realism, a capability rarely found in free software. For users interested in exploring its 3D printing capabilities, numerous online resources and tutorials are readily available.

BRL-CAD

Price: Free
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Advanced Users
Special Features: Developed by the U.S. Army for ballistic and electromagnetic analysis; includes ray tracing and geometric analysis tools.

BRL-CAD is an advanced, open-source solid modeling system, making it a robust 3D print program option. It’s known for its interactive geometry editing and is notably utilized by the U.S. military for modeling weapon systems, highlighting its reliability and sophisticated nature. BRL-CAD emphasizes precision through the use of specific coordinates for arranging geometric shapes. It provides an extensive library of both simple and complex shapes that users can incorporate into their designs, with flexible tools for combining and manipulating these shapes. Once a commercial software, BRL-CAD transitioned to open-source, making its powerful features freely available. Its arsenal includes over 400 tools and operates with impressive speed, especially considering its feature density, making it a powerful 3D print program for specialized applications.

BRL-CAD interface displaying a complex geometric model

DesignSpark Mechanical

Price: Free
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs and Advanced Users
Special Features: Includes a library of 3D models from industrial suppliers and bill-of-materials generation. Offers integrated electrical and PCB CAD tools.

DesignSpark Mechanical is a free and efficient CAD software, serving as a capable 3D print program for professionals and advanced hobbyists. Its user-friendly interface and rapid performance facilitate efficient design workflows. A valuable feature for 3D printing is its ability to generate a bill-of-materials, automatically calculating the potential cost of 3D printing projects. DesignSpark Mechanical allows users to leverage a built-in library of components alongside their own designs. The “pull” feature simplifies the creation of 3D models from surfaces, making it particularly useful for new users. Packed with features typically found in paid software, DesignSpark Mechanical is a surprisingly beginner-friendly yet powerful 3D print program option.

FreeCAD

Price: Free
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs and Advanced Users
Special Features: Fully parametric models with on-demand recalculation and undo/redo history. Includes robotic simulation, architectural tools, and a CAM path module.

FreeCAD is a parametric, open-source 3D modeling tool, functioning as a versatile 3D print program for designing real-world objects of any scale. Its parametric nature allows for effortless design modifications; simply revisit the model history, alter parameters, and the design updates accordingly. True to its name, FreeCAD is entirely free, granting unrestricted access to all its tools without paywalls, enabling extensive model refinement. While perhaps not the top choice for demanding professional applications, it serves as an excellent 3D print program for learning and experimentation. Despite its fundamental design elements, FreeCAD is a worthwhile option for those new to 3D printing who prefer to explore without initial investment.

FreeCAD interface showing a parametric 3D model

OpenSCAD

Price: Free
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs and Advanced Users
Special Features: Script-based modeling designed for programmers; models are generated through code.

OpenSCAD is a unique, free 3D print program that takes a programmatic approach to 3D modeling. Instead of a traditional interactive interface, users define 3D objects by writing code in a script file that specifies the object’s parameters. Clicking the “compile” button then renders the 3D shape based on the code. Another notable feature is the ability to import 2D drawings and extrude them into 3D, utilizing profile data from standard 2D sketching software via the DXF file format. OpenSCAD’s coding focus may appeal to programmers and those who prefer a precise, script-driven workflow, making it a distinctive and powerful 3D print program in its own right.

Wings3D

Price: Free
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Amateurs and Advanced Users
Special Features: Polygon modeling for organic shapes. Context-sensitive right-click menu for tool access.

Wings3D is another open-source polygon modeling tool that functions effectively as a 3D print program. Despite being freeware, it offers a comprehensive set of mesh and selection tools. Features like the mirror tool simplify symmetrical modeling. Its user-friendly nature and steady learning curve make it suitable for beginners. Customizable hotkeys and an intuitive interface further enhance its accessibility. Despite its ease of use, Wings3D includes a robust set of features such as plane cut, intersect, inset, bend, sweep, circularize, and sheer, enabling the creation of impressive models. It also supports a wide array of file formats for both importing and exporting. Although its interface may appear basic, Wings3D is a valuable 3D print program, particularly for those starting out with 3D modeling.

Wings3D interface showcasing a polygon model

3D Slash

Price: Free web version; Premium license from $24/year, Commercial license from $240/year
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Beginners and Amateurs
Special Features: Unique “slashing” interface for shaping models by removing blocks.

3D Slash is a 3D print program that prioritizes a fun and unique user interface while providing sufficient advanced features for precise design work. It’s also capable of creating logos and 3D text. The free version of 3D Slash is ideal for beginners, while tiered pricing options unlock features for collaborative or commercial use. The free version does have limitations on functions, resolution, and color options. Its intuitive block-cutting interface makes it exceptionally easy to learn and use. Even without starting from scratch, users can import and modify existing downloadable files. Novel features like cursor modes for interior design further enhance its usability. Beyond standard desktop use, 3D Slash also supports VR headsets. While the block-based approach may limit the range of achievable shapes and aesthetic finesse, it excels in speed and efficiency, making it a remarkably quick 3D print program from concept to finished model.

SketchUp

Price: Free web version; Pro version at $299/year
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Beginners to Advanced Users
Special Features: Intuitive and powerful, with a vast library of user and manufacturer-generated models.

SketchUp strikes a balance between user-friendliness and powerful functionality, making it a versatile 3D print program suitable for a wide range of skill levels. It has a relatively gentle learning curve, with advanced features available in the paid Pro version for professionals. SketchUp is particularly well-suited for architectural design, both interior and exterior, but also provides tools for diverse applications. While complex designs can be time-consuming, simpler models can be created efficiently. SketchUp offers both a free version, SketchUp Make, and a feature-rich paid version, SketchUp Pro, catering to different user needs and budgets as a 3D print program.

SketchUp interface displaying an architectural model

Fusion 360

Price: Free for personal use and startups, Commercial license at $595/year
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs to Professionals
Special Features: Feature-rich with modeling, sculpting, generative design, simulation, assemblies, collaboration, 3D printing, and CAM tools.

Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD program that stands out as a comprehensive 3D print program. It leverages cloud technology to facilitate collaboration among design teams working on complex projects. The cloud platform also provides version control, storing the entire model history and all design changes. Fusion 360 offers a wide array of modeling approaches, including freeform, solid, and mesh modeling. It operates on a subscription basis with regular feature updates and is cross-platform compatible, allowing users to access their projects from anywhere. Its extensive capabilities make Fusion 360 a powerful and collaborative 3D print program choice.

MoI 3D

Price: $295
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs to Advanced Users
Special Features: Creates smooth meshes from CAD models, pen-tablet friendly interface.

MoI 3D, short for Moment of Inspiration, provides a streamlined user interface and a robust set of CAD tools, making it a strong 3D print program option, particularly for users focused on polygonal modeling. It features advanced boolean functions that accelerate the design of “hard surface” models. MoI 3D utilizes NURBS modeling, contributing to its user-friendliness and efficient workflow. While not free, MoI 3D is priced competitively compared to other professional-grade software. It offers a focused set of features, avoiding unnecessary complexity, and its curve and boolean-based system streamlines the design process, making it an effective 3D print program for many users.

MoI 3D interface showcasing a smooth, curved model

Rhino3D

Price: $995
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Advanced Users and Professionals
Special Features: Powerful, feature-rich for modeling, analysis, rendering, 3D capture, CAM, and 3D printing.

Rhino3D is marketed as an exceptionally versatile 3D modeler, and its extensive capabilities support this claim, positioning it as a top-tier 3D print program. Available in various bundles at different price points, Rhino3D uses NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines), a precise mathematical model that allows for manipulation of points, curves, surfaces, solids, and meshes in diverse ways. Its wide range of design features makes Rhino3D exceptionally versatile for creating complex 3D models, solidifying its position as a leading 3D print program for professionals. While some users find its learning curve steep due to its depth, this is often a trade-off for the power and flexibility it offers. Despite not being the most intuitive in capturing user intent initially, Rhino3D remains one of the most capable 3D print program options available.

Modo

Price: Subscription at $599/year, Perpetual license at $1,799
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Amateurs to Professionals
Special Features: Procedural modeling and artist-friendly tools for modeling, animation, texturing, and rendering.

Modo offers creative 3D polygon and subdivision surface modeling tools with significant flexibility, functioning effectively as a professional 3D print program. It allows users to create both organic, freeform models and precise meshes within the same software environment. Modo is geared towards advanced 3D designers, reflected in its price point and feature set. While not the most beginner-friendly, Modo delivers a vast array of features while maintaining smooth performance. Its speed is particularly notable in texture baking. Compatibility with partner software and extensions further enhances its customizability and workflow integration, making it a robust 3D print program for demanding users.

Modo interface displaying a complex textured model

Cinema 4D

Price: Subscription at $720/year, Perpetual license at $3,945
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Amateurs to Professionals
Special Features: Intuitive interface, parametric modeling, and procedural workflow.

Cinema 4D is an exceptionally powerful 3D modeling tool and 3D print program that enables the creation of intricate 3D designs. Its relatively shallow learning curve makes it accessible to beginners who might be intimidated by other feature-rich software. Regular free service pack updates optimize its performance across different operating systems. User-friendly options simplify print preparation, and scaling and shading tools enhance the modeling process. The sculpting tool exemplifies its strengths in model editing and working with pre-existing files, making Cinema 4D a versatile and approachable 3D print program.

SolidWorks

Price: Subscription at $1,295/year, Perpetual license at $3,995
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Amateurs to Professionals
Special Features: Powerful editing tree and tools for manufacturing, assemblies, simulation, cost estimates, CAM, and 3D printing.

SolidWorks is a leading CAD program widely used by professional 3D designers, and a highly capable 3D print program. It incorporates a wealth of advanced features, including design validation tools and reverse engineering capabilities. SolidWorks is offered in three packages, allowing users to select the specific features they require. SolidWorks leans towards industrial applications, emphasizing practicality and detail. Unlike software that approximates curves with flat polygons, SolidWorks utilizes NURBS to create highly detailed curvatures. It focuses on dimensional sketching, eliminating polygonal modeling, which simplifies resizing and modifications, making it a robust 3D print program for engineering and manufacturing applications.

SolidWorks interface showcasing an industrial design model

Maya

Price: Subscription at $1,545/year
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Advanced Users and Professionals
Special Features: Procedural effects and powerful character and world creation tools.

Primarily aimed at animation professionals, Maya is a versatile 3D print program, particularly strong in creating mathematically smooth surfaces and shapes. Originally conceived as 3D animation software, Maya is also highly applicable to 3D printing. Its interface reflects its animation and sculpting origins. Maya excels in artistic 3D printing applications. Its fast rendering engine is ideal for highly detailed models with intricate designs. However, its high cost reflects its professional-grade capabilities (it is, after all, used for high-budget movie CGI). Maya delivers realistic representations of reflection and color with smooth operation, making it a top-tier 3D print program for visual and artistic applications.

3DS Max

Price: Subscription at $1,545/year
Solid modeling: No
Intended for: Advanced Users and Professionals
Special Features: Robust features favored by game developers and visualization studios.

Another animation-focused program, 3DS Max, provides excellent 3D modeling features, making it a strong 3D print program contender. These include shading tools, parametric mesh modeling, and polygon modeling. This Windows-only software is a favorite among video game developers, TV commercial studios, and architectural visualization studios. Its comprehensive feature set and industry adoption solidify its position as a professional-grade 3D print program.

3DS Max interface displaying a complex scene

Inventor

Price: Subscription at $1985/year
Solid modeling: Yes
Intended for: Advanced Users and Professionals
Special Features: Tailored for product design and engineering, loaded with simulation and manufacturing tools.

Inventor 3D CAD software is a professional-grade 3D print program specializing in mechanical design. It offers freeform, direct, and parametric modeling approaches, along with automation and simulation tools. Developed by Autodesk, Inventor comes in various packages tailored to different proficiency levels (student, professional, etc.). A key strength of Inventor is its continuous improvement based on user feedback. Recent versions feature enhanced visual data representation and the ability to seamlessly reference third-party designs without file conversion, making it a leading 3D print program for product design and engineering workflows.

Slicers & 3D Printer Hosts for 3D Printing

The next category of essential 3D print programs are those that bridge the gap between your 3D model and the physical print. Slicers are the most direct way to translate a CAD model into a printable object. They take your 3D model, slice it into thin layers, and convert it into G-code, the language that 3D printers understand. Slicer software also allows you to input crucial 3D printer settings like temperature, layer height, and print speed, embedding these instructions directly into the G-code. The 3D printer then interprets this G-code to build your model layer by layer, following the precise instructions.

Ultimaker Cura

Despite being named after Ultimaker, Cura is an open-source slicer and a versatile 3D print program compatible with virtually any 3D printer. Its intuitive interface and speed make it ideal for beginners. Its ease of use is a major advantage. For advanced users, Cura offers over 200 customizable settings for fine-tuning prints, making it a scalable 3D print program for all skill levels.

Simplify3D

Simplify3D is a premium slicing tool and 3D print program designed to significantly enhance 3D print quality. Beyond slicing CAD models into layers, Simplify3D identifies and corrects model issues and provides a print preview to further catch potential problems. While it’s a paid option, advanced users must weigh whether its premium features justify the cost compared to free, open-source slicers. Its advanced features make it a powerful 3D print program for achieving high-quality prints.

Slic3r

Slic3r is an open-source 3D print program that includes features like real-time incremental slicing and 3D preview. It is one of the most widely adopted slicers in the 3D printing community. Incremental real-time slicing is a key advantage; when settings are changed, only the affected G-code sections are recalculated, rather than restarting the entire slicing process. This results in a fast, flexible, and precise slicing experience, making Slic3r a highly efficient 3D print program.

Slic3r interface showing slicing parameters and a 3D model

Repetier

Repetier is an open-source slicer software and 3D print program that supports multiple slicing engines: Slic3r, CuraEngine, and Skeinforge. It can handle up to 16 extruders simultaneously, accommodating different filament types and colors, and offers a print preview feature. Repetier’s extensive customization options and features cater to advanced users who enjoy tinkering and fine-tuning. Repetier Host also provides remote printer access, enhancing workflow flexibility.

KISSlicer

KISSlicer is a slicing software and 3D print program that prioritizes performance and output quality, although its user interface is relatively basic. For users seeking a slicer that delivers excellent results without unnecessary frills, KISSlicer is a solid choice. Note that the free basic version is limited to single-extruder machines; the PRO version is required for multi-extruder setups.

KISSlicer interface displaying basic slicing settings

ideaMaker

ideaMaker is a free slicer and 3D print program distributed by Raise3D, offering fast and straightforward slicing for most 3D printers. It enables team collaboration through shared print profiles and allows for both automatic and manual support placement. The adaptive layer height tool dynamically adjusts layer height based on model detail, optimizing print quality and minimizing print time. Remote monitoring and control features are also included, making ideaMaker a feature-rich and user-friendly 3D print program.

OctoPrint

OctoPrint is a free, open-source web interface that functions as a powerful 3D print program for remote 3D printer control and monitoring. Compatible with most 3D printers, it allows users to monitor prints via an embedded webcam feed. Prints can be started, paused, and stopped remotely. Plugins extend its functionality, enabling print statistics tracking and push notifications for job progress, making OctoPrint a versatile 3D print program for enhanced printer management.

3DPrinterOS

3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based 3D printer management software and comprehensive 3D print program, offered as a paid service. It aims to unify the entire 3D printing workflow within a single platform. Users can edit and repair designs, slice STL files in the cloud, and send files to printers remotely from anywhere. CAD file sharing capabilities are also included, making 3DPrinterOS a centralized and remotely accessible 3D print program for managing complex printing operations.

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