3D software decision aid

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3D software decision aid

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

3D software decision aid

Before you can start 3D printing, you not only need a 3D printer and filament, but also software for the computer. What kind of software is this and which one do you need?

3D modelling software

To make a print, you need a design that can be read by the printers. 99% of 3D printers require an STL file for this. This is the most popular file format, but how do you get it? When you have created a 3D model using 3D modelling software, you can then export it as an STL file. However, this file is only part of the 3D printing. The STL file contains information about the appearance of your 3D model. Using additional software, you can convert the model to a format that is supported by the 3D printer. For this, you need a slicer software.

Slicer software

The software that comes with your printer is called slicer software. This software opens the STL file and determines the printer settings. As the name suggests, the slicer software divides your 3D design into layers. These layers are part of the printing instructions for the 3D printer and are sent in the form of G-code. For example, you can indicate via the printing instructions what the layout of the print should look like and whether you want to add support during printing. Free slicer software is available from the manufacturer for every 3D printer, but you can also opt for paid software.

Below is an overview of several design and slicer software options for beginners, some of which even combine both tools!

	Level	Software type	Design concept	OS	Cost	Accessible through
Cura	Beginner	Slicer	-	Windows/ Mac	Free	Download
TinkerCAD	Beginner	3D design	Basic Geometric Shapes	Windows/ Mac	Free	Online browser
Morphi	Beginner Intermediate Pro	3D Design	Geometric/ Organic/ Lines	Windows/ Mac	Free	Download/ Online browser
Leopoly	Beginner	3D Design/ Virtual Reality	Geometric/ Organic/ Lines	Windows/ Mac	Free	Online browser
3D Slash	Beginner Intermediate Pro	3D Design	Retro Blocks	Windows	Basic Paid Pro Versions	Download/ Online browser
SketchUp	Beginner Intermediate Pro	3D Design/ Slicer	Lines (engineering/ furniture)	Windows/ Mac	Free	Download
Vectary	Beginner Intermediate Pro	3D Design	Geometric/ Organic	Windows/ Mac	Free	Online browser

3D printer software

In addition to the software on your computer, all 3D printers also use software that is programmed in the hardware. This is the control software programmed into the device at the time of purchase. This form of software is also known as firmware. You do not have to install this yourself, but it is already pre-programmed in the 3D printer.

There are many different types of 3D software and drawing programs available, but which one do you need? View our page with questions about 3D printer software. We help you with the essential information and give useful tips regarding the necessary software for 3D printing. Which software is compatible with your computer, which are the best free software programs and much more. Would you rather read more about the software on your 3D printer? Then view the pages about 3D printer software and 3D printer settings and software upgrades.

Do you have another question?

Have you not been able to find the answer to your question in the overview above? At 123-3D.co.uk we are busy with 3D printing every day and we like to follow every development. We are happy to share the knowledge and experience that we have built up over the years with you in our 3D printing help centre!

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3D software decision aid

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

3D software decision aid

3D modelling software

Slicer software

3D printer software

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3D software decision aid

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

3D software decision aid

3D modelling software

Slicer software

3D printer software

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