Best Modeling Software For 3d Printing

1. Best Modeling Software For 3d Printers
2. Best Free 3d Modeling Software For 3d Printing
3. Best Modeling Software For 3d Printing
4. Best Modeling Software For 3d Printing

Now that you have your handy 3D printer, you must be excited to get started! However, to begin your printing projects, you will need to invest in 3D printing software. This will enable you to print various objects. There is a wide selection of 3D printing software available; however, to get the most out of your 3D printer and to print the most flawless 3D designs, you need the best 3D printing software, which this review will help you with.

Autodesk 123D is yet another best free 3D modeling software, which comes straight from Autodesk. As opposed to many of the 3D modeling tools, this one is dedicated for 3D Printing purposes and for beginners. Autodesk 123D Design will work fine with Windows, Mac, and iPad also. Sep 14, 2020 TinkerCAD from Autodesk is a best modeling software for 3D printing that lets you design complex 3D models by combining different shapes. Once you have designed the model, you can export it as an SVG file and then laser cut it with this 3D modeling software. TinkerCAD Home 3D printer Features Ordering 3D prints. Verdict: If you want to find an open-source program for printing three-dimensional models, take a look at Ultimaker Cura. This free 3D modeling software for beginners comes with helpful tutorials and recommendations. It is an intuitive 3D printing program that allows you to save files using the button in the upper left corner. Slicing software is a must for 3D printing. The software converts your digital 3D models, which is basically an OBJ or STL file into standard printing instructions called G-code for the 3D printer. This code is sent to the printer where it gets executed and transformed into a 3D printout. Best free 3d printer modeling software.

The following 3D printing software options have been approved by both professionals and beginners alike as the best 3D printing software in the market.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file.

The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. This means that an object is created by laying down many layers of material until the final object is created. Each layer can be seen as a very thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the final object.

3D printing is the opposite format of subtractive manufacturing, which involves cutting out or hollowing a piece of plastic or metal using machinery such as a milling machine.

3D printing allows people to produce very complex shapes using much less material than the traditional manufacturing methods.

How Does 3D Printing Work?

You start off with a 3D model. This is something that you create yourself on your computer. When you create your own 3D model, you will need to use a 3D scanner, an app, a code, a haptic device, or some 3D modeling software. Our list below shows you some of the best 3D modeling softwares that are available on the market today.

1. Tinkercad

Tinkercad is considered one of the best 3D printing software programs for beginners due to its easy learning curve, and it only contains three easy tools that enable you to print a wide range of 3D designs, including prototypes, home decor, toys, Minecraft models, and more. It even enables you to make 2D geometrical shapes and change them into 3D models, and it utilizes STL file format, which is the most common file used in 3D printing, so it can be used by a wide range of users.

Tinkercad is an online 3D design and 3D printing app that is available for free, so all you need is a web browser.

Download: Tinkercad.com.

2. SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD software is used by over 2 million engineers and product designers across the globe. It has 3 different packages available for the beginner, the intermediate, and the pro and is rated one of the best 3D printing software programs due to its strong design operations with intuitive user interface, which allows for a speedy design process. It also includes CAD animation, PhotoView 360, revision control, and more.

SOLIDWORKS packages vary in price; however, free trials are available. For more details concerning the cost of SOLIDWORKS, you will need to contact a sales representative.

Download: SOLIDWORKS. Free voice effects software.

3. SketchUp

SketchUp is rated one of the best 3D printing software programs for pros and intermediates due to its wide range of tools for geometric objects. In fact, users report that it is the perfect combination of simplicity and operation. This makes it easy to use and why it is rated as one of the best 3D printing software programs available. And since it utilizes STL files, it can be used by used by a number of users.

SketchUp is available for free and is compatible with Linux, PC, and Mac systems.

Download: SketchUp.com.

4. Blender

Blender is one of the most powerful computer aided design (CAD) software programs you can use, which is why it is often recommended for professionals or those with advanced skills. However, it also has one of the largest communities of followers who are big on sharing resources, via various popular online sites, to help make it easier to navigate.

Blender is available for free and can be used with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.

Download: Blender.org.

5. Cura

Cura 3D printing software makes it easy to mange much needed 3D settings in a simple interface. This slicer software was originally designed for use with Ultimaker 3D printers; however, it can also be used with other 3D printers, including Witbox, RepRap, Printrbot, and more.

Users love this software for its ease of use, which includes a 'Basic' mode that enables swift configuration of print qualities, while the 'Expert' mode allows for more control over the print quality settings. It can also be used as 3D printer host software for direct control over your equipment.

Cura is available for free and is compatible with Mac, PC, and Linux systems.

Best Modeling Software For 3d Printers

Download: Ultimaker.com.

6. Repetier

Repetier takes your 3D printing to the next level with multi-slicer support via plug ins, multi-extruder support, and support for just about any FDM 3D printer available, which is just perfect for the intermediate to advanced user. And with the Repeteir Host, you can use your tablet, PC, smartphone to control your 3D printer from anywhere.

Repeteir is a free download and is for use with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.

Download: Repetier.com.

7. Slic3r

Slic3r is open source slicer software that includes an awesome honeycomb infill that is generated in three dimensions, which can significantly increase the strength of the interior infill of your final design. It is also well known for its bleeding edge features that are unmatched. Another benefit of this software is that it can be directly integrated with OctoPrint.

Slic3r software is available for free and can be used with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.

Download: Slic3r.org.

8. MeshLab

MeshLab allows you to change or make repairs to your 3D print model. With MeshLab's advanced STL editing tool, you can fix holes, delete portions of your 3D model, or even merge two models into one for the perfect design. It also helps with raw data processing produced by 3D digitization tools or devices.

MeshLab is available for free and is compatible with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.

Download: MeshLab.

9. MatterControl

MatterControl is considered the granddaddy of all 3D printing software programs because it features three of the major slicing engines, including Slic3r, Cura, and Matterslice. This allows users to experiment with each feature and compare the results.

This 3D printing host for your desktop computer is very well structured for ease of use. It also enables you to preview the complete process layer by layer, so you can fix any issues in your print. It also includes an advanced mode, which includes features like mesh repair, and a basic mode where you can adjust the fill thickness, layer height, and more. You can also save the settings for future prints.

MatterControl is a free download for use with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.

Download: Matterconrol.com.

Summing Up

In the end, the 3D printing program you choose will ultimately help shape your 3D printing experience. Don't be afraid to try various software until you find the best 3D printing software for you. A good 3D printing program will also provide different levels of use, which will allow you to get a lot of use out of it before moving onto more advanced software.

Look around you. Chances are that almost every object, from your pen to the desk to the electronic device you are using to read this text was designed using 3D modeling software. Often ignored by the public, these programs make it possible for countless occupations to provide a professional service to their clients.

Below we go into detail about what 3D modeling software is, who can use this software, what the pros and cons of the software are, and the various kinds of paid and free versions of the software you can select from.

1Table of Best 3D Modeling Software

2I. What Is 3D Modeling Software?

3D modeling software allows you to create 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional shapes. Depending on the 3D modeling software you are using, you can make multiple mechanisms, animate objects, design blueprints, and more. There are dozens of different kinds of 3D modeling software used by an equal number of niche industries. In addition, 3D modeling software is used by individuals looking to create or illustrate an idea.

3II. Who Uses 3D Modeling Software?

3D modeling software is used by hobbyists, large international companies, and everyone in between. Any industry that builds or constructs objects will use a 3D modeling software to aid their design. On the smallest scale, Programs Like Free CAD Software can help create tiny mechanisms and organize their assembly process. Larger multi-part mechanisms can be made and show how everything fits together. These mechanism can be placed in fully designed homes or commercial spaces that use 3D modeling software in all aspects of design. On larger scales, 3D modeling software can be used to create large skyscrapers, airplanes, cruise ships, and more. Because of this, architects, engineers, those in aerospace, individuals in construction, and more will all use this software. At the same time, many people who simply like designing things for video games or for personal entertainment can also use this software to their advantage.

4III. Pros of 3D Modeling Software

3D modeling software offers you the ability to turn the objects of your imagination into reality. Along with creating what you want, they can be synergized with 3D printers as well as act as fantastic professional aids.

Create What You Want

You don't have to be an industry specialist to use 3D modeling software or benefit from its use. 3D modeling software allows you to take an idea and transform it into a reality. Depending on the software, you can view it, color it, choose the material, rotate it, and even animate it. In the end, what you can do with 3D software is often limited only by your imagination.

Synergy With 3D Printers:

While 3D printers have been around since 1984, they have mostly been relegated to special industries. In the past few years, the costs have dropped dramatically along with their size, making 3D printers available to the public. With many different kinds of 3D modeling software, you can transform the plans over to your 3D printer and watch as your digital object becomes a reality. 3D printers offer a lot of different printing options depending on what you buy. Again, what you can create is almost exclusively limited by what you can imagine.

Great Professional Aid:

3D modeling software provides a crucial aid in the design of objects across dozens of industries. Whether you are a small company or large international company, you can use 3D modeling software to design everything from tiny pieces of machinery to supertankers. Making it possible to design and expand on your ideas, 3D modeling software is available from a beginner to industrial standards.

5IV. Cons of 3D Modeling Software

While 3D modeling software makes it possible to do a lot, it is not without its drawbacks. In fact, there are a few major issues with 3D modeling software that you will probably have to contend with including cost, limited functionality, and issues regarding file compatibility.

Cost:

First and foremost, cost will prohibit you from accessing a lot of the 3D modeling software available. While some licenses allow you to use the software after a single purchase, others will charge you a constant yearly or monthly rate that can be in the thousands of dollars. Further down we list both priced and free 3D modeling software for you to consider.

Limited Functionality:

Limited functionality is a big issue, especially if you want to do a lot of things with a single program. Know that certain 3D modeling software is designed for highly specific uses. For example, you cannot use ArchiCAD to render and animate 3D models as effectively as you can with other software. It is important for you to identify what you need is prior to purchasing software.

Issues With Compatibility:

File compatibility can be an issue. In particular, it can be an issue if you are trying to take your file and send the information to a 3D printer. Check to see what file formats are supported by the equipment you have and choose carefully.

6V. What Are Some Leading 3D Modeling Software Companies?

There are many well-known and trusted companies that produce 3D modeling software. Before choosing a piece of 3D modeling software, run through the following checklist in your mind.

Best Free 3d Modeling Software For 3d Printing

First, what is your intended goal with the software?

Rendering landscape, building a house, making a model, or animating an object will all require different software. Next, consider your experience level. Below we go into detail regarding the best beginner, intermediate, professional, and industrial software out there. Last but not least, consider cost. Some of the licenses for the software can cost hundreds of dollars a year and may mean a big commitment on your part.

123D Design

One of the best choices for beginner 3D modeling tools is the 123D Design. Similar to the easily approachable SketchUp, 123D Design is a combination of CAD and 3D modeling software. It is released by the Autodesk Company and free versions can be found depending on the kind of license you are looking for. Along with being able to be used as a grid program for planning basic objects, 123D Design also comes with complex options that greatly expand its scope. One of the best pieces of software for beginners, 123D Design manages to do a little of everything. It is a great way to begin building a solid understanding. Other 3D design programs for beginners include 3D Slash, Photoshop CC, SculptGL, and TinkerCAD.

SketchUp

An interesting intermediate 3D modeling software worth playing around with once you have some experience is SketchUp. The software designed to show architectural elements in Google Earth, SketchUp has grown from a small program with a cult following into its very own rendering software. Incorporating a neat and tidy interface that makes using SketchUp easier, be prepared for an insane amount of buttons and choices. That being said, a little bit of learning can lead you to create 3D models. Because of its multifaceted functionality, SketchUp has been used by a wide variety of industries including hobbyists, interior designers, architects, engineers, urban planners, and even those in the construction industry. Other intermediate 3D modeling software worth considering includes Meshmixer, Moments of Inspiration (MOI), OpenSCAD, and Sculptris.

AutoCAD

Professional software for 3D modeling software includes many recognizable names. The biggest player in the world of 3D modeling software is AutoCAD. A commercial software that can be used for 3D and 2D model making, AutoCAD has been available for nearly 40 years. AutoCAD is an interesting program because there is multiple version of the software depending on your intended goal. For example, architects have available ArchiCAD, which is the AutoCAD program specifically made for that profession. Easily accessibly to 3D printers, AutoCAD are designed to work in a number of different industries and provide an above average level of support. Be aware that it is also challenging to learn and can incorporate learning a lot of shortcut key commands. Other professional software for 3D modeling software worth considering includes 3ds Max, Zbrush, Rhino3D, Mudbox, and Blender.

Solidworks

Solidworks is a great industrial 3D modeling software that provides a wide range of functionality. A solid modeling software, Solidworks runs on Windows and is among the most common program used by engineers. Solidworks was designed to work across a number of different industries, making it one of the few industrial 3D modeling companies that is truly cross industry. Solidworks has been used in architecture, medical, energy, industrial equipment, automotive, shipbuilding, aerospace, and mechanical engineering. Other industrial 3D modeling software includes Inventor, Fusion 360, and CATIA.

7VI. Free Modeling Software You Can Consider

Interested in 3D modeling but don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on professional software?

There is multiple good quality 3D modeling programs that are available for free. Covering a wide range of possible uses, the 3D modeling software goes from fun to serious offering a lot of possibility if you are struggling to find the right program for you.

In addition, consider using some of the free modeling software first to see what works and what doesn't when it comes to what you are looking for. Some of the best free 3D modeling software includes LeoCAD, 3D Crafter, and AutoDesk 123D. Free softwares similar to photoshop.

Best Modeling Software For 3d Printing

LeoCAD

is a fun piece of software that takes the toolset of CAD programs and applies it to LEGO! LeoCAD allows you to create virtual LEGO models utilizing hundreds of different pieces and colors. Including a simple interface that is straightforward to learn, LeoCAD provides support across platform including Mac OS, Windows, and Linux. The program supports animation mode as well as key framing as well. A fun tool to play around with, LeoCAD is a great tool if you are familiar with LEGO and want to use it to see how 3D modeling software works.

3DCrafter

is a beautiful piece of 3D modeling software that provides a simple drag and drop approach. A real time 3D animation tool, 3Dcrafter allows you to print as well as sculpt using it. An advanced tool if you want to create animations, 3Dcrafter is well worth checking out if animation is your goal. Be aware that the controls are a bit more complex to understand. That being said, once you become familiar with the software you can do a lot.

Again we mention AutoDesk 123D!

AutoDesk 123D is a combination of animation 3D modeling tools and CAD combined. The end result is a powerful tool that lets you create a wide variety of shapes. AutoDesk 123D is a popular choice because it supports a wide range of formats. With more than 10,000 free 3D images that you can select from, AutoDesk 123D gives you a lot to play around with. Be aware that like other CAD programs, AutoDesk can take some time to master. That being said, putting in the time can create some truly remarkable 3D objects. As a final note, AutoDesk 123D supports 3D printer technology, allowing you to turn your object into a reality.

Along with the free software listed above, there are many more programs that are well worth checking out. Some of these free programs include Wings 3D, Daz Studio, Open SCAD, Meshmixer 3.0, 3DReshaper, PTC Creo, VUE Pioneer, Netfabb, NaroCAS, LEGO Digital Designer, ZCAD, Houdini Apprentice, Design Spark, Free CAD, Sculptris, MeshMagic3D, and Open Cascade.

8VII. Summary

Best Modeling Software For 3d Printing

With dozens of different 3D modeling software to consider, the biggest challenge you will face is in selecting the right modeling software for your needs. With that in mind, start with free software and see what it is like to use. Once you get the hang of the basics, you can expand to paid programs that provide increased functionality.

Know that the price of 3D modeling software is constantly changing. What may not be affordable today may be affordable tomorrow and vise versa. In addition, know that these pieces of software are constantly being updated and changed by the creators. With mostly good updates that improve functionality, glitches can be reported and resolved. Also know that many of these programs offer a lot of user support, beginner guides, and more. If you need information to learn, the company offering the software should be your first source.