What Software Do I Need for 3D Printing?

Few things are more exciting than a shiny new 3D printer, but there is more to 3D printing than plugging in the machine. You need software to make models, translate them into code the printer can understand, and then perfect that code before printing.

Whether you are new to 3D printing, in need of tips, or a professional assessing your options, this guide gives you an overview of 3D printing software and the top recommendations.

Overview of 3D Printing Software

The first thing to know is that you absolutely need software to execute your prints. Your new printer may already include dedicated software you can install. If it does not, you will need to download the appropriate programs, which is also true if you built your own printer. The right combination lets you design models, slice them into G-code, manage projects, and control printers remotely.

Printers That Come With Software

Some printers ship with dedicated software so you can start right away. Two common examples are ChiTuBox (with Anycubic resin printers) and PrusaSlicer (with Prusa printers). Set up and explore the bundled software before adding others, since you may not need anything more, or you may find it lacking.

Open-Source Software

If you are printing on a budget, open-source software is ideal. Most of the recommendations here are free, highly flexible, and customizable.

What Is G-Code?

Technically, G-code is all you need to make a print, but creating and implementing it requires software. G-code is the set of plotted points that directs the printer to build the model. Every model needs its own G-code, and not every model's code suits every printer, which is exactly what the software handles.

The Three Essential Types of Software

Three programs matter most: CAD, slicing, and STL repair. Some people skip STL repair, but it is worth using to avoid printing errors and wasted material.

CAD Software (Design)

Computer-aided design software lets you design your model. A printer does not strictly need it to function, but most people need it to create a model in the first place. Top picks:

• Fusion360: precise, cloud-based Autodesk software great for mechanical parts, paid.
• 3DS Max: Autodesk software geared to character models, popular in gaming and film, paid.
• TinkerCAD: free, browser-based, and beginner-friendly with a building-block approach.
• Blender: the best-known free CAD tool, excellent for artistic modeling and sculpting.
• Solidworks: a professional suite for commercial, academic, and research work.

Our roundup of free CAD software goes deeper on the no-cost options.

Slicing Software

Slicing software turns your CAD model into the G-code your printer reads. Without it, you cannot print. Top picks:

• Cura: a free, beginner-friendly favorite with 200+ advanced settings under the hood.
• Simplify3D: a reasonably priced premium slicer that also corrects design errors as it slices.
• Slic3r: a free, community-built slicer with layer previews and advanced features like bridge detection.
• KISSlicer: a fast, straightforward slicer with a free single-head version.
• Repetier: a free, community project suitable for all experience levels.

See our comparison of the best 3D slicers for a closer look.

STL Repair

CAD designs often contain small errors that show up in the final print. STL repair tools fix issues like holes, gaps, and duplicate shells before you waste time and material. Two strong options:

• Meshmixer: user-friendly and versatile, with analysis, shading, and x-ray inspection.
• MeshLab: similar to Meshmixer but specialized in mesh operations for scan data.

For fixing broken files specifically, our STL repair guide walks through the process.

Hosting and Management Software

If you print often, printer hosting and print management software give you more control. Hosting tools like Printrun, ideaMaker, and OctoPrint speed up communication between printer and computer and can control multiple machines. Management platforms like 3DPrinterOS, AstroPrint, Polar Cloud, BuildBee, and MakerFleet help you delegate jobs and monitor productivity. Casual users can happily skip these.

Putting It All Together

The world of 3D printing software can feel overwhelming at first, but the pieces work together smoothly once you find your groove. If you are just starting out, begin with free open-source tools, which offer plenty of advanced features without costing a penny. For more guides and recommendations, explore the resources at 3DGearZone.