Reviews
15 Best Raspberry pi 3d Printer Software
Since the 1980s, progress in 3D printing has made significant strides. Nevertheless, the revolution taking place on the software side of 3D printing is the one that has received less attention during the last several years. The modelling software, slicing software, mesh editing software, and 3D printer control software have all seen some very significant improvement in recent years.
These applications serve as the foundation for any effective process involving 3D printing. The output of your 3D printing may be significantly improved by using a combination of several, high-quality applications. But since there are so many different choices to make and so many different possibilities to consider, it is even more important to pick the one that is the best fit for your requirements.
In this piece, we will provide you with a list that we have gathered of some of the top 3D printing software available in a variety of areas. There are a few that cost money, but the most majority are available at no cost. In light of this, we have ensured that we have only included software that is freely accessible to everyone. There is no monopolistic software on this list.
Let’s get started with the 3D printing software, shall we?
Slicers
1. PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer is one of the few slicers that has earned a reputation for consistently producing high-quality results despite its low cost. It is a modification that was derived from the Slic3r Prusa Edition, which itself was derived from the original Slic3r. The PrusaSlicer is distinct from the Slic3r PE in a number of important respects, the most notable of which being the software’s capacity to generate custom profiles that are optimised for use with Prusa 3D printers.
All Prusa 3D printers, including Prusa SLA 3D printers, are supported by the profiles included in the PrusaSlicer software. The fact that the PrusaSlicer is entirely open-source and compatible with all different kinds of 3D printers is one of its many attractive features. The most recent modifications to the PrusaSlicer have made it such that it now includes built-in profiles for more than fifty different 3D printers made by eight different companies.
You are able to take use of PrusaSlicer’s one-of-a-kind capabilities in your workflow thanks to its ability to be integrated with other 3D printers. You may utilise the mesh modifier to make unique supports, employ different layer heights in your model to strike a balance between speed and quality, and set up multi-color 3D printers directly inside of PrusaSlicer.
All of the functionality described above can only be found on FDM 3D printers. PrusaSlicer offers some of the most advanced capabilities for SLA 3D printers as well, in case you happen to own one. In addition to this, you will get excellent community assistance on the official forums, as well as a business that pays close attention to the feedback provided by its customers. Because of this, the PrusaSlicer is now one of the best options for 3D slicers that can be purchased.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Beginners and advanced users
- What makes it stand out: Both FDM and SLA 3D printer support
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux and Chromebook
2. Cura
Ultimaker Cura is now one of the most widely used 3D printing slicers all over the globe. It is also one of the most popular. David Brahm was the one who first invented Cura, but Ultimaker ended up purchasing the company. Since then, there have been a number of significant upgrades made to the feature set that Cura offers.
Cura’s open-source nature and comprehensive integration of 3D printer profiles are two of its most distinguishing characteristics, and they are largely responsible for the software’s widespread adoption. Because Cura is an open-source project, developers from all over the world have been able to contribute to the development of a fantastic feature set that considerably improves the program’s usability.
The tree support, intent profiles, Cura connect, Cura cloud, and plugin integration offered by Cura are among the platform’s most significant capabilities. You can connect to Octoprint, auto-orient the component for best printing, and construct custom supports with the help of these plugins. There are also a lot of other useful features.
In addition, the plugins make it possible for you to import CAD models created using programmes like Solidworks, Inventor, or SIEMENS NX directly into the environment used for slicing. This makes it possible to have a workflow that is closely connected, giving you the ability to manage the whole process from inside a single programme. And if you ever do run into troubles, there is a wonderful user community that can help you easily resolve any and all of your problems.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Beginners, advanced and professional users.
- What makes it stand out: Plugin support and CAD integration.
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
3. Simplify3D
Within the 3D printing world, Simplify3D is regarded as one of the most prominent 3D slicers. It is without a doubt the best slicer on the market since it offers dependable, cutting-edge features that are simple to use. For instance, the support structures offered by Simplify3D are among the very finest offered by any 3D slicer now on the market.
Simplify3D also gives you the ability to easily change each individual option on a variety of various elements. You are able to connect and operate your 3D printer, repair and correct any faulty meshes, and even alter the flow of the filament dynamically for particularly thin areas of the creation. These are just some of the standout features, but there are many more areas in which Simplify 3D excels above its competitors.
You may even take use of the wonderful support community and the many tutorials that are available to help you fine-tune your Simplify3D settings. Nevertheless, there is a cost associated with all of this. Simplify 3D is a paid slicer, but it is an excellent option for those that seek an easy-to-use, plug-and-play kind of 3D printing experience.
4. Ideamaker
Raise 3D has created a 3D slicer called Ideamaker, particularly for use with the company’s own products in the field of 3D printing. The Ideamaker library and the Raise cloud are both components of the software package that this product is a part of for the firm. All three pieces of software come together to establish a seamless relationship that ensures the 3D printing process is carried out perfectly.
Ideamaker might be considered rather exceptional on its own merits. While maintaining a simple and intuitive interface, it provides a stunning and distinctive collection of functions. It is one of the very few slicers that comes with built-in Boolean operations, making it one of the most unique features. Additionally, the function that generates supports is simple to use, and you may preview the supports before actually slicing the model.
You may get your model looking absolutely flawless by taking use of the plethora of other tools, such as mesh modifiers, free cut, and textures, among many others. This precision is also reflected in the many slicer profiles that can be downloaded for free from the Ideamaker library.
The Ideamaker is advantageous due to the fact that it is a slicer that is both quick and packed with features, and it also offers support for more than 100 different kinds of 3D printers. If you combine the functions of the library with a remote 3D printing solution that works with the Raise cloud, this slicer has the potential to become the ideal partner for your Raise 3D printer.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Beginners, Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Textures, Boolean operations and easy support functionality
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
5. Craftware
It’s possible that many people who utilise 3D printing haven’t heard of this particular slicer. Craftware is the default slicer software that comes pre-installed on every Craftbot 3D printers. Even while it only supports the Craftbot line of 3D printers and has profiles available for those devices, it is still compatible with a wide variety of other 3D printers.
The Craftware slicer is designed to provide the user an all-encompassing 3D printing experience, and it also includes some fundamental CAD tools as part of its functionality. It also has slicing functions, so you won’t have to worry about that.
It comes with a variety of slicing options, each of which enables you to easily cut through items. The multi-tray capability is one of a kind, as it enables users to concurrently set up different projects on a variety of 3D printers within the same physical location. You are also provided with a wealth of options inside the Gcode view that enable you to scrutinise each component of the sliced item in exquisite detail.
However, becoming familiar with the Craftware user interface and the other aspects of the programme may take some time. It is also important to be aware that the Craftware 3D slicer is available in both a free and a premium edition. The latter provides you with a greater number of features, all of which are geared at boosting the overall efficiency of your workflow.
- Price: Free and Premium version
- Intended for: Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: CAD features, operation of multiple 3D printers at once, and detailed Gcode preview
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS
6. Chitubox
Chitubox is the main slicer that comes packaged with all Elegoo 3D printers. It is compatible with a broad range of resin 3D printers and is available for purchase separately. Chitubox is one of the most well-known and extensively used resin 3D printing slicers due to the combination of its uncluttered user interface and its extensive feature set.
Chitubox provides access to more than seventy and a half different 3D printer profiles that may be used immediately. It is well-known for both its user-friendliness and the support structures it provides. You have the option of using the default supports, which are rather good, or you may adapt them to meet your specific needs. It also enables you to hollow out your whole model, which enables you to conserve part of the valuable resin that your 3D printer uses.
There are two distinct iterations of the Chitubox available: the Basic and the Pro. Chitubox is an excellent choice for a 3D slicer to go along with a resin 3D printer for anybody who is thinking about making that purchase.
- Price: Free for Chitubox Basic and $169 for Chitubox Pro
- Intended for: Basic, Advanced and Professional users.
- What makes it stand out: Ease of use, fast slicing, quality and customization of support structures.
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux.
7. Lychee Slicer
Another formidable player in the competitive world of resin 3D slicers is the Lychee Slicer. It is a strong alternative to the Chitubox slicer, and Mango 3D is the company that created it. Both slicers have a number of useful features in common that are shared across them.
The Lychee slicer provides you with a function known as the magic menu, which enables you to swiftly create a model with only one click. You may also choose from a variety of available customization and fine-tuning options for your support structures to achieve the best possible balance between the quality of your print and the cost of your 3D printing. When contrasted with the Chitubox slicer, the customization level of supports is far less robust.
The Lychee slicer is a lot of fun to use since it has a lot of additional capabilities, such as a print simulator, the ability to examine items at scale, and the ability to add some basic parametric forms. These features make the Lychee slicer quite versatile. Although the free version is more than enough for 3D printing done by hobbyists, the Lychee slicer really shows its potential in the premium version, which is designed specifically for usage in a professional setting.
- Price: Free and Paid plans for the Pro version ranging from €2.49 to €3.99 per month.
- Intended for: Basic, Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Speed, real-time operations, support management, and one-click slicing
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
8. Kiri:Moto
On this list, the Kiri:Moto programme stands out as one of the most flexible and adaptable pieces of software. It is software that runs in the browser and gives you the ability to slice 3D models in preparation for FDM and SLA 3D printing. In addition, if you’re interested in CNC or laser engraving, you may use Kiri:Moto to produce files for those kind of projects as well.
Because it is browser-based, you are not restricted to using a particular computer system and may instead access it from nearly any location. Additionally, the user interface is streamlined and intuitive, making it easy to pick up and use right away. Kiri: The amount of capabilities that Moto provides is extensive, and it also includes a sufficient number of options to enable you to precisely and easily alter and slice your 3D models.
Kiri:Moto is pre-loaded with profiles for use with a selection of today’s most popular 3D printers and CNC machines. However, advanced users may find that there are not enough choices to fine-tune their projects to their liking. Nevertheless, it is remarkable when you take into account the fact that it operates in the cloud rather than on your local PC.
If you are someone who is just beginning started with maker machines and isn’t afraid to test out brand new software, then using Kiri:Moto as the platform for your subsequent undertaking may show to be a wise decision.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Basic, Advanced and Professional users.
- What makes it stand out: Browser-based operation, 4 in 1 functionality, easy to use UI.
- Platform: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari.
Host / Control software
9. Octoprint
The strength of the open-source community is shown by the success of Octoprint as software in and of itself. It is software that was created by Gina Haußge to manage and operate 3D printers with the assistance of tiny single-board computers such as Raspberry Pis.
Using your mobile device, it is simple to exercise remote control over 3D printers, as well as monitor and manage their operations from the comfort of your own sofa, workplace, or other location. Octoprint gives you the ability to slice your STL files, view your bed level, get push alerts about the progress of your current 3D print, and a great deal more. Octoprint’s robust plugin system is responsible for making all of this functionality feasible.
Its most distinctive characteristic is called Octolapse, and it enables users to produce breathtaking time-lapse videos of their 3D printing. Octoprint can even be scaled up, and Octofarm may be used to manage numerous 3D printers at the same time.
The fact that it is open-source has resulted in the development of a sizable support group that is always willing to provide assistance with any problems you may be having. A great number of slicers have even included Octoprint into their software to provide users with the ability to customise their experiences. If you don’t want to be chained down next to your 3D printer, Octoprint could be a good partner for your requirements regarding remote 3D printing.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: basic, advanced and professional users
- What makes it stand out: Wireless 3D printing, huge plugin repository, and Octolapse functionality
- Platform: Raspberry Pi computers
10. Mattercontrol 2.0
The latest version of MatterControl is a comprehensive suite that includes CAD software, a 3D slicer, and a 3D printer controller. This piece of software, which was developed by Matterhackers, is an excellent choice for those of you who would want to have total control over the process of 3D printing.
The user interface of MatterControl is straightforward, and its functionalities are simple to grasp. MatterControl provides you with a sufficient number of manual control choices so that you may operate your 3D printer according to your preferences. You may develop and modify your own macros, for instance, so that they can carry out certain instructions at any time that you specify. Prior to beginning your 3D print, you have the ability to calibrate the bed levelling thanks to the printer calibration option. In order to accomplish this goal with your 3D printer, you will need to add a probe of some kind, such as the BLTouch.
In addition to this, the MatterControl library gives you the ability to generate designs for your next 3D printing project, save those designs, and search for them. In MatterControl, the term “primitive” refers to a collection of fundamental forms that may be simply dragged onto your build plate to construct models or even individualised supports.
The ability of MatterControl to integrate several facets of 3D printing into a single piece of software is one of the program’s most notable strengths. Someone who is seeking for a single piece of software to meet their fundamental requirements for 3D printing may find that this option is a good one to consider.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Basic, Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Well laid UI, CAD features, easy to set up manual controls and live tuning adjustment
- Platform: Windows, macOS and Linux (beta)
11. Astroprint
In its most fundamental form, AstroPrint is analogous to Octoprint. However, it is a more simplified version of several of Octoprint’s key features than its predecessor was. AstroPrint is a host software solution for 3D printers that is more intuitive to use and supports plug-and-play functionality.
Beginners in 3D printing will find the user interface of Astroprint to be more welcoming and straightforward to comprehend. The features that are included in Astroprint are developed to be easily used on a wide variety of mobile devices. Astrobox is one of the services that Astroprint provides. It is a kit that comes pre-configured and gives you the ability to connect any 3D printer to the cloud and make it wireless.
It has native support for a multitude of 3D printers, cloud slicing, remote 3D printing monitoring, and a great deal of additional functionality. When utilising Astrobox, you even have the ability to print designs straight from Thingiverse and MyMiniFactory. In addition to this, you will get comprehensive statistics on your 3D printing as well as a cloud storage system for all of your models.
The size of an AstroPrint job may be readily increased. Its premium plans enable you to add numerous 3D printers at once and even include some wonderful capabilities that would be useful for 3D printer farms. Because of its scalability and user-friendliness, AstroPrint is appropriate for users of all experience levels, from those just starting out to those with years of industry experience.
- Price: Free and paid premium plans
- Intended for: Basic, Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Easy to set up and use, user-friendly mobile UI, Astrobox kits
- Platform: Raspberry Pi computers
12. Repetier
Repetier is a piece of software that combines the functions of a 3D slicer and a 3D printer control programme into one convenient package. In the beginning, it was created concurrently with the firmware for the first versions of the RepRap 3D printer. Now, it has developed into a suite of software that provides the 3D printing process with a number of characteristics that are entirely unique.
Repetier is a 3D slicer that can control your 3D printer using a USB cable, an ethernet connection, or even wirelessly over your local network. You may control your 3D printer through any of these connections. It is possible to utilise it in conjunction with Repetier server to get an even higher level of functionality from your current configuration.
Repetier’s degree of manual control stands out as an industry standard for good reason. You are able to transmit Gcode on the fly, run custom scripts by pressing buttons, easily monitor and manage various aspects of your 3D printer, and so on.
When you utilise each component of the Repetier software suite together, you are able to access the full potential of the Repetier programme. Create a one-of-a-kind and comprehensive ecosystem for your 3D printer by combining the Repetier firmware, Host, and Server software, as well as the Informer app. When you use all of them together, you are able to take advantage of the advantages of genuine wireless 3D printing.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Multiple 3D slicing engines, Informer app for push notifications, and complete 3D software solution from firmware to wireless control
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
STL Modification
13. Meshmixer
Meshmixer is a piece of software that Autodesk created for modifying 3D meshes. It is one of the company’s main pieces of software and can be used to modify a variety of different 3D models. On the website for Meshmixer, it is described as the “Swiss Army Knife” of 3D mesh editing software.
Meshmixer works with triangular meshes, which are the fundamental building blocks of the majority of 3D models used today. You can fix damaged 3D scans, do analysis on them, and even alter them for use in 3D printing using Meshmixer. In addition to providing you with tools for working with meshes, it also makes it easy for you to sculpt your own 3D models.
The user interface of the Meshmixer is nicely organised and has functions that are simple to comprehend and use. Even if you get stuck somewhere, there is a lot of community assistance for the programme due to the fact that it is free and has a tonne of useful features.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Powerful 3D mesh editing tools, large support community, free to use
- Platform: Windows, macOS
14. Netfabb
Autodesk’s offering of Netfabb is a polished and professional solution that will help you make the most of your additive manufacturing capabilities. You may prepare your components for 3D printing in the most efficient manner possible with the help of the tools offered by Netfabb. Even models created in other popular 3D modelling programmes, like as Solidworks, SIEMENS NX, or Autodesk Inventor, may be imported straight into Netfabb and used there.
Because both products were created by Autodesk, Netfabb is able to integrate with Fusion 360 in an easy manner. Using Netfabb, you can fix any flaws in your 3D models, precisely pack your components on the build platform, and achieve the highest possible level of productivity all while optimising your 3D models for 3D printing. In addition, Netfabb provides model simulation to assist you in the production of your 3D printed components in the most effective manner possible.
For professional 3D printing, Netfabb is a fantastic option due to the fact that it offers features such as customizable support generation and tools for the development of lattices that are simple to use. Standard, Premium, and Ultimate are the three distinct licence choices available for it, and each of these options comes with its own unique collection of features.
- Price: Paid options of various tiers
- Intended for: Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Easy file sharing, model optimization tools, ability to create custom supports, simulation of 3D printed parts
- Platform: Windows
15. Meshlab
Meshlab is an excellent application that is both open-source and free, and it is mostly used for the editing and fixing of 3D scans. It supports key formats of 3D printing such as STL, OBJ, and X3D; however, its primary power is in the ability to edit and fix point cloud data that is generated from 3D scans.
It provides access to a large number of technical capabilities that are necessary for an efficient 3D scanning process, while at the same time being designed to be easy to use even for experts. You are able to repair damaged 3D meshes, clean up models, recreate broken triangles, and even colour map your 3D models with the help of Meshlab.
Meshlab has a plethora of tools and capabilities, and it will take some time to get acquainted with all of them.
Meshmixer is designed for 3D printing, but Meshlab, the programme, is not tailored for 3D printing or any other particular use case situations. This is one of the key differences between Meshlab and Meshmixer.
Although there is some assistance available for Meshlab, it is not nearly as comprehensive as the help offered for Meshmixer. Having said that, Meshlab is still a great option for you to consider if you are searching for a tool that can clean and restore your 3D scans.
- Price: Free
- Intended for: Advanced and Professional users
- What makes it stand out: Color mapping, texturing, aligning 3D scanned data, color processing, analysis features
- Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
FAQ’s
Is Raspberry Pi Good for 3D printing?
A USB phone charger may be used to charge a Raspberry Pi, and the device itself can operate off of an SD card, similar to what is used in cameras. The maker community has developed a number of cutting-edge projects that you can test out in your own house by combining the simplicity and flexibility of 3D printing and Raspberry Pi programming with the accessibility and freedom that comes with manufacturing.
Is OctoPrint a slicer?
You have the choice of slicing your models using the Cura or Slic3r engines when you use the slicer that is along with OctoPrint. Models may now be sliced from any location and on any device thanks to a technology known as cloud slicing, which eliminates the need to utilise your own computer for the operation.
Can OctoPrint print STL files?
OctoPrint can be configured to slice STL model files; however, it can only handle a single material type at a time. It could take a few minutes to process large code files. Click on the printer icon located in the file list when you want to print the code file. Utilize the print button located in the state window in order to reprint anything.
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