If you want to create a three-dimensional model, take a closer look at the best 3D slicing software that allows you to convert a model saved in STL format into thin, printable layers. Such programs enable you to get a G-code file with detailed instructions for various types of printers.
Slicing software can divide any 3D model into many flat layers that can be printed with the help of a dedicated device.
The best 3D slicing software should fully prepare a model for printing. Every decent 3D slicer has great speed, an easy-to-navigate user interface and helpful customer support.
While many 3D slicers are free of charge, you can find some paid options as well. In this case, make sure to check if a program comes with extra features that make it worth buying.
Verdict: Cura 3D slicing software is a great way to make the big print in your design, and it's also good for printing prototypes. The Cura 3D slicer is designed to print out G-Code, which can be used with Cura Pro or other Cura based programs. It has a simple and intuitive user interface, supports a wide variety of printers Ultimaker, Printrbot, Lulzbot, RepRap and many others.
Verdict: This slicer was developed for the Ditto and Litto series 3D printers and is positioned as the "friendliest user interface" software: it is designed in a concise style, so printer settings are set quickly. The utility can perform basic editing of 3D models. There are functions for calculating the printing time.
Verdict: Simplify3D is a 3D slicing software that simplify the whole process of designing and rendering objects. It offers the user high quality visualization tools and features that would enable him or her to create excellent digital art and animations.
This 3D modeling software runs on Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. Simplify3D comes with many features and pre-installed tools that you can use right away without any technical experience.
Verdict: PrusaSlicer is a slicer, that is, a program that takes a 3D model in the form of a grid of ordinary triangles and converts it into a special 3D printer control program. For example, in the form of a G-code for FFF printers, which contains detailed instructions on how to move the print head (extruder) in space and how much hot plastic to squeeze through it at a particular time.
In addition to the G-code, this version also added the generation of raster image layers for photopolymer mSLA printers. Initial 3D models can be loaded from STL, OBJ or AMF files.
Verdict: SelfCAD is a browser-based 3D CAD / CAM software designed from the ground up for the 3D printing community. This AutoCAD alternative includes a CURA based slicer with presets for the most commonly used 3D printers and materials.
It includes over 25,000 guaranteed printable object libraries through a partnership with MyMiniFactory. The complete kit includes hard and soft modeling using advanced objects and image generators. SelfCAD's full tutorial videos make it available to everyone, even without prior experience.
Verdict: Slic3r is the leading 3D slicer software on the market, and it does everything you need out of a slicing tool. It can create custom patterns, handle a large number of slices at once, and save you hours on your crafting, as well as letting you know which mistakes are costing you money.
Slic3r is easy to learn, and it works great for beginners as well as professionals, thanks to a number of add-ons that let you adjust and customize its functions.
