14 Best 3D Printing Software For Beginners and Pros in 2023

3D printing software can be a combination of software types and tools. It allows you to import existing three-dimensional models you’ve found on the net and manipulate them. 

It also involves 3D scanning of simple objects you’d like to replicate, aspects of CAD design and associated tools like slicing, in order to make your model printer-ready, and save it as an appropriate file, i.e. STL 3D models for printing. 

Many models come with a 3D printer program that does the basics like slicing your 3D models into instructions called G-Code for the printer to know what to print. You might need to look elsewhere for more advanced tasks surrounding the 3D modeling itself.

Software may be slightly different depending on your 3D printer’s method. Most people use stereolithography or fused filament fabrication, which involves layering of heated plastic filament.  Others use a hardening of liquid resin method, such as continuous liquid interface production or solid ground curing. To get text on to your objects this is often done using robocasting, which isn’t much different from the initial printing method. 

3D printing technologies have come a long way since laminated object manufacturing. There is software for all printing methods; and for beginners right the way up to mass industry.

How to Choose the Best 3D Printing Software

Choosing the best 3D modeling software for 3D printing will depend on your own needs. There are extremely advanced modeling programs that have 3D printing functionality as a side feature and cost a lot of money. Dedicated 3D printing software definitely does the job but can be limited in terms of creating models themselves. Things to consider include:

Price

If you cannot drop a few hundred to a few thousand dollars on the best 3D design software, then you may want to stick with your 3D printer’s native software. A free 3D software like VECTARY or some of the cheaper options dedicated solely to 3D printing will also do.

If, however, you can afford it, spending thousands on the best 3D modeling software will let you create high-quality 3D-printable models with many features simply not available elsewhere.

Functionality

It goes without saying, but any 3D modeling programs you choose must be compatible with 3D printing. Whether that means they export in a file type your 3D printer accepts or, more preferably, they let you import 3D printer files to manipulate as well. They will also tell you if the model you’ve created will actually print accurately.

This also means you need software that supports your operating system. While most 3D printer software are Mac and Windows friendly, even excellent programs like 3DS Max require a Windows OS to work.

Printing or Modeling?

If all you require is software to print and make minor tweaks to models you’ve downloaded from the web, your printer’s native software or a basic third party is enough. If you want to fully manipulate a model, create one yourself, or even draw/scan and digitize your own raw creation you’ll need the best 3D modeling software. And, if you’re a beginner you’re going to want one that will guide you on how to make 3D models. 

Which Industry?

Traditional CAD software is aimed at technical industries that need to design parts that work functionally, such as the aerospace industry. Regular 3D printing is not that advanced, but even professionals in various fields will not need the most advanced CAD software. Whether you’re printing jewelry, orthodontic models, fun figurines, etc, check our reviews to see which 3D design software is better suited to you. Autodesk Fusion 360 for example is used regularly by mechanical engineers, designers, and machinists.

Experience level

Some 3D printing design software has a steeper learning curve than others. But the easier the software the less advanced features it supports. So, decide what your experience level is and act accordingly when choosing your 3D design programs for 3D printing.  

Support and Community

If even the best 3D printing software doesn’t have a support team to contact if something goes wrong or an online community, it’s not worth the price. Check that if you have paid for a program that claims to be the best 3D modeling software for 3D printing that they actually have customer support.

You’ll also want to check Google and YouTube to see if there are tutorials for the software.

Printer Type

The type of 3D printer you have will also have an impact on the software you can use effectively. Something like SketchUp for architects is only going to be feasible for small separate models for example.