In general, the easiest to use options are near the top and the most powerful options tend to be near the bottom, though there are some outliers found throughout.
All the software in this list can create 3D printable models, but every model that comes out of solid modeling software is 3D printable.Īdditionally, we’ve noted what skill-level of user each software is designed for: beginners, amateurs, advanced users, and professionals. Manifold models can be created with polygon modeling software, it just takes more steps and experience. By contrast, software that uses polygon modeling can generate walls that have zero thickness that’s fine for creating computer graphics for games and movies but not useful when 3D printing the models. The list also indicates whether the software uses solid modeling, a type of 3D modeling that always generates models that are “manifold” or “water tight.” A manifold model is one in which all walls of the model have some thickness, which is necessary for 3D printing. This list includes some of the best options and is sorted by price, with the free ones sorted alphabetically. Now, there are many easy-to-use modeling software options available, many of which are free. Years ago, we had to spend lots of money and time to acquire and learn modeling software. The company no longer develops Sketchup Make, its free desktop software, but you can download it from Trimble's archives.An Overview Of The Best 3D Printing Software ToolsĮvery 3D print begins as a 3D model generated in a modeling program. The SketchUp website offers a really impressive array of video and self-paced training options to help you along the way. Of course, if you're looking to put out detailed designs with accurate sizing and tolerances, you'll need to spend some time learning the ins and outs of the program. Even if you've never done any CAD work or 3D modeling before, you can pull together some really nice presentations in minutes. The interface makes it easy to get up to speed on the basics. SketchUp's free web-based version has plenty of power, but if you need additional functionality, you have to buy SketchUp Pro-and pay a hefty price tag. Trimble has enhanced it and developed it further and now offers a slew of related products. In 2012, Google sold the product to Trimble. SketchUp was originally developed by Google and was one of the greatest free CAD packages ever put on the market. Free feature is web-only with many important features hobbled.
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