SmoothieControl vs Microsoft 3D Builder

Struggling to choose between SmoothieControl and Microsoft 3D Builder? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

SmoothieControl is a Development solution with tags like cnc, 3d-printing, open-source, control-software.

It boasts features such as G-code visualization, Customizable interface, Run from SD card or host computer, Jog controls, Macros, Run-time variables, Toolpath simulation, Support for additional boards and drivers and pros including Intuitive interface, Active development community, Extensive configuration options, Cross-platform, Free and open source.

On the other hand, Microsoft 3D Builder is a 3D Graphics product tagged with 3d, modeling, printing, windows.

Its standout features include Import and edit 3D models from various file formats, Create basic 3D shapes like boxes, spheres, cylinders, etc, Add color and textures to 3D models, Cut, copy, rotate, scale and move models, Generate support structures for 3D printing, Share 3D models online or export to various file formats, and it shines with pros like Free and easy to use, Good for beginners and basic 3D modeling, Integrates well with Windows ecosystem, Supports 3D printing with automatic support generation.

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of these two products, delving into their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more. Get ready to explore the nuances that set them apart and determine which one is the perfect fit for your requirements.

SmoothieControl

SmoothieControl

SmoothieControl is an open-source program for controlling CNC machines and 3D printers. It provides an intuitive interface to set up and run jobs, monitor progress, and manage machine parameters.

Categories:
cnc 3d-printing open-source control-software

SmoothieControl Features

  1. G-code visualization
  2. Customizable interface
  3. Run from SD card or host computer
  4. Jog controls
  5. Macros
  6. Run-time variables
  7. Toolpath simulation
  8. Support for additional boards and drivers

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Intuitive interface

Active development community

Extensive configuration options

Cross-platform

Free and open source

Cons

Steeper learning curve than some alternatives

Requires more tinkering than turnkey solutions

Limited support options


Microsoft 3D Builder

Microsoft 3D Builder

Microsoft 3D Builder is a free 3D modeling software for Windows. It allows users to quickly and easily create, view, customize, and print 3D models. Ideal for basic modeling and 3D printing projects.

Categories:
3d modeling printing windows

Microsoft 3D Builder Features

  1. Import and edit 3D models from various file formats
  2. Create basic 3D shapes like boxes, spheres, cylinders, etc
  3. Add color and textures to 3D models
  4. Cut, copy, rotate, scale and move models
  5. Generate support structures for 3D printing
  6. Share 3D models online or export to various file formats

Pricing

  • Free

Pros

Free and easy to use

Good for beginners and basic 3D modeling

Integrates well with Windows ecosystem

Supports 3D printing with automatic support generation

Cons

Limited advanced modeling and editing capabilities

Few customization options for models

Does not allow animation or rigging of models

Lacks features for professional 3D modeling and design