Slic3r
Slic3r is an open source 3D printing tool used to slice 3D models into printable gcode instructions for FDM 3D printers. It allows you to customize print settings like temperature, speed, supports, and more.
open-source
gcode
slicing
3d-printing
fdm
Slic3r: Open Source 3D Printing Slicing Tool
Slic3r is an open source 3D printing tool used to slice 3D models into printable gcode instructions for FDM 3D printers. It allows you to customize print settings like temperature, speed, supports, and more.
What is Slic3r?
Slic3r is a free, open source 3D printing tool focused on converting 3D models into instructions for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers. It serves as a slicer, taking 3D models generated in CAD programs or modeling software and slicing them into layers to create gcode that can be understood by 3D printers.
Some key features of Slic3r include:
- Conversion of STL, OBJ, and AMF file formats into gcode
- Ability to add printer settings profiles for different printers
- Customization of print settings like layer height, infill, speed, temperature, supports, cooling, and more
- Estimates of print time and filament usage
- Print bed visualization to arrange models efficiently
- Adding skirts, brims, rafts to improve bed adhesion
- Spiral vase mode to print single-walled vase-like models
Slic3r excels at giving users control over many aspects of the slicing process. It has an active community behind its development and it integrates with 3D printer control software like OctoPrint. While it has a steep learning curve, Slic3r capabilities make it popular in the open source 3D printing community.
Slic3r Features
Features
- Slicing models into gcode
- Customizable print settings
- Multiple extruder support
- Print bed visualization
- Command line interface
- Gcode editing and preview
- Supports common 3D file formats
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Free and open source
Highly customizable
Good community support
Works with many printers
Lightweight and fast
Cons
Steep learning curve
Limited automatic supports
Few high-level printing features
Can be buggy at times
Official Links
The Best Slic3r Alternatives
Top 3D Printing and Slicing Software and other similar apps like Slic3r
Here are some alternatives to Slic3r:
Suggest an alternative ❐
Cura
Cura is a free, open source software for 3D printing preparation and slicing. Developed by Ultimaker, Cura has become one of the most popular options for converting 3D models into printer-readable gcode instructions.With an intuitive user interface, Cura allows you to import 3D model files in STL, OBJ, and several...
Microsoft 3D Builder
Microsoft 3D Builder is a free 3D modeling and printing application developed by Microsoft for Windows. It provides an intuitive and easy-to-use interface for creating and customizing 3D objects without needing prior modeling experience or advanced design skills.With 3D Builder, users can start modeling from scratch or import existing 3D...
Orca Slicer
Orca Slicer is an emerging open source alternative to proprietary slicing software like Cura and Simplify3D. Developed by AOTools, Orca Slicer is completely free to download and use with no restrictions or paywalls. It has an intuitive user interface and simplified workflow to make the slicing process easy for beginner...
Simplify3D
Simplify3D is a popular slicing software developed by Simplify3D LLC specifically for 3D printing. It allows users a high degree of control over print settings to optimize the printing process for superior part quality, strength and precision.Some key features of Simplify3D include:Supports most desktop 3D printers, including models from MakerBot,...
Netfabb
Netfabb is a dedicated software for preparing and repairing STL and other common 3D printing file formats. It has an extensive set of tools for analyzing STL files and fixing common issues:Automatically detects and repairs holes, self intersections, and other mesh errorsHas advanced algorithms for closing gaps and patching non-manifold...
SmoothieControl
SmoothieControl is an open-source, modular CNC control program for running 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and other fabrication tools. It is designed to be highly customizable and adaptable for different use cases.Some key features of SmoothieControl include:Intuitive web-based interface for job control, visualization, and configurationSupport for GCode and other...
IceSL
IceSL (Interactive Story Language) is an open-source desktop application for creating interactive stories, text adventures, and visual novels. It features a visual editor that allows designers to create branching story flows, write character dialogues, set up inventory/item systems, implement stats tracking and achievements, and script complex gameplay logic without coding.Some...
Repetier
Repetier is an open source 3D printing host software application for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Developed by German creator Repetier, it allows users to slice 3D models into gcode instruction sets that can be sent to a variety of desktop 3D printers.Some key features of Repetier include:Multiple interface...
PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer is a free, open-source slicing application for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers. It is based on the older Slic3r project but has been enhanced and optimized specifically for Prusa's own 3D printer models. However, PrusaSlicer works well with most common desktop FDM 3D printers.Some key features of PrusaSlicer...
ReplicatorG
ReplicatorG is a free, open-source 3D printing program developed by MakerBot for use with desktop 3D printers. It provides an intuitive interface for converting 3D models from CAD programs or model repositories like Thingiverse into machine-readable G-code that can be sent to a printer.Key features of ReplicatorG include:Importing and repairing...
MatterControl
MatterControl is an open-source, cross-platform software application created specifically for 3D printing. It provides users with a streamlined workflow for managing and preparing 3D models for printing. Some key features of MatterControl include:Slicing engine integration, allowing automated conversion of 3D models into printable gcode filesIntuitive interface for manipulating and orienting...
IdeaMaker
ideaMaker is a free, open-source 3D printing slicer software developed by Raise3D. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.ideaMaker allows you to import 3D models in STL, OBJ, and other common 3D modeling file formats. It slices the models into layers and generates g-code which can be...
Voxelizer
Voxelizer is a free and open source 3D modeling and sculpting application specialized in creating voxel art. Voxels are basically 3D pixels, and voxel art has a distinct blocky aesthetic inspired by old video games and Lego.Some key features of Voxelizer include:Intuitive interface for drawing, sculpting, and editing voxelsSupport for...
BuildBee
BuildBee is a continuous integration and delivery platform designed to maximize developer productivity. It incorporates an intuitive user interface that allows developers to set up reusable workflows with minimal effort. These workflows automate key processes like building code, running tests, reviewing quality, and deploying applications.Some key features of BuildBee include:Tight...
CraftWare
CraftWare is a versatile open-source slicing software developed by CraftUnique. As a slicer, CraftWare processes digital 3D models and prepares them for fabrication on FDM 3D printers by converting them into G-code instruction files. It provides an intuitive interface for advanced configuration and optimization of print jobs.Key features of CraftWare...
SuperSlicer
SuperSlicer is an open-source, cross-platform slicer application based on the PrusaSlicer codebase. It is designed specifically for FDM (fused deposition modeling) style 3D printers using filament materials such as ABS and PLA plastic.As a slicer, SuperSlicer takes 3D models (typically STL, OBJ, or AMF files) as input and converts them...
CUR3D
CUR3D is a free and open source 3D modeling and animation software aimed at beginners. It has an intuitive interface that allows easy creation of 3D models and animations without needing prior experience.Some key features of CUR3D include:Simple tools for creating basic 3D shapes like cubes, spheres, cylinders etc.Extensive library...
KISSlicer
KISSlicer is a free, open source slicer application designed specifically for preparing 3D print files for fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers. As a slicer, KISSlicer takes 3D models and converts them into G-code instructions that can be sent to and printed on FDM 3D printers.Some key features of KISSlicer...
SuperSkein
SuperSkein is an easy-to-use digital audio workstation (DAW) designed for music recording, editing, mixing and mastering. With an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, SuperSkein makes it simple to capture audio from microphones, USB interfaces, or instruments connected directly to your computer.Key features of SuperSkein include:Multi-track recording - Simultaneously record on up to...
