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  • Which 3D printer software is suitable for Mac?

Which 3D printer software is suitable for Mac?

3D Printing Help Centre

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

Which 3D printer software is suitable for Mac?

As you may know, you need 3D printer software to print a 3D object. This software converts the 3D design into the correct file type, so that it can be read by your 3D printer. You then also use this so-called slicer software to enter the printer settings.

The slicer software is supplied (free) with your 3D printer or can be downloaded from the website of the relevant manufacturer. Paid versions are also available for download. You install this program on your computer or laptop. Therefore, it is important to verify that the software works on your device's operating system. Are you using a Mac? Check out the most popular slicer software among Mac users below. Are you working with a Windows device? Then read the top 6 slicer software for Windows.

Top 10 slicer software for Mac

The slicer software below is suitable for your Mac or can be opened from your browser:
  1. 3DPrinterOS
  2. AstroPrint
  3. Craftware
  4. Cura
  5. KISSlicer
  6. MatterControl
  7. OctoPrint
  8. Repetier
  9. Simplify3D
  10. Slic3r    

1. 3DPrinterOS

This cloud solution contains all components of 3D, including slicing. In addition, 3DPrinterOS allows you to repair prints and download them directly from Sketchfab. Note that not all features are free, however slicing seems to remain free at all times. The software can be set at three different levels: Simple, Advanced or Expert. The tool is therefore also very suitable for beginners. As soon as the G code has been generated, it can be viewed from the so-called Toolpath viewer.

2. AstroPrint

AstroPrint is also a cloud-based solution that allows you to operate the printer. The nice thing about this tool is that a number of web services are integrated, including Thingiverse, CGTrader and Yeggi. This means that you can directly download the 3D designs in the same environment. In addition, AstroPrint is suitable for designing your own 3D prints. You use the integrated software 3DSlash and Leopoly for this. The software can be operated on two levels: simple or advanced and the slicer software can be found under the File Manager.

3. Craftware

This software was developed by a printer manufacturer and is originally intended for the CraftBot 3D printer. However, Craftware works just as well on other 3D printers. The application can be operated from 'easy' or 'expert' mode and is suitable for both beginners and professionals. With this software, the G code is visualized, which means that each feature gets a different colour. The program works very fast and looks good visually. However, you may have to deal with minor bugs, because only the beta version is available for the time being.

4. Cura

Printer manufacturer Ultimaker has developed slicer software Cura. Originally it is an open-source platform that is freely accessible. This program can handle different file types, such as STL, 3MF and OBJ. Cura also provides insight into the toolpath, the remaining printing time and the required materials. This software is very popular among beginners and experts alike. The possibilities are endless and the beautifully designed interface is user-friendly and lightning-fast.

5. KISSlicer

Did you know that this slicer software is called 'Keep it Simple Slicer' in full? This is the ideal software for beginners who print with one print head. The G code can be generated with minimal settings. Please note, if your printer is not compatible with the G code in question, you will have to add it manually. Another disadvantage of KISSlicer: if you are working with a dual extruder printer, you will have to use the paid version.

6. MatterControl

This slicer software is a 3D printer host, which means that your computer must always be connected to your 3D printer during printing. The alternative is to save the G code on an SD card and put it in the printer. MatterControl supports no fewer than three different engines: MatterSlice, CuraEngine and Slic3r. Successful settings can be easily saved, so you don't have to set everything up again.

7. OctoPrint

With OctoPrint, you host your own 3D printer from the web browser. This open-source tool can be expanded with a webcam and various plugins, making an SD card superfluous, for example. Another advantage of OctoPrint is: you can upload the STL files directly and the printer will do the rest! The 'slicing' is therefore no longer necessary. This software is suitable for both intermediate and experienced users.

8. Repetier

This is the most popular slicer software within the RepRap community. It is a very complete all-in-one solution that can be operated from any device. Repetier has an open-source framework that still needs a lot of 'tinkering'. That makes this slicer software less suitable for beginners. Nevertheless, this is a widely used program.

9. Simplify3D

A well-known and paid slicer software is Simplify3D. This program is suitable for professionals and is supported by almost all 3D printers. With this software you can import, scale, rotate and even repair 3D objects. Various file types such as STL, OBJ or 3MF are supported and work very fast. The functionalities and options are very extensive, as you would expect with a paid version. You can even edit and script G code, the printer settings are infinite and you can save certain preferences. The downside is: it's quite an expensive tool.

10. Slic3r

This open-source slicer software has a number of features that cannot be found anywhere else. In the current version of Slic3r, for example, a reliable preview can be shown and an exceptional honeycomb filling is possible, which improves the sturdiness and quality of the print. Furthermore, the 'usual' options such as: multiple extruders, brim, micro layering, command line slicing, variable layer heights, sequential printing and bridge detection are standard. Finally, real-time 'slicing' takes place, so that this software works well even on relatively slow computers. Being a very comprehensive tool, it is often considered "overwhelming" by beginners.

Top 5 Free Modelling Software for Mac

If you want to design 3D objects yourself, you can get started with modelling software. Take user-friendliness and level into account. Some programs are ideal for beginners, while other tools require the necessary experience. Below are the top 5 free modelling software for Mac:
  1. 3D Slash
  2. Blender
  3. Wings
  4. 3D Meshmixer
  5. FreeCAD

1. 3D Slash

This program works in the same way as the popular game Minecraft: with blocks. It's an excellent tool for beginners, but somewhat limited in features and 'tools'. The design software works with tools, such as a hammer or drill, so that the different blocks can be processed.

2. Blender

This open-source software is considered one of the best modelling software for the Mac. Blender is free, accessible to everyone and contains many features. You can animate, simulate, render, compose, make video edits and even design games. Then you might think, but isn't that mainly for movies? Certainly not, it also helps you with cool visual effects in 3D prints.

3. Wings 3D

This is a basic tool that is very user-friendly. Wings 3D is free, open-source software and has some powerful features. You can customize the interface to your liking and the program includes an integrated Auto UV mapping option, which allows you to add texture to your object. This modelling software has all the essential tools and it provides a user-friendly experience for the user.

4. Meshmixer

This free program was developed by Autodesk and is specifically designed for creating 3D prints. Meshmixer is full of cool functionalities. For example, you can design a support structure, which benefits the sturdiness of the print, and analyse the thickness of the material. This way you can be sure that your print does not break during printing.

5. FreeCAD

This program can be used for various purposes. FreeCAD is very diverse and is suitable for both product design and engineering. Because it can work with various file types, it is very easy to integrate different workflows.
Are you curious which 3D modelling software is still available? Through this page you will gain insight into what the best modelling software is for you.

Do you have another question?

Have you not been able to find the answer to your question in the overview above? At 123-3D.ie we are busy with 3D printing every day and we like to follow every development. We are happy to share the knowledge and experience that we have built up over the years with you in our 3D printing help centre!

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