What 3D Software Do You Use

[luke.m9]

Fusion 360, I also use its CAM side. Huge fan of the what they're offering, and the paid version isn't ludicrously expensive either. Slicer is Simplfy3D, i've never had good luck with Sli3r, so I tend to stay as far away as possible. I know it's me and not the software though, so many people use it successfully. I'll use CURA now and then as well though, I've had decent luck with it.

[robert.k2]

I create precision sundials and use OpenSCAD to design my dials and export *.stl objects. I've tried Cura, and other slicers and prefer the Slic3r PE (Prusa Edition) with layer control. The Prusa Control slicer at the moment is too basic (I need to tweek for multiple objects either in unison or sequential ... I call the difference "layers" and "objects" appended to my Printer setting files. I also need to use different temperature settings and first layer thicknesses ... so Slic3r PE meets all my needs.

I have the MK2s and look forward to the MK2.5 upgrade.

[Area51]

Been using AutoDesk Inventor for 9+ years, but turning to Fusion 360 as it has integrated CAM features.
For complex part/geometry I still use Inventor.

Uses Slic3r PE as it is accurate, S3D is has a nicer interface and can estimate print time, but it is not as accurate for mechanical use.

[jay.n]

Currently I'm learning Fusion 360. I'm using Simplify3D as a slicer.

I used to use Blender and Modo for 3d graphics several years ago, but Modo is a bit expensive for me this year. I will admit that I really did like Modo.
-
Jay

[chris.n6]

When I asked the online assistant I got the feeling they were not allowed to recommend software packages so I thought I would ask here. I figure it's up to the individual what they use or like, but when you are just starting out, what would be best and why?

There seems to be two different types of software "Correct me or Add" one's I've missed. What are you using and why?
I've read several of the free ones are "Cloud Based". They keep copies of your design so there goes your personal muse...

1. 3D Modeling or Design Software

3D Slash
TinkerCAD
FreeCAD
SketchUP
123Design
Blender
SolidWorks
Rhino3D
Inventor
DesignSpark
Maya
3DS Max
Cinema 4D
OpenSCAD
Modo
Fusion 360
MoI 3D
Wings3D
K-3D
BRL-CAD


2. Slicers & 3D Printer Hosts

NetFabb
Repetier
Simplify3D
Slic3r
Ultimaker Cura
CraftWare
KISSlicer
ReplicatorG
Skeinforge
3DPrinterOS

https://3dprinting.com/software/

https://all3dp.com/1/best-free-3d-print ... -385567429

[timothy.g8]

I'm able to print from Fusion 360, it just takes a couple extra apps.

From Fusion 360, select Make->3D Print

(Uncheck Send to Print Utility because all the 3rd party apps, are discontinued or don't work)

ToPrintStep1.png (34.27 KiB) Viewed 141 times

Select the model to save and click OK.

That produces the STL file to save to disk. But it's not ready to print yet.

Open the STL file with `Slic3r Prusa Edition`.

Export the model as G-code.

ToPrintStep2.png (63.43 KiB) Viewed 141 times

Open the G-code file in Pronterface.

Connect the printer over USB.

Click the connect button in Pronterface.

Click the print button in Pronterface.

The print job will complete as long as the computer stays awake and usb is connected.