A 3D printer is a machine that builds a three-dimensional object from digital designs by adding layers of material. 3D printers can make a wide range of objects, from small toys to complex tools and architectural models, typically layer by layer.
Many desktop 3D printers use a numerically controlled programming language made up of a series of commands called G-Code (an abbreviation for geometric code). Besides 3D-printer slicer applications, G-code is used in computer-aided manufacturing.
The process is simple. You first create a model or download one. Then you slice the model and save it. And finally you print the file. Linux offers a good range of open source software to help you create models as well as software to edit and slice the 3D model files.
The selection for this roundup was suggested by a couple of our frequent visitors to the site. While we successfully installed each program, we’ve not prepared a ratings chart on this occasion. This is because we don’t own a 3D printer. Only free and open source software is eligible for inclusion here.
To complement these tools, you’ll probably need software for modelling. We recommend Blender. If you’re looking to make mechanical parts, you’ll want a good CAD program. Check our open source CAD recommendations.
Let’s explore the 9 programs at hand. For each application we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, together with links to relevant resources.
| 3D Printer Tools | |
|---|---|
| Orca Slicer | Forked from BambuStudio, itself a fork of PrusaSlicer, itself a fork of Slic3r |
| PrusaSlicer | Takes 3D models (STL, OBJ, AMF) and converts them into G-code instruction |
| Cura | State-of-the-art slicer app to prepare your 3D models for your 3D printer |
| SuperSlicer | G-code generator for 3D printers |
| Slic3r | Toolpath generator for 3D printers |
| BambuStudio | Bbills itself as a cutting-edge, feature-rich slicing program |
| Printrun | Suite of hosts for 3D printers and other CNC machines |
| MatterControl | Track, preview, and print your 3D parts |
| mslicer | Currently only ELEGOO .goo files can be generated |
 Read our complete collection of recommended free and open source software. Our curated compilation covers all categories of software. Spotted a useful open source Linux program not covered on our site? Please let us know by completing this form. The software collection forms part of our series of informative articles for Linux enthusiasts. There are hundreds of in-depth reviews, open source alternatives to proprietary software from large corporations like Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and Autodesk. There are also fun things to try, hardware, free programming books and tutorials, and much more. |
What’s the best 3D printer under $500?