Does Cura support FlashForge?

Yes, if you have one of the FlashForge Creator Pro FDM printers you can use the Cura 4.2 and 4.4 pretty much out of the box. However, older versions of Cura require some extra steps. For Cura 3.6 to 4.4.1 you’ll need to install it, choose your printer, add the X3GWriter plugin from the Marketplace menu item and quit Cura.For further instructions and to get the required zip file you’ll need to visit Thingiverse.com as Lyl3 has you covered.

What software do 3D printers use?

3D printers tend to use inbuilt software or versions of open-source software like Cura to import printable files of 3D models. You can then manipulate them further to your liking, which is commonly called slicing, modeling, mesh work, or sculpting. All good 3D printers can print from files but if you want more control you might want something extra. The best 3D modeling software is covered in our reviews.

Do you need CAD for 3d printing?

Yes and no – all 3D printing has elements of CAD because by its nature it’s computer-aided design. The amount of this you actually use is up to you. In theory, you can just load up free 3D models for printing and use the native software on your printer to get the job done. If you want to manipulate things further or ensure no errors, you will be using elements of CAD with your printer’s own slicer or a third party. You can accomplish anything from thickening your model’s walls to adding hollow points, to simulating and identifying potential errors before printing. If you’re an expert designer, you might even build your own complex model from the ground up. For that, you will need to look out for the best CAD software for 3D printing.

Is SketchUp good for 3d printing?

SketchUp is an adequate choice for 3D printing. Not only does it allow you to sketch your own models and digitize them, and you can export them as printable files for your 3D printer in STL. Just be warned that complex models may need further tweaking. Some of the best 3D printing software has 3D drawing software capabilities itself, so you will not need SketchUp – it is more aimed at architecture designs.

What is the easiest 3D software to learn?

For absolute beginners, we would have to say TinkerCAD is the easiest 3D modeling software for 3D printing. Not only can it be easily accessed by browser, but it also has a free version for you to get to grips with the basics. This is closely followed by VECTARY – it’s free, browser-based, and can easily export your creations to common formats 3D printers can read and print.

What is the best 3D printing software?

The best overall 3D printing software in terms of ease of use and range of features is Autodesk Fusion 360. It’s the chosen software of professional engineers and designers and has the ability to model and print mechanical parts. However, since this is beyond the needs of a lot of people, Ultimaker Cura comes in close second thanks to its open-source philosophy and wide out-of-the-box support for 3D printers of all classes. The best 3D modeling software goes to Autodesk Maya, though that’s because of its advanced animation capabilities that go beyond what most 3D printer users need.

Keelan Balderson

A qualified journalist and longtime web content writer, Keelan has a passion for exploring information and learning new things. If he's not writing or pushing his own brands, you'll find him watching pro wrestling or trying not to rant about politics online.