5 Best Modeling Software for 3D Printing

To start with 3D printing you don't need to have the skill of designing and creating 3D models, you can surf the internet and look for thousands of free models to download and print. However, depending only on downloading 3D models from the internet can limit you sometimes from having the desired model with the accurate dimension that you need. For this reason, we list down for you the best 3D modeling software for all different types of users whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional, in this list, you can find the suitable software for you to start creating your own 3D models.

#1 TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is an amazing online tool that both beginners and experienced 3D modelers will appreciate. Although it cannot be called a complete tool, it gives you the basics of 3D design and allows you to ‘tinker’ before you move on to more advanced programs.

TinkerCAD is often used by teachers and students and therefore is widely accessible. It lacks some of the advanced features of other Autodesk 3D printing software. You’ll instantly notice its beginner-friendly workspace.

Price: Free

#2 SketchUp Free

SketchUp is a sketch and extrude CAD program considered one of the best professional software on the market. SketchUp Free is a great browser-based edition that’s easy for beginners.

The simplified web version has a selection of the most common design tools and an approachable, user-friendly interface. The software offers a collaborative workspace through the sharing of 3D model designs and other relevant information, its immersive VR experience enables designers to simulate the design before printing, and also it offers several templates that users can make as a base to start creating 3D designs

Price: Free

#3 Vectary

VECTARY is one of the top free online 3D modeling software for beginners. It has millions of assets, including entire 3D scenes, models, and materials, with a simple drag-and-drop interface - a very user-friendly 3D model maker.

VECTARY is very user-friendly and accessible, making it perfect for taking your first steps into 3D modeling and printing. There are always new tools and features added to the software all the time. Moreover, VECTARY has excellent support. You can read their countless knowledge base to learn the basics and follow tutorials. You can also directly email the support team for direct feedback on any issues you might have.

Price: Free

#4 Autodesk Fusion 360

Autodesk Fusion 360 is one of the most powerful 3D printing software tools on the market. It is one of the preferred choices of products for mechanical engineers, designers, and machinists. The best part is that it seamlessly combines the power of design, engineering, and manufacturing into one platform. Moreover, it streamlines the product development process to ensure smoother and faster delivery of high-quality products.

Its mechanical design approach allows you to see how your part will respond to outside forces such as pressure, heat, and essentially, whether it’s going to work as intended and remain safe. The advanced mesh modeling allows you to easily push and pull the surface to sculpt it any way you wish. The software produces smooth geometry even when you go a little haywire with the tools.

Price: Free for personal, hobby use

#5 Blender

Blender is among the most powerful of its kind and is used by highly skilled professionals. It offers some of the best variety in 3D modeling methods. Also, it has a large community and beginner resources are plenty.

As a modeler, it’s right up there with the best 3D modeling software for 3D printing. You can start out with pre-set mesh shapes like cubes and spheres, which you can then mold and add, to your liking. Texturing, patterns, and writing are easy to add to the main model, though watch out as not all 3D printers can handle small fine text

Price: Free

Resource: 

• The Best 3D Printing Software of 2022
• Top 10 Free 3D Modeling Software for Beginners in 2022