How do I get access?
A physical-book code gives Pro access to all instruments for 90 days; the PDF edition - for 30 days.
3D Printing Software Comparison
Slicers, CAD and simulation - which one for what
Slicers: PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, Cura, Orca, SuperSlicer. CAD: Fusion, SolidWorks, FreeCAD, OnShape. Simulation: Simufact, Ansys Additive. Compare them by features, price, use case - and pick based on your workflow.
Available with the Pro plan (15 EUR per month). The printed book includes 3 months of Pro.
Key features
20+ tools
Slicers (10), CAD/CAM (8), simulation (5). Free, subscription, enterprise.
By category
Compare within a type (slicer vs slicer) or hybrid (slicer vs slicer with built-in CAD).
Real use cases
For each tool - when it fits best. PrusaSlicer for hobby, Orca for multi-material, Cura for enterprise.
License and price
Free vs paid, perpetual vs subscription, educational discount, hobby vs commercial.
Platform
Windows, macOS, Linux, web-based, mobile companion app. See which runs on your machine.
PDF export
Download the comparison for client, report or teaching material.
How it works
- 1Pick a category (slicers, CAD, simulation) or mixed.
- 2Select up to 4 tools to compare.
- 3See a table with 15+ criteria.
- 4PDF export or save to library.
Who it's for
New 3D printer user
Which slicer for the first time? PrusaSlicer or Cura? Compare and pick.
CAD designer migrating
From SolidWorks to Fusion 360? Which features you lose, which you gain.
Teacher
Which free CAD for class? Compare Tinkercad, FreeCAD and Fusion 360 Student.
Print service
Recommend the client which slicer to test for their files.
Frequently asked
How many tools are included?
23+ as of 2026-05:10 slicers, 8 CAD/CAM, 5 simulation tools.
Are latest versions included?
Yes, updated monthly. Major releases (PrusaSlicer 3.0, Bambu Studio 2.0) land within 2 weeks.
Why no Microsoft 3D Builder?
Too basic - doesn't cover the needs of a serious user. For hobby see Tinkercad.
Are comparisons saved?
Yes, in your personal library.
Want full access to all 148 instruments?
The Big Book of 3D Printing includes 90 days of Pro access to every instrument with the physical book's code - 30 days with the ebook. Calculators, wizards, comparisons, generators, and more.
Get the book