About
Simplify3D is a professional-grade 3D printing slicing and build-preparation software trusted by engineers, designers, hobbyists, and educators worldwide. With over a decade of development, it delivers a powerful next-generation slicing engine that is up to 3× faster than previous versions, paired with a streamlined user interface designed to maximize productivity at every stage of the additive manufacturing workflow. Version 5.1 introduces highly requested features such as ironing smoothing for ultra-flat top surfaces, intelligent anti-scarring to reduce blemishes, monotonic infill for consistent surface quality, expanded WiFi support, and live preview tracking. The software supports hundreds of popular 3D printer OEM brands and comes pre-optimized for each machine out of the box. Simplify3D is suitable across a wide range of industries including engineering prototyping, artistic fabrication, DIY making, and educational settings. Its robust support structure tools, automated print optimizations, and rich educational resources—including a Print Quality Guide, Materials Guide, and in-depth articles—make it approachable for beginners while offering deep control for power users. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on Simplify3D to unlock the full potential of their 3D printing hardware through a single software upgrade.
Key Features
- Next-Generation Slicing Engine: Up to 3× faster slicing performance with a powerful new engine that handles complex models efficiently.
- Advanced Print Quality Tools: Includes ironing smoothing, intelligent anti-scarring, monotonic infill, and automated print optimizations for superior surface quality.
- Broad Printer Compatibility: Supports hundreds of popular OEM 3D printer brands, with settings pre-optimized for each machine right out of the box.
- Novel Support Structure Tools: Sophisticated support generation and editing tools to minimize material use and simplify post-processing on complex geometries.
- Live Preview & WiFi Integration: Monitor prints in real time with live preview tracking and send jobs wirelessly to compatible printers.
Use Cases
- Engineering teams preparing functional prototypes and end-use parts with precise print settings.
- Artists and designers producing high-quality 3D printed sculptures, models, and creative projects.
- Hobbyists and makers maximizing the performance of consumer 3D printers for DIY projects.
- Educational institutions teaching additive manufacturing with reliable, professional-grade slicing software.
- Small businesses and print farms managing multi-printer workflows with optimized, consistent results.
Pros
- Exceptional Printer Support: Works seamlessly with hundreds of 3D printer brands, covering a vast range of consumer and professional machines.
- Powerful Optimization Features: Advanced features like anti-scarring, ironing, and automated optimizations deliver noticeably better print results compared to free slicers.
- Rich Educational Resources: Comprehensive guides on print quality, materials, and settings help users of all skill levels get the most from their hardware.
Cons
- One-Time Paid License: Requires a paid purchase with no free tier, which may be a barrier for casual hobbyists or those just starting out.
- Desktop-Only: Available only as a desktop application; there is no web-based or mobile version for on-the-go access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Simplify3D used for?
Simplify3D is used to prepare 3D models for printing—slicing them into layers, generating supports, optimizing settings, and sending jobs to a 3D printer.
Does Simplify3D support my 3D printer?
Simplify3D supports hundreds of popular 3D printer brands. You can check compatibility on their website using the printer compatibility tool.
Is Simplify3D free?
No, Simplify3D is a paid commercial software. There is no free tier, but it offers a one-time purchase license.
What's new in Simplify3D Version 5.1?
Version 5.1 adds ironing smoothing, intelligent anti-scarring, monotonic infill, expanded WiFi support, live preview tracking, and 90 new supported printers.
What industries use Simplify3D?
Simplify3D is used across engineering, art and design, hobby and DIY, and education sectors, with customers in over 170 countries.
