3D printing requires a lot of creativity and dedication. However, your prints will only be as good as your software. Therefore, it obvious that if you have the best software, you will be able to create quality models. That said, if you are looking for the best software for your 3D printer, then this article is at your best interest.
- Best 3d Printer Host Software Windows 10
- Best 3d Printer For Beginners
- Best 3d Printer Software 2020
- Best 3d Printer Cad Software
- Best 3d Printer Under $500
EasyPrint 3D is a FREE, easy to use 3D printing software developed by GEEETECH, it is capable of converting a digital 3D model into printing instructions for your 3D printer. It cuts the model into horizontal slices (layers), generating toolpath information. Aug 08, 2019 Unlike TinkerCAD, Cura is a slicing software for 3D printers which you can use to create a 3D model and slice it into layers as G-Code for the printer. On top of that, you can also use Cura as a. Best 3D Slicer Software #4: Cura Cura was developed, hosted and maintained by 3D printer company Ultimaker and it's community. As the company has its roots in Open Source, the 3D slicer software came out as a freebie – and it stayed that way ever since. Over the years, Cura even added profiles for competitor 3D printers.
3D printing software is capable of handling a number of tasks which include rendering and presenting different models to your clients. Typically, there is a range of applications while others come with additional perks for instance cloud connectivity.
Due to the huge number of 3D printing software, it's natural to get lost while finding the best one for your machine. However, I've taken the liberty to put together the cream of the crop and present to you only the best software in the business. Shall we get started?
Best 3d Printer Host Software Windows 10
Blender
This is one of the most commonly used 3D printing software. In addition to that, blender is a pretty powerful application. The best part about this software is that you will get it for free. However, it will take some time to actually get used to navigating around it.
The capabilities of this application are simply unparalleled. The software is capable of doing almost anything. That includes animation, modeling, simulation among others. More importantly, this software is ideal for professionals who feel like it's time to take up complex 3D printing to the next level.
This software is considerably readily available. The most interesting thing about this software is the Photorealistic rendering feature. With this option, you are able to get a realism design that only a few of the 3D printing software can offer.
If you are patient enough to learn how this software works, you will join the ranks of the best of the best professional 3D printing gods. If you are planning to use 3D printing for a long time, then this software is the best option for you.
Blender is popular among artists and media workers for creating sophisticated animations, visual effects, and other interactive 3D applications. That's because of the huge creative freedom that it offers with its innumerable tools. However, it's not suitable for beginners.
Cura
Cura is one of the best slicing software for your 3D printer. It's also best for beginners due to its intuitive and fast nature. Ultimate Cura also makes work easier for any first-timer. The software is capable of slicing any 3D model into layers in a way that your 3D printer will be able to understand.
The best part is that Cura is very easy to understand and you will also need to know the 3 steps before printing. Start by creating a model of your own design and then export it to your files in form of OBJ or STL files.
The files will be imported then sliced and outputted to your 3D printer as G-codes that your printer can understand. Using Cura, you will also be able to set the speed, quality, cooling, fill and speed of the printing process. Ultimate Cura is an open source software and is compatible with almost every 3D printer. More importantly, this software is compatible with Linux, Windows, and Mac.
SketchUp
This is another great software when it comes to 3D printing. SketchUp has the capability to maintain a steady balance between functionality and usability while making your ideas a reality. On top of that, SketchUp gives you absolute sketching freedom for your creativity to run wild.
The software has an easy learning curve but it also has extra professional features available to anyone willing to take their skills to the next level. However, the extra features include an extra cost. SketchUp is especially useful when it comes to designing interior and exterior projects but also has a range of applications in different sectors.
If you are planning to design anything that's too complex, then you will have to be patient. However, simpler models take up very little time. You can access a free version of this software though it also has a Pro version that comes at an extra cost.
This application is very useful and you won't need to add any extra plugins to use it. SketchUp is compatible with Mac, Linux and Windows systems.
TinkerCAD
Tinker is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) software that's quite useful to beginners in the 3D printing sector. You are able to build simple models using this software without a lot of fuss. The best part about this application is that you will be able to edit and import STL files.
The software is also free and available to any user. You will directly access the application after creating an account on their website. In addition, the application also offers pre-defined geometric structures and shapes. Therefore, you can easily drag and drop them in a box of your work plane. You also have the chance to adjust the height, width, and length of the shapes to fit your exact design.
However, this software is a bit limited if you compare it to blender and Cura, so if you are a professional, then this might not be the best option for you. It's incredibly good for beginners and anyone willing to have a little fun with their printers.
MeshMixer
The MeshMixer is an advanced software that will give you that extra touch when you want to create your 3D models. It features various applications for instance checking, viewing, repairing and editing STL files.
It's good software especially when it comes to identifying problems in your models and automatically repairing. The MeshMixer is free and a good choice when you want to manually add any supports into your model.
The software gives you the chance to drag and drop meshes into your model as the name suggests among other applications. The fact that this software is cross-platform is a good bonus. MeshMixer allows the users to create organic prints, for instance, people or animals to sculpt digitally. You will also be able to mash various 3D models together.
MatterControl
MatterControl is one of the best software to use when printing because it features the best slicing engines which include Cura, MatterSlice, and Slic3r. This enables the user to experiment on each of the features and compare the results.
This software is also structured for easy use hence the ideal software for any beginner. That also doesn't compromise its effectiveness. Therefore, a professional can also use this software to create complex designs.
You also have the chance to preview your model, layer by layer. Therefore, you are able to correct any issues and problems before printing. The best part about this application is that it also has an advanced feature for instance mesh repair. Additionally, it also has a basic mode where you will have the chance to adjust the fill thickness among other features.
MatterControl also allows you to save up your settings for future prints. The software is compatible with Linux, Mac, and Windows devices. Download this app and let your creativity give you the best 3D models.
OctoPrint
This is also another great 3D printing software. OctoPrint lets you connect seamlessly to your printer even from a remote access point. The software comes with a Wi-Fi connectivity feature that ensures you are connected to your printer even without the use of any cables.
The software also accepts G-code files from most printers and hence is able to incorporate the files in its interface. This allows you to visualize the file before you decide to print it. You also have the chance to slice files directly from the software to the printer.
If you are tired of having to place your printer on your desktop every time you want to print, then this software will give you the chance to connect wirelessly. You can also create a time-lapse on when the printer should start printing. What's more, this application will give you the opportunity to adjust settings on your printer wirelessly.
The best part about this software is that you can start, stop or even pause your print to adjust anything. You will have full access to your printer without having to move an inch. Enjoy the comfort that comes with this new and advances technology.
Repetier-Host
Last but not least is the Repetier-Host software. This is also a great 3D printing application that will help you make your creativity a reality. It is an open-source application that's highly capable of handling any 3D printing task.
This application is known for its range of applications, for instance, multi-slicer support among others. that's not all! This software also offers remote control using the Repetier servers. Meaning you will be able to access your printer from any point using your PC, smartphone or even tablet.
In summary…
All of the above printers are offered free and available to anyone with internet access. However, the only big problem that you may encounter is that not all printers are compatible with a particular application. Therefore, it might take you longer than expected to find the perfect software for your printer. Also, most printers come with their recommended software. Once you've installed it on your PC, you can start printing your first models.
New guidelines are available in the learning center
Introduction
All 3D printers need host software to function. Host software is responsible for sending the actual commands to the 3D printer that tell the printer how to build an object. Most host software communicates with the printer via a wired USB connection. For most 3D printers, a computer running the host software must stay connected to the 3D printer at all times during use.
An increasing number of 3D printer operators are looking for ways to use their 3D printers remotely. Wireless 3D printing has a number of advantages over the traditional wired setup:
- The 3D printer can be placed away from the operator's work area, which reduces disruptive noises and smells generated by all 3D printers.
- Reducing the number of cords provides a cleaner setup.
- The 3D printer can be operated and monitored with a phone or tablet that is not normally capable of running host software.
- Sharing a 3D printer is easier as it does not require sharing the connected computer.
- The 3D printer can be operated from anywhere in the world over the internet.
There are basically two ways to do wireless 3D printing. First, a g-code file can be saved onto an SD card using a computer, then the SD card can be transferred to the 3D printer where the print job is initiated via a controller build into the 3D printer.
This arrangement technically allows wireless 3D printing, but it lacks most the advantages of a truly wireless setup as described above. The 3D printer can still be placed away from the designer's work area, but beyond that, using the SD card transfer method is no different from transferring the data over a cable. The second way to do (truly) wireless 3D printing is by running the host software on a small embedded device, like the Raspberry Pi, that is connected to the 3D printer.
This is a bit like using a dedicated computer for 3D printing that stays connected to the printer at all times. But, instead of using a fully-fledged computer for this purpose, the host software can be run on something like a Raspberry Pi, which is just powerful enough to run the software.
The two most popular host software packages developed for wireless 3D printing are OctoPrint and AstroPrint.
This post compares these two popular systems. Before beginning the comparison, it should be noted that OctoPrint and AstroPrint are not true alternatives in the strictest sense of the word.
AstroPrint is, in fact, based on OctoPrint. However, the AstroPrint team has made sweeping changes and additions to the software, making these two host software offerings quite a bit different in many ways.
What is OctoPrint?
As mentioned above, OctoPrint is 3D printing host software. OctoPrint replaces the host software you normally use to run your 3D printer, like Repetier or Cura.
From the OctoPrint website,
OctoPrint differs from existing host solutions in that its major focus is to provide a web interface that allows controlling the printer remotely from anywhere on the network or even the internet while offering the same responsiveness and feedback options available on native host applications like the ones listed above.
OctoPrint was developed to be run on small embedded devices such as the popular Raspberry Pi. It allows you to turn your existing 3D printer into a WiFi enabled one and untether it from your laptop or work station.
What is AstroPrint?
AstroPrint, like OctoPrint, is 3D printing host software that replaces the software normally used to control 3D printers, like Repetier or Cura. AstroPrint is based on OctoPrint, but the development team 3Dagogo, have made sweeping changes and additions to the software.
Best 3d Printer For Beginners
AstroPrint provides a web interface for performing all of the functions needed to work with a 3D printer remotely, including internet-based slicing of STL files. This means that, with AstroPrint, you will be able to control your 3D printer entirely from your phone or tablet; you will not need to use a computer for any part of the process (unless you are designing a custom part).
Both AstroPrint and OctoPrint can be used with a Raspberry Pi, but additionally, AstroPrint offers a bespoke controller for running its software, called the AstroBox.
OctoPrint is most commonly installed on a Raspberry Pi, although it can also be installed on PCduino, there just aren't very many tutorials for doing this. The installation processes for OctoPrint and AstroPrint on the Raspberry Pi are almost exactly the same. The installation process for OctoPrint goes like this:
- Download the Raspberry Pi image for the OctoPrint, called OctoPi (use one of the mirrors)
- Install the image onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card
- Set up the OctoPrint software (next section)
For detailed instructions on setting up a Raspberry Pi with OctoPrint, visit theOctoPrint website.
Setting up OctoPrint on the Raspberry Pi is just a tiny bit more difficult than the setup process for AstroPrint because OctoPrint, as a community-driven project, is a little bit more fragmented. You need to use mirrors to download the OctoPi image and make certain you have the latest version.
Installation of AstroPrint
If you purchase AstroPrint's dedicated hardware, the AstroBox, the hardware setup is as easy as plugging in the device. (P.S: you can also make your on AstroBox for free with a Rasperry Pi)
For setting up AstroPrint on a Rasberry Pi, the process is almost identical to the process for OctoPrint.
Best 3d Printer Software 2020
- Download the Raspberry Pi image for the AstroPrint (requires registration)
- Install the image onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card
- Set up the AstroPrint software (next section)
Documentation for installing AstroPrint on a Raspberry Pi is a bit more sparse than the documentation for OctoPrint. So, I actually wrote a tutorial on Instructables to cover the process.
Setting up AstroPrint on the Raspberry Pi is extremely easy because the code base is more unified than OctoPrint. Just go to AstroPrint's website and download the Raspberry Pi image.
Setting up the OctoPrint software is not easy. If you are unfamiliar with Linux and/or networking basics, the process will be downright difficult.
First of all, setting up OctoPi to connect to your WiFi network requires modifying one of the configuration files on the SD card; thankfully the modification is a simple one and easy to accomplish, but it is just not as seamless as the graphical interface used by AstroPrint.
Second, unlike with AstroPrint's setup process, which can be done entirely from a computer, phone, or tablet, to set up OctoPrint you need to connect the Raspberry Pi to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Then OctoPrint provides a command prompt interface for adjusting various settings. The only alternative to this is connecting to the Raspberry Pi via SSH and using the command line to complete the initial configuration.
Even after you go through the confusing setup process, your OctoPrint is fairly unlikely to work right away. Many people have a fair bit of difficulty getting the OctoPi to work. I've heard the process sarcastically described with a quote from Butterfly Circus, 'The greater the struggle, the more glorious the triumph!' Best games to play on a macbook air.
Anyway, setting up OctoPrint on a Raspberry Pi is not for the faint of heart.
The design of the user interfaces is where OctoPrint and AstroPrint really differ. The two systems have fundamentally different design philosophies.
OctoPrint is designed for a user with much more 3D printing experience than AstroPrint. OctoPrint exposes many more options in any given interface allowing the user finer control over their 3D printer than is possible using AstroPrint. OctoPrint also feels much more utilitarian.
Imovie software for windows. OctoPrint has a monochromatic color scheme, just grays and blues, whereas AstroPrint's interface is bright and colorful. OctoPrint uses standard square and rectangular buttons arranged in boxes around the screen, wheres AstroPrint uses 3D buttons and fancy graphics in their interface.
A good example of the fundamental differences between these two systems is the manual printer control interfaces. Both OctoPrint and AstroPrint allow the user to remotely control the 3D printer by moving the axes, heating the hot end, extruding filament, and toggling fans.
You can see that there is nothing fancy in this interface, it is built for functionality, not to look pretty. More importantly, you can see that the OctoPrint interface offers more control options than the AstroPrint interface to the right.
The biggest weakness in the OctoPrint interface is that is does not work particularly well on mobile devices. The interface does not scale to fit on a phone screen, much less rearrange the controls for better visibility on small screens.
Many of the buttons are also not quite large enough for easy finger tapping. In contrast, the AstroPrint interface features large buttons that are easy to see and easy to select on a mobile device.
AstroPrint User Interface
OctoPrint and AstroPrint have fundamentally different design philosophies.
OctoPrint is designed for a user with much more 3D printing experience than AstroPrint, whereas AstroPrint is designed to be easy to use and easy to understand.
This software is considerably readily available. The most interesting thing about this software is the Photorealistic rendering feature. With this option, you are able to get a realism design that only a few of the 3D printing software can offer.
If you are patient enough to learn how this software works, you will join the ranks of the best of the best professional 3D printing gods. If you are planning to use 3D printing for a long time, then this software is the best option for you.
Blender is popular among artists and media workers for creating sophisticated animations, visual effects, and other interactive 3D applications. That's because of the huge creative freedom that it offers with its innumerable tools. However, it's not suitable for beginners.
Cura
Cura is one of the best slicing software for your 3D printer. It's also best for beginners due to its intuitive and fast nature. Ultimate Cura also makes work easier for any first-timer. The software is capable of slicing any 3D model into layers in a way that your 3D printer will be able to understand.
The best part is that Cura is very easy to understand and you will also need to know the 3 steps before printing. Start by creating a model of your own design and then export it to your files in form of OBJ or STL files.
The files will be imported then sliced and outputted to your 3D printer as G-codes that your printer can understand. Using Cura, you will also be able to set the speed, quality, cooling, fill and speed of the printing process. Ultimate Cura is an open source software and is compatible with almost every 3D printer. More importantly, this software is compatible with Linux, Windows, and Mac.
SketchUp
This is another great software when it comes to 3D printing. SketchUp has the capability to maintain a steady balance between functionality and usability while making your ideas a reality. On top of that, SketchUp gives you absolute sketching freedom for your creativity to run wild.
The software has an easy learning curve but it also has extra professional features available to anyone willing to take their skills to the next level. However, the extra features include an extra cost. SketchUp is especially useful when it comes to designing interior and exterior projects but also has a range of applications in different sectors.
If you are planning to design anything that's too complex, then you will have to be patient. However, simpler models take up very little time. You can access a free version of this software though it also has a Pro version that comes at an extra cost.
This application is very useful and you won't need to add any extra plugins to use it. SketchUp is compatible with Mac, Linux and Windows systems.
TinkerCAD
Tinker is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) software that's quite useful to beginners in the 3D printing sector. You are able to build simple models using this software without a lot of fuss. The best part about this application is that you will be able to edit and import STL files.
The software is also free and available to any user. You will directly access the application after creating an account on their website. In addition, the application also offers pre-defined geometric structures and shapes. Therefore, you can easily drag and drop them in a box of your work plane. You also have the chance to adjust the height, width, and length of the shapes to fit your exact design.
However, this software is a bit limited if you compare it to blender and Cura, so if you are a professional, then this might not be the best option for you. It's incredibly good for beginners and anyone willing to have a little fun with their printers.
MeshMixer
The MeshMixer is an advanced software that will give you that extra touch when you want to create your 3D models. It features various applications for instance checking, viewing, repairing and editing STL files.
It's good software especially when it comes to identifying problems in your models and automatically repairing. The MeshMixer is free and a good choice when you want to manually add any supports into your model.
The software gives you the chance to drag and drop meshes into your model as the name suggests among other applications. The fact that this software is cross-platform is a good bonus. MeshMixer allows the users to create organic prints, for instance, people or animals to sculpt digitally. You will also be able to mash various 3D models together.
MatterControl
MatterControl is one of the best software to use when printing because it features the best slicing engines which include Cura, MatterSlice, and Slic3r. This enables the user to experiment on each of the features and compare the results.
This software is also structured for easy use hence the ideal software for any beginner. That also doesn't compromise its effectiveness. Therefore, a professional can also use this software to create complex designs.
You also have the chance to preview your model, layer by layer. Therefore, you are able to correct any issues and problems before printing. The best part about this application is that it also has an advanced feature for instance mesh repair. Additionally, it also has a basic mode where you will have the chance to adjust the fill thickness among other features.
MatterControl also allows you to save up your settings for future prints. The software is compatible with Linux, Mac, and Windows devices. Download this app and let your creativity give you the best 3D models.
OctoPrint
This is also another great 3D printing software. OctoPrint lets you connect seamlessly to your printer even from a remote access point. The software comes with a Wi-Fi connectivity feature that ensures you are connected to your printer even without the use of any cables.
The software also accepts G-code files from most printers and hence is able to incorporate the files in its interface. This allows you to visualize the file before you decide to print it. You also have the chance to slice files directly from the software to the printer.
If you are tired of having to place your printer on your desktop every time you want to print, then this software will give you the chance to connect wirelessly. You can also create a time-lapse on when the printer should start printing. What's more, this application will give you the opportunity to adjust settings on your printer wirelessly.
The best part about this software is that you can start, stop or even pause your print to adjust anything. You will have full access to your printer without having to move an inch. Enjoy the comfort that comes with this new and advances technology.
Repetier-Host
Last but not least is the Repetier-Host software. This is also a great 3D printing application that will help you make your creativity a reality. It is an open-source application that's highly capable of handling any 3D printing task.
This application is known for its range of applications, for instance, multi-slicer support among others. that's not all! This software also offers remote control using the Repetier servers. Meaning you will be able to access your printer from any point using your PC, smartphone or even tablet.
In summary…
All of the above printers are offered free and available to anyone with internet access. However, the only big problem that you may encounter is that not all printers are compatible with a particular application. Therefore, it might take you longer than expected to find the perfect software for your printer. Also, most printers come with their recommended software. Once you've installed it on your PC, you can start printing your first models.
New guidelines are available in the learning center
Introduction
All 3D printers need host software to function. Host software is responsible for sending the actual commands to the 3D printer that tell the printer how to build an object. Most host software communicates with the printer via a wired USB connection. For most 3D printers, a computer running the host software must stay connected to the 3D printer at all times during use.
An increasing number of 3D printer operators are looking for ways to use their 3D printers remotely. Wireless 3D printing has a number of advantages over the traditional wired setup:
- The 3D printer can be placed away from the operator's work area, which reduces disruptive noises and smells generated by all 3D printers.
- Reducing the number of cords provides a cleaner setup.
- The 3D printer can be operated and monitored with a phone or tablet that is not normally capable of running host software.
- Sharing a 3D printer is easier as it does not require sharing the connected computer.
- The 3D printer can be operated from anywhere in the world over the internet.
There are basically two ways to do wireless 3D printing. First, a g-code file can be saved onto an SD card using a computer, then the SD card can be transferred to the 3D printer where the print job is initiated via a controller build into the 3D printer.
This arrangement technically allows wireless 3D printing, but it lacks most the advantages of a truly wireless setup as described above. The 3D printer can still be placed away from the designer's work area, but beyond that, using the SD card transfer method is no different from transferring the data over a cable. The second way to do (truly) wireless 3D printing is by running the host software on a small embedded device, like the Raspberry Pi, that is connected to the 3D printer.
This is a bit like using a dedicated computer for 3D printing that stays connected to the printer at all times. But, instead of using a fully-fledged computer for this purpose, the host software can be run on something like a Raspberry Pi, which is just powerful enough to run the software.
The two most popular host software packages developed for wireless 3D printing are OctoPrint and AstroPrint.
This post compares these two popular systems. Before beginning the comparison, it should be noted that OctoPrint and AstroPrint are not true alternatives in the strictest sense of the word.
AstroPrint is, in fact, based on OctoPrint. However, the AstroPrint team has made sweeping changes and additions to the software, making these two host software offerings quite a bit different in many ways.
What is OctoPrint?
As mentioned above, OctoPrint is 3D printing host software. OctoPrint replaces the host software you normally use to run your 3D printer, like Repetier or Cura.
From the OctoPrint website,
OctoPrint differs from existing host solutions in that its major focus is to provide a web interface that allows controlling the printer remotely from anywhere on the network or even the internet while offering the same responsiveness and feedback options available on native host applications like the ones listed above.
OctoPrint was developed to be run on small embedded devices such as the popular Raspberry Pi. It allows you to turn your existing 3D printer into a WiFi enabled one and untether it from your laptop or work station.
What is AstroPrint?
AstroPrint, like OctoPrint, is 3D printing host software that replaces the software normally used to control 3D printers, like Repetier or Cura. AstroPrint is based on OctoPrint, but the development team 3Dagogo, have made sweeping changes and additions to the software.
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AstroPrint provides a web interface for performing all of the functions needed to work with a 3D printer remotely, including internet-based slicing of STL files. This means that, with AstroPrint, you will be able to control your 3D printer entirely from your phone or tablet; you will not need to use a computer for any part of the process (unless you are designing a custom part).
Both AstroPrint and OctoPrint can be used with a Raspberry Pi, but additionally, AstroPrint offers a bespoke controller for running its software, called the AstroBox.
OctoPrint is most commonly installed on a Raspberry Pi, although it can also be installed on PCduino, there just aren't very many tutorials for doing this. The installation processes for OctoPrint and AstroPrint on the Raspberry Pi are almost exactly the same. The installation process for OctoPrint goes like this:
- Download the Raspberry Pi image for the OctoPrint, called OctoPi (use one of the mirrors)
- Install the image onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card
- Set up the OctoPrint software (next section)
For detailed instructions on setting up a Raspberry Pi with OctoPrint, visit theOctoPrint website.
Setting up OctoPrint on the Raspberry Pi is just a tiny bit more difficult than the setup process for AstroPrint because OctoPrint, as a community-driven project, is a little bit more fragmented. You need to use mirrors to download the OctoPi image and make certain you have the latest version.
Installation of AstroPrint
If you purchase AstroPrint's dedicated hardware, the AstroBox, the hardware setup is as easy as plugging in the device. (P.S: you can also make your on AstroBox for free with a Rasperry Pi)
For setting up AstroPrint on a Rasberry Pi, the process is almost identical to the process for OctoPrint.
Best 3d Printer Software 2020
- Download the Raspberry Pi image for the AstroPrint (requires registration)
- Install the image onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card
- Set up the AstroPrint software (next section)
Documentation for installing AstroPrint on a Raspberry Pi is a bit more sparse than the documentation for OctoPrint. So, I actually wrote a tutorial on Instructables to cover the process.
Setting up AstroPrint on the Raspberry Pi is extremely easy because the code base is more unified than OctoPrint. Just go to AstroPrint's website and download the Raspberry Pi image.
Setting up the OctoPrint software is not easy. If you are unfamiliar with Linux and/or networking basics, the process will be downright difficult.
First of all, setting up OctoPi to connect to your WiFi network requires modifying one of the configuration files on the SD card; thankfully the modification is a simple one and easy to accomplish, but it is just not as seamless as the graphical interface used by AstroPrint.
Second, unlike with AstroPrint's setup process, which can be done entirely from a computer, phone, or tablet, to set up OctoPrint you need to connect the Raspberry Pi to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Then OctoPrint provides a command prompt interface for adjusting various settings. The only alternative to this is connecting to the Raspberry Pi via SSH and using the command line to complete the initial configuration.
Even after you go through the confusing setup process, your OctoPrint is fairly unlikely to work right away. Many people have a fair bit of difficulty getting the OctoPi to work. I've heard the process sarcastically described with a quote from Butterfly Circus, 'The greater the struggle, the more glorious the triumph!' Best games to play on a macbook air.
Anyway, setting up OctoPrint on a Raspberry Pi is not for the faint of heart.
The design of the user interfaces is where OctoPrint and AstroPrint really differ. The two systems have fundamentally different design philosophies.
OctoPrint is designed for a user with much more 3D printing experience than AstroPrint. OctoPrint exposes many more options in any given interface allowing the user finer control over their 3D printer than is possible using AstroPrint. OctoPrint also feels much more utilitarian.
Imovie software for windows. OctoPrint has a monochromatic color scheme, just grays and blues, whereas AstroPrint's interface is bright and colorful. OctoPrint uses standard square and rectangular buttons arranged in boxes around the screen, wheres AstroPrint uses 3D buttons and fancy graphics in their interface.
A good example of the fundamental differences between these two systems is the manual printer control interfaces. Both OctoPrint and AstroPrint allow the user to remotely control the 3D printer by moving the axes, heating the hot end, extruding filament, and toggling fans.
You can see that there is nothing fancy in this interface, it is built for functionality, not to look pretty. More importantly, you can see that the OctoPrint interface offers more control options than the AstroPrint interface to the right.
The biggest weakness in the OctoPrint interface is that is does not work particularly well on mobile devices. The interface does not scale to fit on a phone screen, much less rearrange the controls for better visibility on small screens.
Many of the buttons are also not quite large enough for easy finger tapping. In contrast, the AstroPrint interface features large buttons that are easy to see and easy to select on a mobile device.
AstroPrint User Interface
OctoPrint and AstroPrint have fundamentally different design philosophies.
OctoPrint is designed for a user with much more 3D printing experience than AstroPrint, whereas AstroPrint is designed to be easy to use and easy to understand.
AstroPrint keeps things simple; the interface provides access to the functionality the user needs to complete their job, while leaving out more granular controls. The AstroPrint development team has clearly put effort into making their interfaces clean and uncluttered. AstroPrint also has a more visual design than OctoPrint.
A good example of the fundamental differences between these two systems is the manual printer control interfaces. Both OctoPrint and AstroPrint allow the user to remotely control the 3D printer by moving the axes, heating the hot end, extruding filament, and toggling fans.
The AstroPrint interface is not very much different than the OctoPrint interface, the basic controls available are exactly the same, with the exception, again, of some more advanced controls being omitted from AstroPrint. The AstroPrint interface is colorful and beautiful.
AstroPrint also works much better on mobile devices than OctoPrint. The AstroPrint buttons are large and are easy to tap with a finger on a phone. The AstroPrint interface is also responsive, meaning that the controls rearrange themselves based on screen size.
On a computer screen the controls are arranged horizontally, but on a phone screen they stack vertically. AstroPrint is much, much easier to use on a phone.
Of course, the main purpose of both OctoPrint and AstroPrint is to actually do 3D printing. Again, OctoPrint and AstroPrint have fundamentally different design philosophies for the interfaces each system provides for monitoring prints.
The main element on the OctoPrint interface is a temperature versus time graph. It makes some sense to display this information in the interface because temperature management is important for getting top quality 3D prints. But again, this kind of information is best for experienced 3D printer operators.
In the OctoPrint interface, basic information about the print, most importantly the print time, and time left, can be found as relatively small text in the upper-left corner of the screen.
The biggest weakness of the OctoPrint interface is that the information in this print status area can be difficult to read, especially on a mobile device.
Note that before printing, a g-code file must be generated and uploaded to the OctoPrint server. So, most of the time, you will still need a computer to print with OctoPrint. If you want to use OctoPrint entirely from a phone, you could actually use AstroPrint's cloud slicing service as a stand-alone product.
Of course, at that point, you might be strongly considering using AstroPrint for the entire printing process. There are a few fledgling online slicing services being developed right now to compete with AstroPrint, but at the time of this writing, AstroPrint is the only real option for cloud slicing.
Printing Experience with AstroPrint
Of course, the main purpose of both OctoPrint and AstroPrint is to actually do 3D printing. Again, OctoPrint and AstroPrint have fundamentally different design philosophies for the interfaces each system provides for monitoring prints.
As with the user interface in general, AstroPrint displays the most important information in a large, colorful, easy-to-read format.
The main elements on the print management interface for AstroPrint are the time left in the print, and the printer status. Information that is likely less important for non-expert 3D printer operators, like the volume of filament, and data transferred, are omitted. Lower on the screen, information about hot end and bed temperatures is available, but not in graphical format.
Again, AstroPrint is much easier to use on a mobile device than OctoPrint.
One of the best features of AstroPrint is its cloud slicing service. With OctoPrint, 3D models must be processed by slicing software on a computer, and the resulting gcode must be uploaded to the OctoPrint server. With AstroPrint, slicing is done via AstroPrint's servers. This means there is no need for a computer at all, for any part of the printing process. Just download a model you want to print from one of the services provided on the AstroPrint Dashboard, and get printing. You can do everything from a phone or tablet if you want.
Overall, both OctoPrint and AstroPrint are great 3D printing host software offerings. I think AstroPrint is a more polished package than OctoPrint, on which AstroPrint is based. The AstroPrint development team has clearly put a great deal of effort into making the user experience as simple and streamlined as possible.
But, the most important difference between OctoPrint and AstroPrint is that they are built for two different groups of users.
OctoPrint is made for experienced 3D printer operators who want complete control over their 3D printer settings. OctoPrint provides access to extensive customization options, and provides data that experienced Makers can used to fine tune the performance of their printer and OctoPrint itself.
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AstroPrint is made for 3D printer operators with a low to intermediate level of experience. AstroPrint is focused on providing a smooth and fast user experience. AstroPrint is much easier to set up than OctoPrint, and requires less configuration from the user.
AstroPrint is also fantastic on a mobile device like a phone or tablet. AstroPrint features large, colorful buttons that are easy see on a small screen and easy to tap with a finger.
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This post was originally published on Dabbletron and republished with the authors permission.
