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Slic3r

Free plan APILinuxMacSelf-hostedWindows

Visit Slic3r Alternatives Pricing

Slic3r's own site

What Slic3r is

Slic3r is free software that prepares 3D models for printing. It slices models into layers, calculates extrusion amounts, and creates toolpaths and G-code for FFF/FDM printers. A built-in projector and host also support DLP printers. The software converts STL, OBJ, AMF, and POV files and can export SVG slices. Its USB/serial host controls multiple printers with separate spool queues, while OctoPrint integration lets users send jobs remotely. Command-line tools handle batch G-code generation, SVG export, model cutting, transformations, repairs, and format conversion. Advanced functions include multiple extruders, variable layer heights, sequential printing, honeycomb infill, mesh cutting, modifiers, and automatic supports. Libslic3r provides reusable C++ components and an API for applications using Slic3r algorithms. Packages are offered for macOS, Windows, and Linux; Linux users need freeglut. The project began in 2011 in the RepRap community and uses the GNU Affero General Public License version 3.

Who it suits

Slic3r suits advanced users working with FFF/FDM or DLP printers and varied model formats. Novice users may prefer simpler configuration needs.

What it does well

  • Free plan with no license charge
  • Supports multiple printer and G-code dialects
  • Built-in multi-printer spool queues
  • Command-line batch processing and repair
  • Automatic support generation and multi-extruder tools

What to know first

  • Linux downloads require freeglut
  • Project targets advanced users
  • No free trial listed

Plans

PlanBilled and limitsPrice
Slic3rFree software · macOS, Windows, LinuxFree

As slic3r.org lists them, read 9 Oct 2026. The maker's own page has the final word.

Getting started

  1. Visit https://slic3r.org/.
  2. Download an official or development package for macOS, Windows, or Linux.
  3. Install the freeglut package if using Linux.
  4. Import a supported model format and configure slicing for the printer.

Verdict

Slic3r combines model preparation, printer control, command-line processing, and reusable library components in one free package. Its broad configuration makes it more suitable for experienced users than beginners.

Questions

Does Slic3r cost anything?

No. The Slic3r plan is free.

Which operating systems are supported?

Packages are offered for macOS, Windows, and Linux. Linux users need the freeglut package.

Is Slic3r open source?

It is licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License version 3.

What printer types does it support?

It generates G-code for FFF/FDM printers and includes a built-in projector and host for DLP printers.

Can it send jobs to OctoPrint?

Yes. Slic3r can send jobs to OctoPrint.

Who is Slic3r intended for?

The project says it is mostly used by advanced users, while novice users often need only a few configuration options.

Facts from Slic3r's own pages

Advanced features
Features include multiple extruders, variable layer heights, sequential printing, honeycomb infill, mesh cutting, modifiers, and automatic support generation. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Audience
The project says Slic3r is mostly used by advanced users, while novice users often need only a few configuration options. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Command line
The command-line tool supports batch G-code generation, SVG slice export, model cutting, transformation, repair, and format conversion. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Downloads
The download page offers precompiled official and development packages for macOS, Windows, and Linux; Linux users need the freeglut package. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Founded
2011 · slic3r.org, 28 Sept 2026
Integration
Slic3r can send jobs to OctoPrint. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Library
Libslic3r is a C++ library with reusable components and a granular API for building applications on Slic3r algorithms. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
License
Slic3r is licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License version 3. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Machine compatibility
The project says it supports known G-code dialects including Marlin, Repetier, Mach3, LinuxCNC, Machinekit, Smoothie, Makerware, and Sailfish. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Model formats
It supports conversion between STL, OBJ, AMF, and POV formats and can export SVG slices. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Origin
The Slic3r project began in 2011 within the RepRap community and describes itself as a non-profit, independent community project. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Printer control
A built-in USB/serial host controller supports multiple simultaneous printers, each with a spool queue. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Printer types
It generates G-code for FFF/FDM printers and includes a built-in projector and host for DLP printers. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Purpose
Slic3r converts 3D models into printer instructions by slicing models into layers, generating toolpaths, and calculating extrusion amounts. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026
Support
The project directs users to GitHub discussions and its IRC channel for community participation and support. · slic3r.org, 9 Oct 2026

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