Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OctoPrint VS Slic3r

Compare OctoPrint VS Slic3r and see what are their differences

OctoPrint logo OctoPrint

OctoPrint is the snappy web interface for your 3D printer that allows you to control and monitor all aspects of your printer and print jobs, right from your browser.

Slic3r logo Slic3r

STL-to-GCODE translator for RepRap printers Here comes Slic3r! Its features are: - speed
  • OctoPrint Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-12-20
  • Slic3r Landing page
    Landing page //
    2018-12-27

OctoPrint features and specs

  • Remote Monitoring
    Allows users to monitor and control their 3D printer from anywhere with an internet connection, providing flexibility and convenience.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source ensures transparency and offers a large community for support, along with the ability to modify and customize the software.
  • Plugin System
    Extensive plugin architecture that allows for additional functionality and customization, enabling users to tailor their experience to specific needs.
  • Timelapse Creation
    Automatically generates timelapses of prints, which is great for documentation or sharing on social media.
  • Multi-Printer Management
    Supports multiple printers from a single interface, facilitating efficient management for those with several 3D printers.

Possible disadvantages of OctoPrint

  • Setup Complexity
    Initial setup can be complex and intimidating for beginners, requiring comfort with networking and Raspberry Pi configurations.
  • Resource Intensive
    OctoPrint can be resource-intensive, especially when using certain plugins, which might impact performance on lower-end hardware.
  • Security Concerns
    If not properly configured, remote access features could potentially expose the printer to security threats.
  • Dependency on Stable Internet
    Reliance on a stable internet connection for remote features means any disruption can affect monitoring and control.
  • Limited Mobile Support
    The web interface isn't fully optimized for mobile devices, which can limit usability on the go.

Slic3r features and specs

  • Open Source
    Slic3r is open-source software, so it is free to use and modify. This allows for community-driven improvements and customization.
  • Advanced Features
    Slic3r offers advanced features like variable layer height, customizable support structures, and multi-extruder support, which can be very beneficial for complex prints.
  • Cross-Platform
    The software is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
  • Active Community
    Slic3r has an active user community and extensive documentation, making it easier to find solutions to problems and learn best practices.
  • Integration with Other Software
    Slic3r can be integrated with other software such as OctoPrint for seamless 3D printing operations and remote management.

Possible disadvantages of Slic3r

  • Steep Learning Curve
    The software offers a wide array of settings, which can be overwhelming for beginners who are not familiar with 3D printing workflows.
  • Performance Issues
    Some users have reported that Slic3r can be slower than other slicing software when handling large models or complex settings.
  • Limited Direct Support
    Since it is open-source, there is no direct manufacturer support. Users rely on community forums and documentation for help.
  • Interface Usability
    The user interface is considered less intuitive compared to other slicing software available in the market, like PrusaSlicer or Cura.
  • Occasional Bugs
    As with many open-source software projects, occasional bugs and glitches can appear, affecting the stability and reliability of the software.

Analysis of Slic3r

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Slic3r is generally considered a good and reliable slicing software for 3D printing.

Why this product is good

  • Slic3r is praised for its open-source nature, flexibility, and powerful features. It offers a wide range of customization options and supports various types of 3D printers. The software provides advanced slicing capabilities, such as adaptive layer height, variable layer settings, and customizable support structures, which can enhance print quality and efficiency. Additionally, being part of the Prusa ecosystem, Slic3r is regularly updated and improved based on user feedback.

Recommended for

  • Hobbyists and professionals looking for a free, open-source slicing tool.
  • Users who require detailed control over print settings and configurations.
  • Those who are using Prusa printers or other compatible 3D printers.
  • Individuals who appreciate community-driven software with active development.

OctoPrint videos

Is OctoPrint any good? | REVIEW

More videos:

  • Review - Why You Should Use OctoPrint - OctoPrint Introduction
  • Review - The best Octoprint Plugins to enhance your 3D printing experience

Slic3r videos

๐Ÿ“Œ3DBenchy Top 3D Slicers Comparison Simplify3D vs Cura vs Slic3r vs Ideamaker vs Kiss vs Craftware

More videos:

  • Review - Slic3r and Cura: Which One is Better
  • Review - 3D printing guides - Setting up Slic3r

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OctoPrint and Slic3r)
3D
52 52%
48% 48
Architecture
47 47%
53% 53
CAD
48 48%
52% 52
Photos & Graphics
42 42%
58% 58

User comments

Share your experience with using OctoPrint and Slic3r. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OctoPrint seems to be a lot more popular than Slic3r. While we know about 110 links to OctoPrint, we've tracked only 3 mentions of Slic3r. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

OctoPrint mentions (110)

  • How could I send .gcode wirelessly
    The cheapest way is to use OctoPrint. Octoprint itself is free, and although it's often run on a Raspberry Pi, it can be installed on many things, such as an old laptop runing Linux or even Windows, or a small single-board computer. OctoPrint would connect to the printer using a USB cable, and you'd send the slicer output to Octoprint over your WiFi. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Error when manually trying to run octoprint from Orange Pi
    2023-11-08 14:10:57,263 - octoprint.util.connectivity.connectivity_checker - INF O - Resolving octoprint.org is working. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Raspberry Pi 5
    - Two LibreELEC (https://libreelec.tv/) mediaplayers in house (yes, one is not enough in my big family). - One for hosting low usage applications at home network (Unifi controller and some more). - Octoprint (https://octoprint.org) connected to the 3d-printer. - One on my desk for hardware hacking โ€“ mostly as just a PC with GPIO. - Some Raspberry Pi Zeros as security cameras. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • [3D Printer] (Microcenter In-Store Only) Creality Ender 3 V2 3D Printer - $99.99 ($279.00-$179.01)
    Really quite easy, especially if you have ever dealt with a raspberry pi before. Once installed & set up, you manage everything over a web interface. I even added a webcam to it in order to see what's going on. Check out https://octoprint.org/. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Aquila X2 locking up after printing crash
    For other devices it can be harder, there are guides for installing on Linux on the octoprint website (I use an old laptop running Linux Mint). If using an old Android phone look for Octo4A. Source: almost 2 years ago
View more

Slic3r mentions (3)

  • How would I split this model in Cura? (More details below)
    I split my Boba Fett helmet STL in Slic3r. It was incredibly easy to split the file into 8 parts. The top and bottom halves split at the visor line, then split those pieces into halves and then halves again so they will fit on the bed. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • What? Brim printed fine, but why is it doing this? Using Hatchbox PLA at 210 nozzle temp and 70 bed temp on an Ender 5 Plus. I'm using the Creality Slicer that came with
    Try using a diffent slicer. Either cura or slic3r. Source: over 3 years ago
  • tesla turbine style fan blade.
    I use Slic3r where the preview is quite easy to get, but the configuration might be a bit scary to get done (although the defaults are reasonable) as you want to try with adding or removing support material. Source: almost 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OctoPrint and Slic3r, you can also consider the following products

AstroPrint - Slice, Store, and Print your 3D files from any web enabled device.

Cura - Cura aims to be a end solution for personal 3D printing with RepRap based machines.

FreeCAD - An open-source parametric 3D modeler

IceSL - Welcome to IceSL!

MatterControl - MatterControl is a free, open source app that lets you organize and manage your 3D prints.

3DPrinterOS - 3DPrinterOS is a comprehensive solution that makes it easy to manage files, machine, and users around your business.