A 3D printing tool is not available on all operating systems. That is why looking for a tool that supports your operating system is crucial. If you use a MacBook, then you will need to find a tool that will support it for ease of use.
So, if you don’t know where to find the best 3D printing software for Mac, you have come to the right place. Here is a complete guide to all the tools you can choose from.
Top 7 Best 3D Printing Software For Mac
- AstroPrint – Best for Keeping 3D Models Stored on the Cloud
- Blender – Best for Sculpting
- Autodesk Fusion 360 – Best for Advanced 3D Printing Capabilities
- ideaMaker – Best for Developing G-Code
- MakePrintable – Best for Analysing and Repairing 3D Models
- Ultimaker Cura – Best for Ease of Use
- 3D Slash – Best for Working with Blocks
1. AstroPrint – Best for Keeping 3D Models Stored on the Cloud
Pricing: Starts at $9.90 per month
AstroPrint is an incredibly powerful 3D printing tool that will help you manage multiple 3D printers. You can store the 3D models in the cloud and access them from anywhere. Besides that, you can also add and edit your designs with the STL viewer in no time.
The best part is that you can look at the real-time of all your 3D prints. All you have to do is add a camera to take snapshots, stream live video, and take a timelapse. So, if you want to optimize 3D printing and store it on the cloud, you can opt for AstroPrint.
Key Features
- Remote Printing
- Analyze Printing Speed
- Find or Identify a 3D printer
- Push Notifications
- Scaling and Rotation
Reasons To Buy
- The interface is easy to use
- You can use the tool to scale, arrange, rotate, push, or pull the designs
- It will reflect all the changes on the display
Reasons To Avoid
- It includes chargeable functions
2. Blender – Best for Sculpting
Pricing: Free
The best thing about Blender is that it is an excellent free and open-source app for Mac users. It specializes in sculpting, but it has capabilities that reach beyond this. You can create models with different brush types and tools that will help you get an accurate model in no time.
It facilitates an efficient and fast workflow to ensure you are getting the most out of it. Blender is also a great tool for professionals. That is because it can help you enhance your 3D printing skills and guarantee you can print complicated 3D models.
Key Features
- Customizable Interface
- Architectural and Geometric 3D Models
- 3D Video Editing
- Media Library
- Video Stabilization
Reasons To Buy
- Even first-time users can create excellent 3D models
- Each update enhances the performance
- The documentation is excellent
Reasons To Avoid
- It comes with a learning curve
3. Autodesk Fusion 360 – Best for Advanced 3D Printing Capabilities
Pricing: Starts at $60 per month
The Autodesk Fusion 360 has incredibly advanced capabilities that will enable you to get the most out of your 3D printing. There are no limitations, and you can unleash your creativity. Many professionals such as industrial designers and mechanical engineers use this platform.
It comes with a free version that is perfect for personal use. As a professional, you can also use it with your team to share designs. So, if you want advanced 3D printing capabilities, you must not look further than Autodesk Fusion 360.
Key Features
- Cloud User Storage
- Secure Data Management
- Supports Many File Types
- Modeling Tools
- Design Tools
Reasons To Buy
- It is ideal for professional 3D printing
- The platform is good for collaborative team building
- It offers task and project management
Reasons To Avoid
- The tool is costly
4. ideaMaker – Best for Developing G-Code
Pricing: Starts at $75 per seat per month
ideaMaker is one of the top 3D printing tools that will help you develop G-Code. Besides that, it also supports many file formats for your ease on your MacBook. The interface is easy to use, and there are many customization features.
That is why it is the perfect 3D printing tool for professionals and beginners. However, it can be a little expensive for beginners. That is why professionals will be able to get a high value on their investment from this tool.
Key Features
- Remote Monitoring
- Task and Project Management
- FDM 3D Printer Capability
- Multiple Language Support
- Connect with Third-Party Open-Source 3D Printers
Reasons To Buy
- The printing experience is excellent
- You can adjust the height of the layer with print analysis
- You can print multiple 3D files at one time
Reasons To Avoid
- It can use more model and mesh modification tools
5. MakePrintable – Best for Analysing and Repairing 3D Models
Pricing: Starts at $14.99 per month
MakePrintable is one of the best tools for Mac users for analyzing and repairing 3D models. It has some of the most advanced technology that will take your models to the next level. The best part is that you can do these tasks efficiently and quickly.
There is also a feature that automatically adjusts your wall thickness. It takes this action so that your print strength does not suffer any compromise. So, if you want to repair or analyze 3D models, be sure to check MakePrintable.
Key Features
- 3D Optimization Technology
- Color Picker
- 3D Model Analyzer
- Import Files
- Manage and Adjust Wall Thickness
Reasons To Buy
- You can import files from the cloud
- The 3D optimization technology is incredibly advanced
- The analyzer will indicate any issues before you begin with the printing process
Reasons To Avoid
- It will take you some time to get used to the platform
6. Ultimaker Cura – Best for Ease of Use
Pricing:
Ultimaker Cura is perhaps the most popular 3D printing software for Mac users. The functionality is easy to use, and you will not have to go through a steep learning curve. It takes CAD models and turns them into G-Code for 3D printing.
You can also customize this tool according to your 3D printing preferences and needs. So, whether you are a beginner or a professional, you will get a lot of use from this tool for a long time.
Key Features
- CAD Integrations
- Supports All 3D Printing File Formats
- Plugins
- Cross-Platform Distribution System
- More Than 400 Adjustable Settings
Reasons To Buy
- You can print the model with only a few clocks
- The settings range from quick printing to expert levels
- It can easily streamline your printing experience
Reasons To Avoid
- The built-in features are a little limited
7. 3D Slash – Best for Working with Blocks
Pricing: Starts at $2 per month
If you are a complete beginner, 3D Slash is a perfect choice. That is because the tool works with drills and hammers to help you work with blocks. You start with a big block and then edit by subtracting or adding cubes.
The software is easy to use and fun for Mac users. However, it is not the ideal choice for you if you create professional 3D models.
Key Features
- Sculpting
- Controls
- Pipeline
Reasons To Buy
- There is a free version for you to try
- It integrates with other CAD software
- It is easy to use
Reasons To Avoid
- It glitches sometimes