Head-to-head · 3D Printing Software
PrusaSlicer vs Slic3r
PrusaSlicer leads on 1 check, Slic3r on 0, and 6 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 7 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Free planboth
- Most featuresPrusaSlicer · 5 of 6
Our editors rank PrusaSlicer at #3 and Slic3r at #4 for 3d printing software; PrusaSlicer and Slic3r have no rubric score yet (facts researched, not yet scored), so the checks below decide.
PrusaSlicer offers print monitoring; Slic3r doesn't publish it.
PrusaSlicer is the better fit for free multi-material slicing with automation options. Slic3r is the better fit for established free FDM slicing.
- PrusaSlicer fits best
Free multi-material slicing with automation options
- Slic3r fits best
Established free FDM slicing
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Side by side
| Feature | PrusaSlicer —/10 Visit ↗ | Slic3r —/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | — | — |
| Ranking | #3 in 3D Printing Software | #4 in 3D Printing Software |
| Best for | Free multi-material slicing with automation options | Established free FDM slicing |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Not published | Not published |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Integrations | 5 integrations | 1 integrations |
| Features PrusaSlicer 5/6 · Slic3r 4/6 | ||
| Auto supports | ✓ | ✓ |
| Printer control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Print monitoring | ✓ (best) | Not published |
| Cloud slicing | — | Not published |
| Multi-material tools | ✓ | ✓ |
| Model repair | ✓ | ✓ |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | PrusaSlicer is desktop software for converting 3D models into printable G-code. It supports FDM and resin workflows, configurable printer and material profiles, automatic and manual support generation, multi-material preparation, model… Read the review → |
Slic3r is open-source 3D printing software for preparing digital models for FFF/FDM printing. It slices models into layers, generates G-code and toolpaths, and provides visual previews for inspecting print paths. The desktop application… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
PrusaSlicer — where it wins
- Free, open-source slicing for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Multi-material painting, multi-extruder preparation, and support generation
- Command-line automation with preview, repair, and host transfer
Where it doesn't
- Slicing runs locally rather than through cloud slicing
- No AI features are included
- Advanced capabilities may be more than simple print jobs need
Slic3r — where it wins
- Free, open-source slicing for Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Support generation, mesh repair, and multi-material preparation
- Printer control, OctoPrint integration, and batch processing
Where it doesn't
- Primarily aimed at advanced users
- SLA/DLP workflows are experimental
- The official site lists version 1.3.0 from 2018
- PrusaSlicer—/10 · Free plan
A capable local slicer for multi-material preparation, automation, and detailed print control.
Visit PrusaSlicerFull verdict → - Slic3r—/10 · Free plan
A mature free slicer with multi-material tools, printer control, and OctoPrint integration.
Visit Slic3rFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026