Head-to-head · 3D Printing Software
Slic3r vs UltiMaker Cura
Slic3r leads on 1 check, UltiMaker Cura on 1, and 5 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
- Highest scoreUltiMaker Cura · 7.3/10
- Free planboth
Our editors rank Slic3r at #4 and UltiMaker Cura at #5 for 3d printing software; Slic3r has no rubric score yet (facts researched, not yet scored), so the checks below decide.
UltiMaker Cura offers print monitoring; Slic3r doesn't publish it. Slic3r offers model repair; UltiMaker Cura doesn't publish it.
Slic3r is the better fit for established free FDM slicing. UltiMaker Cura is the better fit for free users wanting mature, configurable FDM slicing.
- Slic3r fits best
Established free FDM slicing
- UltiMaker Cura fits best
Free users wanting mature, configurable FDM slicing
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Side by side
| Feature | Slic3r —/10 Visit ↗ | UltiMaker Cura 7.3/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | — | 7.3 |
| Ranking | #4 in 3D Printing Software | #5 in 3D Printing Software |
| Best for | Established free FDM slicing | Free users wanting mature, configurable 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 | 1 integrations | 3 integrations |
| Features Slic3r 4/6 · UltiMaker Cura 4/6 | ||
| Auto supports | ✓ | ✓ |
| Printer control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Print monitoring | Not published | ✓ (best) |
| Cloud slicing | Not published | — |
| Multi-material tools | ✓ | ✓ |
| Model repair | ✓ (best) | Not published |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | 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 → |
UltiMaker Cura is free, open-source desktop software for preparing 3D prints. It converts 3D models into printer-ready G-code and is aimed at makers, educators, designers, engineers, and manufacturing users. Downloads are available for… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
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
UltiMaker Cura — where it wins
- 400+ configurable settings with intent-based and recommended profiles
- Supports automatic supports, adaptive layers, and dual-extrusion workflows
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with open-source plugins
Where it doesn't
- Cloud slicing is handled separately from the downloadable desktop product
- Network sending and monitoring are for compatible UltiMaker printers
- The large settings set may suit advanced users more than basic workflows
- Slic3r—/10 · Free plan
A mature free slicer with multi-material tools, printer control, and OctoPrint integration.
Visit Slic3rFull verdict → - UltiMaker Cura7.3/10 · Free plan
A configurable, cross-platform FDM slicer with profiles, supports, adaptive layers, and network printing.
Visit UltiMaker CuraFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026