Head-to-head · 3D Slicer Software
UltiMaker Cura vs Anycubic Photon Workshop
UltiMaker Cura leads on 0 checks, Anycubic Photon Workshop on 0, and 2 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 2 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 · 9.2/10
- Free planboth
- Most featuresUltiMaker Cura · 1 of 3
UltiMaker Cura scores higher on our rubric for 3d slicer software: 9.2 against 8.3 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #8.
UltiMaker Cura is the better fit for FDM users who want extensive print controls. Anycubic Photon Workshop is the better fit for free Anycubic resin printing.
- UltiMaker Cura fits best
FDM users who want extensive print controls
- Anycubic Photon Workshop fits best
Free Anycubic resin printing
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Side by side
| Feature | UltiMaker Cura 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | Anycubic Photon Workshop 8.3/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.3 |
| Ranking | #2 in 3D Slicer Software | #8 in 3D Slicer Software |
| Best for | FDM users who want extensive print controls | Free Anycubic resin printing |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free | Free plan |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS |
| Features UltiMaker Cura 1/3 · Anycubic Photon Workshop 0/3 | ||
| Resin slicing | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Multi-material printing | ✓ (best) | Not checked yet |
| Variable layer height | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Support generation | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported platforms | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Input file formats | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Output file formats | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | UltiMaker Cura is free, open-source desktop software for preparing 3D prints. It converts 3D models into printer-ready G-code and is designed for makers, educators, designers, engineers, and manufacturing users. The software runs on… Read the review → |
Anycubic Photon Workshop is a free desktop slicer for resin 3D printing with Anycubic printers. It is aimed at makers who need a focused workflow from model preparation through printer-ready file export. The software imports STL and OBJ… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
UltiMaker Cura — where it wins
- 400+ configurable settings for detailed print control
- Automatic supports, adaptive layers, and multi-material workflows
- Free, open-source, and available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
Where it doesn't
- Cloud slicing is provided through a separate Cura Cloud interface
- Network sending and monitoring support compatible UltiMaker printers
- The breadth of settings can make setup more involved for beginners
Anycubic Photon Workshop — where it wins
- Free plan includes resin slicing, supports, repair, and editing tools
- Printer-specific export with machine, resin, and print-parameter settings
- Hollowing, drainage holes, previews, splitting, and remote monitoring
Where it doesn't
- Platform coverage is limited to Windows and macOS
- Remote printing and video monitoring apply to supported printers
- Focused on Anycubic resin workflows rather than broader integrations
- UltiMaker Cura9.2/10 · Free plan
A capable free slicer for FDM users who want detailed control over print preparation.
Visit UltiMakerFull verdict → - Anycubic Photon Workshop8.3/10 · Free plan
A free desktop slicer with resin workflows, printer export, repair, and monitoring tools.
Visit AnycubicFull verdict →
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All 3D slicer software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update