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I’m new to 3D printing world here and am learning as I go. I’ve been using Cubify’s Design software and researching their printers. I thought I read somewhere where there is also open source 3D printing software. So my two questions are:

  1. Is there open source 3D design software? If so, who maintains it and is it decent?
  2. What are your thoughts on Cubify’s 3D printer the “Cube Pro” ? As I’ve been seeing people with printing hubs I haven’t seen many of Cubify’s printers showing up in the results.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts

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1st question: For parametric modeling I have started to use Onshape although many people use Sketchup. For modeling/artistic stuff many people use Blender. Being able to save a .stl file is usually the key.

2nd question: 3D Systems has had delivery issues in the past and generally it is said their hardware is not open source or easy to work on. Primarily, their filament cartridges are expensive. I used one in college about 2 years back and the print quality was comparable to the makerbot at the time. About a year ago I tried ordering a Cube and after about two months of waiting I had to cancel my order and just go with a different supplier. Maybe 3D system’s customer service is better for institutions or high-grade professional customers but I didn’t get a warm fuzzy feeling with them.

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Thanks for the reply and info.

You mention Onshape and Sketchup… are those the best open source alternatives in your opinion?

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I have among my other 5 3D printers Cube 3.

It is very easy to use, prints great when it works, but it is closed system just as the Cube Pro.

This means you have to use 3D Systems Filaments and Slicer.

3D Systems use to have issues with late deliveries but not any longer at least I never had a problem with shipping nor their customer service. I think both maybe were not up to par in the past but they have improved both.

I would have to ask you what you plan on printing with the printer?
I myself would not get a Cube Pro as I think there are better printers on the market within that price range.

As far as Cubify’s Design Software I think it’s pretty good. I have other software’s such as Sketchup, Auto Desk Fusion 360, Solidworks, etc. and I use the one that will be the most simple to use for the part I am designing. With that said I use Cubify’s Design the most as it is easy to use and not much of a learning curve.

One more thing, Cubify also has Cubify Invent, it is exactly like Cubify Design but you cannot do assembles.

However it is $49.00 for Cubify Invent verses $199.00 for Cubify Design.

I not ever use assemble so I should have gone with Invent and saved.

For the money you cannot go wrong with Cubify Invent or Design.

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Peter,

Thanks for your reply and the info. Very helpful!