3DPrinterOS
3DPrinterOS is a comprehensive cloud-based operating system designed to manage, monitor, and scale 3D printing networks across schools, enterprises, and service bureaus through a single centralized interface.
MatterControl
MatterControl is a comprehensive open-source 3D printing software that combines design, preparation, and printer management into a single interface to streamline your entire additive manufacturing workflow.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 3DPrinterOS | MatterControl |
|---|---|---|
| Website | 3dprinteros.com | matterhackers.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 0 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2013 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | Foothill Ranch, USA |
Overview
3DPrinterOS
3DPrinterOS provides you with a centralized cloud platform to manage your entire 3D printing infrastructure from a single dashboard. Whether you are running a small lab or a global enterprise, you can connect various printer brands, slice files in the cloud, and monitor print jobs in real-time. It eliminates the need for multiple proprietary software tools by providing a universal interface that works across Windows, Mac, and Ubuntu environments.
You can automate your entire production workflow, from initial file upload and repair to final print distribution and reporting. The platform helps you track material usage, manage user permissions, and generate detailed analytics to optimize your hardware investment. It is specifically built to solve the complexity of managing diverse printer fleets in educational institutions and high-security corporate settings.
MatterControl
MatterControl is an all-in-one desktop application designed to take you from initial concept to finished 3D print without switching between multiple programs. You can design parts from scratch using geometric primitives, import existing digital models, and slice them for production all within the same workspace. It eliminates the friction of managing separate CAD and slicing tools by providing a unified environment where your design changes update your print settings instantly.
You can manage your entire library of 3D designs and organize them into projects for easy access. The software supports a vast range of desktop 3D printers and offers advanced features like hardware-level leveling and cloud-syncing for your settings. Whether you are a hobbyist calibrating a single machine or a professional managing a small fleet, it provides the tools you need to ensure consistent print quality and reliable results.
Overview
3DPrinterOS Features
- Cloud Slicing Slice your 3D models directly in the cloud using optimized profiles for hundreds of different printer models instantly.
- Real-Time Monitoring Watch your print jobs live via integrated camera feeds and pause or cancel prints remotely from your dashboard.
- Automatic File Repair Fix manifold issues and mesh errors automatically during upload to ensure your prints succeed on the first try.
- User Management Assign specific access levels to students or employees and track their individual printer usage and material consumption.
- Universal Compatibility Connect and manage over 100 different 3D printer brands through a single, consistent interface across your entire organization.
- Advanced Analytics Generate detailed reports on print success rates, material costs, and machine utilization to improve your operational efficiency.
MatterControl Features
- Integrated Design Tools. Create 3D models directly in the app using simple geometric shapes and text tools to save time on basic design tasks.
- Advanced Slicing Engine. Convert your 3D models into G-Code with highly customizable settings for layer height, infill density, and support structures.
- Software Print Leveling. Achieve perfect first layers even on uneven print beds by using the automated software-based bed leveling calibration wizard.
- Cloud Sync Capabilities. Access your print settings, custom profiles, and design library from any computer by syncing your data to the cloud.
- Print Recovery. Protect your long-running projects from power outages or accidental disconnections with built-in tools to resume interrupted prints.
- Hardware Control. Monitor your printer in real-time and adjust temperatures or movement speeds on the fly during the printing process.
Pricing Comparison
3DPrinterOS Pricing
- Connect 1 printer
- Cloud slicing
- Basic file storage
- Standard repair tools
- Community support
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- Connect up to 5 printers
- Priority cloud slicing
- Advanced file repair
- Increased storage capacity
- Email support
MatterControl Pricing
- Full CAD design suite
- Integrated slicing engine
- Unlimited printer profiles
- Cloud library storage
- Automatic print leveling
- G-Code terminal access
- Everything in Open Source, plus:
- Regular software updates
- Community forum access
- Online documentation
- Open-source code access
- Plugin support
Pros & Cons
3DPrinterOS
Pros
- Supports a wide variety of printer brands simultaneously
- Cloud-based slicing removes the need for powerful local computers
- Excellent for managing student access in school labs
- Real-time video monitoring reduces physical trips to the lab
Cons
- Requires a constant internet connection for cloud features
- Initial setup of local printer clients can be technical
- Advanced features are locked behind higher enterprise tiers
MatterControl
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no subscription fees
- Unified workflow combines design and slicing in one app
- Excellent software-based bed leveling for older printers
- Frequent updates and active development from MatterHackers
- Clean and modern user interface compared to competitors
Cons
- Higher system resource usage than basic slicers
- Learning curve for the integrated design tools
- Occasional bugs in newer experimental software releases