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.
PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer is an open-source 3D printing preparation software that converts digital 3D models into instructions for your printer with advanced features like organic supports and multi-material painting.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MatterControl | PrusaSlicer |
|---|---|---|
| Website | matterhackers.com | prusa3d.com |
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2012 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Foothill Ranch, USA | Prague, Czech Republic |
Overview
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.
PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer is a powerful, open-source tool designed to bridge the gap between your 3D models and your physical 3D printer. You can import STL, OBJ, or STEP files and transform them into G-code instructions that your machine understands. The software provides a clean, tiered interface that grows with your experience, offering Simple, Advanced, and Expert modes so you never feel overwhelmed by technical settings while maintaining full control over your prints.
You can optimize your print quality using built-in profiles for hundreds of different printers and filaments, saving you hours of manual calibration. Whether you are a hobbyist printing decorative figures or an engineer producing functional parts, the software helps you solve complex geometry challenges with features like automated wood-grain textures and smart cooling logic. It is completely free to use and works across Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
Overview
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.
PrusaSlicer Features
- Organic Supports. Generate tree-like structures that use less filament and break away easily without leaving marks on your finished 3D prints.
- Multi-Material Painting. Apply different colors or materials directly onto your 3D model with a virtual brush to create complex, multi-colored objects.
- Variable Layer Height. Smooth out curves by using thinner layers on detailed areas while speeding up vertical walls with thicker layers automatically.
- Measurement Tool. Verify the exact dimensions of your models and check clearances between parts before you commit to a long print job.
- Text Embossing. Add custom text, serial numbers, or logos directly onto your 3D geometry without needing to go back to CAD software.
- G-code Viewer. Inspect every individual layer and toolpath of your print before starting to identify potential issues and save expensive filament.
Pricing Comparison
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
PrusaSlicer Pricing
- Full feature access
- Regular software updates
- Hundreds of built-in profiles
- Multi-platform support
- Community-driven development
- No registration required
- Everything in Open Source, plus:
- Access to source code
- GitHub community support
- Custom profile sharing
- Experimental feature testing
- Free documentation access
Pros & Cons
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
PrusaSlicer
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no hidden costs
- Frequent updates with innovative new features like organic supports
- Extensive library of pre-tested printer and filament profiles
- Native support for STEP files simplifies the engineering workflow
Cons
- Expert mode can be intimidating for absolute beginners
- Interface can feel cluttered when managing complex settings
- Limited built-in 3D modeling capabilities for original designs