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.
SketchList 3D
SketchList 3D is a specialized woodworking design software that helps you create detailed 3D models, automated cut lists, and material layouts to streamline your furniture and cabinet projects.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MatterControl | SketchList 3D |
|---|---|---|
| Website | matterhackers.com | sketchlist.com |
| Pricing Model | Free | One_time |
| Starting Price | Free | $99/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2012 | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Foothill Ranch, USA | Chicago, USA |
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.
SketchList 3D
SketchList 3D is a dedicated design tool built specifically for woodworkers, cabinet makers, and furniture designers. Instead of struggling with general-purpose CAD tools, you can use a virtual workbench approach where you add boards, resize them, and join them just like you would in a real shop. It handles the complex geometry of woodworking automatically, allowing you to focus on the design and proportions of your piece rather than technical drawing constraints.
You can instantly generate essential shop documents including optimized cut lists, material layouts, and assembly drawings. This eliminates manual calculation errors and significantly reduces material waste. Whether you are a hobbyist building a single bookshelf or a professional managing a custom cabinetry business, the software helps you visualize the finished product and plan every joint before you make your first cut.
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.
SketchList 3D Features
- Virtual Workbench. Design your projects by adding and manipulating virtual boards just like you handle real lumber in your workshop.
- Automated Cut Lists. Generate precise cut lists instantly that update automatically whenever you change a dimension in your 3D model.
- Material Layout Optimization. Map your parts onto plywood sheets or solid lumber to minimize waste and calculate exactly how much wood you need.
- Joinery Tools. Apply dados, tenons, and miters to your boards with dedicated tools that reflect real-world woodworking techniques.
- One-Click Contouring. Create complex shapes, curves, and holes on any board surface to visualize decorative details and hardware placements.
- Project Reports. Export detailed shop drawings and parts lists to guide your assembly process and provide professional client quotes.
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
SketchList 3D Pricing
- One-time purchase license
- Standard woodworking joints
- Basic cut lists
- Material layout diagrams
- Email support access
- Everything in Hobby, plus:
- Advanced contouring tools
- Cabinet wizard automation
- Custom report generation
- Priority technical support
- Enhanced material library
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
SketchList 3D
Pros
- Built specifically for woodworking logic
- Automated cut lists save hours of manual work
- Reduces expensive material waste through optimization
- Visualizes finished projects for client approval
- One-time purchase avoids monthly subscriptions
Cons
- Initial learning curve for the interface
- Graphics can feel dated compared to modern CAD
- Requires a capable Windows or Mac desktop