Simplify3D
Simplify3D is a professional 3D printing software that provides a complete suite of tools to import, slice, and control your 3D printer for high-quality results and faster print speeds.
PolyBoard
PolyBoard is a parametric furniture design and manufacturing software that provides automatic 2D and 3D modeling, instant cutting lists, and CNC machine integration for professional cabinet makers and woodworkers.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Simplify3D | PolyBoard |
|---|---|---|
| Website | simplify3d.com | wooddesigner.org |
| Pricing Model | One_time | One_time |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2013 | 1987 |
| Headquarters | Cincinnati, USA | Paris, France |
Overview
Simplify3D
Simplify3D is a comprehensive 3D printing suite designed to bridge the gap between your digital models and physical objects. You can import your designs, simulate the printing process, and generate optimized instructions for your 3D printer within a single, integrated interface. It supports hundreds of different 3D printer models, ensuring you have a consistent experience regardless of the hardware you use.
The software focuses on giving you granular control over every aspect of your print. You can customize support structures, adjust cooling settings for specific layers, and use the lightning-fast slicing engine to prepare complex models in seconds. Whether you are an individual maker or part of a professional engineering team, it helps you reduce print failures and improve the surface quality of your finished parts.
PolyBoard
PolyBoard is a powerful parametric design tool specifically built for furniture and cabinetry projects. You can create complex designs for cupboards, kitchens, and shelving units by simply entering dimensions and assembly rules. The software automatically updates your 3D models, cutting lists, and material costs every time you make a change, ensuring your workshop data remains perfectly accurate throughout the design process.
You can manage every technical detail of your build, from hardware positioning and groove depths to edge banding and grain direction. Because it is parametric, you don't need to draw every line manually; instead, you define how the furniture should behave. This approach eliminates manual calculation errors and significantly speeds up the transition from a client's initial concept to the final production on your workshop floor.
Overview
Simplify3D Features
- Lightning-Fast Slicer Slice complex 3D models in seconds rather than minutes so you can spend more time printing and less time waiting.
- Custom Support Structures Place and remove support structures manually to protect delicate features and ensure easy removal without damaging your finished model.
- Dynamic Layer Settings Apply different settings to different regions of your model to optimize strength, speed, or detail exactly where you need it.
- Realistic Print Simulations Watch a detailed pre-print animation of your build process to identify potential issues before you waste any filament or time.
- Multi-Part Customization Assign different settings to different parts on the same build plate to maximize efficiency during high-volume production runs.
- Extensive Printer Support Connect with over 600 different 3D printers using pre-configured profiles that guarantee compatibility right out of the box.
PolyBoard Features
- Parametric Design. Change the overall dimensions of your cabinet and watch as every internal shelf, door, and hardware hole adjusts automatically.
- Instant Cutting Lists. Generate precise cutting lists in one click, including net and finished dimensions with automatic allowances for edge banding.
- 3D Photo-Rendering. Show your clients exactly what their project will look like with realistic textures, lighting, and 3D perspectives before you cut any wood.
- Hardware Management. Apply hardware brands like Blum or Hettich to your designs and automatically position the necessary drillings and machining.
- CNC Post-Processing. Export your designs directly to your CNC machine using dedicated post-processors for brands like Biesse, Homag, and Felder.
- Material Costing. Track your project costs in real-time by assigning prices to panels, edges, and hardware for instant, accurate quotes.
Pricing Comparison
Simplify3D Pricing
- One-time purchase price
- Install on 2 computers
- Supports 600+ printers
- One year of free updates
- Professional support access
- Everything in Personal, plus:
- Shared network licensing
- Easily move between users
- Centralized seat management
- Ideal for labs and offices
PolyBoard Pricing
- Full 2D and 3D design
- Access to all libraries
- Save your projects
- No time limit
- No manufacturing output
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Export cutting lists
- Export DXF files
- Full manufacturing reports
- Lifetime license
- Technical support access
Pros & Cons
Simplify3D
Pros
- Slicing engine is significantly faster than most competitors
- Manual support placement offers unmatched control over prints
- Extensive library of pre-configured professional printer profiles
- One-time purchase avoids the hassle of monthly subscriptions
Cons
- No free version available for casual hobbyists
- Major version upgrades often require an additional fee
- Interface feels slightly dated compared to modern apps
PolyBoard
Pros
- Parametric engine saves hours on design changes
- Extremely accurate cutting lists reduce material waste
- Excellent integration with a wide range of CNC machines
- Free version allows for extensive pre-purchase testing
Cons
- Initial setup of assembly rules takes time
- Windows-only software limits hardware choices
- Steep learning curve for advanced hardware libraries