There are a number of software that can be used to create and edit 3d files.
Firstly we should get familiar with formats of files, as this is a good way to understand the process of transforming 3d files (usually called .obj) into files that can be loaded into a 3d printer (called .gcode files.)
3D Software
Different applications will have their respective softwares associated, hence engineering applications tend to use computer aided design software (CAD) such as;
Mixed for beginners and simple creations
Software / Developer | Rating | Level | Freeware/Paid | URL |
Tinkercad | 4 | Easy | Freeware | Link |
Blender | 3 | Intermediate | Freeware | Link |
DesignSpark Mechanical | 2 | Hard | Freeware | Link |
FreeCAD | 3 | Intermediate | Freeware | Link |
Sketchup | 4 | Easy | Free web version | Link |
For more precise measurements and engineering leveled parts the following are amounts the most used software’s ranging from intermediate to advanced users.
Software / Developer | Rating | Level | Freeware/Paid | URL |
Creo Parametric | 4 | Intermediate | Paid | Link |
Autocad /AutoDesk | 3 | Intermediate to hard | Paid | Link |
Fusion 360 /AutoDesk | 5 | Easy to intermediate | Paid | Link |
Solidworks /Dassault Systèmes | 4 | Intermediate | Paid | Link |
For animators, artist’s and so forth which are aimed at not focusing on the measurements or gemorty of things and are looking for more freedom in terms of sculpting there the following software will prove useful.
Software / Developer | Rating | Level | Freeware/Paid | URL |
Maya /AutoDesk | 4 | Intermediate | Paid | Link |
3DS Max /AutoDesk | 3 | Intermediate to hard | Paid | Link |
Inventor /AutoDesk | 4 | Intermediate | Paid | Link |
ZBrush /Pixologic | 3 | Intermediate | Paid | Link |
Slicers
Please refer to printing wiki to see the recommended slicers available