UltiMaker Cura — The Complete Guide: Free Slicing for 3D Printing
UltiMaker Cura is an open-source slicer: it takes a 3D model (STL, 3MF, OBJ) and turns it into the layers and toolpaths (G-code) that the printer understands. It is completely free and supports hundreds of printer models, not just UltiMaker's.
UltiMaker Cura
UltiMaker
The most widely used slicer — ready profiles for almost any printer.
Get it from the vendorThe settings that decide part quality
- Layer height — 0.1 to 0.3 mm: thinner layers give a smoother surface but a longer print.
- Infill — percentage and pattern (gyroid, grid). For a load-bearing part, wall thickness matters more than infill percentage.
- Supports — for overhangs; “tree” supports save material and are easy to remove.
- Print orientation — printed parts are weak between layers, so orient the part so that the load does not act across the layers.
For engineers
Design the part in FreeCAD or OpenSCAD, export STL and open it in Cura. Print a calibration cube to check tolerances before printing parts that must fit together. The preview mode shows every layer and every toolpath before printing.
Alternatives
PrusaSlicer and OrcaSlicer are excellent open slicers, with advanced control and good support for Prusa and Bambu printers. To repair a broken STL — MeshLab.
PrusaSlicer
Prusa Research
Turns a 3D model into printable G-code, with full parameter control.
Get it from the vendorOrcaSlicer
OrcaSlicer Project
A slicer with built-in calibration tests — for precise printer tuning.
Get it from the vendor
FreeCAD
FreeCAD Project
Open-source parametric 3D modeller with workbenches for solid modelling, FEM, drafting and BIM.
Get it from the vendor
MeshLab
ISTI — CNR
Mesh and point cloud processing — hole filling, simplification, alignment and format conversion.
Get it from the vendorThe bottom line
Cura is a good starting point for anyone who 3D prints: sensible defaults for beginners, and hundreds of advanced settings for those who want full control.