SelfCAD Vs. 3D Slash: Everything You Need to Know

3D printing is rapidly gaining popularity and becoming more accessible. With the increasing availability of affordable 3D printers, software is also becoming more important.

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are two software options for creating 3D models. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, so it can be challenging to determine which one is better for your needs. In this article, we will compare SelfCAD and 3D Slash in detail to help you make an informed decision.

What is SelfCAD?

SelfCAD is a 3D modeling and slicing software that allows users to create, modify, and print 3D designs. It is a browser-based application with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of design tools, including shape generators, parametric modeling, sculpting, and mesh mixing.

SelfCAD also provides a library of pre-designed objects, textures, and models that users can import and modify to fit their needs. The software supports multiple file formats for 3D printing and offers an in-built slicing tool that generates G-code for printing.

Now, let’s check out some of SelfCAD’s features that allow for easy 3D modeling in less time before exploring 3D Slash.

Simplify Object Tool

SelfCAD offers a Modify tool called Simplify Object, located in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to alter selected objects or chosen areas of the object by decreasing the number of faces or edges that form the object’s shape. However, if you continue to simplify the model excessively, it may lead to deformation.

Round Object Tool

SelfCAD provides a Modify tool named Round Object, accessed from the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by rounding their shape until they resemble a sphere, as the name implies.

Fillet Tool

SelfCAD has a Modify tool called Fillet, located in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by rounding the edges of the model, as the name suggests.

Chamfer Tool

SelfCAD offers a Modify tool called Chamfer, found in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by creating a beveled edge on the model, as the name implies.

Add Thickness Tool

SelfCAD provides a Modify tool called Add Thickness, accessed from the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool allows you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by adding volume to non-manifold objects.

What is 3D Slash?

3D Slash is a user-friendly 3D modeling software that allows users to create 3D designs using simple building blocks called “slashes.” It is designed for beginners, educators, and professionals who want to create 3D objects without the need for complex software or technical skills.

The software also features an intuitive interface, drag-and-drop functionality, and various customization options. 3D Slash can be used for a variety of applications, such as product design, prototyping, education, and game development.

Similarities Between SelfCAD and 3D Slash:

1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:

• SelfCAD and 3D Slash are 3D modeling software programs that allow users to create 3D models.
• These software programs are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• SelfCAD and 3D Slash have similar minimum system requirements, which include a modern CPU, a graphics card with OpenGL support, and at least 4 GB of RAM.
• Both software programs are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making them accessible to beginners as well as experienced 3D designers.

2. Cost/Licenses:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are two 3D modeling software programs that offer different features and tools. In terms of cost and licenses, there are a few similarities between the two:

• Free version: SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer a free version of their software with limited features and capabilities.
• Subscription-based: Both software programs are subscription-based, with SelfCAD offering monthly, annual, and lifetime licenses, while 3D Slash offers only monthly and annual licenses.
• Educational licenses: SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer discounted educational licenses for students and teachers.
• Commercial licenses: Both software programs offer commercial licenses for businesses, with SelfCAD offering additional features and tools in their higher-tiered licenses.
• No hidden fees: Both SelfCAD and 3D Slash do not have any hidden fees or charges and offer transparent pricing for their different licenses.

3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:

Here are some similarities between SelfCAD and 3D Slash in terms of user-friendliness and interface:

• SelfCAD and 3D Slash have user-friendly interfaces that are easy to navigate, making them suitable for beginners and experts alike.
• They both have drag-and-drop functionality, which makes it easy to import 3D models and manipulate them.
• Both applications offer a variety of tools and features that are easy to access and use, making the design process more efficient and streamlined.
• They both have a 3D view window that allows users to see their designs from all angles, making it easier to spot and correct errors.
• These applications offer tutorials and resources to help users learn how to use the software effectively.

4. Learning Curve:

• Both software has relatively short learning curves compared to more complex 3D modeling software like Blender or Maya.
• SelfCAD has a more comprehensive set of tools, making it a more feature-rich software for 3D modeling.
• 3D Slash, on the other hand, has a simpler interface and a more user-friendly approach to 3D modeling, which can make it easier for beginners to get started.
• Each software has extensive documentation and tutorials available to help users learn how to use them effectively.
• SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer free trials, so users can test them out before committing to a purchase.
• Ultimately, the choice between SelfCAD and 3D Slash will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences, as well as their level of experience with 3D modeling software.

5. Customer Support:

• SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer customer support through various channels such as email, phone, and live chat.
• They both provide extensive documentation, tutorials, and knowledge-base articles to help users learn and use their software effectively.
• Both platforms offer a community forum where users can ask questions and interact with other users.
• They also have social media accounts where users can reach out to them for support or follow-up for updates.

Differences Between SelfCAD and 3D Slash:

1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are both 3D modeling software that has some differences in terms of operating systems and system requirements. Here are some key points:

• Operating Systems: SelfCAD can be used on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, while 3D Slash is available for Windows and Mac only.
• SelfCAD also has a web-based version that can be accessed on any computer with an internet connection.
• System Requirements: SelfCAD requires at least 4GB of RAM and a dedicated graphics card, while 3D Slash can run on 2GB of RAM and integrated graphics.
• SelfCAD recommends a processor of at least Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, while 3D Slash only requires a processor with SSE2 support.
• SelfCAD also requires a modern browser, while 3D Slash can be installed as a desktop application.

2. Cost/Licenses:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are both 3D modeling software tools, but they differ in terms of cost and licensing. Here are the differences between SelfCAD and 3D Slash based on their price and licensing:

SelfCAD:

• SelfCAD offers a free trial version, which includes basic features and limited access to the software.
• SelfCAD offers a subscription-based model, which starts at $14.99 per month, and discounts are available for yearly subscriptions.
• SelfCAD offers a lifetime license for $699, which includes all features and future updates.
• SelfCAD also offers a student discount of 50%.

3D Slash:

• 3D Slash offers a free version with basic features and limited access to the software.
• 3D Slash offers a paid subscription-based model, which starts at $2.99 per month, and discounts are available for yearly subscriptions.
• 3D Slash also offers a lifetime license for $99, which includes all features and future updates.
• 3D Slash offers a special educational license for teachers and students.

3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:

• SelfCAD is an all-in-one CAD software that offers a comprehensive set of features, including modeling, sculpting, and 3D printing. Its interface is user-friendly, with an intuitive drag-and-drop functionality that allows users to create complex 3D models easily.
• On the other hand, 3D Slash is a voxel-based modeling software that is designed for beginners. Its interface is straightforward, with a block-based approach to 3D modeling. Users can create 3D models by combining blocks of different shapes and sizes.
• SelfCAD has a modern and sleek interface with a dark theme that is easy on the eyes. It features a toolbar on the left-hand side of the screen, which houses all the tools and features. SelfCAD’s interface is customizable, allowing users to adjust the layout to their liking.
• 3D Slash has a simple and colorful interface, with a block selection panel on the right-hand side of the screen. Users can select blocks and add them to the workspace by clicking on them. 3D Slash’s interface is not as customizable as SelfCAD’s, but it is easy to use and navigate.

4. Learning Curve:

• SelfCAD is a 3D modeling software that has a steeper learning curve than 3D Slash.
• SelfCAD offers more advanced features, such as parametric modeling and the ability to import and export files in various formats, which can make it more challenging for beginners.
• However, SelfCAD offers a comprehensive tutorial library and a user-friendly interface, which can make the learning process easier.
• 3D Slash, on the other hand, is a more intuitive software with a simpler interface, making it easier to learn for beginners.
• Overall, the choice between SelfCAD and 3D Slash depends on the user’s experience level and the complexity of the project they wish to undertake.

5. Customer Support:

• SelfCAD offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone, while 3D Slash provides support through email and an online help center.
• SelfCAD provides access to a knowledge base, tutorial videos, and a community forum, while 3D Slash only offers a limited online help center.
• SelfCAD offers a personal onboarding session to new users, while 3D Slash doesn’t have such an option.
• SelfCAD’s customer support team responds quickly to inquiries, while 3D Slash’s response time may vary.

Forge hassle-free 3D models with the best software:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are excellent 3D modeling software with unique features and benefits. SelfCAD is a more comprehensive software with advanced features suitable for professionals, while 3D Slash is an ideal choice for beginners with its block-based approach and easy-to-use interface.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the user’s needs and experience level. If you’re a professional or require advanced features, SelfCAD is the better choice. If you’re a beginner or need simple 3D modeling software, 3D Slash is an excellent choice.

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