AstroPrint vs CHITUBOX

AstroPrint is a platform for managing 3D printers and printer fleets. Its cloud library stores STL and G-code files, and users can slice designs in a browser. A cloud dashboard tool generates printable models from text prompts. Users can monitor prints and remotely pause, resume, or cancel them from a computer or smartphone; analytics cover filament use, printer operating hours, and print success rates. Printers can connect through AstroBox Touch, AstroBox Gateway, a self-built AstroBox, or the OctoPrint plugin. The mobile app can search Thingiverse designs and start prints. AstroPrint Desktop is listed for Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux, alongside Android, iOS, web, API, and self-hosted platforms. Klipper is supported for slicing only, and live video streaming is not available in the mobile app; a browser is needed for that. The free Basic plan includes 2 printers, 1 user, and 1GB file storage. Premium costs $9.90/mo and includes the first 5 printers, with each additional printer costing $5.

CHITUBOX Basic slices 3D mesh files and converts them into printable files for 3D printing. It runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows and imports STL, OBJ, and 3MF models. Before printing, its checks can identify cavities, collisions, overhangs, and islands. Basic is listed at free. CHITUBOX Pro adds model splitting, labels, Boolean operations, custom holes, and multiple support forms. It also offers ChituAction for scripted workflows, Magic Supports for automated custom support creation, and a Resin Material Alliance cloud library for downloading resin data and uploading custom material data. Network Sending requires ChituManager and a compatible printer. A CHITUBOX account page offers a 7-day Pro trial after login. Personal license keys work on up to two computers and team keys on up to five. CHITUBOX Dental is designed for dentistry and provides one-click preparation for dental models; its license supports one computer. Dental plan listings include a 3-year plan for $499 as a one-time purchase and a yearly plan for $1,951,229 a year. A monthly Dental plan is listed without a price.