AstroPrint vs Formlabs PreForm
AstroPrint
astroprint.comFormlabs PreForm
formlabs.comSide by side
| Figure | AstroPrint | Formlabs PreForm |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $9.90/mo | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | — |
| Android | Yes | — |
| API | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Spec score · 3D Printing Software | 8.8 (#2) | 7.9 (#16) |
| Spec score · Additive Manufacturing Software | 8.6 (#2) | 7.7 (#11) |
| Compatibility limit | The compatibility page lists Klipper as supported for slicing only. | The latest PreForm version compatible with Form 1+ is 2.20.0, released March 12, 2019. |
| Founded | 2013 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | San Diego, California, United States | Somerville, Massachusetts, USA |
| Operating systems | AstroPrint Desktop is listed as compatible with Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux. | The download page offers Windows 10 64-bit version 1809 or later and macOS 13 or later, with Apple Silicon and Intel Mac downloads. |
Plans
In their own words
AstroPrint
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.
Formlabs PreForm
Formlabs PreForm has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.