BCN3D Stratos vs KISSlicer

BCN3D Stratos is free slicing software for preparing 3D prints with BCN3D Omega, Sigma, and Epsilon printers. It imports STL, 3MF, OBJ, and AMF files, then lets users translate, scale, and rotate parts. Validated printing profiles are included, while expert users can adjust more than 500 parameters. For IDEX technology, the slicer supports multi-material models, support structures, mirror mode, and duplication mode for two print heads. Layer View displays print sections; X-ray View reveals internal parts and hidden geometries. Completed G-code can be sent to a networked printer or saved to removable media such as an SD card. Other listed options include gyroid infill, brim and raft adhesion settings, and bridges. BCN3D says Stratos is based on the open-source slicer Cura. It runs on 64-bit Windows 10 or higher, Mac OSX 10.11 or higher, and Linux, but is not available for older 32-bit systems. The product page links to a knowledge base, onboarding video, and feature tutorials. The listed plan is free.

KISSlicer turns STL files into printer-ready G-code and is a slicer, not a printer control app. Four Profile Wizards help configure printer, material, style, and support settings. Automatic support generation, resin slicing, and variable layer height are supported. The free plan costs nothing and allows multi-extruder printers to be used, but only one extruder can be selected for a print. Pro costs $42, paid once and enables multi-material printing, with extruders assignable to the raft, support, model, and sub-meshes. Premium costs $82, paid once and includes Pro functionality alongside listed features such as colorized meshes, texturing, dynamic density and gyroid infill, warp compensation, and curved surfaces. Profiles can be shared, and Project Files can archive print settings. The software supports Windows, macOS, and Linux; downloads are also listed for FreeBSD and Raspberry Pi. Its license permits commercial use and installation on multiple personal computers, with no time or model-size limit, and prohibits reverse engineering.