OctoPrint vs Simplify3D
OctoPrint
octoprint.orgSimplify3D
simplify3d.comSide by side
| Figure | OctoPrint | Simplify3D |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | — |
| API | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Additive Manufacturing Software | 7.8 (#8) | 7.3 (#14) |
| Spec score · 3D Printing Software | 7.9 (#19) | 7.4 (#30) |
| Founded | 2012 | 2013 |
| Printer compatibility | The site says OctoPrint is compatible out of the box with most consumer 3D printers. | Simplify3D says its software integrates with more than 600 3D printers from hundreds of OEM brands. |
| Purpose | OctoPrint provides a web interface for controlling consumer 3D printers. | Simplify3D describes its desktop software as build preparation software for the 3D printing process. |
Plans
In their own words
OctoPrint
OctoPrint is free, open-source software that provides a web interface for controlling consumer 3D printers. From a browser, users can check print progress and temperatures, move the print head, and start, stop, or pause a job. The interface can show an embedded webcam feed and a visualization of the G-code being printed. A plugin system connects to OctoPrint’s official plugin repository for installation. Other listed features include timelapse recording, STL slicing, access controls, system commands, and event hooks. The site says it works out of the box with most consumer printers. Hosting options include Raspberry Pi, Android phone, Docker, Linux, Windows, and manual Mac installation. For OctoPi, Raspberry Pi 3B, 3B+, 4B, or Zero 2 is recommended; other hardware setups are not officially supported. Anonymous access is denied by default, and the documentation recommends a VPN or additional protection for internet access. OctoPrint does not control the embedded webcam, so its access controls cannot limit access to the webcam URL.
Simplify3D
Simplify3D has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.