The most popular 3D printing software app for Windows PC

Ultimaker Cura

Ultimaker Cura

  -  288 MB  -  Freeware
  • Latest Version

    Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 LATEST

  • Review by

    Juan Garcia

  • Operating System

    Windows 10 (64-bit) / Windows 11

  • User Rating

    Click to vote
  • Author / Product

    Ultimaker BV / External Link

  • Filename

    UltiMaker-Cura-5.9.0-win64-X64.exe

Trusted by millions of users, Ultimaker Cura is the world’s most popular 3D printing software. Prepare prints with a few clicks, integrate with CAD software for an easier workflow, or dive into custom settings for in-depth control.



Cura for PC is a powerful, open-source 3D printing software designed to streamline the process of preparing 3D models for printing. Developed by Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers, it offers a wide range of features aimed at both beginners and advanced users alike. It supports a variety of 3D printers and provides users with tools for slicing, optimizing, and previewing their prints.

At the heart of Cura is its powerful, open-source slicing engine, built through years of expert in-house development and user contributions. If you own a 3D printer, software matters. Get the most from your printer with software designed to suit your workflow. Manufacturing doesn’t need to be complicated.

Trusted by millions of users across 20 languages, Cura slices your model and integrates with any workflow through Marketplace plugins. Then scale production and digital distribution with Ultimaker Cloud.

Ultimaker offers the widest material choice on the market. Through Material Alliance, choose the perfect filament for your application – from advanced polymers to carbon fiber composites.

Highlights
  • Instant Intent Profiles: Effortlessly access specific applications with a single click.
  • Reliable Recommendations: Tested extensively for thousands of hours to ensure dependable results.
  • Customizable Control: Explore over 400 settings in 'Custom Mode' for precise adjustments.
  • Continuous Improvement: Benefit from regular updates that enhance features and streamline printing experience.
  • Quick Setup: Prepare your 3D model for printing within minutes using recommended settings.
  • Easy Configuration: Simply select speed and quality settings to initiate printing.
  • Free and Open Source: UltiMaker Cura is freely available and open source, empowering users with accessibility.
  • Seamless Compatibility: Integration with all UltiMaker products ensures a smooth workflow.
  • CAD Plugin Support: Seamlessly integrate with SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Autodesk Inventor, and more.
  • Versatile File Compatibility: Supports various file types including STL, OBJ, X3D, 3MF, BMP, GIF, JPG, and PNG.
  • Material Profiling: Access material profiles from leading brands tailored for specific applications.
  • Third-Party Material Support: Easily utilize third-party materials without manual setup.
  • Plugin Repository: Expand functionality with community-rated plugins, enhancing the print preparation experience.
Key Features
  • Slicing Engine: It boasts a robust slicing engine that converts 3D models into printable G-code files efficiently.
  • Customizable Settings: Users have access to a plethora of customizable settings, allowing them to fine-tune parameters such as layer height, infill density, and print speed to achieve optimal print results.
  • Built-in Profiles: The software comes with pre-configured profiles for a wide range of 3D printers, simplifying the setup process for users.
  • Print Preview: It offers a comprehensive print preview feature, enabling users to visualize their prints layer by layer before sending them to the printer.
  • Plugin Support: Users can extend the functionality of Cura through a variety of plugins, adding features such as additional print optimization algorithms and advanced toolpaths.
User Interface

It features a clean and intuitive user interface, with easy access to all major functions and settings. The main workspace provides a clear view of the 3D model and offers intuitive tools for manipulating and positioning objects. The toolbar offers quick access to slicing settings, print preview, and other essential features, making it easy for users to navigate the software.

Installation and Setup

Installing this program is a straightforward process. Users can download the software from the official Ultimaker website and follow the on-screen instructions to install it on their PC. Once installed, users can select their 3D printer from a list of supported models and configure any additional settings as needed.

How to Use
  • Import Model: Start by importing your 3D model into this app.
  • Slice Settings: Adjust slicing settings according to your preferences and print requirements.
  • Preview Print: Preview the sliced model to ensure everything looks as expected.
  • Save or Print: Save the G-code file to an SD card or send it directly to your 3D printer for printing.
FAQ

Can Ultimaker Cura support my 3D printer?
It supports a wide range of 3D printers, including models from major manufacturers such as Ultimaker, Prusa, Creality, and more. You can check the list of supported printers on the Ultimaker website.

Is Ultimaker Cura compatible with macOS and Linux?
Yes, Ultimaker Cura is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, ensuring accessibility for users regardless of their preferred platform.

Can I customize print settings in Ultimaker Cura for PC?
Absolutely! it offers extensive customization options, allowing users to adjust parameters such as layer height, infill density, print speed, and more to achieve desired print quality.

Are there any tutorials available for beginners?
Yes, Ultimaker provides comprehensive tutorials and documentation to help users get started with this software, covering everything from basic setup to advanced printing techniques.

Can I use plugins with Ultimaker Cura to extend its functionality?
Yes, it supports plugins that allow users to add additional features and capabilities to the software, such as new print optimization algorithms and advanced toolpaths.

Alternatives

PrusaSlicer: PrusaSlicer is a popular slicing software developed by Prusa Research, known for its robust features and user-friendly interface.

OctoPrint: OctoPrint is a free and open-source 3D printing host software that offers remote monitoring and control capabilities.

Slic3r: Slic3r is an open-source slicing software known for its speed and reliability, offering a range of features for optimizing print quality.

Simplify3D: Simplify3D is a premium slicing software known for its advanced capabilities and extensive customization options.

Pricing

Ultimaker Cura is available as a FREE download, making it accessible to users of all budgets. There are no subscription fees or hidden costs associated with the software, making it an attractive option for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Minimum system requirements
  • Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11
  • OpenGL 2 compatible graphics card, OpenGL 4.1 for 3D layer view
  • Display resolution 1024 x 768
  • Intel Core 2 or AMD Athlon 64
  • 550 MB available hard disk space
  • 4GB RAM memory
Recommended system requirements
  • Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11
  • OpenGL 4.1 compatible graphics card for 3D layer view
  • Display resolution 1920 x 1080
  • Intel Core i3 or AMD Athlon 64
  • Not all Intel integrated graphics support OpenGL 4.1 or higher.
  • 600 MB available hard disk space
  • 8GB RAM memory
PROS
  • Intuitive user interface
  • Extensive customization options
  • Wide range of supported 3D printers
  • Comprehensive print preview feature
  • Active community and plugin support
CONS
  • Some advanced features may be overwhelming for beginners
  • Occasional stability issues reported by users
  • Limited support for dual extrusion printing
Conclusion

It stands out as a powerful and versatile Windows 3D printing software, offering a plethora of features and customization options to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced users. Its intuitive user interface, extensive printer support, and active community make it a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as occasional stability issues, its overall performance and feature set make it a standout option in the realm of 3D printing software. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your 3D printing to the next level, Ultimaker Cura is definitely worth considering.

Also Available: Download Cura for Mac

  • Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshots

    The images below have been resized. Click on them to view the screenshots in full size.

    Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshot 1
  • Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshot 2
  • Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshot 3
  • Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshot 4
  • Ultimaker Cura 5.9.0 Screenshot 5

What's new in this version:

New features and improvements:
Scarf seam settings:
- New settings have been added in experimental that let you turn your Z seam into a scarf seam
- Scarf Seam Length Determines the length of the scarf seam, a seam type that should make the Z seam less visible
- Scarf Seam Start Height The ratio of the selected layer height after which the scarf seam will begin
- Scarf Seam Split Distance Determines the length of each step in the flow change when extruding along the scarf seam. A smaller distance will result in a more precise but also more complex G-code.
- Outer Wall Start Speed Ratio This is the ratio of the top speed to start with when printing an outer wall.
- Outer Wall (start) Acceleration This is the acceleration with which to reach the top speed when printing an outer wall
- Outer Wall End Speed Ratio This is the ratio of the top speed to end with when printing an outer wall.
- Outer Wall (end) Deceleration This is the deceleration with which to end printing an outer wall
- Outer Wall Speed Split Distance This is the maximum length of an extrusion path when splitting a longer path to apply the outer wall acceleration/deceleration. A smaller distance will create a more precise but also more verbose G-Code
- Updated the Start and End G-code:
- It is now possible to include conditional statements such as If/Else statements when editing the start and end G-code in your machine settings. This allows you to set up much more complex printer automation that responds to things such as the status of your printer or user input. Learn more about the possibilities on our wiki.

Added the "Extra Infill Lines to Support Skins:
- And other improvements to help make printing over sparse infill more reliable, contributed

More Improvements:
- Introduced Build Fan Speed at Height, Build Fan Speed at Layer, and Build Volume Fan Number to control extra fans, like those controlling the build volume separately
- Significant UI speed improvements interacting with custom settings especially if your printer has multiple extruders
- Introduced an Anycolor option for the UltiMaker S and F series enabling you to print with any UltiMaker color loaded in the material station that is compatible with the printjobs. Note that it’s only compatible with the latest version of the firmware (for Factor 4 >=10.1 and for S-series >=9.0, and it does not include the UltiMaker S3)
- Added an option to Export Package for Technical Support to the help menu, it includes a project file with the settings but also the logs
- Improved the way materials are selected when using multiple extruders to print the build plate adhesion so it doesn't default to the first extruder but the best option instead.
- Improved processes so not only installers but also executables inside installers are signed for Windows
- Introduced improvements to how models and projects with large file size (500MB) slice. A message was also added to inform the user when a file size is too big to slice.
- Made it possible for multiple Engine plugins that are registered to the same slot to be used together. (Only for Modify plugins, and Plugins will be addressed alphabetically)
- Moved the Gradual Flow Engine Plug-in to CuraEngine, this also resolved slicing crashes when the plugin was used in combination with large number of smaller models that were printed at once.
- Improved and expanded the Insert at Layer Change post-processing script, contributed
- Improved and expanded the Time Lapse Post Processing script, contributed
- Added a registry entry to provide the option to silent uninstall on Windows, contributed

Fixed:
- Fixed a crash that would occur when renaming profile names that would result in changing the order of the profiles
- Fixed a bug so objects in a 3MF reload in the same position as they were saved again, contributed
- Fixed an issue where overhanging walls and walls that were adjacent to overhanging walls were not printed at the correct speed
- Fixed a bug that prevented the "Sync materials with printers" page from displaying when accessed immediately after starting Cura or signing in
- Fixed a bug where reloading an updated model would not update the duplicates of the model on the build plate
- Fixed a bug that showed incompatible materials when switching between printers with a different filament diameter.
- Fixed a bug where tree support in enclosed holes has missing layers
- Made improvements in the G-codePathModify slot for Engine Plugins, contributed
- Fixed a bug that prevented changes to the initial layer diameter from being applied properly in tree support, contributed
- Fixed a rounding issue in the engine math
- Bugs resolved since the Beta release:
- Spiralize outer contour no longer adds unnecessary seams to the model
- When coasting is enabled the printhead no longer drops down
- Fixed coasting strategy so it's only applied to outer/inner walls, and not to skin, top-bottom, or infill
- Fixed wiping direction when printing a single wall
- Improved wiping in combination with the scarf seam
- Significantly improved the strategy for sharpest corner - smart hiding seam location combination
- Fixed a bug where long scarf seam length and short scarf seam steps would result in the seam being moved outward
- Fixed a bug where seam acceleration and deceleration around seam were not working
- Fixed a bug where infill was wrongly removed from narrow spaces
- Triple-clicking values and searches that you entered now has you select everything so you can edit it in the field similar to other desktop applications
- Updated dependencies and improved how unwanted and unused binaries are excluded from the building process
- Added Eazao material for the new Eazao printers
- Updated the urls schemes to make them more robust when attempting to open files in Cura
- Retract before outer wall now works correctly on all layers
- Resolved top reported crashes coming in via the analyzing tool Sentry
- Removed an unwanted Z-hop when starting a new layer
- Layer starts are more visible in the print preview with the scarf seam
- Made the X to close floating and pop up windows a little bigger
- Improved the visuals of printers with a build plate texture, they now render more consistently regardless of zoom or angle of view
- The UI now displays correctly on Wayland, with this fix we noticed some performance drop compared to X11

Introduced Makerbot Sketch Sprint:
- The new lightning-fast MakerBot Sketch Sprint has been released and is now supported inside of Cura
- Learn more about our fastest classroom printer; MakerBot Sketch Sprint
- Note: We are very happy with the performance of the Sketch Sprint profiles. However, the Sprint prints so fast that some users have experienced issues with overhangs that do not print as cleanly as they would like. If you find this yourself, you can increase the 'Minimum Layer Time' setting to give the overhangs more time to cool. If the issue persists then use supports to support any overhangs that are giving you trouble. We are always making improvements to our printer profiles and we expect that overhangs will only get better over time!

More Printers and Profiles:
- Introduced Makerbot Sketch and Sketch Large
- Introduced new materials to the UltiMaker Method series, ABS, PETG, Nylon-CF, and Tough PLA
- Introduced new materials for Labs Extruder of the UltiMaker Method series, BASF Ultrafuse 316L, TPE SEBS 1300 95A, and Polymax PC. Except BASF Ultrafuse 316L is not available on the Method XL.
- Various setting improvements for ABS and Nylon for UltiMaker Method series
- Various setting improvements for dual extrusion support for the UltiMaker Method series
- Implemented a hard limit so the bed temperature cannot be more than 120°C on all UltiMaker printers.
- Fixed an error in the profile Ultimaker 2 profile naming
- Introduced the Creality CR-M4, contributed
- Introduced Eazao M500, M600, M700, and Potter, and updated the Eazao Zero, contributed
- Introduced ZYYX+ and ZYYX Pro, contributed
- Updated acceleration settings for the Creality Ender-2 V3 SE, contributed
- Community Translations:
- Updated Japanese translations
- Brazilian Portuguese