There are many STL files repositories, 3D model marketplaces, and 3D design search engines available online. 3D makers need 3D printable models before starting 3D printing. STL files are the most common 3D printing file formats. Therefore, we searched the Internet to create the list of top 10 best sites to download free STL files and 3D printer models.
(Source: Cults)
Containing thousands of STL files, these websites allow you to download and share a huge variety of 3D models. These are divided into different categories, ranging from jewelry and design to more complex items such as automobiles or engineering parts. Most of the 3D model repositories in our list are completely or partially free, therefore no need to spend a lot of money to get awesome 3D models. Please see the following Top 10 STL Files websites so that you can make the most out of your 3D printer and unleash your creativity.
1. Thingiverse
One of the biggest and certainly the most popular websites with free STL files and 3D printer models on the Internet. This website is operated by MakerBot Industries, the well-known 3D printer manufacturer of the Replicator series. Thingiverse is well-established and mature, with a huge community of dedicated makers offering free STL files to download in varying categories and complexity. Users of all levels can upload, share, and download 3D printable models for free.
2. MyMiniFactory
MyMiniFactory, one of the most popular websites with models in the best quality, is a community and repository for 60,000+ free and paid 3D printable models and files. Managed by iMakr, an online store that sells 3D printers and accessories, the site offers 3D printer files made by professional designers and all of the uploaded files are carefully selected and quality tested. You can find here also a web store where you can buy ready, printed out models.
3. Cults
Cults is a French 3D printing marketplace where makers can share or sell their STL files. This 3D printer file marketplace is available in English, French and Spanish, and offers both free and paid 3D models. Users can follow their favorite designers or get instant updates when a new creation is posted. Users can interact with each other, ask questions and save their favorite 3D designs for a later 3D print.
4. Pinshape
Pinshape is another large 3D printing community that describes itself as a “3D marketplace full of high-quality designs”. in addition to free STL files, Pinshape also offers premium 3D printer models. One feature that sets this STL file marketplace apart from the rest is that Pinshape offers an interesting file streaming option which allows users to edit, slice and 3D print a 3D model directly from Pinshape without downloading the 3D model file.
5. YouMagine
YouMagine is a community website managed by Ultimaker, the open source 3D printer company, where users can upload, share and download 3D models. The STL files are free and 3D printable on any fused filament fabrication printer. This STL file repository features various collections to help users find inspiration and the right 3D design.
6. CGTrader
CGTrader is a marketplace where users can buy and sell 3D designs. They’re not just limited to CAD files, however; this site also offers a nice selection of free 3D printer files to download which can be fabricated on any 3D printer. Of the staggering 770,000+ 3D models available in various categories, a vast number are 3D printable and can be downloaded after creating a free account with the site.
7. GrabCAD
The mission statement of GrabCAD is to “help mechanical engineers build great products faster”. GrabCAD belongs to Stratasys, one of the USA’s leading 3D printer brands. It is focused on the mechanical engineers community, with more than 1 million members help the general public find designs. The site offers tools that help users collaborate in the development of their designs, and a portion of that includes 3D printer models. In addition to free STL files, the site also offers the free 3D printing software GrabCAD Workbench and GrabCAD Print.
8. Yeggi
Yeggi is a popular search engine of 3D printable files launched in 2013. Yeggi aggregates models from many 3D printing communities and marketplaces to offer a large selection of files for 3D printing. Its homepage highlights the most searched and clicked 3D models. It is also possible to use some basic filters to narrow the search.
9. Shapetizer
Shapetizer is a 3D printing marketplace for the Chinese market, offering STL files and 3D printable models in most categories from jewelry to video games. Designers from all over the world are uploading, sharing and selling their 3D designs on this 3D marketplace. Full functionality is limited to registered users, but once you’re in, there’s a good mix of paid and free STL files to download. To protect designers’ intellectual property on 3D designs, some 3D models are only available via a streaming option and not for download.
10. Threeding
Threeding is an online 3D printing marketplace offering free and paid 3D printable models and files. Users can upload, share or sell and download 3D models. This platform allows individuals and businesses to buy, sell or just exchange any 3D designs. All the 3D designs are classified into categories to help with the search process. Moreover, there are filters to refine the search (price, file format, and texture).
Enjoy our list of the top 10 best sites to download free STL files & 3D printer models, and each site will surely let you browse a large choice of 3D printing designs to draw inspiration, 3D print at home and unleash creativity!
Post time: Mar-13-2019