Best Websites to download STL – 3D Print Models

Thingiverse, coming from the Makerbot team, is a website where users can share 3D models, designs, and ideas. Models range from gadgets, tools, and replacement parts to toys, trinkets, and figurines.

Running for over eight years, Thingiverse has acquired over a million “Things” on the site, all of which are free and printable. The platform’s biggest draw is the fact that everything can be downloaded openly and freely. But another thing people like is that comments, detailed descriptions, and “Makes” (by other users) allow for easy browsing as well as troubleshooting if a print goes wrong.

Yet, despite all of the models that have been added over the years, some may wish to try an alternative, whether it’s because they can’t find what they’re looking for on Thingiverse or because they’re interested in a specific area, like architecture or geography. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular platforms for 3D models!

MyMiniFactory

Created exclusively for 3D printing, MyMiniFactory features a community-centric website and a great selection of models. Though some of the models must be purchased, the prices are usually very low, and both paid and free models have great quality. The site invites both creators and printers alike.

Pros:

• Many free, high-quality models
• Relatively cheap models when not free
• Community-oriented and welcoming experience

Cons:

• Not the easiest to use
• Models are somewhat limited and unorganized

CGTrader

With a very well-sorted and professional appearance, CGTrader is an excellent alternative, so long as you’re willing to pay for a good model. That said, the level of quality usually fits the price pretty well, so you’re not paying more than what a model is worth. Additionally, the amount of available models is enormous, and the search tools make it easy to find what you’re looking for.

Pros:

• Excellent selection of high quality models
• “3D Printing section” with 3D printable models
• Easy to sort through models with organized and well-designed interface

Cons:

• Many paid models
• Some non-3D-printable models
• Interface suited to purchasing, not exploring

Cults

Offering a wide variety of 3D models, Cults is the perfect place to find something to 3D print. Every model on the site is 3D printable, and though a few models cost money, the price is usually very reasonable for what you receive in return. Also, Cults has a wide selection of useful objects, not just collectibles or decorative pieces. Thus you don’t have to worry about littering your home with printables that just sit around.

Pros:

• Many free models
• Extremely cheap models when not free
• Friendly, community-centric interface
• Many prints that are useful in day-to-day life

Cons:

• Some lower quality models
• Occasionally irrelevant search results

PinShape

If quality is your number one priority, check out Pinshape. It has tons of models to choose from, with each being of exceptional quality. Bundled with the fact that each model is 3D printable, Pinshape makes a great alternative to Thingiverse if you’re looking for a more professional platform.

Pros:

• Exceptionally high-quality models
• Professional, clean-looking platform
• Easy-to-navigate website

Cons:

• Some paid models
• Not very community-like compared to Thingiverse
• Smaller selection of models

YouMagine

YouMagine is probably the best alternative to Thingiverse in terms of similarity. Featuring a simplistic interface, as well as many of the same features found on Thingiverse, it makes for a quick and easy-to-learn alternative.

Pros:

• Not as crowded
• Higher quality models
• More specific search features

Cons:

• Slower website
• Much smaller variety of models

GrabCAD

Designed with the community in mind, GrabCAD is great for sharing designs and models, especially among professionals. Though the interface can seem a bit overwhelming at first glance, it has an incredibly varied collection of models.

Pros:

• Large selection and wide variety of high-detail models
• Community-oriented, welcoming site
• Well-designed interface with many features

Cons:

• Some paid models
• Many non-3D-printable models
• Difficult to search through overwhelming amount of models

Repables

Repables advertises itself as a 3D printable file repository that isn’t owned by a 3D printer manufacturer. Everything on the site is free and open to use, and the selection is growing quickly. The site is simple and doesn’t require much knowledge to use it.

Pros:

• The simplest website on this list
• Straightforward interface allows for quick download

Cons:

• Few advanced features
• No standard of quality

Feature image source: All3DP