3D modeling is fun, but also requires a lot of experience and is very time-consuming. Therefore it is often useful to research whether there is already a finished 3D model available for download that meets your requirements and needs.
Similar to photographs, marketplaces have developed on the Internet in recent years, where designers publish their 3D models and offer them for download. With the increasing popularity of 3D printing, both the number of 3D models published and the number of marketplaces have grown rapidly.
This guide will introduce you to the best websites to download ready-to-print 3D models, from functional parts up to your favorite superhero.
The following overview shows you the best websites for free 3D models by application area so that you can find and print your next project!
XYZprinting 3D Gallery
https://3d-gallery.xyzprinting.com/en-US/
The all-new XYZprinting 3D Gallery offers an easy-to-use platform dedicated to thousands of STLs, full-color OBJ files, and 3D Pen templates. The 3D models can be filtered by categories such as art, fashion, office, gadgets, housewares, education, tools, and toys. Editor’s picks showcase the most exciting models that are frequently updated and feature different themes and inspiration for every maker out there. Once you have found an interesting object, you can get more information by viewing the detail page and directly saving the 3D model to your computer or mobile device. Collect, comment, share and download your favorite designs or upload your own creations and become a member of our community! All models featured on the XYZ 3D Gallery are ready to print and can be turned into real objects within minutes. Save time for 3D modeling and find the part that you were looking for ready to be downloaded instantly. (In addition to the thousands of free 3D models, you are able to earn XYZ Points, by uploading your own models, and using them to get awesome discounts on printing materials, accessories, and even the newest 3D-Printers!)
Thingiverse
Thingiverse is probably the most popular exchange platform for 3D models at the moment. What’s special about Thingiverse is that many models are really useful because they were (mostly) created directly for 3D printing.
The only point of criticism is also the great advantage of Thingiverse: From over 1.000.000 models you can find very specific things, but if you just want to browse around, the flood of models doesn’t always make it easy to decide on what to print next.
MyMiniFactory
https://www.myminifactory.com/
MyMiniFactory calls itself YouTube for 3D printing. The special feature of this platform is that every 3D design is checked by the admins for 3D printability and is, therefore, suitable for 3D printing.
Besides the models for download, MyMiniFactory also offers a large number of exciting design challenges, which are often organized in cooperation with large companies such as Ikea or Autodesk.
Cults
Cults is also a marketplace for 3D models. The free 3D print templates are in the majority here. For some models, however, a small fee is requested by the original designers. This is mostly the case for high detailed fanart and other awesome display pieces. Also, check in for ongoing 3D design competitions and win awesome prizes!
Yeggi
Yeggi is a 3D model search engine that compiles search results from various websites. In this way, you will get a wide selection within a very short time. You can also track which models are the most popular at the moment.
STL Finder
As the name suggests, the STL Finder scans the World Wide Web for matching STL files. If you get an account, you can also bookmark your favorites for your next visit. And for all of you who want to have an idea of what is currently being printed by the 3D printing community: the STL-Finder also lists the most popular downloads.
Pinshape
If XYZprinting, Ultimaker, and Makerbot operate their own platforms, then it is almost logical that Formlabs should also follow this trend. The US desktop 3D printer manufacturer specializes in stereolithography 3D printers. Consequently, the platform also contains many models that are optimized for this technology. In contrast to YouMagine & Thingiverse, Pinshape also offers paid models.
GrabCad
GrabCad is part of the 3D printing giant Stratasys and is a platform that allows engineering and design teams to share CAD files and organize projects. Furthermore, there is a very impressive number of models, ranging from hobby models (e.g. many car 3D models) to professional engineering models. Textures are usually available and the models we review are of an appealing quality.
NASA 3D
https://nasa3d.arc.nasa.gov/models/printable
What a unique site! NASA has put 3D models of space-relevant models online for free. The 3D models range from space vehicles to the landing sites of individual space missions. Some models are marked for 3D printing and only need to be printed.
Sketchfab
Sketchfab is a perfect platform for makers looking for unique models. You can filter between STL and OBJ files, the latter providing color information for advanced 3D printing. The full-color OBJ models can also be 3D printed in full color with our XYZprinting da Vinci Color Series. How convenient!