QIDI Slicer – Precision 3D Printing Made Simple
QIDI Slicer is the dedicated slicing software designed for QIDI Technology 3D Printers. Engineered for speed, accuracy, and reliability, it converts your 3D models into printer-ready instructions with optimized settings for every QIDI machine. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced maker, QIDI Slicer empowers you with intuitive controls, smart profiles, and professional-grade output for consistently successful prints.
Why Choose QIDI Slicer?
Unlike generic slicing software, QIDI Slicer is tailored for QIDI’s hardware, ensuring maximum print quality, reduced errors, and efficient material usage. With advanced features like custom print profiles, precise layer control, and multi-material compatibility, it offers both simplicity for hobbyists and depth for professionals. Every update is built to enhance performance, making QIDI Slicer the trusted choice for designers, engineers, educators, and creators worldwide.
Features at a Glance
Built for QIDI Technology 3D printers, QIDI Slicer streamlines model preparation with smart defaults and fine-grained controls. Whether you’re prototyping or running production prints, these capabilities help you achieve repeatable, high-quality results.
Optimized Print Profiles
Ready-to-use profiles tuned for QIDI printers reduce guesswork and improve first-print success—great for beginners, fast for pros.
Granular Control
Adjust layer height, walls, infill, speeds, and temperatures with precision. Save presets for different materials or quality targets.
Smart Supports
Auto-generated supports with editable density and patterns for clean removal and reliable bridging on complex models.
Speed & Quality Modes
Switch between draft, standard, and high-detail modes to match your deadline and surface-finish requirements.
Material-Aware Presets
Practical defaults for PLA, PETG, ABS, and more. Fine-tune nozzle and bed temps, cooling, and retraction per filament.
Bed Layout & Arrange
Auto-arrange, rotate, and scale parts to maximize build-plate usage and minimize print time and supports.
Reliable G-code Output
Export clean G-code optimized for QIDI firmware for predictable starts, solid walls, and consistent layer adhesion.
Consistency & Repeatability
Versioned profiles and reproducible settings help teams keep results consistent across printers and print farms.
Quick Specs
- OS: Windows / macOS (where available)
- Formats: STL, 3MF, OBJ (import); G-code (export)
- Printers: QIDI Technology 3D printers
- Use Cases: Prototyping, functional parts, education, hobby
Download QIDI Slicer
Recommended for most users. Choose the installer (.EXE) or a portable ZIP if available.
Choose the universal .DMG when available; .PKG may be provided as an alternative.
Prefer the portable .AppImage; distro packages may be available.
Getting Started with QIDI Slicer
Install, configure, and achieve reliable results quickly. This expanded guide balances speed, quality, and repeatability, with clear choices when trade-offs are required.
Check Requirements
| Component | Recommended |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10/11, macOS 12+ (Monterey or newer), or a current Linux distro (Ubuntu/Fedora/Arch) |
| CPU | 64-bit dual-core+ (quad-core improves slicing/preview performance) |
| RAM | 8 GB (16 GB for large organic meshes or high-poly scans) |
| GPU | Integrated is fine; a discrete GPU speeds previews with dense supports |
| Disk | 1–2 GB free + room for model libraries and G-code archives |
0.4 mm brass/hardened), stable bed hardware, and clean build plate. If your model has a firmware updater, run it before your first long print.Download & Install
Use the Downloads section on this site (curated from official releases) or go directly to the GitHub page. Prefer the installer for your OS; portable builds are useful if you lack admin rights.
Download (Recommended) GitHub Releases
- Windows: Run the
.exeinstaller; if blocked by SmartScreen choose More info → Run anyway. Use the.ziponly for portable use. - macOS: Open the
.dmg, drag the app to Applications. If Gatekeeper warns you, open via System Settings → Privacy & Security → Open Anyway. - Linux: Prefer
.AppImage(set executable:chmod +x), or install.deb/.rpmfor your distro.
First Launch Setup
- Pick your language and confirm where profiles will be stored.
- Enable auto-update checks so you’re notified about slicing improvements.
- Telemetry is optional; disabling it doesn’t limit features.
Add Your Printer
Go to Printers → Add and select your exact QIDI model. If it isn’t listed, choose Custom FFF and set:
- Build volume: X/Y/Z per your printer spec
- Nozzle dia:
0.4 mm(unless you installed a different size) - Filament:
1.75 mm - Start/End G-code: use manufacturer defaults if available.
Load Filament & Choose a Profile
Load the filament at the nozzle temperature indicated on the spool. Select a material preset (PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU) and a quality target (Draft/Standard/Fine). These presets tune temperatures, cooling, and baseline speeds for that plastic.
- Keep filament dry—store with desiccant. PETG/TPU absorb moisture quickly and string more when humid.
- Match bed surface to material (e.g., smooth PEI for PLA; textured PEI or glue stick for PETG to prevent sticking too hard).
Level the Bed (First-Layer Success)
- Clean the plate with 90–99% IPA. Remove oils and dust.
- Run your printer’s auto-level or manual 4-corner tramming.
- Print a first-layer grid. Adjust Z-offset in
0.02–0.05 mmsteps until lines are slightly squished and continuous.
Import, Orient & Arrange Models
- Drag in
.STL/.3MF/.OBJ. For assemblies, 3MF keeps parts grouped and materials. - Rotate so a flat face rests on the bed; avoid overhangs exceeding your support threshold.
- Scale to fit; maintain 2–5 mm spacing between parts for skirts and clean toolpaths.
- Use Auto-arrange for multiple parts to reduce travel and stringing.
Quality, Walls & Infill (Dial-in)
- Layer height: 0.2 mm (general), 0.12–0.16 mm (fine), 0.24–0.28 mm (draft).
- Perimeters: 2–3 for most parts; 4+ for functional strength and better top surfaces.
- Top/Bottom: Top 5–7 layers prevent pillowing; bottom 3–5 layers ensure base rigidity.
- Infill: 12–20% for shells/models; 30–60% for load-bearing; Gyroid/Cubic for balanced isotropy.
Supports & Bed Adhesion
- Supports: Start with “Touching build plate”. Use support interface for clean undersides; increase support Z-gap slightly if removal is difficult.
- Adhesion: Skirt (2–3 lines) to prime extrusion. Brim for tiny contact patches or warping plastics. Reserve rafts for extreme warping only.
Cooling, Retraction & Speed
- Cooling: PLA high fan; PETG moderate (too much → brittle layers); ABS minimal with enclosure.
- Retraction: Direct drive baseline ~0.8–1.2 mm @ 25–35 mm/s; adjust in small steps to reduce stringing without causing jams.
- Speeds: 40–60 mm/s standard; slow outer walls for surface quality; keep first layer slow (15–20 mm/s).
Preview & Validate Toolpaths
Use the layer preview to confirm:
- First-layer lines are continuous and evenly squished.
- Support contact points are minimal but adequate.
- Bridges have fan/cooling and reasonable speeds.
- Thin walls aren’t skipped; switch to “Line width view” if available.
- Time and filament estimates match expectations.
Export & Start the Print
- Name files descriptively (e.g.,
gearbox_cover_PLA_0p2_3walls.gcode). - Transfer via SD/USB or network (if supported). Verify correct file before starting.
First-Layer Checks (Live)
- If edges lift, add a brim, increase bed temp slightly, or improve enclosure/room draft control.
- If under-extruded, re-seat filament, increase nozzle temp by 5 °C, check that the drive gear bites cleanly.
Material Baselines
| Material | Nozzle / Bed | Cooling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 200–210 °C / 55–65 °C | High | Easy & stable. Great for models and fixtures. |
| PETG | 230–245 °C / 70–85 °C | Medium | Tough and slightly flexible. Dry well to reduce stringing. |
| ABS/ASA | 235–255 °C / 90–110 °C | Low | Needs enclosure; strong and heat-resistant; watch for warping. |
| TPU | 210–225 °C / 40–55 °C | Low | Slow speeds (20–35 mm/s), minimal retraction; ensure clean filament path. |
Troubleshooting (Fast Fixes)
First layer not sticking
- Re-clean plate; brim +5–10 lines; lower Z-offset slightly; increase first-layer flow to 105–110%.
- Slow first layer to 15–20 mm/s; raise bed temp by 5 °C.
Stringing
- Dry filament; increase retraction distance/speed gradually; lower nozzle temp by 5–10 °C.
Weak parts / splits
- Raise nozzle temp slightly; add perimeters; reduce cooling (ABS/PETG); increase wall overlap if available.
Surface artifacts
- Slow outer walls; enable “ironing” (for flat tops) sparingly; ensure belts are tensioned and wheels not loose.
Fine-Tune Like a Pro
Variable Layer Height (Detail Where It Matters)
Goal: Apply fine layers to curved/visible areas and coarse layers elsewhere to save time without sacrificing finish.
- Enable Variable/Adaptive Layer Height. Set Min (e.g.,
0.12 mm) and Max (e.g.,0.28 mm). - Use a higher curvature threshold so only steep geometry gets fine layers.
- Preview and confirm only domes, fillets, and logos refine; infill stays coarse.
| Use case | Min/Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General models | 0.16 / 0.28 mm | Balanced quality/time |
| Miniatures | 0.10 / 0.20 mm | High detail on faces |
| Drafts | 0.20 / 0.32 mm | Fast iterations |
Adaptive Infill (Strength Where Loads Concentrate)
Goal: Put density where it adds strength (around fasteners, thin posts, load-bearing spans) while keeping the rest light.
- Start with Gyroid or Cubic at 12–20% for cosmetic; 30–60% for functional parts.
- Enable adaptive/density scaling near top/bottom or stress zones if available.
- Use per-model modifiers (A3) to locally raise density.
Per-Model Modifiers & Local Overrides
- Add a modifier mesh (box/cylinder or imported STL) intersecting the target area.
- Override settings inside the modifier (e.g., higher infill, more perimeters, different layer height).
- Preview to verify only the overlapped region changes.
Advanced Supports (Clean Undersides, Easy Removal)
- Style: Try Tree supports for organic shapes; grid for predictable bridges.
- Interfaces: Enable a denser interface for smooth undersides; tune Z-gap for easy break-off.
- Painting/Blockers: “Paint” supports only where needed; add blockers on cosmetic faces.
- Angles: Start at 50–55°; adjust by material and bridging ability.
Surface Tuning (Seam, Ironing, Line Width)
- Seam placement: Hide on a rear edge or corner; random seams reduce zits but can dimple surfaces.
- Ironing: For glossy tops, low flow & slow speed; use sparingly to avoid ripples.
- Line width: 110–115% improves bonding; wider first layer improves adhesion.
| Target | Setting |
|---|---|
| Hide seam | Corner/back; reduce “extra prime” |
| Glossy tops | Enable ironing; slow outer walls |
| Strong walls | Line width 110–115%; 3–4 perimeters |
Speed, Acceleration & Jerk (Quality vs Throughput)
- Walls: 40–60 mm/s; Infill: 80–120 mm/s if extrusion keeps up.
- Acceleration: 500–1500 mm/s² for walls (higher for infill). Lower if ringing appears.
- Jerk/corners: Reduce jerk or enable “slow small perimeters” for crisp edges.
Pressure Advance / Linear Advance
What it does: Compensates extrusion pressure lag for sharper corners and dimensional accuracy.
- Klipper: Calibrate
pressure_advancevia PA test and updateprinter.cfg. - Marlin: Calibrate
K-factorwith an LA tower; save to EEPROM. - Re-tune for different filaments, temps, and nozzles.
Calibration Workflow (Rapid, Repeatable)
- Temp tower: Pick the segment with best bonding and least stringing.
- Retraction tower: Increase distance/speed until strings vanish without gaps.
- Flow/EM: Single-wall cube measured thickness ≈ line width.
- Speed/Accel: Raise until ringing appears, then step back.
Start/End G-code (Quality of Life)
; START (generic; adjust)
M140 S{material_bed_temperature_layer_0}
M104 S{material_print_temperature_layer_0}
M190 S{material_bed_temperature_layer_0}
M109 S{material_print_temperature_layer_0}
G28
G1 Z5 F3000
G1 X0 Y0 F6000
G92 E0
G1 X120 E12 F1000
G92 E0
; END
G91
G1 E-2 F2400
G1 Z10 F3000
G90
G1 X0 Y220 F6000
M104 S0
M140 S0
M84
Profile Management, Versioning & Print Farms
- Versioned names: include material, quality, and date (e.g., PETG-Fine-2025-09).
- Export/backup: keep profiles in cloud/VCS; weekly mini-benchmark to catch drift.
- Consistency: standardize filament brands/colors across machines for predictability.
QIDI Slicer – Frequently Asked Questions
Two safe sources:
- GitHub Releases (changelogs, versioned installers for Windows/macOS/Linux).
- This Website. Use these to avoid mirrors and repacks.
QIDI Slicer isn’t notarized in some builds. On macOS 12+:
- Open System Settings → Privacy & Security.
- Scroll to “Security” and click Open Anyway for QIDISlicer.
- When prompted, click Open.
This keeps Gatekeeper active while allowing this trusted app.
This is a known conflict when both libsoup2 and libsoup3 symbols load in one process. Workarounds observed by users:
- Prefer the AppImage build when available.
- If blocked, try an earlier stable release (e.g., 1.1.7) and watch the latest release notes for fixes.
Always test on a fresh user profile if you upgraded in place.
Ensure you’re not applying Z-offset or bed-mesh twice. Tips:
- Standardize your Start G-code (either let the firmware apply mesh & offset, or let the slicer call it—never both).
- In Klipper, run
BED_MESH_CALIBRATEand save; callBED_MESH_PROFILE LOAD=defaultonce in Start G-code. - Avoid “babystepping” offsets in one workflow that aren’t persisted to the other.
Yes—QIDI Slicer is based on PrusaSlicer, which includes Organic (tree-like) supports. In most builds, you’ll find it under Support style as Organic. If your version predates the feature, update to a newer release.
- Use Interfaces for cleaner undersides.
- Increase Support Z-gap slightly if removal is difficult.
- Paint supports only where needed to cut material/time.
- Switch to Touching build plate for many helmet/overhang models.
- Enable a support interface and increase interface density.
- Raise Support Z-distance slightly (and lower nozzle temp 5–10 °C if stringy).
- Test Organic supports for reduced contact.
Network tools vary by firmware and are evolving. If “Send” fails or is greyed out, use a reliable path:
- Slice → Export G-code.
- Copy to USB/SD and print locally; confirm file name matches.
- Update to the latest slicer release; several “Send”/UI fixes land in point releases.
Yes in principle—QIDI Slicer is a fork aligned with PrusaSlicer’s ecosystem; many settings map cleanly. Community users also run OrcaSlicer successfully on QIDI printers. Always verify machine g-code sections (Start/End) and flow/retraction after importing profiles.
- Update to the latest release (point releases often fix import/UI bugs).
- Start with a fresh profile (rename/delete the local config folder to let the app recreate it).
- Test the model as
.STLor.3MFfreshly exported from CAD.
- Import
.STL/.3MF→ choose the correct printer & material profile. - Slice → check preview (first layer, supports, bridges, time/filament).
- Export G-code → copy to USB/SD → print from printer menu.
It’s basic—but consistently avoids network/driver pitfalls for new setups.