Eiger

Eiger is browser-based 3D-printing software built around Markforged machines. It suits teams preparing reinforced parts and coordinating several printers, while organizations with strict local-data requirements can use its offline edition. The main decision is whether Markforged-specific controls and printer management outweigh cloud dependence or manual file transfer.

Overview

Eiger takes STL or STEP designs through build preparation and slicing, then produces an MFP file for a Markforged printer. You can place one or more parts in a build and manage printers and print activity from the same environment. That focused workflow is useful for Markforged fleets, but it is not positioned as a brand-neutral slicer for unrelated hardware.

Cloud Eiger needs an internet connection to upload, create, view, and share part, build, and print-job data. Cloud build files are encrypted in transit and at rest, and Eiger has ISO 27001 certification. Offline Eiger avoids cloud uploading entirely, which is the stronger fit for sensitive designs or disconnected facilities. Its files must instead be transferred by USB, or across a local network when LAN Connector is installed.

Key features

Fiber-aware preparation

Selective fiber reinforcement, fiber-routing controls, and slicing options are Eiger's defining advantages. They give Markforged users direct control over reinforced-part preparation rather than forcing a generic slicer workflow. If your work does not involve Markforged's fiber-capable process, these specialized controls offer little reason to choose Eiger.

Builds, files, and printer activity

Import STL or STEP drawings, arrange multiple parts in a build, and generate the MFP output expected by Markforged printers. Printer management and print activity remain in one place, reducing the need to split preparation from job oversight across separate tools. The published output format is MFP, so the workflow is tightly tied to compatible Markforged equipment.

Connected and offline operation

The cloud edition supports sharing and collaborative access to part, build, and job data, but connectivity is mandatory for those actions. Offline Eiger removes that internet requirement and keeps user and part data off the cloud, at the cost of manual movement of print files. LAN Connector can make local transfer more practical, but it remains an additional requirement for network-based delivery.

Requests and inspection

The Essential plan adds Job Requests for submitting, tracking, and fulfilling print requests, a useful layer for teams that receive work from multiple users. Blacksmith is a subscription feature available through Eiger for scanning printed parts and comparing them with design files, extending the workflow into part verification rather than stopping at slicing.

Pricing

Eiger uses a freemium model. The Eiger plan costs free and is a free, cloud-based platform for Markforged devices. The maker describes this free cloud platform as suitable for institutions with one to one hundred printers, making it the sensible starting point for schools, labs, and organizations that can accept connected data handling.

Offline Eiger is a paid standalone subscription with custom pricing. It receives quarterly updates and includes LAN Connector. Choose it when internet-free operation and keeping user and part data out of the cloud matter more than the convenience of automatic online transfer. The trade-off is manual USB or local-network delivery, rather than cloud-based sharing.

Job Requests belong to the Essential plan, while Blacksmith is separately described as a subscription feature. Their inclusion and pricing are not presented as part of the free Eiger plan, so teams needing request routing or printed-part comparison should budget for subscription access rather than assume those capabilities are included at no cost.

Platforms

Eiger is offered on the web, Windows, macOS, Linux, and through an API. The supported workflow centers on browser and desktop access, with API support suited to organizations that need to connect Eiger with other systems. STL is listed as an input format, while MFP is the output format for Markforged printing.

Who it's for

Eiger is the right choice for institutions and production teams operating Markforged printers, particularly those using selective fiber reinforcement or needing a shared view of printer activity. Its free cloud plan is an approachable option for fleets from one to one hundred printers when internet access and cloud storage fit policy.

Offline Eiger is better for organizations that cannot upload designs or job data. It is less convenient for teams that depend on remote sharing, since files must be moved manually. Users seeking a slicer for other printer brands should look beyond Eiger's Markforged-centered output and controls.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Markforged-specific fiber routing and selective reinforcement controls support reinforced-part workflows.
• Pros: Build preparation, MFP generation, printer management, and print activity share one workflow.
• Pros: A free cloud plan supports institutions with one to one hundred printers.
• Pros: Offline Eiger avoids cloud uploads, while cloud files are encrypted in transit and at rest and Eiger is ISO 27001 certified.
• Cons: Cloud use requires an internet connection for uploading, creating, viewing, and sharing data.
• Cons: Offline printing requires USB transfer or LAN Connector-based local networking, adding handling steps.
• Cons: The workflow and MFP output are tied to Markforged devices, limiting its usefulness as a general slicer.

Alternatives

Choose PrusaSlicer instead if you want a free, open-source slicer that runs across Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows rather than Markforged-focused preparation.

GrabCAD Print is a better fit when you need Stratasys printer support, with a free Standard plan and a paid Pro tier.

Pick Orca-Flashforge for supported Flashforge printers and a free desktop option on Linux, macOS, and Windows.

QIDI Slicer suits users with listed QIDI machines such as the Q1 Pro, X-Max3, X-Plus3, or X-Smart3, provided firmware is V4.0.0 or newer.

Choose KISSlicer if you need a free tier for single-extruder work or a $40.00 Premium Upgrade for broader capability.

UltiMaker Cura is a free, open-source desktop slicing alternative available on Linux, macOS, web, and Windows.

BCN3D Stratos is free slicing software for BCN3D Omega, Sigma, and Epsilon printers.

CHITUBOX offers a free Basic slicer and paid Dental plans, including a $499.00 three-year option.

For a broader category view, see the 3D Slicer Software ranking.

Verdict

Choose Eiger if you run Markforged printers and need fiber-aware preparation alongside printer and job management. Its free cloud plan is the easiest entry point, while Offline Eiger is the stronger choice when designs must stay off the cloud. Look elsewhere if you need broad printer-brand support or a workflow without Markforged's MFP and transfer requirements.