Model Orientation Calculator
Print orientation affects strength, surface quality, support requirements, and print time more than almost any other decision. Answer a few questions about your part and get a concrete recommendation.
Layer lines are the weakest point. FDM parts are anisotropic — they're strongest along layer lines (XY) and weakest across them (Z). Orient parts so the primary load direction is along layers, not pulling layers apart.
Top and bottom surfaces look best. The first and last layers print flat against a surface, so they look much smoother than vertical (side) walls. Put the most visible face flat against the bed or as the top surface.
45° is the support cutoff. Most slicers add supports for overhangs steeper than 45°. Rotating the part to reduce overhang angles can eliminate support structures entirely.
Tall and narrow = more resonance. Tall prints experience more vibration and can wobble at the top, blurring layer boundaries. If your part is tall, consider splitting it or slowing down the upper layers.