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The single-material 3DBenchy model | |
The multi-material 3DBenchy model (exploded view illustration) | |
| Classification | 3D model |
|---|---|
| Used with | 3D printers |
| Inventor | Creative Tools |
The 3DBenchy is a 3D computer model specifically designed for testing the accuracy and capabilities of 3D printers. Its creators, Daniel Norée and Paulo Kiefe, described it as "the jolly 3D printing torture-test". It was released in STL format in April 2015, with a multi-part, multi-color model released in July 2015.
Due to its status as a common benchmark, it is believed to be the world's most 3D printed object. The popular 3D printing website Thingiverse (where the model was originally uploaded) has the 3DBenchy marked as its most popular model of all time. The model itself is a tugboat design.
The original license of the model (CC-BY-ND) allowed its use and distribution, but prohibited modifications and the publication of derivative works; however, in February 2025, it was moved into the public domain (CC0 License).
This was due to Benchy remixes being removed from Printables due to a complaint, apparently claiming that their presence was incompatible with the original licensing terms, initially assumed to have been made by NTI (purchaser of the original designer Creative Tools), who subsequently denied it. This unfounded complaint caused NTI, Daniel Norée, and Paulo Kiefe to transition the 3DBenchy model into the public domain.

3DBenchy's unique geometric features have made it the most comprehensive calibration print readily available to the public. These geometric features provide users with visual benchmarks to assess a large variety of 3D printing capabilities. Visual assessments can be made using the geometric characteristics listed below.
The nominal dimensions provide a measurable baseline to accurately assess variation. The dimensions can easily be measured with a caliper. The nominal dimensions, using a 1:1 scale, are listed below.