People pay little attention to printers when they are connected via Wi-Fi. isn’t working. If that sounds relatable, chances are you’ve never used a 3D printer.
SKIP Ahead Best 3D Printers | The best way to buy a 3D Printer | 3D Printers: What to do?
We’ve seen a steady rise in the popularity of 3D printers as they have become more affordable, accessible and useful. With large-scale, cutting-edge 3D printing tools used in industries such as manufacturing and housing, this popularity is extending to commercial and personal use. Today, the top models for consumers can be purchased at as low as $200.
We spoke to 3D printing specialists in order to better understand the workings of 3D printers and which ones are best. Here are some of their top recommendations. We also provide an overview about what a 3D Printer is, and key considerations when looking for one.
What does a 3D Printer do?
A 3D printer, an innovative piece of technology, allows you print virtually anything. It can be used to make tools, household objects, spare parts, games pieces and other items. “What you can make with a 3D printer truly depends on the limits of your imagination,” said Neil Hailey, chief marketing and product officer at Obico. Although 3D printers are intimidating, experts say they’re becoming more accessible and easier to use.
Best 3D Printers
Experts and beginners can print almost anything with 3D printers. There are large communities of users who love these products and they have high ratings. Expert recommendations were used to select the most effective 3D printers currently on the market. This was keeping novice users in mind.
Best starter 3D printer: Creality
Creality Ender Pro 2
Bertacchi suggests the Ender 2 Pro 3D Printer from Creality for anyone looking to get started. It’s small, lightweight, ships largely assembled, and costs less than most other options. While the colorful marketing may look child-like, Creality makes some of the most popular 3D printers on the market — the Ender 2 Pro is no different. “You don’t need to set up a workstation or dedicate a whole table just to use it,” said Bertacchi. “It’s a grown-up printer on a small platform.”
SpecificationsFDM Modeler: 6.49×6.99×7.08in max Build Volume, Manual Bed Leveling, Supports PLA, TPU, and Wood Filaments, 10.25 lbs. There is some assembly.
Elegoo is the best overall 3D printer
Elegoo Neptune3 Pro (outof stock)
Bartacchi recommends Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro to anyone who is willing to give up some space for 3D printing. Bertacchi says that the machine comes assembled and has a variety of amazing features, including a large maximum volume, automatic bed leveling and flexible plates, as well as direct drive.
Neptune 3 Pro is an older product and in high demand. If it’s out of stock, we also recommend the previous Neptune 2S. While it doesn’t have auto bed leveling, it is still an easy-to-use printer with a large build volume.
SpecificationsFDM Modeler: 8.85×8.85×11.02 inches max build volume. Auto bed leveling. Supports PLA, ABS and TPU. Weighs 17.85lbs. It will require some assembly.
Prusa: The best compact 3D printer
Prusa Mini+
Hailey was not able to recommend specific models, but did suggest popular top-rated ones like the Mini+ model from Prusa. “Prusa is a reputable company that provides quality printers that are known to print well,” said Hailey. “They are recognized for their awesome customer support and being an established brand.”
The printer is compact but powerful. It has useful features such as auto bed leveling, and a filament running out sensor. All this in a small package.
SpecificationsFDM modeler. 7.08 x 7.00 x 7.08 in max. Build volume. Assembly required.
Best premium 3D printer: Wuxn
Wuxn WXR 3D Printer
For extra “hand-holding,” Bertacchi recommended the Wuxn WXR, a premium option from a newer, Colorado-based brand. The Wuxn WXR is pricier than the other options on our list, but it has many features that make printing easy: high-quality parts, auto bed leveling, a flexible build plate, and extra “wizards” that offer step-by-step walkthroughs of different processes. The Wuxn WXR is the only printer that comes fully assembled.
SpecificationsFDM modeler. 9.84 x 8.26 x 984 in max build volume. It weighs 21.5 lbs and supports PET, ASA ABS, PLA, PET, ASA. Wood, steel, and any other filaments. Assembly not required.
Bambu Lab: The fastest and most efficient 3D printer
Bambu Lab P1P 3D Printer
Bertacchi and Hailey both recommended Bambu Lab to experienced users as a brand that is high-performing. Although the P1P model may be their most basic, it offers an extremely high speed printing rate, which is something that makes Bambu Lab a strong brand. This model also features a high build volume, multi-color printing and auto bed leveling.
Hailey and Bertacchi again noted that P1P was for advanced users. It isn’t open-source and has its own parts. The printer also uses more filament than other models. Hailey recommends it for people already at the beginning of 3D printing.
SpecificationsFDM modeler. 10.07 x 10.00 x 10.07 inches maximum build volume. It weighs 21.27 lbs. There is some assembly.
The best way to buy a 3D Printer
You can’t go wrong with our above recommendations, but there are still a few things you should know before purchasing any 3D printer. We’ve broken down some of the most important features to keep an eye on, especially if it’s your first time buying a 3D printer.
Modelling technology
Both our experts suggested a FDM 3D printer for those who want simplicity. FDM printers use hot plastic extruded through a nozzle and don’t require any safety gear. FDM printers were all recommended.
For users who need more detail, our experts recommended resin FFF (fused fiber fabrication) printers. The liquid resin can be toxic and makes it more difficult to use.
Build volume
3D printers can only produce a certain volume. Consider the types of objects that you would like to create. Check to make sure the volume you need for your ideas is available at the printer that interests you.
Method for leveling beds
The bed is the flat surface that a 3D printer prints on. Your models will come out perfect if the bed is aligned correctly.
You may need to align your bed manually on some budget 3D printers. Mid-range and premium options usually feature “auto bed leveling,” where the printer aligns itself when prompted.
3D Printers: What to do?
Hailey compared 3D printing with 2D printing. A digital file is required for both. You can use a file that you created or find online. In the world of 3D printing, there are “millions of free 3D models available for download online,” said Hailey. “You can download these, process them for 3D printing, and then print them without ever touching a 3D modeling software.” Bertacchi reinforced this point, saying most 3D printers have a “basic mode” that will get the job done without much technical know-how.
It can be exciting and fun to learn how to improve your print skills beyond the basics. Reddit and Youtube are great sources of information, according to our experts. We’ve also listed a few key 3D printing concepts below:
Slicers
All 3D printers need a slicer — essentially software that translates digital files into something your 3D printer can act on. Your slicer software gives you many options when it comes to printing: quality, speed, flow, support, cooling, and so on. While most slicer’s have a basic mode, Bertacchi recommended getting familiar with slicers as a quick way to print higher quality builds and conserve filament.
Software to 3D model
If you want to print custom designs you made yourself, you’ll need to get familiar with a 3D modeling software. Hailey mentioned Tinkercad Fusion 360 and FreeCad as free options.
Filament
The majority of 3D printers are able to accept various printing materials (called filaments). Many 3D printers accept plastic, although some can also be made from metal and wood. Every filament comes with its own pros and cons. Because they’re affordable and easily available, we suggest starting with ABS or basic PLA.
Safety
Our experts stated that 3D printers were very safe. However, they do need to be monitored and taken care of depending on their model and the activity.
3D printers get hot. As part of their printing process, many 3D printers heat up. It’s important to monitor your printer as it works, but models may take several hours to print. Hailey suggested that you look for a 3D printer software program that can be controlled remotely via Wi-Fi. To check in remotely, you can place your 3D printer into an area with an indoor smart cam.
As a last resort, our experts recommend that you have a fire suppressant nearby your printer.
Our experts are available for you
Select only works with specialists who are qualified and have the experience and training to provide expert knowledge. Additionally, we take measures to ensure all recommendations and expert advice are independent and free from any financial conflict of interest.
- Neil Hailey Obico, an open source 3D printing company, has him as the chief marketing officer and product manager.
- Denise Bertacchi is a freelance reviewer for Tom’s Hardware and a 3D printing blogger.
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