Before you start looking for a 3D printer, you need to figure out what features you’re looking for in a 3D printer. You need to figure out which features matter to you and which ones you’re willing to compromise on.
There are many different types of 3D printers out there: consumer, industrial, professional, desktop, etc. Some are more expensive, some are more affordable. Some are better at creating certain types of models, while others excel at others. To figure out which type of 3D printer you need, you need to read below information.
Our Choices
This article will show you the best 3D printers available on the market today and compare the pros and cons of each 3D printer brand.
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Best under $300: FDM — Creality Ender 3 V2
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Best under $300: Resin — Anycubic Photon Mono 4K
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Best for kids — Toybox 3D printer
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Best for $500: FDM — Anycubic Vyper
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Best large-format resin printer — Anycubic Mono X2
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Best large-format FDM — Creality Ender 5 Plus
Things to Consider
It's not as easy as just picking a 3D printer and printing. There are tons of features to consider, and each one has a trade-off.
For those interested in choosing the best 3D printer, there are a number of factors to take into account. Below are some key areas to consider when choosing the right 3D printer.
Design
The design of the 3D printer is very important to the overall function of the device. Many models include a heated build platform that allow users to print with ABS or PLA plastic. In general, 3D printers designed for home use tend to feature a larger build plate than industrial grade machines, which are more commonly used in manufacturing settings.
Compatibility
Before purchasing a 3D printer, make sure that it is compatible with the material you plan to print with. It is also important to check that your 3D printer is capable of printing the material you intend to use. Most printers can print either ABS or PLA, but the actual range of materials they can print with differs widely. You can find a complete list of the materials that your printer is compatible with on the manufacturer’s website.
Printing Speed
The speed at which the 3D printer prints the item is another important factor to consider. Depending on your intended project, you may need a machine that is capable of printing faster than others. Faster print speeds reduce the time you will need to wait between printings, while slower speeds mean a longer build time.
Price
It is important to remember that 3D printing can be expensive. It is therefore wise to decide on a budget when choosing a 3D printer. Most consumers opt for entry level 3D printers, which usually cost less than $500. However, the majority of these 3D printers lack the ability to print larger objects or have built in software to help create complex designs.
Conclusion
As you’re searching for the right printer for your needs, here’s a quick guide to help you find the best 3D printer. A good 3D printer will offer you a smooth printing experience, will give you the tools to design amazing projects, and will offer you excellent quality results. The best 3D printers are usually faster than other printers and require less skill to use. They often have a large build volume and offer more flexibility in print types. Check out my article on the best 3D printers.