8 best 3d printer buying guide

A 3D printer buying guide is a set of recommendations and considerations to help individuals and businesses make informed decisions when purchasing a 3D printer. Buying a 3D printer can be a significant investment, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and budget. Here are some key factors to consider in a 3D printer buying guide:

  1. Printing Technology:

    • Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): Most common for consumer use, uses melted filament.
    • Stereolithography (SLA): Uses liquid resin and a UV laser for high-resolution prints.
    • Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Common in industrial settings, uses laser and powdered materials.
  2. Build Volume: Consider the maximum size of objects you plan to print.Larger build volumes allow for bigger prints but may come at a higher cost.

  3. Resolution: Higher resolution printers can produce finer details but may be slower. Consider your project requirements.

  4. Materials Compatibility: Check if the printer can use the materials you intend to work with, such as PLA, ABS, PETG, or specialized filaments like flexible or composite materials.

  5. Print Speed: Faster printers can complete prints more quickly, but this may come at the expense of print quality.

  6. Ease of Use: Look for user-friendly features, such as touchscreen interfaces, auto-leveling beds, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

  7. Software Compatibility: Ensure the printer is compatible with the 3D modeling and slicing software you plan to use.

  8. Price: Consider your budget carefully, factoring in not only the cost of the printer but also ongoing expenses for materials and maintenance.

  9. Community and Support: Check for an active user community, online resources, and the availability of customer support from the manufacturer.

  10. Safety Features: Look for printers with safety features like enclosed build chambers, filament sensors, and thermal runaway protection.

  11. Brand Reputation: Research the reputation and customer reviews of the printer brand and model you're interested in.

  12. Warranty and Support: Ensure the printer comes with a warranty, and understand what support options are available if issues arise.

  13. Future Upgradability: Consider whether the printer can be upgraded or modified to meet future needs or if you'll need to invest in a new one.

  14. Intended Use: Define your specific use case, whether it's for prototyping, hobbyist projects, education, or industrial applications.

  15. Reseller or Direct Purchase: Decide whether you'll buy from a local reseller, a reputable online retailer, or directly from the manufacturer.

By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a 3D printer that aligns with your needs and objectives, whether for personal, educational, or industrial use.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best 3d printer buying guide on the market
  

Official Creality Ender 3 V2 Upgraded 3D Printer with Silent Motherboard Meanwell Power Supply Carborundum Glass Platform and Resume Printing 220x220x250mm

Creality 3D

Based on 885 reviews Check latest price
  • Self-developed Silent Motherboard: The Ender-3 V2 built-in self-developed silent motherboard, which has stronger anti-interference, faster and more stable motion performance, silent printing and low decibel operation.
  • UL Certified MeanWell Power Supply: Equipped with MeanWell power supply, produced by the listed company with mature technology, meeting all the needs of fast heating and long-time printing. Moreover, the power supply is concealed in the machine, making it much safer.
  • Effortless Filament Feed-in: Ender-3 V2 adds a rotary knob on the extruder, making loading and feeding filament process much easier; Brand new operation UI system and 4.3" smart color screen greatly improve user experience.
  • Resume Printing Function: Can resume printing from the last recorded extruder position after suffering unexpected power outages, saving your time and reducing waste.
  • Carborundum Glass Platform: Enable the hotbed heat up quicker and prints adhere better without the warping. Ultra smoothness even on the first layer.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this package come with the spoil holder shown in the first picture
Answer: Yes, it should come with a spool holder.
Question: does this printer have thermal run away protection built in the firmware
Answer: At the time I got mine no it was not but it is not difficult to upload new firmware once you install a boot loader. I have heard that the newer ones do have it enableled
Question: Does this have auto leveling or manual leveling
Answer: Manual leveling.
Question: What software comes with this product? i see retailers offering simplify3d and cura with this printer
Answer: It comes with a Creality slicer on the SD card. Cura is free so don’t pay more. Just a quick download. Bam. Done. Use the Ender 3 Pro profile. I use Tinkercad for modeling. Also free.

Product features

Why choose Creality 3D Ender-3 V2 3D Printer?
Self-developed Silent Motherboard

The self-developed silent motherboard ensure smooth movement under 50db, no noise during printing.

V-guide Rail with High Standard Stabe to Print

Ender-3 V2 uses the V-guide rail pulley with stable movement, low noise, wear resistance and longer life.

Effortless Filament Feed-in

Rotary knob added on the extruder makes it easier to load and feed filament.

New Injection Tensioner

The XY-axis tensioner supports adjusting the belt tension in a quick and more convenient way.

Brand New User Interface

Ender-3 V2 changes the previous screen into 4.3inch color screen and upgrades the user experience with the newly designed operation UI system. It’s simple and quick to operate. And also this color screen can remove easily to repair, which saves a lot time and energy.

Smart Add-ons

With the tool box integrated to the machine body it is more convenient and quicker for tools organization and storage.

D Printing For Dummies (For Dummies (Computers))

Wiley

Based on 225 reviews Check latest price

Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing Function 220x220x250mm

Creality 3D

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price
  • Resume Printing Function: Ender 3 has the ability to resume printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs.
  • Easy and Qucik Assembly: It comes with several assembled parts, you only need about 2 hours to assemble 20 nuts well.
  • Advanced Extruder Technology: Upgraded extruder greatly reduces plugging risk and bad extrustion; V-shape with POM wheels make it move noiseless, smoothly and durable.
  • Safety Protected Power Supply: Only needs 5 minutes for hot bed to reach 110℃.
  • Strict Test: Strict testing for key components before delivery and life-time technical supports available.

User questions & answers

Question: I am looking to purchase a 3D printer as a gift for a beginner. Does anyone have any recommendations? Thank you
Answer: My son is 15 and he handpicked this one as a gift. He doesn’t know that I’ve purchased it, but he was very adamant that this was the best one. If the recipient is very technically inclined, I think it would be a great fit. I’ve read tons of reviews and watched several on YouTube. Once it’s properly assembled ( does seem to take some time), then operation is suitable for a beginner (again, must be very technically inclined). My son did request a different type of filament that I also purchased on Amazon, because the included roll isn’t that great. I don’t remember which one I purchased, but it was about 20.00. He also suggested getting or building a table to sit it on, as you should not sit it directly on the floor. He’s making one to put beside his desk, but I’m sure any small table would do. I’m very excited myself to see it in action, but I guess I’ll have to wait until Christmas.
Question: Does the creality ender 3 has the dual extruders like the bibo 3d printer
Answer: No, but. You could upgrade it if you have the expertise
Question: Hi. Purchasing for my young granddaughter. will I need to purchase anything else with the unit in order to use it christmas day
Answer: You also need the filament sold on spools. It comes in many colors. The filament is the actual product that is used to make the 3D creation.
Question: Seriously how difficult is the build
Answer: It is very straightforward, but the downloadable PDF instructions leave a lot to be desired. I highly recommend using the top-rated "how to build" video, along with the PDF. Here is a link to that video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=me8Qrwh907Q The video contains a huge number of hints which, having now completed my first 3D print, which was 100% successful, I can now fully appreciate. The video helps you get everything square, and makes sure that many minor adjustments which were not done perfectly at the factory, are tweaked just right.

Product features

Fully Open Source

Allow users to improve their printer upon the source code and share the changes within the community, resulting in an improved experience for all.

Branded power supply

Branded power supply and high-watt hot bed ensure fast heating to the printing platform.

Resume Printing Function

Ender 3 can resume printing after power outage or any other unexpected stoppage.

Upgraded Extruder Design

Greatly reduces the risk of clogged nozzle and bad extrusion.

High Precision Printing

Allow you to print high precision models, creat your own world.

Suitable gift for kids

This semi-assembled kit 3D printer is a perfect gift for kids, allow them to learn about the basic construction of 3D printers.

Ideal for STEM Projects

Invite imagination and innovation to student, help them discover the wonders of all the STEM fields.

R QIDI TECHNOLOGY i Fast 3D Printer, Industrial Grade Structure, with Dual Extruder for Fast Printing, Super Large Print Size 360×250×320mm

R QIDI TECHNOLOGY

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Faster printing . Fully industrial-grade structure, using the second-generation Qidi dual Z-axis structure, all of the original motion structure is upgraded to linear guides, with the ruby extruder, the filament extruding is faster and smoother, the printing accuracy is higher .The printing speed is increased by 20%, it is set to print easily at 100 cc.
  • Freedom in the choice of the filament: iFast can print almost all kinds of filaments which suitable for FDM 3D printers on the market, such as PLA ,PLA+ ,ABS ,PETG, NYLON,etc. The iFast 3d printer equipped with a heated chamber, which can be heated to 60°C. The excellent mechanical structure can produce more robust manufacturing-grade parts.
  • Freedom in manufacturing of the complex parts . iFast is equipped with automatic dual extruder, which can automatically adjust the left and right extruder up and down according to the software. With the PVA (water-soluble) support, it is very suitable for printing manufacturing-level parts with complex structures and realizing precision manufacturing.
  • Unique ruby extruder. iFast is equipped with a single ruby extruder. Compared with the brass or stainless steel nozzles which on the market, it is more durable and prints smoother. The iFast 3d printer is pre-installed with dual extruder, and the print size is 330×250×320mm. If switch to the single extruder, the print size is 360×250×320mm.
  • Excellent user experience, friendly UI interface.It’s equipped with self-developed QIDI slicing software, two modes can be selected: normal mode and expert mode. The normal mode is suitable for novices, the parameter system has been intelligently set, no other operations are required, it is very simple. Expert mode is suitable for experienced users, who can deeply participate in modifying parameters and personalized printing models.

Sovol SV03 3D Printer, Upgraded Larger Printing Size FDM Printer with Direct Drive Extruder & BLTouch & Marlin TMC2208 Silent Board & Glass Bed Preinstalled, 350 x 350 x 400 mm

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sovol SV03 Larger Build Volume 3D Printer



Technical Specifications


● Extrusion: Direct Drive

● Layer Resolution: 0.1mm

● Positioning Accuracy: X/Y 0.012mm Z 0.001mm

● Supported Print Materials: PLA, TPU, HIPS, ABS, PETG, WOOD

● Print Speed: 20~120mm/s(suggested 60mm/s)

● Stock Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm

● Build Size: 350 x 350 x 400mm

● Operational Extruder Temperature: Max 260ºC

● Printer Dimensions: 504mm x 396mm x607mm

● Package Dimensions: 735mm x 735mm x 305mm

● Input Formats: .STL, .OBJ, .DAE, .AMF

● Ambient Operating Temperature:8ºC - 40ºC

● Connectivity: SD Card or Data Cable

● Net Weight: 13.8kg



Warranty


Any questions or suggestions about SV03 please feel free to contact us at any time. We will provide professional technical support and respond within 24 hours.

  • EXTRA LARGE - This printer comes with one of the largest build spaces available. 350x350x400mm (13.8” x 13.8” x 15.8") build volume makes SV03 the best large format direct drive printer in the market.
  • DIRECT DRIVE - Upgraded direct drive extruder leads to faster retraction with more accurate extrusion, allowing you to not only print with more flexible materials but also have better overall extrusion. WIth Filament Sensor, no worry for long print that will run out your filaments and cause any problems.
  • SILENT BOARD & BLTOUCH PREINSTALLED - TMC2208 board has a resolution upwards of 256 individually smaller, high-res steps and thus less noise is generated in the coils of the motor. Auto-leveling SV03 will make adjustments to ensure the bed and nozzle are at an optimum distance throughout the printing, which improves bed adhesion and print quality.
  • CARBON CRYSTAL SILICON GLASS BED - This printer comes with a reliable and flat glass bed. Forget about other printers with uneven printing surfaces and warped beds. This glass bed ensures a 100% usable and flat surface for any print from the smallest test file to the largest model. Adjustable belt tensioners make SV03 achieve proper belt tension to get high quality prints.
  • MEANWELL POWER SUPPLY - Built-in 350W Meanwell power supply ensures stable and sufficient power, fast heatup for the hotbed and nozzle. It protects SV03 from unexpected power surges. Resume printing function allows you turn off SV03 while printing, and resume your print from last layer anytime later.

User questions & answers

Question: Can the hotend be upgraded to a volcano
Answer: Yes but you will have to adjust the BL touch due to it being longer and the Firmware has to be updated (which I am currently trying to learn how to do)
Question: what software comes with this
Answer: None other than what's on the micro SD. Marlin 2.0 I believe is what comes pre loaded for the mother board
Question: Can you connect usb to pc and print
Answer: I needed to download and install an FTDI driver in order to make a connection to my Sovol SV03. Even then it sometimes takes a while for the connection to establish itself.
Question: How hot does the build surface get? And how long does it take to heat up
Answer: PLA working bed temp is about 60 C. I tried ABS which requires 100C and bed failed everytime in maintaining that temp.

Voxelab Polaris 3D Printer UV Photocuring LCD Resin 3D Printer Assembled with 3.5''Smart Touch Color Screen Off-line Print 4.53"(L) x 2.56"(W) x 5.9"(H) Printing Size

Zhejiang Flashforge 3D Technology Co., Ltd.

Based on 123 reviews Check latest price

Product description

LCD is a new technology of stereolithography(SLA) 3D printing. Compare to traditional SLA, LCD can be more valuable as it uses an array of LEDs shining through an LCD to project the UV light to cure resin. Voxelab brand is outstanding in this new technology, as have strong R&D team specializes in newest 3D printing technology and production&Quality system, always provide the high quality 3D printers to all valued-customers.

Why you need a 3d printer of LCD?

LCD Printer vs FDM Printer

-Precision. LCD printers have higher precision and can print models with greater details like garage kit while FDM can not.

-Ease of use. SLA LCD printers don’t require as much setup as FDM printers, easier to start printing. The software of LCD printers is relatively simple to use. Far fewer settings to adjust vs FDM printers.

-New Technology. As LCD new technology develops, LCD printers become more popular.

Do not miss Voxelab Polaris 3D printer which is Entry-level, Affordable, Easy to use, Better Printing Quality, and Full of Fun!

Specification

Technology: LCD UV Photocuring

Light Source: UV Integrated Light (wavelength 405nm)

XY Resolution: 0.047mm (2560*1440)

Layer Thickness: 0.025-0.1mm; Printing Speed: 20 mm/h

Printer Dimensions: 9.06in (L) * 7.87in (W) * 16.14in (H)

Build Volume: 4.53in (L) * 2.56in (W) * 6.1in (H)

Net Weight: 13.2Lbs (6Kg)

Printing Parameter:

Operation: 3.5 Inch Touch Screen

Slicer Software: Chitu Box/VoxelPrint

File format:Input:stl file

Printing Method: USB Stick

Package List

Voxelab Polaris 3D Pritner comes with a simple yet well-protect package box which contains all the necessary parts you need to start a perfect printing

Polaris 3d printer * 1

Power cable * 1

Build platform * 1

USB Sisk * 1

Rubber gloves * 1

Tool Kit * 1

Filter paper * 1

Metal scraper *

  • 【Powerful slicing software 】Polaris supports both CHITU Slicing Software and VoxelPrint Slicing Software. VoxelPrint can quickly sets up the support and can modify the support parameters.VoxelPrint 3d printer provides a dimension compensation mechanism, effectively reduces the error caused by resin shrinkage. VoxelPrint also provides internal honeycomb support to avoid collapse. The cutting function also brings a different printing experience
  • 【Easy to use】Fully assembled, Out of box, leveling was a breeze. The package does not include 3d printer resin, but it supports resins of 405nm. We recommend Voxelab official resins, much cheaper and very stable
  • 【High Precision and Resolution】Polaris uses a 2560x1440 2K HD masking LCD as to provide accurate printing with a single pixel size of 0.047mm.Polaris was able to show the model in full details
  • 【Excellent Performance】The printing effect of Polaris is finer than the FDM 3d printers. Voxelab official resin is very stable and compatible with different 3d printers
  • 【Warranty and Service】Voxelab provides Lifetime technical support and a one-year warranty (Except E2K LCD Screen and FEP film).★★★Kindly Reminder: Polaris does not include resins★★★

User questions & answers

Question: Does this have a factory warranty and support? If so, for how long
Answer: My 3.0 came with a jumper for the board.
Question: How does the print quality compare to Ellegoo mars
Answer: Yes, they are the DuPont style on both ends as shown in the picture. I changed the connector at the printer head end to a latching jst connector because I was worried the DuPont connector may vibrate loose.
Question: I see there are two options the options also have a price difference is there a feature im not seeing on the more expensive one
Answer: Yes!
Question: does this print from a computer
Answer: Yes,Z axis is 300mm.

Product features

Do not miss Voxelab Polaris 3D printer which is Entry-level, Affordable, Easy to use, Better Printing Quality, and Full of Fun!

Technology: LCD UV Photocuring Light Source: UV Integrated Light (wavelength 405nm) XY Resolution: 0.047mm (2560*1440) Layer Thickness: 0.025-0.1mm; Printing Speed: 20 mm/h Printer Dimensions: 9.06in (L) * 7.87in (W) * 16.14in (H) Build Volume: 4.53in (L) * 2.56in (W) * 6.1in (H) Net Weight: 13.2Lbs (6Kg)

Leveling easier

You only need the Z-axis to return to zero, then lock the leveling screw to start printing. Level the platform easily in just 15 seconds.

Improved Printing Efficiency

Support for Printing Several Models in One Go.115*65*155mm printing volume,With 155mm printing height to meet the printing needs of garage kit users.

Resin Vat Max Scale Mark

There is maximum scale mark in resin vat to prevent pouring too much resin to waste.

Stable Light Source

Proxima uses wavelength 405nm UV integrated light.Reflector spotlight design makes the light source more concentrated and even.Have a higher printing success rate

5.5 - inch 2k LCD screen

With an image resolution of 2560*1440 and a single resolution is 47 microns, to achieving the original design, and showing the details of printed objects.

Two Slicing Software

Available on both slicing software which CHITUBOX and VoxelPrint. Simplify UI interface and operation system supported the most easy slicing

BIQU B1 3D Printer, All Metal FDM 3D Printer 235X235X270mm 3.5'' Full Color Touch Screen Dual-System Filament Detection Resume Printing VS Ender 3 V2 3D Printer for Beginners(Official Certificate)

BIGTREETCH

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

High-performance accessories used in BIQU B1 FDM 3D Printer:



Ultra-quiet printing due to TMC2225 Ultra-Silence stepper motor drives



TFT35 V3.0 Touch Screen has two working mode for TFT touch screen mode and Other features of the BIQU b1 3d printer



1.Buying a printer will give free 50G filament for testing

2.The 3D printer adopts a new integrated adapter board, which plays a very good protective role.

3.Support multiple languages, easy to useImprove user experience, support up to 15 languages(such as Chinese, English, Japanese, German, French, Italian, Hungarian, Dutch, Polish, Russian, Spanish, etc.)

4.Encoder design, the color of nozzle and adapter plate can be switched arbitrarily (7 colors in total).

5.The new version of SSS spring steel plate used is not deformed. After printing, the model can be gently removed after cooling down.

6.No need to disassemble the motherboard.

7.The BIQU B1 FDM printer reserved interface supports intelligent consumables detection module and bLtouch.



Specification



Filament:PLA,ABS,PETG

Motor accuracy:+0.1

Printing size:235* 235* 270mm

Max print speed:100mm/s

Power supply:24V

Screen:BTT TFT35 V3.0

Extruder:Single

Motherboard:BTT SKR V1.4

Leveling:Manual



NOTES



If the customer needs to replace the main board, adapter board, and type c line by himself, you must pay attention to:



1. The main board wiring needs to pay attention to the line of the heating rod, and the line sequence cannot be wrong.

2. The adapter board must be connected according to the wiring diagram we provide.

3.The type c line can only use provide by BIQU, other lines are not suitable.



Please do not buy the screen or motherboard for replacement by yourself. If you have any problem with BIQU B1 printer, please contact us as soon as possible.

  • ❤【HIGHER PRINTING ACCURACY】The new 3D printer adopts prusa I3 structure, built-in a high-performance 32 bit SKR V1.4 controller, a full-color 3.5-inch tft35 3.0 screen, TMC2225 driver, and a sss spring steel plate. Upgraded extruder greatly reduces plugging risk and bad extrustion.
  • ❤【FILAMENT DETECTION PROMPT】When the filament detector detects that PLA filament is broken or runs out, the system automatically pauses printing and prompts for feeding.
  • ❤【RESUME PRINT FUNCTION】B1 3D printer can resume printing from the last recorded extruder position after suffering unexpected power failure or PLA filament outage, saving time and avoiding waste.
  • ❤【LARGER PRINT SIZE】The print size of this FDM printer is 235X235X270mm. B1 3D printer supports PLA, ABS and PETG filament.It support TF card, U disk printing. Even beginners can easily complete the assembly and get started quickly.
  • ❤【24 MONTHS LONGER WARRANTY】Strict testing for all components before delivery.We will provide a long-term warranty service of up to 24 months(The normal warranty period is 12 months). We will respond promptly within 12 hours in one business day. Any problem please feel free to write to us.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this model do multicolor prints
Answer: In the stock configuration as sold by Amazon, the answer is No. The motherboard will support a multi-head extruder, but comes configured and supplied with a single extruder.
Question: Is this really a biqu b1 3d printer or just has the same components
Answer: Thanks for your ask. Sure, this is really a biqu b1 3d printer . OCTOBIGTREE is a branch of BIQU. Please don't worry. You can buy with confidence

JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer DIY Kit with Filament Run Out Detection Sensor and Resume Print Metal Base 3D Printers for Hobbist Education 220x220x250mm 110V US Plug

Shenzhen Huaxun Technology Co.,Ltd.

Based on 230 reviews Check latest price
  • Print Size: 220x220x250mm ( 8.6"x8.6"x9.8"), Industrial grade silicone wire and a power supply built into the base make this machine safe and durable
  • Filament Run Out Detection: the printer will warn you when it runs out of filament or there is a problem pulling filament from the roll. You will have the opportunity to resolve the issue and continue printing
  • SD Card hot plugin: If for any reason you happen to remove the SD Card during the printing process, by reinserting the SD Card you can continue printing
  • Stability: The sturdy metal base and side filament holder make it easy to change the filament without disturbing the printing process
  • Easy to Assemble: with only eight mostly-assembled modules to combine, total assembly of the machine can typically be completed in under two hours.

User questions & answers

Question: inluye el filamento
Answer: 3meter testing PLA only
Question: Is it noisey
Answer: it is normal voice :-)
Question: Is this model compatible with a Raspberry Pi running Octoprint
Answer: Yes , I have Octoprint with Raspberry Pi 3B hooked up to my Magic and it works very well. No issues.
Question: How difficult to build
Answer: I had just built it and it is relatively easy. I was done in roughly and hour and a half. Would have been done sooner but I didn’t follow the instructions which was my fault.

Product features

JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer with Built-in power supply

  • One-piece structure,extremely innovative design,create a new generation DIY 3D printers.
  • DIY components,it comes with three assembled parts, fast assemble, you can enjoy the fun of assembling by yourself.
  • Adopt Industrial grade silicone wire and high quality aluminum profiles with all metal base and build in power supply which ensure the printer quality and safety.

Resume Print with Filament RUN-OUT Detection

  • Filament RUN-OUT detection: The machine beeps when your filament runs out to allow you to change the filament and avoid a failed print
  • Power Fuilaur Detection: Resume printing from where the last print was stopped due to power failure. Saving you valuable time and filament
  • Memory Function: Resume print due to SD card removed accidently, If for any reason you happen to remove the SD Card during the printing process, by reinserting the SD Card you can continue printing.

Print Size: 220*220*250mm

  • The Magic 3d printer is a perfect tool meant to inspire and drive imagination, creativity, and ingenuity, the print size is 220 x 220 x 250 mm, which support for most models
  • Built-in power supply design creates a more elegant appearance and is a safer option than the exposed design on some other machines.
  • Machine Size:443*450*472mm
  • Machine Weight:8kg
  • Packing Size:550*465*175mm

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