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3D printer comparison


3D Printer Comparison Chart

Select the specs of your dream 3d printer and then scroll down to see matching 3d printers.

Creality Ender 3
Price: $199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:24 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Anycubic Kobra Max
Price: $749.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:52 PST - Details
Width: 17.72 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 15.75 inch

Anycubic Kobra
Price: $319.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:24 PST - Details
Width: 8.7 inch
Height: 9.8 inch
Depth: 8.7 inch

Creality Ender 3X
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:26 PST - Details
Width: 8.7 inch
Height: 9.8 inch
Depth: 8.7 inch

Anycubic Photon Mono 4K
Price: $279.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:37 PST - Details
Width: 5. 2 inch
Height: 6.5 inch
Depth: 3.14 inch

Flashforge Adventurer 3
Price: $313.63 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:10 PST - Details
Width: 5.9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Anycubic Photon M3 Max
Price: $1299.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:37 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 11.7 inch
Depth: 6.46 inch

Elegoo Mars 2 Pro
Price: $213.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:12 PST - Details
Width: 5.08 inch
Height: 6.3 inch
Depth: 3.15 inch

Elegoo Saturn
Price: $379.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:27 PST - Details
Width: 7.55 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 4.72 inch

Anycubic Photon M3
Price: $249.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:37 PST - Details
Width: 7.1 inch
Height: 6.4 inch
Depth: 4 inch

Elegoo Saturn 2
Price: $670. 99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:20 PST - Details
Width: 8.62 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 4.85 inch

Voxelab Aquila X2
Price: $179.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:12 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Toybox
Price: $349.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 2.75 inch
Height: 3.54 inch
Depth: 3.15 inch

Creality Ender 3 S1 Pro
Price: $499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 04:26 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 10.63 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
Price: $319.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:47 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Creality Ender 3 Pro
Price: $249.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:47 PST - Details
Width: 8.6 inch
Height: 9. 8 inch
Depth: 8.6 inch

Anycubic Vyper
Price: $429.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:24 PST - Details
Width: 9.64 inch
Height: 10.23 inch
Depth: 9.64 inch

Voxelab Aquila S2
Price: $199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:45 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.45 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Creality Ender 3 V2
Price: $279.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:47 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Prusa i3 MK3S+
Price: $945.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:34 PST - Details
Width: 9.84 inch
Height: 8.3 inch
Depth: 8.3 inch

Voxelab Aries
Price: $269.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:34 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Creality CR-10
Price: $459. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:28 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Flashforge Creator Pro 2
Price: $449.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:08 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.82 inch

Creality Ender 5 Pro
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:25 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K
Price: $619.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:08 PST - Details
Width: 7.76 inch
Height: 9.65 inch
Depth: 4.8 inch

Voxelab Aquila C2
Price: $165.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 11:18 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Flsun Super Racer SR
Price: $569.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:26 PST - Details
Width: 10.24 inch
Height: 12. 99 inch
Depth: 10.24 inch

Flashforge Adventurer 3 Pro
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 15:40 PST - Details
Width: 5.9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Sovol SV01
Price: $199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:43 PST - Details
Width: 9.44 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 11.02 inch

Flashforge Finder 3
Price: $499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:32 PST - Details
Width: 7.48 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 7.68 inch

Qidi Tech X-Plus
Price: $699.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:33 PST - Details
Width: 10.6 inch
Height: 7.9 inch
Depth: 7.9 inch

Sovol SV04
Price: $559.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 04:58 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Creality Ender 3 S1 Plus
Price: $549. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:25 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Creality Ender 5 Plus
Price: $599.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:07 PST - Details
Width: 13.77 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 13.77 inch

Original Prusa i3 MK3S
Price: $1299.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:10 PST - Details
Width: 9.84 inch
Height: 8.3 inch
Depth: 8.3 inch

Phrozen Sonic Mini
Price: $129.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:12 PST - Details
Width: 4.7 inch
Height: 5.1 inch
Depth: 2.6 inch

Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K
Price: $499.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 16:03 PST - Details
Width: 5.2 inch
Height: 5.1 inch
Depth: 2.9 inch

Qidi Tech i-Mate S
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:32 PST - Details
Width: 10.23 inch
Height: 7. 87 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8K
Price: $599.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:37 PST - Details
Width: 8.58 inch
Height: 9.25 inch
Depth: 4.84 inch

Longer LK5 Pro
Price: $369.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 11:26 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Voxelab Proxima 8.9 Pro
Price: $195.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 21:25 PST - Details
Width: 7.56 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 4.72 inch

Creality Ender 3 S1
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:26 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 10.63 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Creality CR-10 Mini
Price: $729.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:07 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 8.6 inch

Mingda Magician X
Price: $349. 99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:26 PST - Details
Width: 9.06 inch
Height: 10.24 inch
Depth: 9.06 inch

Anet Storm G1
Price: $179.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:59 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

BIBO2 Touch Laser X
Price: $528.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:18 PST - Details
Width: 8.4 inch
Height: 6.3 inch
Depth: 7.3 inch

Monoprice Voxel
Price: $449.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:40 PST - Details
Width: 5.9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Lotmaxx Shark V3
Price: $399.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:33 PST - Details
Width: 9.25 inch
Height: 10.43 inch
Depth: 9.25 inch

Qidi Tech X-Max
Price: $999.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:44 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 9. 8 inch

Snapmaker 2.0 F350
Price: $1199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:34 PST - Details
Width: 12.6 inch
Height: 13 inch
Depth: 13.78 inch

Creality Ender 5 Plus
Price: $599.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:25 PST - Details
Width: 13.78 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 13.78 inch

Elegoo Saturn S
Price: $435.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 12:39 PST - Details
Width: 7.72 inch
Height: 8.27 inch
Depth: 4.8 inch

Qidi Tech X-CF Pro
Price: $1849.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 11:30 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 9.8 inch

FlashForge Creator Pro
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:31 PST - Details
Width: 8.9 inch
Height: 5.7 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Geeetech Mizar S
Price: $429. 99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:35 PST - Details
Width: 10.04 inch
Height: 10.24 inch
Depth: 10.04 inch

Creality Ender 6
Price: $569.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 18:52 PST - Details
Width: 9.84 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 9.84 inch

Fokoos Odin-5 F3
Price: $349.98 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:34 PST - Details
Width: 9.25 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 9.25 inch

Artillery Sidewinder SW-X2
Price: $469.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:36 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Flashforge Adventurer 4 Lite
Price: $499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:25 PST - Details
Width: 8.67 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Flashforge Adventurer 3C
Price: $249.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:40 PST - Details
Width: 5. 9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Flsun QQ-S
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:47 PST - Details
Width: 10.04 inch
Height: 14.17 inch
Depth: 10.04 inch

Elegoo Mars 2
Price: $335.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 16:03 PST - Details
Width: 5.1 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 3.1 inch

Sovol SV03
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:24 PST - Details
Width: 13.78 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 13.78 inch

Creality CR-6 SE
Price: $379.99 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:48 PST - Details
Width: 9.25 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 9.25 inch

Flashforge Foto 6.0
Price: $109.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:38 PST - Details
Width: 5.12 inch
Height: 6.1 inch
Depth: 3.07 inch

Sovol SV02
Price: $279. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:26 PST - Details
Width: 9.44 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 11.02 inch

Creality Halot One Plus
Price: $398.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:39 PST - Details
Width: 6.77 inch
Height: 6.29 inch
Depth: 4.01 inch

Monoprice Joule
Price: $199.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:34 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

MakerBot Replicator+
Price: $2099.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 19:33 PST - Details
Width: 7.6 inch
Height: 6.5 inch
Depth: 11.6 inch

Monoprice Delta Pro
Price: $1724.83 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:12 PST - Details
Width: 10.63 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 10.63 inch

Flashforge Foto 8.9
Price: $199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 11:32 PST - Details
Width: 7.6 inch
Height: 7. 9 inch
Depth: 4.7 inch

Qidi Tech i-Fast
Price: $2499.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 22:38 PST - Details
Width: 14.17 inch
Height: 12.6 inch
Depth: 9.84 inch

Longer Orange 30
Price: $340.16 as of Dec 23, 2022, 16:02 PST - Details
Width: 4.72 inch
Height: 6.69 inch
Depth: 2.68 inch

JGAURORA A5S
Price: $329.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:06 PST - Details
Width: 12 inch
Height: 12.6 inch
Depth: 12 inch

Dremel DigiLab 3D45
Price: $2199.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 10 inch
Height: 6.7 inch
Depth: 6 inch

Creality Ender 2 Pro
Price: $173.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 15:51 PST - Details
Width: 6.5 inch
Height: 7.09 inch
Depth: 6.5 inch

Artillery Genius Pro
Price: $399. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:30 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Monoprice MP10
Price: $329.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:30 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

JGMAKER Magic
Price: $169.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:34 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Flashforge Guider IIS
Price: $1525.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 15:53 PST - Details
Width: 11.02 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 9.84 inch

SainSmart INFI-20 Belt
Price: $489.99 as of Dec 22, 2022, 14:45 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.09 inch
Depth: Infinite inch

Tronxy X5SA
Price: $429.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:55 PST - Details
Width: 13 inch
Height: 15. 74 inch
Depth: 13 inch

Flashforge Adventurer 4
Price: $799.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 17:35 PST - Details
Width: 8.67 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Phrozen Sonic Mighty 4K
Price: $499.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:15 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 8.66 inch
Depth: 4.92 inch

Creality Ender 3 Max
Price: $279.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:09 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 13.38 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Monoprice MP Mini
Price: $147.15 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:57 PST - Details
Width: 4.6 inch
Height: 4.3 inch
Depth: 2.6 inch

Creality 3DPrintMill CR-30
Price: $982.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:26 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 6.69 inch
Depth: Infinite inch

Kywoo Tycoon Max
Price: $519. 99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:32 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 9.05 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Anycubic Chiron
Price: $599.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 07:47 PST - Details
Width: 15.74 inch
Height: 17.71 inch
Depth: 15.74 inch

Weedo X40
Price: $569.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 13:00 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 15.8 inch
Depth: 11.8 inch

Raise3D Pro3 Plus
Price: $7599.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 16:21 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 23.82 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Dremel Digilab 3D40 Flex
Price: $1499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 14:45 PST - Details
Width: 10.03 inch
Height: 6.69 inch
Depth: 6.1 inch

Longer Orange 10
Price: $195.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:26 PST - Details
Width: 3.86 inch
Height: 5. 5 inch
Depth: 2.17 inch

FlashForge Dreamer
Price: $842.39 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:08 PST - Details
Width: 9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Flashforge Creator Pro 3
Price: $3499.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 17:35 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 9.84 inch

Tronxy CRUX 1
Price: $189.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 07:29 PST - Details
Width: 7.08 inch
Height: 7.08 inch
Depth: 7.08 inch

Longer LK4
Price: $432.53 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:46 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Silhouette Alta Plus
Price: $299.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:07 PST - Details
Width: 4.88 inch
Height: 5.11 inch
Depth: 4.88 inch

ADIMLab Gantry I3 Plus
Price: $449. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:43 PST - Details
Width: 12.2 inch
Height: 16.14 inch
Depth: 12.2 inch

Anycubic Photon M3 Plus
Price: $668.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:39 PST - Details
Width: 9.6 inch
Height: 7.8 inch
Depth: 4.8 inch

Geeetech A20T
Price: $798.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 13:01 PST - Details
Width: 9.84 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 9.84 inch

Anet A8 Plus
Price: $259.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:26 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 13.8 inch
Depth: 11.8 inch

Elegoo Jupiter
Price: $1300.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 03:07 PST - Details
Width: 10.94 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 6.14 inch

He3D K280
Price: $329.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:22 PST - Details
Width: 11.02 inch
Height: 23.62 inch
Depth: 11. 02 inch

JGMAKER Artist-D Pro
Price: $499.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:26 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 13.38 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Creality Halot-Sky
Price: $849.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:37 PST - Details
Width: 7.56 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 4.72 inch

TwoTrees SP-5 CoreXY
Price: $459.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:32 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 13.78 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Flashforge Guider II
Price: $999.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:51 PST - Details
Width: 11 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 9.8 inch

Monoprice MP10 Mini
Price: $239.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:32 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.08 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Monoprice Maker Ultimate 2
Price: $449. 99 as of Dec 22, 2022, 21:25 PST - Details
Width: 7.9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

Geeetech A20M
Price: $597.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:35 PST - Details
Width: 10.04 inch
Height: 10.04 inch
Depth: 10.04 inch

Lotmaxx Shark V2
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:17 PST - Details
Width: 9.25 inch
Height: 10.43 inch
Depth: 9.25 inch

BIQU B1
Price: $399.95 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:07 PST - Details
Width: 9.25 inch
Height: 10.63 inch
Depth: 9.25 inch

Raise3D E2
Price: $3499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 14:13 PST - Details
Width: 13 inch
Height: 9.4 inch
Depth: 9.4 inch

Creality CR-10 V2
Price: $763.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:35 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Sindoh 3DWOX 1
Price: $1499. 00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 17:37 PST - Details
Width: 8.26 inch
Height: 7.67 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

LulzBot TAZ Workhorse
Price: $3989.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 18:31 PST - Details
Width: 11.02 inch
Height: 11.22 inch
Depth: 11.02 inch

Voxelab Proxima
Price: $169.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:20 PST - Details
Width: 5.11 inch
Height: 6.1 inch
Depth: 3.22 inch

Geeetech A10M
Price: $729.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:34 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 10.23 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Cubicon Prime
Price: $399.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:45 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.25 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

LulzBot Mini 2
Price: $2096.59 as of Dec 23, 2022, 04:58 PST - Details
Width: 6.3 inch
Height: 7.09 inch
Depth: 6. 3 inch

Anet ET4
Price: $356.20 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:46 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Raise3D Pro2 Plus
Price: $4999.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 12 inch
Height: 23.8 inch
Depth: 12 inch

Longer LK4 Pro
Price: $449.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 16:13 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 9.84 inch
Depth: 8.66 inch

Tenlog TL-D3 Pro
Price: $599.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:29 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 13.78 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K
Price: $469.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 05:55 PST - Details
Width: 7.76 inch
Height: 9.65 inch
Depth: 4.8 inch

Dremel 3D40 Idea Builder 2.0
Price: $1519. 00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:31 PST - Details
Width: 10 inch
Height: 6.7 inch
Depth: 6 inch

Raise3D Pro2
Price: $3999.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:15 PST - Details
Width: 12 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 12 inch

Creality CR-200B
Price: $499.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Creality Halot-One
Price: $369.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 06:12 PST - Details
Width: 5 inch
Height: 6.3 inch
Depth: 3.15 inch

Raise3D Pro3
Price: $5599.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 12:41 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Ultimaker S5
Price: $6950.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 14:12 PST - Details
Width: 13 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 9.4 inch

CEL Robox RBX01
Price: $972. 38 as of Dec 22, 2022, 20:57 PST - Details
Width: 8.27 inch
Height: 3.94 inch
Depth: 5.91 inch

Dobot Mooz
Price: $799.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 15:59 PST - Details
Width: 5.11 inch
Height: 5.11 inch
Depth: 5.11 inch

Ultimaker 2+ Connect
Price: $2750.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:09 PST - Details
Width: 8.7 inch
Height: 8 inch
Depth: 8.6 inch

LulzBot TAZ Pro
Price: $6285.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 13:00 PST - Details
Width: 11.02 inch
Height: 11.22 inch
Depth: 11.02 inch

Monoprice MP Mini
Price: $375.97 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:46 PST - Details
Width: 4.7 inch
Height: 7.8 inch
Depth: 2.7 inch

Robo E3 Pro
Price: $1999.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 11:30 PST - Details
Width: 9.8 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 11 inch

Kywoo Tycoon Slim
Price: $379. 99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:36 PST - Details
Width: 9.45 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 9.45 inch

Artillery Sidewinder X1
Price: $434.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 19:48 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.75 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Robo E3
Price: $999.99 as of Dec 22, 2022, 20:58 PST - Details
Width: 5.9 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.9 inch

MakerBot Replicator Z18
Price: $12299.78 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:14 PST - Details
Width: 11.8 inch
Height: 18 inch
Depth: 12 inch

Monoprice 300
Price: $845.58 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:19 PST - Details
Width: 11 inch
Height: 11.8 inch
Depth: 9.8 inch

UP Plus 2
Price: $799.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:19 PST - Details
Width: 5.3 inch
Height: 5.5 inch
Depth: 5. 5 inch

FlashForge Creator Max
Price: $879.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:14 PST - Details
Width: 8.93 inch
Height: 5.9 inch
Depth: 5.82 inch

Anet N4
Price: $250.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:26 PST - Details
Width: 4.72 inch
Height: 5.43 inch
Depth: 2.55 inch

LeapFrog Creatr
Price: $813.01 as of Dec 23, 2022, 08:20 PST - Details
Width: 10.62 inch
Height: 7.87 inch
Depth: 9.05 inch

Makerbot Method X
Price: $4789.13 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 7.5 inch
Height: 7.75 inch
Depth: 7.5 inch

Raise3D E2CF
Price: $4499.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 22:40 PST - Details
Width: 13.4 inch
Height: 9.4 inch
Depth: 9.4 inch

Gowe Singl
Price: $999.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 23:23 PST - Details
Width: 4. 7 inch
Height: 4.7 inch
Depth: 4.7 inch

Gowe Reprappro Huxley
Price: $999.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:19 PST - Details
Width: 5.51 inch
Height: 5.51 inch
Depth: 4.33 inch

Cube Printer 2nd Generation
Price: $349.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:55 PST - Details
Width: 5.5 inch
Height: 5.5 inch
Depth: 5.5 inch

Geeetech Prusa I3 A Pro
Price: $642.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:30 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.48 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Kloner3D Kids XL
Price: $1389.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:45 PST - Details
Width: 5.91 inch
Height: 13.39 inch
Depth: 5.51 inch

Kloner3D 500
Price: $10518.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 20:25 PST - Details
Width: 19.69 inch
Height: 5.51 inch
Depth: 9.45 inch

Kloner3D Kids
Price: $926. 00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 20:36 PST - Details
Width: 4.72 inch
Height: 4.72 inch
Depth: 4.72 inch

Kloner3D 240
Price: $6390.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 16:34 PST - Details
Width: 8.66 inch
Height: 5.51 inch
Depth: 9.45 inch

Kloner3D 240Twin
Price: $11973.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:33 PST - Details
Width: 14.17 inch
Height: 5.51 inch
Depth: 9.45 inch

Kloner3D 300H
Price: $2579.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 10:34 PST - Details
Width: 12.6 inch
Height: 12.99 inch
Depth: 10.24 inch

Kloner3D 320
Price: $9009.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:08 PST - Details
Width: 12.6 inch
Height: 5.51 inch
Depth: 9.45 inch

Tiertime UP BOX+
Price: $1449.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 19:49 PST - Details
Width: 10 inch
Height: 8 inch
Depth: 8 inch

Zortrax M300
Price: $4199. 00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 22:08 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 11.81 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

Gowe
Price: $999.00 as of Dec 22, 2022, 20:58 PST - Details
Width: 4.72 inch
Height: 4.72 inch
Depth: 4.72 inch

Geeetech Aluminum Prusa I3
Price: $577.50 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:24 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.08 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Velleman K8800
Price: $500.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:08 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 8.85 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

Monoprice MP Cadet
Price: $292.76 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:58 PST - Details
Width: 3.9 inch
Height: 3.9 inch
Depth: 4.1 inch

ToAuto Pyramid A1
Price: $854.30 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:11 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 11. 81 inch

Geeetech Prusa I3 Pro B
Price: $372.81 as of Dec 23, 2022, 00:55 PST - Details
Width: 7.87 inch
Height: 7.08 inch
Depth: 7.87 inch

JGAURORA Z603S
Price: $1850.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 01:30 PST - Details
Width: 11.02 inch
Height: 7.08 inch
Depth: 7.08 inch

BQ Hephestos 2
Price: $999.99 as of Dec 23, 2022, 02:27 PST - Details
Width: 8.26 inch
Height: 8.66 inch
Depth: 11.69 inch

Creality CR-10 Smart
Price: $490.00 as of Dec 23, 2022, 09:32 PST - Details
Width: 11.81 inch
Height: 15.74 inch
Depth: 11.81 inch

The Best Cheap 3D Printers for 2022

While we'd hesitate to call 3D printing a mature technology, you might say it has reached its teenage years. Through their first decade-and-change, 3D printers have come down in price, grown easier to set up and operate, and become more reliable. And you may pay less than you expect: Many once-high-end features have migrated down to inexpensive models.

PC Labs has been reviewing 3D printers since 2013. Today, the state of 3D printing is strong, but that wasn’t always the case. For the first several years, it was often an adventure getting one of these printers up and running, let alone successfully through our testing regimen. Issues with filament-based—aka fused filament fabrication (FFF) or fused deposition modeling (FDM)—printers were abundant.

Filament feeders had to be coaxed into delivering filament from the spool to the extruder. Print beds had to be manually aligned. The extruder or hot end had to be positioned just right to minimize the gap between the nozzle and the build plate (the flat surface on which the object is printed). Objects frequently stuck to the build plate, and required careful, sometimes unsuccessful, efforts to pry them off. These and other issues required painstaking effort to resolve, often combined with calls to tech support.

Not so much anymore. While they can still be rebellious at times, 3D printers have grown up a lot, and achieving the 3D printer basics has gotten a lot less likely to end in a shouting match over small things. And they've gotten a lot more affordable, too, for curious DIY-ers and hobbyists to try.

If you're in the market for a beginner or low-cost 3D printer, it's important to know how lower-end models differ. Read on for mini-reviews of the top budget 3D printers we've tested. After that, we go into more detail on understanding the 3D printer specs and tech relevant to beginning buyers. Ready to take the plunge? Read on.

Original Prusa Mini

Best Overall Budget 3D Printer

4.5 Outstanding

Bottom Line:

It requires assembly and calibration care (plus shipping from the Czech Republic), but the Original Prusa Mini is a compact, open-frame 3D printer that consistently produces superb-quality output for a great price.

PROS

  • Top-notch object quality
  • Supports a variety of filament types
  • Useful, professionally printed user guide
  • Great support resources
  • Versatile, user-friendly software

CONS

  • First-layer calibration can be tricky
  • Only includes starter packets of filament
  • Requires monitoring if young children or pets are around

Sold By List Price Price
Prusa Research $399. 00 $399.00 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Original Prusa Mini Review

XYZprinting da Vinci Mini

Best Budget 3D Printer for Schools, Community Centers

4.0 Excellent

Bottom Line:

The XYZprinting da Vinci Mini is a consumer-oriented 3D printer that provides a winning combination of low price, ease of setup and use, solid print quality, and smooth, misprint-free operation.

PROS

  • Very low price.
  • Reasonably priced filament.
  • Good print quality.
  • No misprints in testing.
  • Easy setup and operation.
  • Quiet.
  • Prints over a USB or Wi-Fi connection.

CONS

  • Occasional problems in trying to launch prints.
  • Removing printed objects from the print bed is sometimes tricky.

Sold By List Price Price
Walmart $199. 95 $199.95 See It (Opens in a new window)
Amazon $199.95 $199.95 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our XYZprinting da Vinci Mini Review

Toybox 3D Printer

Best Budget 3D Printer for Children

4.0 Excellent

Bottom Line:

The Toybox 3D Printer works well as a model designed for children, offering reliable printing from a browser or mobile device and a few thousand toys to print, plus creative options to output drawings or photos. Just bear in mind the tiny build area.

PROS

  • Reliable, misprint-free printing
  • Easy setup
  • One-touch operation
  • Well-composed help resources
  • Access to more than 2,000 printable toys and projects
  • Lets you create your own printable designs

CONS

  • Tiny build area
  • Not ideal for importing 3D files created elsewhere

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $299. 00 $299.00 See It (Opens in a new window)
Toybox Labs $379.00 $299.00 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Toybox 3D Printer Review

Monoprice Mini Delta V2 3D Printer

Best Budget 3D Printer for Beginners, Non-Techies

4.0 Excellent

Bottom Line:

3D printing gurus will be intrigued by the Monoprice Mini Delta V2's use of the delta rather than Cartesian coordinate system, but beginners will just enjoy its low price, ease of use, and speedy printing.

PROS

  • Sub-$200 price
  • Quick, nearly misprint-free printing
  • Easy setup and operation
  • Sturdy steel-and-aluminum frame
  • Supports multiple filament types

CONS

  • Tiny build area
  • So-so print quality
  • Mere one-year warranty

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $179. 99 $179.99 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Monoprice Mini Delta V2 3D Printer Review

Anycubic i3 Mega S

Best Budget 3D Printer With an Open Design, Big Build Area

3.5 Good

Bottom Line:

The Anycubic i3 Mega S, an inexpensive open-frame 3D printer, produced decent-quality prints in our testing. To get the most out of it, though, may require precise calibration.

PROS

  • Modestly priced
  • Large build area for an inexpensive printer
  • Supports a variety of filament types
  • Generally solid print quality
  • Uses well-known Cura software

CONS

  • Finicky print-platform alignment
  • Supported coils of filament are small
  • Poorly placed spool holder

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $229. 98 $229.98 Check Stock (Opens in a new window)
AnyCubic $279.00 $279.00 Check Stock (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Anycubic i3 Mega S Review

Anycubic Vyper

Best Budget 3D Printer for the Biggest Build Area Possible

3.5 Good

Bottom Line:

Anycubic's modestly priced Vyper whips up large 3D prints on its open-frame design, and provides automatic print-bed leveling. Just know that some minor assembly is required—and printed objects may require a bit of cleanup.

PROS

  • Relatively large build area
  • Automatic bed leveling
  • Simple assembly

CONS

  • Short (one-year) warranty
  • Includes only a small starter filament coil
  • Using Cura software with the Vyper requires tweaking a couple of settings
  • Test prints showed some "hairy" filament residue

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $429. 99 $429.99 See It (Opens in a new window)
AnyCubic $369.00 $319.00 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Anycubic Vyper Review

Creality Ender-3 V2

Best Budget 3D Printer for Tinkerers and DIY Types

3.5 Good

Bottom Line:

Hands-on tweaking defines Creality's budget-price Ender-3 V2, an open-frame 3D printer that you build from a kit. It produces generally above-par prints, but its print bed can be tricky to keep leveled.

PROS

  • Inexpensive
  • Slightly above-average print quality
  • Good-size build area for its price
  • Supports several filament types

CONS

  • Manual print-bed leveling can be tricky
  • Setup instructions could be deeper, more legible
  • Questionable quality control on some parts

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $299. 00 $246.00 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Creality Ender-3 V2 Review

Flashforge Finder 3D Printer

Best 3D Printer for the Very Tightest Budgets

3.5 Good

Bottom Line:

The Flashforge Finder 3D Printer is moderately priced and offers good print quality, but it proved tricky to get up and running in our tests.

PROS

  • Quiet.
  • Good print quality.
  • Connects via USB 2.0 cable, USB thumb drive, or Wi-Fi.
  • Reasonably priced.

CONS

  • Some objects pulled off the platform during testing.
  • Poor documentation.
  • Modest build volume.
  • Limited to printing with polylactic acid filament (PLA).

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $729.00 $729.00 Check Stock (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Flashforge Finder 3D Printer Review

Polaroid PlaySmart 3D Printer

Best Budget 3D Printer for Dabbling in Small Objects

3. 5 Good

Bottom Line:

The Polaroid PlaySmart 3D Printer is a compact, stylish 3D printer with above-par overall print quality, but, alas, a tiny build area for the money.

PROS

  • Small, lightweight for a desktop 3D printer.
  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Supports PLA, PETG, and wood composite filaments.
  • Multiple-color support.
  • Wi-Fi camera monitors print jobs.
  • Prints from USB drives, SD cards, or mobile devices.

CONS

  • High price for its capabilities.
  • Small build area.
  • Too-brief warranty.

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $699.00 $699.00 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Polaroid PlaySmart 3D Printer Review

XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 1.0 A Pro

Best Budget 3D Printer With Closed Design, Roomy Build Area

3. 5 Good

Bottom Line:

The XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 1.0 A Pro is a moderately priced closed-frame 3D printer with a large build volume and overall good performance, but a potentially balky filament-feeding system.

PROS

  • Spacious build area
  • Works with third-party filaments
  • Self-leveling print bed

CONS

  • Build plate is not heated
  • Limited to PLA- and PETG-based filaments
  • Guide tube is prone to detaching

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $299.95 $199.95 See It (Opens in a new window)
Best Buy $449.95 $449.95 Check Stock (Opens in a new window)

Read Our XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 1.0 A Pro Review

Monoprice Voxel 3D Printer

Best Budget 3D Printer for Cheap Filament

3. 0 Average

Bottom Line:

The Monoprice Voxel is an under-$400 3D printer that's easy to set up and use. It exhibits generally good print quality, but it was unable to print two of our test objects.

PROS

  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Budget price for printer and filament spools.
  • Supports PLA, ABS, and several composite filament types.
  • Versatile software.
  • Prints over Ethernet or Wi-Fi, or from a USB thumb drive.

CONS

  • Frequent misprints on certain test objects.
  • Slightly balky touch screen.

Sold By List Price Price
Amazon $449.99 $369.26 See It (Opens in a new window)
Walmart $429.99 $369.26 See It (Opens in a new window)

Read Our Monoprice Voxel 3D Printer Review

Buying Guide: The Best Cheap 3D Printers for 2022

How to Buy a Cheap 3D Printer

The biggest changes to 3D printers over the last few years have come to the cheaper models. Nowadays, many of those classic, ornery 3D-printing issues have been resolved (most of the time, anyway), even for consumer and bargain-priced 3D printers. Automatic print-bed leveling is the norm, and you can usually remove 3D-printed objects from heated and/or flexible build plates with a minimum of coaxing. And most 3D printer manufacturers have either developed and refined their own software, or have adapted an open-source printing platform such as Cura(Opens in a new window).

(Credit: Zlata Ivleva)

What separates more expensive 3D printers from cheap ones ("cheap" defined as $500 or less, for the purposes of this article) is often a select group of features. These include the build volume, the type of frame, the varieties of supported filament, the software, and the connectivity mix. Let's run through those in turn.

What's the Right Build Volume for a 3D Printer?

A 3D printer’s build volume is the maximum dimensions (HWD) of a part that it can print. (We say “a part” because a 3D-printed object can consist of multiple parts that are printed, then glued or otherwise pieced together.) While the smallest build volume of any 3D printer we have tested is 3.9 by 3.9 by 4.9 inches, we consider any build volume smaller than 6 by 6 by 6 inches to be small, any between that and 10 by 10 by 10 inches as medium, and any printer with at least one build dimension of more than 10 inches as having a large build volume.

(Credit: Molly Flores)

As a general rule, inexpensive 3D printers have small build volumes, while more expensive ones have larger build volumes. This depends in part on the type of printer. Closed-frame 3D printers—and most semi-open models, which have a rigid top, base, and sides but are open in front and, often, back—tend to have small build volumes, while open-frame printers, lacking as rigid a physical structure, often have relatively large build volumes for the price. You'll want to weigh the build volume against the kinds of objects you will print.

Should I Get an Open-Frame or Closed-Frame 3D Printer?

Which brings us to the frame "form factor" question: open-frame versus closed-frame. Closed-frame 3D printers are boxlike devices, with a rigid base, walls (with a see-through door in front), and top. Among their advantages? They muffle the operating noise, as well as reduce the odor from melted filament (which is potentially an issue with ABS plastic), and they provide some protection for people or pets who might inadvertently touch the hot extruder. A downside: They tend to have smaller build volumes than open-frame 3D printers, which have fewer (often, no) walls to constrict them.

(Credit: Zlata Ivleva)

Low-cost 3D printers include both open-frame and closed-frame models, as well as a few stereolithography printers. If a relatively large build volume is a priority, you’re likely to get more bang for the buck with an open-frame model. Open-frames do have some clear downsides by definition: They tend to be noisy, emit odors when certain plastics are melted, and provide little protection for someone who might touch the hot extruder.

(Credit: Molly Flores)

Also, recognize some potential negatives of open frames, depending on the model. Some require assembly, being essentially kits, and most require more setup care than a closed-frame printer, plus more maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Still, these very traits should not deter—and may even appeal to—hobbyists and DIY folks.

What Should I Look for in 3D Printer Software and Connectivity?

Gone are the days when tinkerers had to cobble together several different programs to get a 3D printer to run. Manufacturers either include their own 3D printing program or modify an existing platform such as the open-source Cura.

3D printing software performs three main functions: processing an object file (resizing, moving, rotating, and in some cases duplicating it), slicing it (into virtual layers, based on your chosen resolution), and printing it. These are almost universally combined into a seamless process. Some high-end printers have software that supports a wider range of settings you can tweak, but even the basic suites work at least reasonably well.

More likely to vary among the cheaper set is the array of connection options from model to model. Nearly all have a USB Type-A port to fit a thumb drive for printing from document files. Most also have a USB Type-B port for connecting directly to a computer, and some offer Wi-Fi, too (or as an alternative), while a handful let you connect via Ethernet to share the printer across a local network.

Some printers support storing 3D files on an SD or microSD card (which may also contain the printer’s system files). Most 3D printer manufacturers (even the discount ones) have a mobile app to launch and monitor print jobs, and a few provide access to cloud services from which you can print.

While high-end 3D printers tend to have an abundance of connection choices, discount models vary widely in their choices. Some are generous and some are basic, so it pays to assess what a given model offers.

What Should I Look for in Filament Support?

Filament support tends to be a key area that separates the cheaper models from the higher-end ones. (See our guide to understanding 3D printing filaments for more particulars.) Inexpensive 3D printers tend to support a limited number of plastic filament types, some of them only PLA and/or ABS.

Recommended by Our Editors

3D Printing: What You Need to Know

3D Printer Filaments Explained

(Credit: Molly Flores)

PLA (polylactic acid) is a biodegradable, plant-based polymer, while ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is the same tough plastic that Legos are made from. Objects printed from ABS are durable and nontoxic, though the material can be tricky to work with. ABS can emit an acrid, unpleasant odor during printing, and the bottom corners of objects being printed with it have a tendency to curl upward a bit, especially if you are using a non-heated print bed. This can lead to unsightly prints, and/or prints prematurely pulling off the build plate, ruining them.

Many entry-level and low-price 3D printers stick exclusively to PLA. If you want to experiment with a larger variety of filaments—which include water-soluble filament, wood- and metal-laced composites, and both tough and flexible varieties—you may have to pay more, although a few discount models support a wide range of materials.

Should I Consider a 3D Printing Pen Instead?

Although they aren’t printers per se, inexpensive 3D pens are close kin to 3D printers—using the same filament types and a similar extrusion system—and we include them in the 3D printing category. Rather than tracing out a programmed pattern, you use the 3D pen much like a normal pen, except that you draw with molten plastic. You can trace a pattern or draw freehand, and even draw in three dimensions as the plastic quickly solidifies and hardens once extruded.

(Credit: 3Doodler)

Most 3D pens cost less than $100, and some cost $50 or less. At a glance, 3D pens may appear to be toys, but some artists and craftspeople have taken to them, as it is possible to make quite complicated and beautiful objects with them. If your aim in 3D printing is something closer to freehand design and free expression than computer-centric, structured, and repeatable output, you might give one a try.

So, What Is the Best Cheap 3D Printer to Buy?

Buying a budget 3D printer needn’t mean a world of sacrifice. Plenty of capable and reliable models sell at less than $500, and while they may not be as feature-rich as their more expensive cousins, there's no sense in paying for things you don’t need.

Many casual 3D-printing experimenters will be fine with printing over a USB cable or from a thumb drive, and sticking to PLA may be the best choice for a starter 3D printer. If you focus just on the features you want, you may be pleasantly surprised at what you find. Below, check out a spec breakdown of the best under-$500 3D printers we have reviewed, paralleling our picks above. Also, for a look at the broader market, see our guide to our favorite 3D printers overall.

Comparison of 3D printing technologies: FDM, SLA and SLS

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing reduces costs, saves time and expands the technological possibilities in product development. 3D printing technologies offer versatile solutions for applications ranging from rapid concept and functional prototypes in the field of prototyping to fixtures and clamps or even final parts in manufacturing.

Over the past few years, high resolution 3D printers have become more affordable, more reliable and easier to use. As a result, more companies have been able to use 3D printing technology, but choosing between different competing 3D printing solutions can be difficult. nine0003

Which technology is right for your needs? What materials are available for her? What equipment and training is needed to get started? What are the costs and payback?

In this article, we take a closer look at three of today's most well-known plastic 3D printing technologies: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).

Choosing between FDM and SLA 3D printer? Check out our detailed comparison of FDM and SLA technologies. nine0012

Download this high resolution infographic here.

VIDEO MANUAL

Can't find the 3D printing technology that best suits your needs? In this video guide, we compare Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technologies in terms of the top factors to consider when purchasing.

Watch Video

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), also known as Fused Filament Manufacturing (FFF), is the most widely used form of 3D printing at the consumer level, fueled by the rise of consumer 3D printers. On FDM printers, models are made by melting and extruding a thermoplastic filament, which the printer's nozzle applies layer by layer to the model being built. nine0003

The FDM method uses a range of standard plastics such as ABS, PLA and their various blends. It is well suited for making basic experimental models, as well as for quickly and inexpensively prototyping simple parts, such as parts that are usually machined.

FDM models often show layer lines and may have inaccuracies around complex features. This sample was printed on a Stratasys uPrint FDM industrial 3D printer with soluble support structures (printer price starting at $15,900).

FDM printers have the lowest resolution and accuracy of SLA or SLS and are not the best option for printing complex designs or parts with complex features. Surface quality can be improved by chemical and mechanical polishing processes. To address these issues, industrial FDM 3D printers use soluble support structures and offer a wider range of engineering thermoplastics, but they are also expensive. nine0003

FDM printers do not handle complex designs or parts with complex features well (left) compared to SLA printers (right).

Invented in the 1980s, stereolithography is the world's first 3D printing technology and is still one of the most popular technologies among professionals today. SLA printers use a process called photopolymerization, which is the conversion of liquid polymers into hardened plastic using a laser.

See stereolithography in action.

Models printed on SLA printers have the highest resolution and accuracy, the sharpest detail and the smoothest surface of all plastic 3D printing technologies, but the main advantage of the SLA method is its versatility. Materials manufacturers have developed innovative formulas for SLA polymers with a wide range of optical, mechanical and thermal properties that match those of standard, engineering and industrial thermoplastics. nine0003

Models created using SLA technology have sharp edges, a smooth surface and almost invisible layer lines. This sample was printed on a Formlabs Form 3 Desktop Stereolithographic 3D Printer (price starting at $3499).

SLA is an excellent option for making highly detailed prototypes that require tight tolerances and smooth surfaces such as molds, templates and functional parts. SLA technology is widely used in industries ranging from engineering and design to manufacturing, dentistry, jewelry, modeling, and education. nine0003

White Paper

Download our in-depth white paper to learn how SLA printing works, why thousands of professionals use it today, and how this 3D printing technology can be useful in your work.

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Experience Formlabs print quality firsthand. We will send a free 3D printing sample directly to your office.

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Selective laser sintering is the most common additive manufacturing technology used in industry.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printers use a high power laser to sinter fine polymer powder particles. The unsprayed powder supports the model during printing and eliminates the need for special support structures. This makes SLS ideal for complex geometries, including internal features, grooves, thin walls, and negative taper. Models produced using SLS printing have excellent mechanical characteristics: their strength can be compared with the strength of injection molded parts. nine0003

Models created with SLS technology have a slightly rough surface, but almost no visible layer lines. This sample was printed on the Formlabs Fuse 1 SLS workshop 3D printer (price starting at $18,500).

The most common selective laser sintering material is nylon, a popular engineering thermoplastic with excellent mechanical properties. Nylon is light, strong and flexible, resistant to impact, heat, chemicals, UV radiation, water and dirt. nine0003

The combination of low part cost, high productivity and widely used materials makes SLS a popular method for engineering functional prototyping and a cost-effective alternative to injection molding in cases where production runs are limited.

White Paper

Looking for a 3D printer to create durable, functional models? Download our white paper to learn how selective laser sintering (SLS) works and why it's popular in 3D printing for functional prototypes and end-use products. nine0003

Download white paper

Each 3D printing technology has its strengths, weaknesses, limitations and applications. The following table summarizes the key characteristics and factors.

Modeling method (FDM) Stereolithography (SLA) Selective laser sintering (SLS)
★★★★☆
accuracy ★cle ★cle \ ★★★★★
Easy to use ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★★★★★★0104
Benefits Speed Inexpensive custom machines and materials High cost efficiency High accuracy Smooth surface Wide range of functional applications Robust functional parts Design flexibility No need for supporting structures
Disadvantages Poor accuracy low detail Limited Compliance with Design Design Susceptibility to prolonged UV exposure Uneven surface Material Limitations
Applications Inexpensive Rapid Prototyping Basic experimental models Functional prototyping Templates, forms and tools Dental products Prototyping jewelry and molds Model building Functional prototyping Small-scale and custom manufacturing
Print volume Up to ~300 x 300 x 600 mm (desktop 3D printers) Up to ~300 x 335 x 200 mm (Desktop and Workshop 3D printers) Up to 165 x 165 x 300 mm (Workshop 3D printers)
Materials ABS plastic, PLA and their various mixtures. Various polymers (thermosets). Standard, engineering (with properties of ABS plastic, polypropylene, flexible, heat-resistant), molding, dental and medical (biocompatible). Engineering thermoplastics. Nylon 11, Nylon 12 and their composites. nine0104
Training Minimum training in equipment setup, machine operation and surface treatment; short maintenance training. Plug and play concept. Minimal training in equipment setup, maintenance, machine operation and surface treatment. Short training in equipment setup, maintenance, machine operation and surface treatment.
Room requirements Air-conditioned environment or preferably individual ventilation for desktop machines. Desktop machines suitable for office use. Workshop systems have moderate space requirements and can be installed in a production environment.
Accessories Support removal system for machines with soluble support structures (optionally automated), finishing tools. nine0104 Finishing station, washing station (optionally automated), finishing tools. Post-processing station for cleaning models and restoring materials.

Either way, you should choose the technology that best suits your business. Prices have dropped significantly in recent years, and today all three technologies are offered in compact and affordable systems.

3D printing costing doesn't end with initial equipment costs. Material and labor costs have a significant impact on the cost of each part, depending on the application and production needs. nine0003

Below is a detailed breakdown by technology.

Modeling method (FDM) Stereolithography (SLA) Selective laser sintering (SLS)
Equipment costs and sets for 3D-dimensions for 3Ds and sets several hundred dollars. Offering higher quality, mid-range desktop printers start at $2,000, while industrial systems start at $15,000. Professional desktop printers start at $3,500, large-format workshop printers start at $10,000, industrial systems for large-scale production start at $80,000.
Material cost $50-$150/kg for most standard and engineering yarns and $100-$200/kg for auxiliary materials. $50-$150/L for most standard and engineering polymers. $100/kg for nylon. SLS does not require supporting structures and unused powder can be reused, reducing material costs.
Labor Manual removal of support structures (may be automated for industrial systems with dissolvable supports). Long post-processing is required to obtain a high quality surface. Washing and final polymerization (both can be automated). Simple post-processing to remove supporting structures. nine0104 Easy cleaning to remove excess powder.

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FDM, SLA and SLS printed prototype ski goggle frames (left to right).

We hope this article has helped you narrow down your search for the 3D printing technology best suited to your needs. nine0003

Take advantage of our additional resources to learn the ins and outs of 3D printing, learn more about each technology and learn more about specific 3D printing systems.

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8 things to watch out for

Sooner or later, everyone will learn about 3D printing. And only a few lucky people, imbued with the opportunities that 3D printing opens up, catch themselves thinking that they want to purchase a 3D printer. The desire gradually develops into a serious decision and the search for the right option begins. And here the potential buyer is faced with the fact that he does not fully understand what to choose among the whole variety of 3D printers. We will try to answer this question in as much detail as possible. What to look for, and how to make a choice? We want to offer a small checklist of the nuances that you need to pay attention to when choosing a 3D printer. You need to decide for yourself for what tasks you will use this technique? What features should a 3D printer have to solve your problems? nine0003

Tip 1 : Decide on 3D printing technology

The first step is to decide on the technology of 3D printing. There are two main paths here. If you are faced with the task of manufacturing high-precision and miniature products, such as jewelry, then 3D printers using SLA or DLP technology are suitable for you. Such printers are specially designed for the manufacture of high-precision models. 3D printing in these printers occurs using a laser beam that illuminates the photopolymer resin. Hence the accuracy of the models. Prominent representatives of this segment: Form 2 3D printer or B9 3D printercreator If you are faced with a wider range of tasks, and functionality, part size, and low manufacturing cost are more important, then an FDM printer will suit you. 3D printing on this equipment involves layer-by-layer melting of plastic. If according to SLA printers everything is clear. The scope of their application is jewelry, dentistry, high-precision prototypes of small parts. Then we will dwell on FDM printers in more detail. There is a lot more variety of different options for implementing printers. nine0003

Nuance 2: Evaluate your needs

Of course, you always want to get all the best and with maximum opportunities. Do you need all this to solve your current problems? What can be cited as an example? For example, the size of the working area of ​​the FDM 3D printer. There are printers on the market with a large print area (1m x 1m x 1m), and with a very small one (100mm x 100mm x100mm). But for most tasks, a certain standard has already developed. This is the printable area within 200 x 200 x 200 mm. With slight fluctuations in size in one direction or another. Most 3D printers have exactly this size of the working area. This volume is enough to solve 95% of any tasks. But options are possible ... If you plan to manufacture small parts, then a smaller size will probably be enough for you. But if your work will be related to manufacturing, for example, a master model for casting, or large prototypes, then only then it makes sense to pay attention to a printer with a large print area. In other cases, the size of the print area larger than the standard is nothing more than a nice bonus. But as they say, you have to pay for everything. Therefore, most often it makes sense to focus on the “standard” print area. And even if the part you need to print is larger than the working area of ​​your 3D printer, you can always cut it in a special editor, and then print 2 parts of the model and glue them together. nine0003

Nuance 3 : Decide on the complexity of the products

You should decide for yourself how complex models you will print on a 3D printer. If you plan to manufacture complex prototypes, or complex art models, then you need a 3D printer that can print with two materials. This is necessary so that your printer can print supports from soluble material. If the models are not the most complex, then you can get by with one extruder and save the budget. A complex model is a model with a large number of elements suspended in the air, or a model whose elements have angles of more than 30 degrees. nine0003

Point 4: Decide on the list of materials to be used.

Another important point. You must immediately determine for yourself a list of possible materials with which you are going to print. This primarily applies to materials with a high degree of shrinkage, such as ABS and Nylon. In order to print with such materials, a heated table is clearly required in a 3D printer. And it is very desirable to have a closed case to provide a thermal circuit around the model. If you plan to print only with PLA plastic. You don't need a heated table. But still it is better that the printer has a heated table. Now the difference in the cost of printers with a heated table is practically the same as the cost without it. But you get a universal solution with which you can perform the full range of tasks facing a 3D printer. One more moment. Ability to print with flexible materials Quite a number of 3D printers face the problem of printing with flexible materials. Of course, printing with various Flexes and Rubbers is very interesting at first glance. But the use of these materials in life is not very common. Usually, for most people, this happens like this: A couple of models are printed, and the understanding comes that this is not a fast and rather complicated process. And this is where the acquaintance with flexible materials ends. Therefore, it makes sense to demand such an opportunity from the printer if printing with such materials is very necessary. nine0003

Nuance 5: Construction and kinematics

Next, you need to pay attention to the design of the 3D printer. Even if you are not a great specialist in technology, you can immediately see that some printers have an open design. And others are closed. As they like to be called in the Russian-speaking community "cubes". What does the appearance say? Printers with an open design, usually have kinematics with a horizontally moving table (based on Prusa 3D printers). This kinematics has some inherent flaws. Such as, not the highest print speed and possible print quality problems associated with the complexity of the settings. First of all, this is the so-called wobble. Also, the lack of a closed case can cause print quality problems with high shrinkage plastics (ABS, Nylon). The main advantage of printers of this design is their price. It is usually lower. But as you know, you have to pay for everything. In this case, the worst performance. The so-called "cubes" today, is the main design, which is represented by leading manufacturers on the market. Such printers are built according to the lifting table scheme. And they lack most of the shortcomings that are inherent in printers from the previous group. “Cubes” usually have a closed body, which allows the highest quality printing with plastics with a high degree of shrinkage. Closed case printers are more rigid. This results in better quality printing. The kinematics of moving the print head is represented by various designs. They have their pros and cons. But most of them have advantages over moving table printer circuits. nine0003

Nuance 6: Diameter and changeable nozzle

Most 3D printers on the market come with 0.3-0.4mm nozzles. This is enough to solve the vast majority of tasks facing a 3D printer. Some of the printers have the ability to install a nozzle of a different diameter, others do not. As we wrote above, the need to print with nozzles with a diameter other than 0.3-0.4 mm arises very infrequently. This mainly concerns, or personal experiments, or some very specific tasks. If you do not plan to do this, then this opportunity is not so necessary. What do we mean by specific tasks? This is especially true for printing large items, where it is very important to reduce the printing time. This can be achieved by using large diameter nozzles. For example, with a diameter of 0.6-0.8 mm, or even a diameter of 1 mm. For printers with a large printable area, the ability to change nozzles is already a vital necessity. Therefore, here, as in the case of a heated table, the ability to change nozzles is a good bonus. It is not mandatory, but very useful if you do not have to pay extra for it. nine0003

Nuance 7: Print thickness

It is important to understand that most models on a 3D printer are printed with a layer of 0.1-0.2 mm. These are the optimal values ​​that allow you to achieve quality and acceptable print speed. There are a certain number of printers that allow you to print with a layer of less than 0. 05 mm, and get very high quality prints. But then there is the problem of a sharp increase in print time. And if such print quality is important to you, then it probably makes sense to turn your attention to 3D printers, which we talked about at the very beginning of the article. These are 3D printers using SLA or DLP technology. nine0003

Nuance 8: Extruder type

Today there are two main types of extruder. This is a direct extruder in which the bar feed motor is located in the printhead itself. And the so-called Bowden extruder, where the plastic feed motor is located on the body. And the plastic itself is fed to the extruder through a fluoroplastic tube. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of extruder? Bowden extruder, due to the lack of a motor on the print head, has less weight. And therefore, it has greater positioning accuracy, which affects the print quality. And a higher speed of movement, which, accordingly, has a positive effect on the speed of printing. But it has one drawback. It is usually difficult to print with flexible plastics on a Bowden extruder. Such as Rubber or Flex. All its positive features, this extruder reveals when using plastic with a diameter of 2.85-3.00 mm. But this type of plastic is less common than the now standard plastic with a diameter of 1.75 mm. And therefore, users of printers with such plastic are often deprived of the opportunity to use new types of materials. Which are primarily produced in the most common form factor of 1.75mm. The direct extruder usually doesn't have such big problems with flexible plastics. Easier to set up, but due to the greater mass of the print head, it is inferior to the Bowden extruder in terms of speed and positioning accuracy. What to prefer? This is the user's choice. We just wanted to talk about the pros and cons of these extruder types. Of course, there are many more nuances when choosing a 3D printer. But we think that even our small list will force you to look and study some points that you may not have thought about more closely.

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