3D printer with cnc mill

The 5 Best 3 in 1 3D Printers 2022 (with Laser Engraving & CNC!)

Ideally, we would all own one machine that could complete every manufacturing task required – a 3D laser printer that printed, laser cut, CNC carved, and more. While not quite there yet, 3 in 1 3D printers offer jack-of-all-trades versatility across 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser engraving – to various levels.

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These printers, sometimes called multifunction 3D printers or AIO 3D printers, feature removable tool heads that can be switched out to change their function. If you want to create a prototype and want to carve a wood model first, use the CNC machine, and then switch back to the 3D printer extruder to create the final plastic prototype.

Having tested dozens of 3D printers over the years, including our top pick, the Snapmaker 2.0, we’ve collated our findings into our top recommendations for 3-in-1 3D printers to help you make the best choice for you.

Name and brand	Type of printer	Build volume (mm)	Price	Available at:
Snapmaker 2.0	3 in 1 3D printer	Varies by model	$1,199-$1,799	Snapmaker here
Snapmaker Original	3 in 1 3D printer	125 x 125 x 125	$450	Snapmaker here
ZMorph Fab	4 in 1 3D printer	250 x 235 x 165	$4,000	Amazon here
Creality CP-01	3 in 1 3D printer	200 x 200 x 200	$819	Amazon here
Ecubmaker TOYDIY	4 in 1 3D printer	180 x 180 x 180	$549	Amazon here
5axismaker	CNC mill 3D printer	Varies by model	£5,500 / £6,800
Diabase H-Series	3D printer CNC hybrid	Depends on number of axes	$9,750+

How good are all in 1 3D printers?

Naturally, focusing on being good enough at everything means some quality is lost in some areas. Elites athletes could not compete at the top of the NBA, NFL, and NHL simultaneously – even Michael Jordan couldn’t crack baseball – and the same is true for less specialized all in 1 3D printers.

That doesn’t mean that the 3D printer and laser engraver hybrids we recommend don’t perform well. For hobbyist projects, 3D laser printers are great – but we do not recommend starting a full-service manufacturing company after buying a desktop 3D printer laser engraver CNC mill machine.

The criteria we used to judge the best 3 in 1 3D printers

In rating the 3 in 1 3D printers we recommend below, we compared:

3D printer quality: most of these 3 in one 3D printers are made by 3D printer companies and are mostly focused on additive manufacturing. Therefore, the 3D printer’s quality is key.
CNC mill power: some CNC machines cannot fully mill, but just engrave. More powerful CNC machines spin faster, can carve tougher materials, and work more accurately and for longer.
Laser engraver power: as with the CNC machine, some all in 1 laser engraver 3D printers can only engrave, whereas others can cut through materials.
How easy is it to change the tool heads: it’s all well and good having powerful tool heads that work perfectly, but if they’re too difficult or delicate to switch out, they may as well only have one function.
Effectiveness of software: most of our recommendations feature specialized software that can slice models for 3D printing, and prepare CNC and laser projects. The best software is easy to use, yet effective and reliable across every function.

The Best All in 1 3D printers

Snapmaker 2.0 – comes in 3 forms: A150, A250 & A350

Price: $1,199 to $1,799 — Best price on Snapmaker Store here / Available on Amazon here
Build volumes: A150 = 160 x 160 x 145 mm / A250 = 230 x 250 x 235 mm / A350 = 320 x 350 x 350 mm
Type: 3D in 1 3D printer: 3D printing, CNC and laser engraving

The Snapmaker Original already made waves when it raised over $2. 2M on Kickstarter, but the Snapmaker 2.0 completely obliterated that by becoming the most funded technology project in the history of Kickstarter, raising an astonishing $7.85M. Thousands of elated fans who loved the Snapmaker Original came back to support the new version, and it has remained the most popular all in 1 3D printer since its full release.

We have tested and reviewed the Snapmaker 2.0, and waxed lyrical about how great it was. It is undoubtedly the best 3-in-1 3D printer around, offering a fantastic 3D printing experience, as well as a great CNC carving and laser option. Arguably you could even call it a 4-in-1 3D printer, as you can also buy the 4-axis rotary module add-on which turns the laser and CNC toolheads into 360-degree, 4-axis versions. We carved cylindrical chess pieces, engraved cylinder gift boxes, and more with this add-on.

Using the 4-axis rotary module to CNC carve a lion.

The 3D printer can print PLA, ABS and flexible filaments like TPU, and with WiFi connectivity as well as a USB port you can print remotely online, or offline using a USB. The portable and movable touchscreen used to operate the printer looks and acts like a smartphone, simplifying your workflow and making it easy to control and manage projects.

Moreover, the filament run out detector automatically pauses your print when you run out, giving you time to load more filament and resume without ruining your print, and if you buy the enclosure add-on you can more easily print ABS to prevent warping — and it’ll keep dust in from CNC, and the laser brightness out of your eyes.A vase we 3D printed with the Snapmaker 2.0.

As a laser engraver, you can create contrasting images on fabrics, leather, plywood and acrylic materials. The built-in camera lets you remotely monitor your design and ensure everything goes smoothly. It’s an effective low-cost 3D laser printer. We also tested it as a laser cutter, and managed to cut out and assemble a gift box from a thin sheet of soft wood 1.5mm thick.

The Snapmaker 2.0 also works as a laser cutter as well as a 3D printer.

The CNC machine can carve designs on walnut, PCB woods, as well as carbon fiber sheets, acrylic and hardwood. A key upgrade on the 2.0 is the increased speed, meaning that larger projects can be created in record time.

Overall, we highly recommend the Snapmaker 2.0 models, of which we tested the largest version — the Snapmaker 2.0 A350. You can optionally buy the enclosure, 4-axis rotary module, and the new 10W powerful laser toolhead, but we did not try the 10W laser add-on.

For our CNC & laser review: we tested the Snapmaker 2.0 CNC and laser toolheads

The finished lion CNC carved piece, from the Snapmaker 2.0 3-in-1 3D printer.

We recommend picking up the enclosure for safer and more consistent making, as well as spare bits for CNC. Snapmaker’s store has all these in one place, which you can visit here.

Snapmaker Original — good starter laser engraver 3D printer

Price: $439 — Available on Snapmaker Official Site here / Available on Amazon here
Build Volume: 125 x 125 x 125 mm
Type: 3 in 1 3D printer: 3D printing, CNC and laser engraving

Snapmaker came out and made headlines when they raised an incredible $2. 2M on Kickstarter for their first all in 1 3D printer, the Snapmaker Original. Functional as a small 3D printer as well as able to carve wood and engrave images on phone cases and other materials, the Snapmaker Original captured the hearts of many makers worldwide, becoming a roaring success.

You can also buy an enclosure for the printer here.

The 3D printer’s heated bed can reach up to 80C, allowing for the printing ABS as well as PLA. It’s precise, with up to 50-micron layer resolutions. The heavy metal frame anchors the printer down and improves stability and durability, with the heavier frame less susceptible to vibrations that could affect print quality and surface finish.

The CNC carver can create intricate details in areas up to 90 x 90 x 50 mm, and the laser engraver works on areas up to 125 x 125 mm.

Snapmaker’s 3 in 1 software, Snapmaker Luban, can 3D print, CNC and laser engrave all in one platform and switch seamlessly between each tool head.

Snapmaker claim you can build the 3D printer in just 10 minutes, and that switching out tool heads to change the all-in-one 3D printer’s function is very simple. Highly rated by makers as one of the best 3 in 1 3D printers in its price range, the Snapmaker have since recently followed up the Original with the Snapmaker 2.0, with larger build volumes and a higher price tag.

A selection of wood and other material parts carved using the Snapmaker Original’s CNC tool head. Source: snapmaker.com

ZMorph Fab — 4 in 1 3D printer

Price: $3,999 for the full set — Available on Matterhackers here / 3DPrima Europe here
Build Volume: 250 x 235 x 165 mm
Type: 4 in 1 3D printer: with CNC milling, laser cutting & engraving, and thick paste extruder
Country based: Poland

Polish 3D printer company ZMorph make some of the most versatile all in 1 3D printers around, with the Fab able to 3D print, CNC machine, engrave and laser cut, and can even be switched into a food 3D printer using ZMorph’s thick paste extruder. This edible material option can print chocolate, as well as other similar materials like icing and cooking dough.

We also have a ranking of the best food 3D printers.
We also have a ranking of the best chocolate 3D printers.

ZMorph 3D printers are famed for their reliability and workhorse-like qualities, with the Fab no different. It’s a great 3D printer, with a high-quality heated bed that can comfortably 3D print ABS, HIPS, and other tougher filaments like Nylon. The printer can level itself automatically, and turn from a 3D printer to laser engraver or CNC router with ease.

Additionally, with the dual head option, the ZMorph performs well as a dual extruder 3D printer, able to 3D print multiple colors, or soluble support materials such as HIPS and PVA, and even blend two colors together for multiple different shades in one part. The 3D laser printer CNC hybrid can be adjusted to print both 1.75mm and 3mm 3D printer filaments, and has a large enough build area to print even the largest of projects.

Using ZMorph’s CNC tool head, the ZMorph becomes a powerful CNC mill 3D printer that can mill and engrave almost any type of wood, as well as other materials like acrylic glass and EVA foam. The 300W power mills distances of up to 120mm/s, and ZMorph recommend a cutting depth of up to 0.5mm.

The Laser PRO tool head turns the Fab into a laser engraver 3D printer capable of burning and engraving plywood and many other types of wood, cardboard, leather, and acrylic glass using its powerful yet compact 2.8W blue laser. Though the default speed is 15mm/s, the laser can work up to 120mm/s for faster engraving.

ZMorph’s Voxelizer 2 software acts as a 3D slicer for 3D printing parts, as well as offering CAD CAM software features for CNC and laser cutting models, all in one. Overall, it’s a fantastic and extremely versatile all in one 3D printer, and the closest available option to a full manufacturing suite machine.

The ZMorph CNC tool head creating a design from wood. Source: ZMorph on Medium.

Creality CP-01

Price: $819 — Available on Amazon here
Build Volume: 200 x 200 x 200 mm
Type: 3 in 1 3D printer: 3D printer, CNC & laser engraving

Creality make the current most popular affordable 3D printers in the world, including the Ender 3, Ender 5, and CR-10 ranges. The Creality CP-01 is their venture into the all-in-1 3D printer sector, offering CNC carving and laser engraving along with their 3D printer.

We also have a ranking of the best cheap 3D printers.

As a 3D printer, it features a good 200 x 200 x 200 mm print volume, and comes with a heated bed that can reach up to 100C. These temperatures mean that ABS, HIPS and TPU 3D printing should be no problem, and in theory means you could even try printing filaments like Polycarbonate and carbon fiber.

The textured glass print bed should help with adhesion and reduce warping, and the direct drive extruder also makes flexible filament 3D printing easier in most cases.

As a laser engraver, the Creality CP-01 3-in-1 3D printer features 0.5W laser tool, which can engrave areas of up to 100 x 90 mm. The engraver can create contrasting greyscale art on paper, plastics, and wood.

As a CNC carver, the CP-01 features a 4800RPM spinning CNC spindle capable of carving plastics, wood and PCB. It can carve the same sized areas as the 3D printer, at 200 x 200 mm.

The CP-01 comes with Creality’s own Workshop 3D printer software, which supports engraving and CNC functions. For 3D printing, Creality’s standalone Creality Slicer works well.

Overall, it resembles the Snapmaker and appears to offer similar specs and functions, so we will have to see if the kings of cheap 3D printers can compete in the all in 1 3D printer sector.Each of the Creality CP-01’s tool heads for 3D printing, CNC cutting and laser engraving.

5axismaker — Great CNC 3D printer

Price: £5,500 / £6,800 depending on size
Build volume: 5xm400 = 400 x 400 x 400mm / 5xm600 = 600 x 600 x 400mm
Type: 2 in 1 3D printer with CNC milling

London-based 5axismaker have developed an excellent 3D printer CNC machine multi use 3D printer that comes in two main sizes to cover your manufacturing needs:

5axismaker 5xm400 model: 400 x 400 x 400 mm build volume
5axismaker 5xm600 model: 600 x 600 x 400 mm build volume

As a 3D printer, the 5axismaker comes with a default 0. 6mm nozzle — though you can switch out to a 0.4mm if you’re used to smaller nozzles, as well as sizes up to 1.2mm where speed is of the essence and you’re willing to sacrifice some precision. The 5axismaker can 3D print with PLA or ABS.

As a CNC machine, the 5axismaker offers fast 10,000-15,000 RPM spindle speeds on a powerful 500-1000W brushless motor capable of milling foam prototypes, hardwoods, carbon fiber, engineering plastics, machinable wax, and more. There is also a touchprobe option — but for this toolhead and any other custom tools, you’ll need to contact 5axismaker directly.

5axismaker have also developed their own in-house CAM software to support CNC milling and generate CNC codes, called 5xmonkey. The 5axismaker focuses particularly on CNC machining, choosing not to offer laser engraving with the 3D printer, but delivers well as a 2 in 1 3D printer.

Diabase H-Series — powerful CNC mill 3D printer

Price: starting at $9,750
Build volume: depends on the number of axes

Another 2 in 1 3D printer focusing on 3D printing and CNC milling, Diabase offer three different options within the H-series:

H5-400A Hybrid: doesn’t have the tool plate, 5- or 4-axis upgrade potential, but can still mill printed parts.
H5-400A CNC Lite: offers 4- and 5-axis upgrading
H5-400B CNC Full: offers 4-material printing, a 14-tool changer, and high-power spindle

Diabase are already well known for their excellent 3D printer extruders focused on making flexible filament 3D printing as reliable as possible, previously thought to be difficult to print — especially on Bowden extruders.

They now offer a complete manufacturing solution, with their multifunction 3D printers able to print parts and them mill them seamlessly with each toolhead in a cohesive workflow.

The H-Series CNC mill 3D printer hybrid offers up to 5-axis CNC production along with 12,000 RPM speeds, for very intricate and complex part creation. As a 3D printer, it offers multi-material 3D printing, for example with TPU and PVA, with PVA’s solubility making it ideal for simply removing PVA supports later. The CNC mill part can mill soft metals up to 75 HRB strength — it really is a full-service solution.

The Diabase H-Series’ rotary axes offer fantastic part complexity and intricate geometry options for manufacturing.

Ecubmaker TOYDIY — 4 in 1 3D printer

Price: $549 — Available on Amazon here
Build Volume: 180 x 180 x 180 mm
Type: 4 in 1 3D printer: FDM, dual color, CNC engraving and laser engraving
Country based: China

Though it calls itself a 4 in 1 3D printer, this claim involves splitting the 3D printing part into standard FDM 3D printing, and dual color 3D printing, which both fall under 3D printing. In reality, the Ecubmaker TOYDIY is a 3 in 1 3D printer, but with four easily changeable tool heads for 3D printing, CNC engraving or laser engraving.

For 3D printing, the extruder can reach temperatures of up to 240C, with a heated bed that can reach up to 50C. Therefore, printing higher temperature filaments like ABS and HIPS is not possible, and you’re restricted to using the Ecubmaker TOYDIY as a strictly PLA 3D printer. (Testing has occurred for using the dual extruder to print PVA as a support, though the company do not recommend this). Therefore, if using the dual extruder 3D printing option, you can only print two different colors of PLA, rather than soluble material supports.

Each of the Ecubmaker TOYDIY’s four modes.

For a 3D laser printer that isn’t specialized in any one dimension, it’s surprisingly accurate – with layer thicknesses of up to 0.05 mm. The bendable, 3-layer build plate also makes removing finished prints easy and helps reduce warping, though PLA rarely warps badly anyway.

As a laser engraver 3D printer, the TOYDIY features a 1500MW purple laser which can engrave wood, plastic, leather, cardboard, and several other materials. However, this is strictly a laser engraver, and cannot cut materials.

The CNC tool head features a 385DC motor, and spins at between 8,000 and 10,000 RPM. The CNC printer can engrave and carve wood, plastics, acrylic and most non-metallic materials, but cannot be used with transparent materials like glass. Ecubmaker also stress that the CNC tool head should not be used for longer than 3 hours at once.

The TOYDIY comes with Ecubmaker’s Ecubware 4 in 1 3D slicer software for every application type. The 3D laser printer comes with an SD card containing tutorials for the 3D printer, engraver and CNC carver to help you get started, and if you encounter any serious problems, you can return it within its warranty.

Though only offering a small build volume, the TOYDIY is a great entry level multifunctional 3D printer.

If you liked this article, you may also be interested in:

Our guide to the best 3D pens
Our guide to the best 3D scanners
The complete dual extruder 3D printer buyer’s guide
Our ranking of the best FDM 3D printers

All-in-one 3D printer 2022 - Laser engraving, CNC milling & more

All-in-one 3D printers are 3D printers with additional functionalities like CNC milling or laser engraving and cutting. There are very few options available on the market today- find out which ones in this guide. If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a small commission to support our content and site.

Last update March 19, 2020

In our Fall update, we removed discontinued products (XYZprinting, FLUX, …), added new brands (Hyrel 3D, Diabase) and models (Snapmaker 2.0), and did some minor adjustments here and there. We also added the E3D ASMBL Tool Changer as s special mention.

Table of contents

What’s an all-in-one 3D printer?

Top all-in-one 3D printers in 2022

CNC milling

Paste extrusion (syringe extruder)

Laser cutting and laser engraving

Other functionalities

System 30M

Snapmaker 2.0 A150

Snapmaker Original

Stepcraft-2/840 (Kit)

Optimus C1

5AXISMAKER CNC machine

H-Series

Special mention: ASMBL Tool Changer

AIO Robotics Zeus 3D printer and scanner combo

ATOM Atom 2.5 EX 3D Printer Kit

FABtotum Core PRO

FLUX Delta

MAG iCreatum

MakerArm, the ultimate 4-in-1 3D printer for fablabs?

XYZprinting Da Vinci 1. 0 Pro 3-in-1

What’s an all-in-one 3D printer?

Like a modern Swiss Army knife, all-in-one 3D printers (a.k.a. AIO 3D printers, multifunctional 3D printers, or multitool 3D printers) boast features such as laser engraving and cutting, vinyl cutting, drawing, and more.

AIO 3D printers can be multi-purpose fabrication tools for makers, professionals, businesses, and hobbyists alike. However, there aren’t that many desktop options available today. We decided to take a closer look at the multitool 3D printer market and list the best all-in-one 3D printers currently available.

We only included multifunctional 3D printers that cost less than $9,000, excluding industrial all-in-one 3D printers that require advanced knowledge (and budget).

Top all-in-one 3D printers in 2022

Brand	Product	Build size	Country	Price Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
Snapmaker	Snapmaker Original	125 × 125 × 125 mm4.92 × 4.92 × 4.92 in	–	$ 799812 €709 £119,096 ¥	Contact
Snapmaker	Snapmaker 2.0 A150	160 × 160 × 90 mm6.3 × 6.3 × 3.54 in	–	$ 1,1991 219 €1,064 £178,718 ¥	Contact
Stepcraft	Stepcraft-2/840 (Kit)	600 × 840 × 140 mm23.62 × 33.07 × 5.51 in	–	$ 1,6991 479 €1,507 £253,246 ¥	Contact
Febtop Tech	Optimus C1	280 × 280 × 280 mm11.02 × 11.02 × 11.02 in	–	$ 2,4992 540 €2,217 £372,491 ¥	Quote
ZMorph	VX	250 × 235 × 165 mm9.84 × 9.25 × 6.5 in	–	$ 2,7992 845 €2,483 £417,208 ¥	Quote
Diabase	H-Series	400 × 180 × 180 mm15. 75 × 7.09 × 7.09 in	–	$ 8,5008 500 €7,540 £1,266,976 ¥	Quote
5AXISWORKS	5AXISMAKER CNC machine	400 × 400 × 400 mm15.75 × 15.75 × 15.75 in	United Kingdom	upon request	Quote
Hyrel 3D	System 30M	225 × 200 × 200 mm8.86 × 7.87 × 7.87 in	United States	upon request	Quote

Expand to see more specs

The products in the table are ranked by price (low to high).

Product	Brand	Country	Price Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
Snapmaker Original	Snapmaker	–	$ 799812 €709 £119,096 ¥	Contact manufacturer
Snapmaker 2.0 A150	Snapmaker	–	$ 1,1991 219 €1,064 £178,718 ¥	Contact manufacturer
Stepcraft-2/840 (Kit)	Stepcraft	–	$ 1,6991 479 €1,507 £253,246 ¥	Contact manufacturer
Optimus C1	Febtop Tech	–	$ 2,4992 540 €2,217 £372,491 ¥	Get a quote
VX	ZMorph	–	$ 2,7992 845 €2,483 £417,208 ¥	Get a quote
H-Series	Diabase	–	$ 8,5008 500 €7,540 £1,266,976 ¥	Get a quote
5AXISMAKER CNC machine	5AXISWORKS	United Kingdom	upon request	Get a quote
System 30M	Hyrel 3D	United States	upon request	Get a quote

All-in-one 3D printer functionalities

A range of functionalities can be included in all-in-one 3D printers: CNC milling, laser cutting and engraving, paste extrusion, and more.

CNC milling

Computer numerical control (CNC) milling is the removal of material through a specific process that uses rotary cutters, performed by computer-controlled machines that are also known as machining centers or stations. CNC milling, a process similar to drilling and/or cutting, is considered subtractive manufacturing in contrast to 3D printing which is an additive method.

Paste extrusion (syringe extruder)

Paste extrusion is the process of simply pushing any paste-type filament such as PVC foil, EVA foam, machining wax, and even chocolate (food 3D printing!) through a special tube and nozzle. Paste extruders are also known as syringe extruders.

Laser cutting and laser engraving

Laser cutting is quite simple; a computer-controlled machine directs the laser beam onto the material and moves according to the desired shape. Engraving works the same way, but with less laser power. Compatible materials – for non-industrial desktop machines – include different kinds of plastics as well as soft metals and wood. Check out our guide to laser engravers and cutters for further information.

Other functionalities

Some of the all-in-one 3D printers included in this article feature other functionalities besides the ones mentioned above. Some of these functionalities include:

Drawing: a writing instrument such as a pen or marker can be attached to a 3D printer’s tool head in order to create automated (or CNC) drawings.
Hot-wire cutting: the 3D printer is equipped with a wire made of stainless steel, ideal for cutting foam and similar materials.
Vinyl cutting: a technique where a drag knife, also known as a “craft cutter”, is used to cut out shapes or letters from thin, adhesive plastic (ie. for stickers) through adjustable-depth cutting.

Multifunctional 3D printers overview

The ZMorph VX is a powerful all-in-one desktop 3D printer made by ZMorph, a manufacturer based in Poland. Thanks to its interchangeable tool heads, the ZMorph VX enables users to rapidly switch between functionalities: CNC milling, laser engraving/cutting, 3D scanning, and paste extrusion.

The VX comes with Voxelizer software (Voxelizer 2). This software allows users to slice models for 3D printing but also to access the printer’s CNC mill and laser engraving/cutting capacities.

ZMorph’s multitool 3D printer VX is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts in the woodworking business since its CNC mill is capable of cutting several materials such as plywood, beech, oak, maple, walnut, pine, chestnut, machining wax, PCB, plexiglass and PVC foam.

Main functionalities: CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving, paste extrusion

Contact manufacturer Get a quote Add to comparison

The System 30M by American manufacturer Hyrel 3D is an ultra modular 3D printer. It’s compatible with Hyrel’s wide range of nozzles and extruders, thus making it eligible to print high-temperature materials, standard or engineering plastics, clays, hydrogels, and more.

This printer features a sturdy, all-metal chassis with an enclosed build to protect jobs from room drafts or temperature changes. It comes with a table PC and boasts an onboard camera and lighting for remote monitoring.

Main functionalities: CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving, paste extrusion

Contact manufacturer Get a quote Add to comparison

The Snapmaker 2.0 is Snapmaker’s second-generation multifunctional 3D printer. This time, it comes in three different versions – A150, A250, and A350 – each offering varying build volumes.

Through an intuitive and easy user interface, the included software handles all of the machine’s multiple facets: 3D printing, CNC milling, and laser engraving/cutting. Users can control the Snapmaker 2.0 via its removable touchscreen (it looks like a smartphone).

An optional enclosure is available.

Main functionalities: CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving

Contact manufacturer Add to comparison

The Snapmaker 3D printer is an affordable all-in-one 3D printer that started as a Kickstarter project and managed to gather the considerable amount of $2,227,182 from 5,050 backers.

The Snapmaker Original features a heated bed capable of reaching up to 80°C, and a CNC milling work area of 90 x 90 x 50 mm.

Main functionalities: CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving

Contact manufacturer Add to comparison

The Stepcraft-2/840 is a professional AIO 3D printer made by the German manufacturer Stepcraft. In addition to its many functionalities, the Stepcraft-2/D.840 can be equipped with a hot wire cutter, a drag knife and a mini engraving point for faster but less detailed engraving than with the laser.

The original Stepcraft-2 was introduced as a Kickstarter project in 2015 and managed to gather over $500,000 by 211 backers.

Main functionalities: 3D scanning, CNC milling, laser engraving

Contact manufacturer Add to comparison

The Optimus C1 is a three-in-one delta 3D printer made by the Swedish manufacturer Febtop Tech. The original Optimus 3-in-1 3D printer was an Indiegogo project that managed to gather over $360,000, well over its $50,000 goal.

This version, the C1, offers a large 3D printing build volume of 300 x 300 x 300 mm. Its closed frame boasts an air filter and a color touchscreen for an enhanced user experience.

Main functionalities: CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving

Contact manufacturer Get a quote Add to comparison

The 5AXISMAKER is a professional 3D printer CNC mill combo made by 5AXISWORKS, a manufacturer based in the United Kingdom. This 2-in-1 3D printer is also available in a bigger version with a 3D printing build size of 600 x 600 x 600 mm.

Besides CNC milling, the company is working on providing a 3D scanning touch probe extension.

Main functionalities: CNC milling

Contact manufacturer Get a quote Add to comparison

This multifunctional 3D printer offers a wide build volume of 400 x 180 x 180 mm. It can be equipped with up to 5 print heads at a time or 4 spindles, or any combination of the two. The built-in cleaning station helps keep each nozzle clean between switches.

Diabase refers to their H-Series machine as a “Hybrid manufacturing” system for professionals. You first 3D print your part and then use the spindle head to add CNC-level precision (sharper edges, finer details, …).

Main functionalities: CNC milling

Contact manufacturer Get a quote Add to comparison

E3D is a leading extruder and nozzle manufacturer from the United States. They recently launched their ASMBL (Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing by Layer) system, enabling users to use both 3D printing and CNC milling in the same run.

Similarly to Diabase, the goal is to achieve better part tolerance, higher accuracy and obtain sharper edges by combining both technologies (hybrid manufacturing).

Discontinued multitool 3D printers

Various all-in-one 3D printer manufacturers have closed down or stopped manufacturing their products. Other were Kickstarter projects that didn’t make it on the market. We listed them here (below) for those that may be wondering why a certain printer or brand isn’t on our main list.

AIO Robotics Zeus 3D printer and scanner combo

Zeus, a 3D printer and 3D scanner combo made by the US manufacturer AIO Robotics, was one of the most popular AIO 3D printers on the market. However, AIO Robotics no longer manufactures any 3D printers.

ATOM Atom 2.5 EX 3D Printer Kit

The Atom 2.5 EX was a professional delta 3D printer with a laser engraver. ATOM had announced an Atom 3 in 2018, but it isn’t possible to purchase 3D printers on their website anymore.

FABtotum Core PRO

The FABtotum Core PRO was capable of CNC milling, laser cutting cardboard and paper, and laser engraving. This 3D printer is no longer available, as the brand is in liquidation.

FLUX Delta

FLUX was an interesting multifunctional option from Taiwan, but they stopped manufacturing printers and now sell sunglasses!

MAG iCreatum

This multifunctional 3D printer was supposed to feature 3D printing, ink plotting, and other functionalities for only $300. Kickstarter suspended its campaign in 2017 as the project violated its rules.

MakerArm, the ultimate 4-in-1 3D printer for fablabs?

The MakerArm started as a Kickstarter project and managed to gather over $430,000 from 340 backers in November 2015. After unexpected rises in component costs, the MakerArm team decided to refund their backers.

XYZprinting Da Vinci 1.0 Pro 3-in-1

Although it’s still displayed on XYZprinting’s website, this 2-in-1 3D printer and scanner has been out of stock for quite some time.

Modular machine 3 in 1 (3D printer, laser engraver, CNC router)

with CNC)

3D printer, laser engraver, CNC router

Price on request.

Modular machine with functions of 3D printer, CNC router and CNC laser engraver. Designed to master the basic principles of working with CNC machines and 3D printers; has the ability to work with any programs written using G-cod.

The machine supports programs such as Cura, Slic3r, Printrun

The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes that do not impair the quality of the product without prior notice.

Specifications
Delivery set

Machine dimensions (length, height, width), mm,	285×285×318
Machine power supply:
- Supply voltage, V	100-240V
— Frequency, Hz	50/60 Hz
Main material:	aircraft aluminum
Control panel:	3.5" LCD touch panel
3D printing:
Nozzle diameter:	0.4 mm
Layer resolution:	0.05 ~ 0.3mm
Nozzle temperature:	190~260℃
Heated platform temperature:	50~100℃
Mold size:	X130Y130Z130mm
Applicable materials:	1. 75 mm PLA, ABS, PC, FLEX
Print speed:	10-80 mm/s
Laser engraved:
Operating range:	X130 * Y130 mm
Laser power:	0.5 W (standard) / 1.6 W (option)
Supported materials:	wood, paper products, certain plastics, leather, etc.
CNC router:
Spindle speed Max:	12,000 rpm
CNC clamping range:	0 ~ 4 mm
Supported materials:	wood, plastics, printed circuit boards and most non-metal materials.

Portal base;
3 axis machine;
3D printhead;
Control panel;
Plastic spool;
Heated table;
CNC milling head;
Set of cutters;
Vice table;
CNC laser head;
Protective cabin;
Safety goggles.

3D printing or CNC machining

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CNC milling technology has been around since the 1950s and is essentially the opposite of 3D printing. In the case of 3D printing, the computer controls the printer's print head, which "adds" material in three dimensions, with CNC machining, the milling tool is controlled, which removes material. The key difference between the two technologies lies in the way the given geometry is formed.

Designing 3D models for CNC machines and 3D printers is often carried out on the same software, but already at the next stage of preparing the output data, completely different transformation methods are used. So, for CNC processing, a solid model is used, formed by three-dimensional elements - bodies, and for 3D printing, a surface model - consisting of polygons or a shell.

While 3D printing may seem like an evolving and underdeveloped technology, new printers continue to appear in factories as alternatives to CNC machines. Many companies, getting acquainted with 3D printing, are faced with the complexity of the new technology, but continue to look for ways and areas to apply it in their business.

Miscellaneous

CNC milling machines and 3D printers have different technological capabilities and limitations that allow them to solve different problems.

CNC milling machine allows you to efficiently produce large, heavy and high-precision products in large runs, which can be used for the production of commercial and industrial equipment, machines, engines. CNC technology also allows the production of small batches of products, but usually with a higher unit cost.

The flexibility of 3D printing makes it possible to quickly switch between different products. However, since the unit cost of a product is always the same, regardless of quantity, 3D printing is not economically viable for large print runs.

The adaptability of 3D printing makes it useful for creating unique, personalized designs, such as custom trauma or dental implants.

Technology selection

When choosing between CNC and 3D printing, there are a few simple guidelines that can be applied to your decision making process.

Choose 3D printing if:

• traditional methods do not allow the production of a part, for example, for very complex geometries
• production time is critical, printed parts can be produced within 24 hours
• low cost for small runs, number of identical parts (less than 10)
• materials that are difficult to process, but it is possible to print, such as alloys of certain metals

CNC machining:

• offers high accuracy and uniformity of mechanical properties throughout the volume of the product (isotropy, as opposed to anisotropic properties in printed products), but usually comes at a higher cost, especially for small volumes
• stability of time costs and the result with a proven technological process

In this case, the key factor is the total number of products - circulation. And if mass production of items (hundreds or more) is required, then neither CNC nor 3D printing can be a cost-effective option. Traditional molding techniques such as investment casting or injection molding will be the best choice.

Materials

CNC machining is mainly applied to the processing of metals and modeling plastics:

• Plastics: ABS, nylon, polycarbonate, PEEK
• Metals: aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, brass

3D printing predominantly works with plastics and, to a lesser extent, with metals:

• Plastics: nylon, PLA, ABS, ULTEM, ASA, TPU
• Metals: titanium, stainless steel, cobalt-chromium alloys

Product geometry complexity

CNC

There are a number of constraints to consider when designing CNC parts, including tool access and tolerances. A feature of CNC machining is the internal corners of the product, which always have a radius due to the shape of the cutting tool, but the outer surfaces can have sharp edges. Also, most non-standard geometries require rotation of the part to access different sides. Rearranging the workpiece increases the processing time, non-standard fixtures and additional fasteners may also be required, which together affect the final cost of the product. Read design guidelines for CNC machining.

3D print

The ability to create very complex geometries is one of the key benefits of 3D printing. The technology has fewer restrictions, but it should take into account the possible wall thickness of the part, overall dimensions, as well as the need to build support for most types of printing.

Manufacturing process

CNC

The main difference between the CNC machining process is that after the CAD file is received for production, the technologist or engineer works out the choice of tool, processing speed, tool path and changing the position of the part. All these factors greatly influence the quality of the final part and the working time. That is, the preparation process is time-consuming, and the production itself in most cases requires the presence of an operator.

3D printing

In 3D printing, the printer operator prepares the orientation of the model in the printer and adds support, and then sends the file to the printer, where it is printed without additional involvement of a specialist.

Post-processing

Also, parts both after machining and 3D printing can be applied a number of post-processing methods that improve the functionality and appearance of the product:

• blasting
• heat treatment
• anodizing
• painting, powder coating
• grinding and polishing
For printed products, post-processing can be additionally carried out on CNC machines to improve the accuracy and quality of the surface, parts are made with a built-in allowance, after which the material is removed mechanically.

Terminals

To a certain extent, CNC and 3D printing technologies overlap in their capabilities, but each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses that make them suitable for solving specific problems.