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3D printing pen for adults
The best 3D pens in 2023: model and design in 3D
(Image credit: 3Doodler)When it comes to choosing the best 3D pens there's more choice than ever before; whether you're selecting one of the best professional 3D pens, the cheapest 3D pens or a 3D pen for a child, the choice is impressive. These 3D pens can be used to create art, models and toys, and new 3D pens can even use metal and wood filaments as well as plastics.
3D pens work in similar way to a glue gun. You press a button and they push out a type of liquid plastic, such as ABS or PLA, which quickly cools in the air and turns solid. One way of making art with them is to 'draw' a model from scratch. Another is to add decoration to an existing model, or another object. Alternatively, you could draw a series of flat shapes, then join them together to create 3D ones.
But which model should you buy? In this article, we've found you the best 3D pen for children, the best 3D pen for adults, the best 3D pen for beginners, and other great options. If you're after a crafting option with more power then consider the best Cricut machines or even the best laser cutters. Or see our best markers guide for more traditional pen options.
The best 3D pens: available now
Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
1. MYNT3D Pro 3D Printing Pen
Best overall 3D pen
Filaments: ABS, PLA & more
Display: OLED
Control: Temp, speed
+ Smooth speed changes
+ Uses many filaments
- Overkill for kids
Lightweight and ergonomic, the MYNT3D Pro is easy to hold and use. You can adjust the speed and flow of the plastic filament for finer control. You can also make fine tweaks to its temperature, in one-degree increments. And there's even a OLED display to monitor this, too. Plus it's super-flexible.
Unlike many other 3D pens, the MYNT3D Pro supports a range of filament types: not just ABS and PLA. The pen is USB powered, so you can do some 3D drawing while you're away from a wall socket. The only possible downside to this 3D pen is that it's quite expensive, and probably overkill for beginners and kids.
CB rating: 5/5 stars
2. 3Doodler Start+ Essentials
The best 3D pen for kids
Filaments: PLA, ABS, FLEXY
Display: OLED
Controls: Basic options
+ Designed for children
+ For STEM learning
- Limited filaments
The 3Doodler Start+ is designed for children of six years old and above, ensuring this wireless 3D pen has been subjected to the strictest safety testing. It features no hot parts, and the nozzle and plastic can be touched without risk of burns. Controls are kept to the minimum, too, making it very easy to use for children.
As with all 3Doodler pens, you're restricted to the manufacturer's proprietary child-friendly filament. The basic pack comes with 48 strands, in eight different colours, each of which offers 60 inches' worth of filament. While it'll last you, buying new ones means only going to 3Doodler so you're in hoc to the brand's pricing.
CB rating: 4/5 stars
3. 3Doodler Create+
The best 3D pen for beginners
Filaments: PLA, ABS, FLEXY
Display: n/a
Controls: Speed / temp
+ Simple to use
+ FLEXY compatible
- Limited filaments
Never used a 3D pen before? Then I recommend the 3Doodler Create+ as this neat gadget is easy to use but versitile enough to do most crafting. It has a beautifully ergonomic design that's easy to use, even for first-timers. More experienced hands will enjoy using this too, with dual speed and temperature controls giving you a nice degree of control.
This pen supports FLEXY plastics as well as PLA and ABS, although be aware they must be 3Doodler ones, which tend to be on the pricey side. You get 50 filaments included with this package, in a variety of colours, as well as a guidebook.
CB rating: 4/5 stars
4. 3Doodler PRO+
Best new 3D pen for professionals
Specifications
Filaments: ABS, Nylon, Wood, Plastic, Metals
Display: OLED, dial
Control: Temperature, speed, fan
Today's Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Uses metals and wood filaments
+
Variable controls for precision
+
Advanced new tech
Reasons to avoid
-
One for adults only
The new 3Doodler Pro+ is like no other 3D pen around. This is a stylish and feature-laden pen that can not only 'draw' with ABS but also metal, wood and copper.
This is one of the best professional 3d pens on the market right now.
The 3Doodler Pro+ features an impressive number of features, including a variable dial that enables you to control temperature, speed and the internal fan for more accuracy.
This 3D pen has been created with adults in mind, and is a great pen for artists and designers looking for a new way to create. The 3Doodler Pro+ comes with materials to get started too.
5. MYNT3D Super 3D Pen
A good value 3D pen
Filaments: ABS, PLA
Display: n/a
Controls: Speed / temp
+ Anti-clog nozzle
+ Speed slider
- Limited filaments
Watching the pennies? Then check out the MYNT3D Super 3D Pen, which represents excellent value. It's similar to the Pro model, with the same gearbox and replaceable nozzle design but cheaper because you don't get the OLED display, or the temperature adjustment feature. Instead, a temperature screw lets you switch between the correct heat for ABS and PLA, but you're limited to those two materials.
However, it's still a great 3D pen, which is easy to use in practice. Plus you get a stylus, three colours of ABS plastic and a 100-240V AC 50/60Hz adapter in the box. So overall, this 3D pen represents excellent value.
CB rating: 4/5 stars
6. MYNT3D Basic Pen
The best cheap 3D pen
Filaments: PLA, ABS
Display: n/a
Controls: Basic options
+ Simple and easy
+ Clog-free in use
- Can't use ABS filament
If you're really short on funds, you’re looking for a 3D pen that’s not only cheap to buy, but cheap to run too. And the MYNT3D Basic Pen ticks both these boxes.
Compatible with the same low-cost ABS and PLA plastics that 3D printers use, it allows you to push out plastic at slow, medium or fast speeds. It also boasts a sealed nozzle and overbuilt gearbox for clog free use. Otherwise, this is a basic 3D pen, with no clever features.
One thing to note, this 3D pen is powered via USB using a proprietary cable, so if you lose that, you’re in trouble. But the low price may make these compromises easy to accept if you're after a cheap 3D pen.
CB rating: 3/5 stars
7. MYNT3D Junior2 3D Pen for Kids
A great 3D pen for youngsters
Filaments: PCL
Display: n/a
Controls: Start / Stop
+ Made for kids
+ Cordless design
- Can't use ABS or PLA
Another child-friendly option, the MYNT3D Junior2 3D Pen is designed for ages six years old and above, with an easy-to-grasp design and low temperature nozzle to keep your kids safe. It’s shorter and thicker than most 3D pens, making it good for tiny hands. It works with PCL filament (which is biodegradable), and is not compatible with ABS or PLA.
This pen features the same sealed nozzle design as more advanced MYNT3D pens to stop clogs.
It’s battery powered and can be charged via Micro USB. Overall, it feels a bit cheap, but does the job it’s intended for.
CB rating: 3/5 stars
The best 3D pens: frequent questions
Do 3D pens really work?
Yes, 3D pens really work, if what you want to do is create a 3D model by hand. If you want to create a 3D model based on a pre-existing design, though, you need a 3D printer.
A 3D pen uses the same type of heating element to melt filament that you get in a 3D printer. But while the latter is controlled by software, a 3D pen you control entirely yourself, much like using a glue gun, so you can get truly expressive. Once the filament leaves the filter, it cools rapidly, and hardens into whatever shape you have formed it into.
What is a 3D pen used for?
You can use a 3D pen to draw on any flat surface. But, as the name suggests, the real beauty of a 3D pen is that it allows you to draw in mid-air, using plastic filament, and create three-dimensional structures that then solidify.
Alternatively, you can draw over an existing object to enhance it.
Who uses 3D pens?
Anyone can use a 3D pen, but they're commonly used by hobbyists, artists, makers, fashion designers and home furnishing designers in creative projects. They're also used by engineers and DIYers to solve practical problems, by teachers in education, and by kids for fun projects.
What 3D pen should I buy?
The best 3D pen available today is the MYNT3D 3D Pen Pro . It's light and ergonomically designed, making it easy to hold and use, whether you're a newbie or an experienced hand. An adjustable feed helps you stay in control, and you can increase the temperature in increments. It's USB powered and you can use a wide range of filaments.
What's the best 3D pen for children?
The best 3D pen for children is the 3Doodler Start+ Essentials (2021) , which is suitable for kids from six and up. The controls are simple, and everything's been subjected to the strictest safety testing.
There are no hot parts on the pen and its Eco-Plastic filament is non-toxic, BPA-free, and completely biodegradable in household compost. It typically takes about 45 days for the plastic to break down.
What's the best 3D pen for beginners?
In our view, the best 3D pen for beginners is the 3Doodler Create+ , because it's so easy to use. Just plug in the pen, insert your plastic, wait for it to heat up, then you can doodle in three dimensions. The extruded heated plastic hardens almost instantly, so you can draw 3D structures, freehand or on stencils. This 3D pen comes with different colours of plastics, which are all safe and non-toxic, and an activity guide book to get you started.
Are 3D pens environmentally damaging?
If you want to avoid harming the environment with your 3D pen, then the plastic we recommend using is PLA, which is short for Poly Lactic Acid. A polyester derived from renewable biomass, typically from fermented plant starch such as corn, cassava, sugarcane or sugar beet pulp, this type of plastic is both biogradable and sustainable.
To be specific, it typically takes around six to 12 months to break down, while for most plastics it takes hundreds of years.
The other type of plastic commonly used in 3D pens, ABS, is not so great for the environment. Short for Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, ABS is petroleum-based and non-biodegradable. It's both bad for the environment and more toxic to humans than PLA.
What's the best cheap 3D pen in the US?
If you're tight on cash and in the US, you can get a very decent 3D pen for not much money, in the form of the MYNT3D Super 3D Pen . Despite being just $39.99 at time of writing, it's an excellent 3D pen, with a stepless speed slider that lets you regulate flow for optimal control of material while you're drawing. You also get a ultrasonic sealed nozzle which virtually nearly clog-proof.
What's the best cheap 3D pen in the UK?
If you're in the UK, your best bet for a cheap 3D pen right now is the Nikand 3D Pen . Suitable for both adults and kids, it costs just £39.
95 at time of writing, and is a nice pen that's easy to hold and use. It also comes with an OLED screen, support for PCL and PLA plastic filaments, and the ability to control speed of filament extrusion.
Read more:
- Glowforge Pro review: the most powerful laser cutter yet
- These are the best xTool Machines
- The best laptops for 3D modelling
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Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsIan Dean is Digital Arts & Design Editor at Creative Bloq, and the former editor of many leading magazines.
These titles included ImagineFX, 3D World and leading video game title Official PlayStation Magazine. In his early career he wrote for music and film magazines including Uncut and SFX. Ian launched Xbox magazine X360 and edited PlayStation World. For Creative Bloq, Ian combines his love to bring the latest news on NFTs, video game art and tech, and more to Creative Bloq, and in his spare time he doodles in Corel Painter, ArtRage, and Rebelle while finding time to play Xbox and PS5. He's also a keen Cricut user and laser cutter fan, and is currently crafting on Glowforge and xTools M1.
With contributions from
- Tom May
11 Best 3D Pens For All Ages in 2023 [Reviews]
A 3D pen is a tool associated with 3D printing processes and computer-aided design. That’s why they are sometimes called 3D printing pens or 3D painting pens. They are fun and functional for kids, hobbyists, and professional artists and designers.
In essence, a 3D pen allows you to draw out a 3D object, much like the extruder on a 3D printer but on a smaller scale and by hand. Obviously, this type of pen does not contain ink but a bulkier filament or other substance that quickly hardens. That said, a smaller range of pens use an ink and light mechanism.
Depending on the type, they come with a range of features, including:
- a mechanism for refilling the pen
- unloading the pen
- managing the speed of output
- temperature control for heating the filament
And more!
Uses for 3D pens are still somewhat limited and are mainly used for fun or by professional artists to make unique 3D artwork. They can also work as an excellent addition to 3D printing, allowing you to add elements and tweak things to a printed model by hand when the main object has cooled.
Compared to a regular pen they are bulkier, more expensive, and often require USB to power and charge.
Most do not come with software or even need to be paired with a computer or device of any kind.
There are two main types of 3D printing pen options. One has 3D systems more in common with an FDM 3D printer and is sometimes called a hot pen. You must buy and load the plastic-like filament or ‘strand’ into the pen and turn on its heating mechanism to get it to the right temperature to extrude out for ‘drawing’.
As soon as it leaves the pen, the regular room temperature will soon cool the filament into a solid, so you need to get the hang of it in order not to make a mess or ruin your design. Drawing will require a suitable bench, table, or surface so you don’t get plastic everywhere. Plain paper isn’t suitable because it’s too thin and light and will stick. A heavier paper-based surface can sometimes be effective. You can also use these pens directly on existing objects – ideally that have been 3D printed with similar material.
They are almost always called a pen rather than a 3D pencil.
What most beginners start off doing is using 3D templates that you fill up with the pen’s material to create patterns. You can even create fully 3D objects as you join each part of the overall piece together.
The key thing to note is that most 3D pens work in thin air. By that we mean once you’ve drawn some kind of base structure, like a triangle, you can slowly raise the pen while extruding and create a solid upward line within the 3D space. The substance is thick enough and will harden enough that your structure won’t just fall over unless it’s poorly designed, to begin with.
The second kind of 3D pen is a cool pen or one that uses LED or UV exposure to solidify an ink without any noticeable heat. Kids’ 3D pens are more suitable for this technology as they tend to be easier to use and come with more elaborate colors and ink types like glitter and glow in the dark.
Choosing the best 3D pen comes down to your own requirements and what you plan to use it for. If you just want to have a bit of fun, you don’t need the most advanced or expensive product. If you’re into 3D printing, are an artist, or otherwise a professional, however, you’ll need a good performing option that matches your other equipment. Here are some of the main factors to consider:
PriceEveryone has an idea of how much they are willing to spend. Fortunately, the 3D pen price range does not vary that greatly. You can usually pick up a good pen for well under $100, while the most expensive rarely break the $150 mark - unless you include a lot of accessories. Still, as a general rule, the more expensive the better quality the product and end result of your 3D creations.
PurposeBefore making your purchase, you need to decide what you’ll be using your 3D pen for.
Is it just for a bit of fun or are you an artist trying to make a creative impression? Are you an individual hobbyist that already 3D prints and wants to add to this with a pen or are you in a team or larger business and need a bunch of functional pens for commercial reasons?
The best 3D pens aren’t just a thick cylinder with a nozzle. Creating good 3D objects takes time and you need something that fits your hand and doesn’t get uncomfortable during long sessions. In that sense, stay away from particularly heavy pens or ones that heat up to the point that you have to keep putting it down. Plastic is ok and often helps keep the pen lightweight but if there’s nothing extra to help with the grip it can make your hand sore.
In these cases, it’s best to read user reviews if you can test out the products in physical retail stores.
AgeNot all pens are suitable for children because they heat up and the nib can be dangerous to touch.
Filament is also messy and can be toxic if consumed. It's advised that children under 6 avoid 3D pens unless heavily supervised. Meanwhile, the best 3D pens for teenagers are typically just the best pens in general.
For children, the best option is to buy a 3D pen for kids that has low heat or is completely heatproof. These are not just aesthetically more appealing because of the bright colors and design but often come with kid-friendly stencils and projects to complete. Pens like the Mynt3D Junior 2 use a special low heat filament so a child cannot burn themselves. The CreoPop for kids uses an entirely different technology that doesn’t use heat at all and has many cool colors and inks that appeal to kids
CablesSome of the most powerful 3D pens require a permanent power supply from an outlet which means there will always be a cable. If you’re not a fan of the idea, look out for chargeable pens. Many are USB compatible and can be charged via an outlet with an adapter or by USB in a computer and laptop.
Being cable-free means you aren’t restricted in where you do your projects and there’s no risk of getting tangled in the cable and ruining your creations.
Heating and FilamentMost 3D pens are like FDM 3D printers that heat up a plastic filament and extrude it out, only via a pen nib. The best 3D printing pen is one that allows heating adjustments and lets you know the temperature.
The type of filament is also a consideration because it’s an added cost. The cheapest is PLA and certainly isn’t weak or poor quality but the strongest is ABS. It can offer the durability needed if creating commercial products.
Pens that don’t even use a traditional filament offer the most variety and don’t get hot. If that appeals to you, the biggest difference is they cost more.
Wrap UpOur team tested the best 3D pens, so you don’t have to.
Whether you’re looking for what amounts to a handheld 3D printer or a more refined 3D art pen, we’ve got you.
Our lists consist only of the top options on the market.
Manual for 3D pen Myriwell RP800A
You can download the instruction for printing in PDF format, or read in this article.
User Management 3D handle Myriwell RP 800a |
User 3D handle MYRIWELL RP 800A 9002
before working with 3D handle Myriwell RP 800, CTT TAKE.
ATTENTION!
- This equipment is intended for children over 8 years of age and adults. Children must be supervised by adults when operating this equipment.
- The nozzle of the 3D pen is heated to high temperatures (max. 240°C), therefore, in order to avoid fires and burns, do not touch the nozzle of the pen to other objects and the body.
- It is strictly forbidden to use materials not intended for 3D pens.
- Never hit the print head on hard objects.
- It is forbidden to use adapters of other power than the manufacturer's power.
- Due to the different physical properties of ABS/PLA plastics, the use of other plastics is strictly prohibited.
- This equipment belongs to the category of high precision electronic equipment, please keep it away from water.
- After each work on the 3D pen, unload the print material from it and turn it off from the network.
Appearance and control buttons
The first Party
9000
Second Party
9000 9000 Management Instructions for
-Vertagita Putation -Bontian 3D pens (or use a USB cable to connect to an external battery that delivers more than 2A). When the OLED screen lights up, it means that the pen is ready for use.
- Press the filament loading button, the pen will start to heat up and the green LED will light up.
After approximately 40 seconds, the green LED will stop flashing, indicating that the pen is ready to load filament.
- Insert 1.75 mm thread into the "thread loading hole". Keep pressing the "load filament" button, the material will be loaded. Hold the button until the plastic comes out of the nozzle, which means the end of the filament loading. (Double press the button can load the thread automatically, press the button again to exit of automatic mode).
- Temperature adjustment: press the + and - buttons to adjust the temperature, the temperature range is 130°C -240°C.
- Speed adjustment: move the speed control to adjust the speed.
- Removing the filament: follow step 2, then keep pressing the filament eject button, the filament will come out. (Double press the button can eject the filament automatically, press the button again to exit the automatic mode).
- Press the temperature up button and the filament eject button at the same time to switch the ABS/PLA filament type.
- Replacing the nozzles: open the rear cover with a plastic screwdriver and remove the screw, then remove the nozzles.
- The pen will enter standby mode after 2 minutes of being idle. Press the filament download button to resume filament operation.
- Do not touch the nozzle while the 3D pen is running.
TEMPERATURE RATES
Due to the difference in melting temperature of colored plastics, in order to improve print quality, pay attention to the following points: , use the "material selection / heat treatment" mode and use the buttons to lower the print temperature down (the adjustment range is 8 - 15 ° C).
- In normal printing, if you encounter a lot of bubbles, it means that the printing temperature is high, use "material selection / heat treatment" and press the buttons to lower the printing temperature down (the adjustment range is 3-8 ° C).
- During normal printing, a smooth filament comes out of the nozzle, without bubbles.
- If the color of the material is dull and dark during extrusion, the sound of the motor shows obvious difficulty in pulling the filament, this means that the printing temperature is low, use the "material selection / heat treatment" buttons to increase the printing temperature up (the adjustment range is 3-5 ° WITH).
- When printing with PLA plastic, if the plastic becomes too soft or runs, it means that the printing operating temperature is too high. Using the temperature mode, it is necessary to reduce the printing temperature (the adjustment range is 10-18 ° C).
TIPS WHEN USING THE 3D PEN
- Do not force the buttons. In the event of a breakdown, the repair will be out of warranty.
- To replace the plastic, press and hold the eject button for 1-2 seconds.
- Pay close attention to the temperature and type of plastic used. The operating temperature should not exceed 180°C for PLA plastic and 230°C for ABS plastic
- Store the 3D pen plastic in a dry and dark place.
- Do not let the plastic go completely, be sure to leave 1-2 cm outside the pen body, for safe removal and replacement.
- To clean the nozzle from stuck plastic, heat the 3D Pen to 180-200°C and clean the nozzle with a thick cloth or with a wine cork.
- Do not touch fusible, flammable materials or liquids with the nozzle.
- Avoid direct sunlight on the handle body.
- Before changing and loading plastic, it is recommended to cut the thread at a right angle.
Search and elimination of malfunctions
In the event of the following faults during the use of 3D handle, we offer a list of possible faults and their elimination:
| 0 9000 9000 55555555555555555555555555550 | Troubleshooting | |
| 3D Pen 9 power light off0009 The temperature is not enough | Clean the nozzle/Replace the thermocouple | |
| The temperature did not reach the required parameter | Clean the nozzle and check the operability of the control board, if necessary, replace the fee | Unload the material from the pen, cut to a straight thread end and reload |
| The material was not downloaded | Material to download | Control board | Control or repair the |
| 9000
Heating element damaged | Repair or replace heating element |
MyRiwell/ 3D pen MyRiwell with plastic set and stencils/ ABS plastic set 150m/Stencils 3d-pen-in/ Color pink. 
