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Best 3d printer for artists


The 12 Best 3D Printers 2022 for Professionals & Hobbyists

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If you’re in a hurry, check out our Editor's Pick, Formlabs Form 1+.

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3D Printers are fascinating, it intrigues both young and old and you’ll agree when I say, everyone wants to try this at least once.

While they’re becoming common in school labs and a lot of hobbyists are using it to make action figures, printing out replacements parts from valves to screws and nuts. The thing is that its utility exceeds far beyond printing out smartphone holders and fidget spinners. People have used 3D printers to make fully functional prosthetic arms.

For people with engineering background and CAD skills, 3D printers can help accelerate the process of building new prototypes and might as well be your ticket to Shark Tank. With it, you’re in full control of the production process from the beginning to the finished product.

Moreover, you can save time and money by printing out what you want. You don’t have to go to search for the people who will make it and thus get what you need the fraction of the price and waste no time while you’re at it.

Picking out the right 3D printer is not necessarily an easy task. There are a wide number of options available, which can be overwhelming if you’re not sure what to look for. This guide has isolated some of the best printers available, which will go a long way towards helping you find the right printer for your needs.

Things to Consider

Before you go ahead to buy your first (or your second or third) 3D printer, there are a few things to consider. You won’t need this information in case you already know the specs of your next printer, but make sure to check them out if you’re a first-time buyer of 3D printers.

1. Printer Type

First, see what type of printer you’re checking out. There are three most common types, and each is suitable for users with different levels of experience. For example, hobbyists prefer to use the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printer, that heats and extrudes plastic. This type is the cheapest one out of the three and the models on this list are FDM models. The second type is Stereolitography, where the printer uses ultraviolet light and photosensitive liquid to harden a model. The third type is called Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and it uses lasers which melt the powder to make the print.

2. Resolution

Resolution is the level of the detail you’ll get in the print. The smaller the resolution, the more details the printer can print out. The high-quality printers can print out up to 50 or 70 microns.

3. Materials Supported

The most common printing materials in 3D printers are PLA (Poly Lactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) which are thermoplastics and come as spools of filament that you have to replace when the printer runs out of it. Higher-end models support more materials, such as TPU, TPE, HIPS, PC, NYLON, ASA, PP, PETG, PVA, Glass Fiber Infused, Carbon Fiber Infused, Metal Fill, or even Wood Fill.

4. Print Bed

Another thing to consider is the print bed. It can be heated and non-heated. The ABS filament requires a heated bed, while you can use the PLA with non-heated bed. The bed depends on the materials you’ll use but it can also be useful to know if the bed is pliable, so you don’t damage the finished product.

5. Safety

When 3D printer is in use, it works with heated plastics. Those plastics can burn your skin. The extruders, and the bed can also get hot, so watch out for that. What’s more, the fumes that the heated plastic produces are potentially dangerous. Make sure to have the printer in a well-ventilated area when it’s working.

The Best 3D Printers For 2022

Product Printer Model Layer Resolution Build Area Price
Formlabs Form 1+ 25 microns 4.9 x 4.9 x 6.5 in

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MakerBot Replicator 100 microns 11. 6 x.7 x 6.5 in

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Ultimaker 2 Extended 20 microns 9.1 x 8.8 x 8.1 in

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Monoprice Select Mini 100 microns 4.7 x 4.7 x 4.7 in

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XYZprinting Da Vinci 1.0 100 microns 7.8 x 7.8 x 7.8 in

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Editors Pick: Formlabs Form 1+


If you are in the market looking for a 3D printer, why not get the very best? The Form 1+ by Formlabs is the latest model by the manufacturer whose Form 1 was one of the most funded 3D Printer on Kickstarter made for professional creators. It was developed by graduates of MIT and is quite different from other type of printer as it uses stereolithography to produce 3D prints using liquid resin.

The Form1+ is just as beautifully designed machine that has improved a lot in terms of reliability. PreForm, their prosperity software provides an excellent working environment to stay within their ecosystem.

With the Form 1+ you are able to get faster, easier, and more detailed 3D prints which you are unable to do with low end consumer printers, you don’t need to perform any calibration and can get going in as little as 15 minutes. Due to its professional grade output, we recommend it to professionals, designers and architects.

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If you are looking for a 3D Printer that will fit in your budget, here are our picks for the 10 best 3D Printers.

Best 3D Printer Under $250

1. Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer

The Monoprice Select is probably the cheapest 3D printer on the market. Although it lacks the advanced properties of more expensive 3D printers, it is an ideal model for anyone just getting into 3D printing. Thanks in part to its low cost, the Monoprice Select is currently the best-selling 3D printer on Amazon.

One of the things that stood out about this printer is its versatility. The printer supports any type of filament, from ABS to conductive PLA and composite wood and metal. The printer is compact enough to fit on a standard office desk and ships fully assembled, so you can print from this device right out of the package. The printer comes with a sample filament for use, as well as a few pre-installed models for testing.

The printer is compatible with both Apple and PC products. It works with both MicroSD and MicroUSB. A bed scraper and leveling hex wrench are also included. This printer is not going to cut it for professional use, but if you are a beginner or a student, this is a great 3D printer to learn on.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 4.7W X 4.7H x 4.7D
  • Resolution: Fine0.1 mm (100 microns) – 0.3 mm (300 microns)

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2. Qidi Technology X-ONE 3D Printer

Like the Dremel Idea, this X-One 3D Printer is a good-choice for a mid-level 3D printer. Constructed from durable double-thick metal and supported by an aluminum platform build, the printer uses standard 1. 75 mm filament to power your printing.

Compatible with both Windows and Apple OS, and printing available through USB or micoSD, there are a lot of ways to use this printer. It comes with a 3.5 inch touch-screen, which makes it easier to operate the printer software for your printing needs.

The printer ships with a 1-kilogram roll of PLA filament to get your printing started.

The printer supports both ABS and PLA filaments. The printer is intuitive and easy to use, and is a great choice for artists and hobbyists. The X-One is not really powerful enough for professional use, but it is a great printer for simpler needs.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 140L X 140W X 140 H mm
  • Resolution: Fine 0.1 mm (100 microns) – 0.5 mm (500 microns)

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Best 3D Printer Under $500

3. Ender 3 V2 3D Printer


The Ender 3 V2 3D Printer is a perfect entry level printer for anyone who wants to have their first taste of 3D printing and that too without breaking the bank. What’s best about this model is its clear and simple user interface, as well as a 4.3-inch color screen.

It is a plug-and-play, easy to use 3D Printer that you can use right out of the box, just install the filament cartridges and you are ready to go. It has carborundum glass platform that enables the hotbed to heat up quickly. The filament process is easy, with a rotary knob on the outside.

The fully-enclosed design makes it very safe for beginners and hobbyists as it protects the users from the high temperatures required to print, and ensures that no external filament movement occurs. The price point, simplicity, and safety makes it a really great choice for an entry level 3D Printer.Best 3D Printer

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 8.6W x 8.6H x 9.8D inch
  • Resolution: Fine 0.1 mm (100 microns) – Ultra Fast 0.4 mm (400 microns)

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Best 3D Printer Under $1000

4. Dremel Idea Builder 3D Printer

The Dremel Idea 3D Printer recently struck partnership with HP and has become a printer of choice for their latest Sprout Computer which is world’s first fully integrated desktop 3D scanner.

This shows that the Dremel is definitely a printer to buy if you want to build something functional or for fun. It comes with pre-installed extruder which means you can start using it right out-of-box.

The software allows for customization of 3D models and the best part is that using the onboard software, you can use it as standalone printer, simply insert the SD Card and use the on screen touch panel to select the model file and start the build.

Dremel works with their own filaments that are specifically engineered to optimize printing in the Idea Builder. The community is great and has an open system that lets you download free, print-ready models from dremel3d.com.

Overall It is a well rounded machine and well suited for hobbyists, students, and educators alike and with partnership with HP, it certainly is a must-have 3D printer for students.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 9W x 5.9H x 5.5D inch
  • Resolution: Fine 0. 1 mm (100 microns) - Ultra Fast 0.4 mm (400 microns)

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5. FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro


The Creator Pro by FlashForge is one of a kind open source 3D printer that is a setup up from the original wooden framed 3D printer. It has a solid design with sturdy metal frame and an all-new build platform that is redesigned to provide stable vertical movements and better quality prints as the platform can now withstand high temperature.

The Creator Pro is more stable, uses dual extruder, and provides up to 60% increase in print speed compared to its predecessor. It prints using ABS, PLA, nylon, dissolvable filament, and even composite materials such as wood and metal.

It offers best value for money compared with other 3D printers at higher price points and offers a balance between ease of use and complexity to be able to build professional level prints.

It is considered a very reliable and consistent printer with good precision and countless possibilities as it an open source printer that continuously upgrades with the help of Maker Community so you evolve with it.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 9W x 5.7H x 6D inch
  • Resolution: 0.1 mm (100 microns) - 0.3 mm (300 microns)

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Best 3D Printer Under $1500

6. Sindoh’s DP200 3DWOX 3D Printer


Sindoh’s DP200 is a pretty powerful mid-range 3D Printer with a lot of awesome features. Unlike many 3D printers that have complicated filament changes, the 3DWOX has an extremely easy process. Just like swapping out ink cartridges in a traditional printer, all you have to do is remove the old cartridge and insert the new one.

The 3DWOX makes it easier to print with their assisted bed leveling, that keep make it easier to keep your bed level so your prints turn out right. Remote monitoring on a mobile smartphone app makes it easy to keep track of all your printing work, so you don’t have to remain by the printer the entire time.

Powerful and intuitive desktop software makes it easier to design amazing models for expert results. The software also guides you in the printing process, helping you to achieve better results while simultaneously guiding you and improving your abilities.

Sindoh’s have 50 years of printer experience and they bring that experience to the fore with the 3DWOX, helping you to take your art to a new level. This printer provides everything an artist needs to learn the ways of 3D printing, and it is also a good entry-level choice for professionals.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 8.3L X 7.9W X 7.7H inches
  • Resolution: 0.05 mm (50 microns) – 0.4 mm (400 microns)

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Best 3D Printer Under $2000

7. Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D Printer


The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D Printer is a 50-Micron-layer printer compatible with any OS. It has Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity and has been rewarded by PC Mag Editors’ Choice Award from 2016 until 2020.

It is a dream machine for the university-goers and professionals as the machine gives you the freedom to adapt and modify the printer e. g. it has a modular tool head design so you can interchange different print heads to work with a range of printing filaments like PLA, PETG, ECO-ABS and Nylon filaments.

Some of these material options are not available with other 3D Printers which makes it a great option for people who are passionate about using this printer for their craft and play with different materials. It has an automated 9-point leveling system that detects discrepancies and helps to deliver better printing quality. The built-in camera allows you to monitor your prints with your Cloud software.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 10.0W x6.0H x 6.7D inch
  • Resolution: up to 0.05 mm (50 microns)

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8. LulzBot Mini 2 Desktop 3D Printer


The LulzBot Mini 2 is an upgrade to the LulzBot Mini 3D printer. It is extremely reliable, versatile, easy to use, and a high-performance desktop 3D printer. It is made to deliver premium results and features many upgrades over the previous model.

Every print is enhanced with self-cleaning and self-leveling that ensures a clean and perfectly level foundation for the prints. It features the E3D titan aero tool head with a 55mm nozzle and it is compatible with a variety of both rigid and flexible materials.

The LulzBot Mini 2 works silently, meaning it won’t disturb your workshop or classroom activities while printing. Its print surface made of reversible borosilicate glass/PEI can withstand a maximum temperature of 248°F, while the tool head withstands up to 554°F.

This LulzBot product uses Cura LulzBot Edition software to make printing extremely easy. The software offers preconfigured profiles for over 30 materials. You only have to load your 3D model file and print.

The printer comes with a 1-year warranty and 7-days/week phone and email technical support.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 6.3W x 6.3H x 7.08D inch
  • Resolution: 0.05 mm (50 microns) – 0. 5 mm (500 microns)

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9. MakerGear M2 Desktop 3D Printer


The MakerGear M2 is the 3rd generation 3D printer produced by MakerGear and one of the highest rated and reliable printers we’ve come across during our research.

It is built on a solid and rigid Steel Frame, making it very sturdy which is very useful for printing things quickly. It is very modular and open designed so you can tweak the machine with interchangeable nozzles and parts. There are no Proprietary Filament Cartridges to be used with MakerGear M2 so you can pick any type of PLA or ABS material and use it with this 3D printer.

While it is not the quietest of all, the overall build volume definitely gives you more room to play. The high precision rails and quality components in a well-calibrated machine will produces high quality prints right out of the box and will be a lot of fun to use.

Having said that, it is not one of the most easiest printers to use but even if you have a minimal experience working with 3D Printers, this printer will be a setup up for you and we recommend it to professionals who have intermediate to advance experience.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 8W x10H x 8D inch
  • Resolution: 0.01 mm (10 microns) - 0.3 mm (300 microns)

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10. MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer


MakerBot has been a pioneer in 3D Printing space with their Replicator 3D Printer already on its 5th generation. MakerBot was launched in 2009 following the early progress of the RepRap Project.

Winner of “reddot design award” MarketBot Replicator offers the ease of use and connectivity for all your 3D printing needs in 2015, which means you can connect to the printer with your smartphone, tablet, or a desktop computer. It has a full color 3.5 LCD Display with an intuitive control dial for a rich user experience.

It has an on-board camera inside the printer so you once you initiate the printing process, you can go anywhere and remotely monitor the progress using MakerBot mobile app available for both android and iOs.

In terms of print quality, the quality is unmatched thanks MakerBot Replicator 3D Printing Platform. It uses a custom MakerBot PLA Filament and makes a very consumer friendly 3D Printer. We recommend this to everyone, especially professionals and tech geeks who will appreciate the extra features packed within this printer and reliability.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 9.9W x7.8H x 5.9D inch
  • Resolution: 0.1 mm (100 microns)

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Best 3D Printer Under $3500

11. MakerGear M3-ID Desktop 3D Printer


The MakerGear M3-ID Desktop 3D Printer tops the chart when it comes to a well-built reliable 3D Printer under $3500. If you are paying that much for a printer, you need something that not only performs well but lasts longer too. This model operates on two fronts: it supports duplication printing. In other words, you can print two things from different materials at once. It is made of rigid structure with features like True-Leveling and a Dimensional Precision to provide precise calibration and printing.

The M3-ID if Wi-Fi enabled, which means that you can control it from any remote device connected to it. Also, it supports a variety of materials, such as ABS, HIPS, Nylon, PET-G, PET-T, PLA, Polycarbonate, and Polypropylene.

The onboard computer offers 10 GB of storage, while the USB port enables you to print anything from your external devices. It’s compatible with MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 3.9W x10H x 7.9D inch
  • Resolution: up to 0.05 mm (50 microns)

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12. Raise3D E2 Desktop 3D Printer


The Raise3D E2 Desktop 3D Printer is a beast of a machine, a true professional 3D Printer for fraction of the cost compared to other commercial printers costing anywhere from $10K – $100K. Folks who are looking for a multi-functional and a robust desktop 3D printer, the E2 is the right product for you.

As they say on the website, their “focus is to inspire industry-level change by designing and building 3D printers that extend the limits of what is possible for designers and manufacturers.” With Raise3D E2’s auto bed leveling technology and a video-assisted offset calibration system, you can go through geometrical alignment easily.

The printing will pause when the door is opened or when you run out of filament material. The flexible build plate minimizes the print damage when removing the object after printing has finished.

Its intuitive visual interface with print progress and the 7-inch visual touchscreen, as well as the on-screen assistance when printing help you to set your printing preferences quickly. The biggest plus of this model is the number of filaments you can use with it, including PLA, ABS, HIPS, PC, TPU, TPE, NYLON, PETG, ASA, PP, PVA, Glass Fiber Infused, Carbon Fiber Infused, Metal Fill, and Wood Fill.

Features
  • Maximum Build Volume: 13W x9. 4H x 9.4D inch
  • Resolution: 0.07 mm (70 microns) – 0.7 mm (700 microns)

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Conclusion

If you are looking to invest in a 3D Printer, the Formlabs Form 1+ stands apart from the rest with its innovative approach to 3D printing. Obviously, not everyone is looking for such an expensive model, which is why we have included so many other choices for you for all price ranges and needs.

The important thing is to consider what you hope to accomplish with the printer and which one will best suit your needs.

Do share in the comments below and let us know which 3D Printer you liked the most. As always, your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Omnicore

Omnicore is a healthcare digital marketing agency specializing in helping a range of medical and healthcare practices be seen and heard by their total addressable market.

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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)

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
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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.

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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.

The best 3D printers for home, office or studio

How often have you thought about buying a 3D printer? There is nothing surprising if such a thought periodically visited you. Today, 3D printing has gone beyond the geek toy it once was, and the 3D printer has become a truly useful device for many creative people. Such printers can be used not only to produce parts for all kinds of design projects, but also to print useful home appliances. In addition, the ability to print with consumables such as metal, rubber, or even biodegradable filaments means that finished products will be strong and durable. And if you are an experienced 3D artist or designer, you can combine your skills and the capabilities of a 3D printer to the maximum.

Be aware that not all 3D printers work the same way. Some use spools of plastic filament that is heated like a hot glue gun and then laid out in layers on the print bed. The print quality of such devices can be good, but some manual processing is often required to smooth out the layer lines. Some models use an LCD screen to shine light onto the resin, while other printers use a laser to solidify the melted resin.

If you do not want to do modeling, then the abundance of marketplaces with ready-made 3D models will allow you to get good results. Thingiverse, CG Trader and many other sites offer all sorts of models in .stl format that you can print with just a few clicks. Very often you can find free models.

Anycubic Vyper

Budget printer with good features

Price: $399.
Print volume: 245x245x260 mm.
Layer thickness: 100 µm.

Pros:

  • self-levelling bed included,
  • excellent level of detail,
  • good print speed.

Cons:

  • the need for self-assembly.

All Anycubic 3D printers are good options, but as the most affordable FDM printer, the Vyper is the best deal. It has features not found in more expensive options, and produces prints with great detail and clarity, while doing so with minimal noise. The heated self-levelling print bed is a great feature, but adding a magnetic spring steel sheet to make it easier to remove prints is a win-win.

Ultimaker S3

Best solution for general 3D printing tasks

Price: $4,080.
Print volume: 230x190x200 mm.
Layer thickness: 20 µm.

Pros:

  • double extruders make life easier,
  • is an excellent self-leveling heated build platform.

Cons:

  • not the cheapest option,
  • noise level is higher than some other printers.

Ultimaker printers come in a variety of sizes and capabilities, but the Ultimaker 3 is the model we deliberately included in our list of the best 3D printers. A 3D printer has most of the features you want from larger brethren, including dual extruders and nozzles of various sizes. This means that you can print models that would be difficult to print using PVA plastic, which dissolves in water. The Ultimaker 3 also has a print progress camera, a great touch screen interface and a solid build. If you need to master large volumes of printing, then choose the advanced version, which is a little more expensive.

Elegoo Mars 2 Pro

Best Resin Printing Solution

Price: $329. 99.
Print volume: 129x80x160 mm.
Layer thickness: 50 µm

Pros:

  • excellent print quality at a reasonable price,
  • fast printing at 1-2 seconds per layer.

Cons:

  • the need for self-assembly,
  • Printing smoke can be annoying.

Elegoo is relatively new to the 3D printing market, but the original Mars printer made a good impression on the community. Mars 2 Pro only confirms the serious intentions of the manufacturer. The new 6” screen prints a layer in less than 2 seconds with no loss of clarity or blur, making this 3D printer one of the fastest resin printers around. In terms of prototyping speed, it's hard to beat unless you need larger objects, as the only real downside to the Mars 2 Pro is the small amount of printed assembly. Smoke when printing is typical for this type of printer.

Makerbot Replicator+

Universal 3D printer with FDM

Technology: 4500 dollars
Press volume: 295x195x165 mm
Layer thickness: 100 μm

Plus:

  • Building fees, Building Building Platform, Fitty Building Platform.
  • lots of connection options.

Cons:

  • takes up more space than most competitors,
  • is not the cheapest option.

Makerbot has been around for a long time and is probably the best-known manufacturer of consumer 3D printers. Even Anna Kendrick used it in space in the movie Stowaway. Experience in this area has allowed Makerbot to maintain a similar area to previous models, but increase the volume of printing and reduce the noise level. This model provides a large number of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi. The Makerbot Replicator+ even has a camera so you can watch what's going on remotely. Printing results are good and need only a little manual refinement, because this is an FDM printer. The Replicator+ is a great and reliable option if you are looking to purchase a 3D printer for your home office, school or workshop.

Anycubic Photon mono SE

Best choice for printing 3D miniatures

Price: $449. 89
Print volume: 130x78x160 mm.
Layer thickness: 100 µm.

Pros:

  • excellent level of detail,
  • smooth surface.

Cons:

  • pairs of highlights during printing can be unbearable,
  • resin is expensive.
    • Anycubic's

Photo Mono SE is a great choice if you like custom toys, collectibles or action figures from PC games as the detail on this printer is fantastic. Like other monochrome printers, it is fast enough. It only takes about a second to print one layer. The resin may have an unpleasant odor, but you can place the printer under an air exhaust cabinet. This is a small sacrifice for such a productive machine, which is really worth the money spent.

Markforged Onyx One

Best Metal Printer

Price: $4,794.
Print volume: 320x132x154 mm.
Layer thickness: 100-200 µm.

Pros:

  • reliable and durable prints,
  • all in one desktop case.

Cons:

  • expensive,
  • metal filament spools are expensive.

Onyx One prints out of durable metal, but the parts are actually carbon fiber. The main reason for choosing this technology is that although powdered metal filaments are available, they instantly destroy extruder nozzles, making the production of metal objects prohibitively expensive. Markforged solves this problem with a best-in-class desktop solution. So if you're looking for durable and reliable parts, this printer should be on your list. Just remember that a spool of filament can be quite expensive.

Creality Ender 3

Best Budget FDM 3D Printer

Price: $223.
Print volume: 220x220x250 mm.
Layer thickness: 100 µm.

Pros:

  • high quality components,
  • ease of use.

Cons:

  • open chassis,
  • The typing sound can be quite loud.

Ender's line of 3D printers are renowned for their superior performance at an affordable price. And Ender 3 is a perfect example of this. At this price, you would think that Black Friday lasts all year round. Creality has somehow managed to inject some of the highest quality components into Ender 3. The printer comes in kit form, which may not be to everyone's liking, but the assembly process actually gives you a good idea of ​​how the printer works and can help with troubleshooting if there are any in the future.

Formlabs Form 3

Best SLA Printer

Price: $3499.
Print volume: 145x145x185 mm.
Layer thickness: 15 µm.

Pros:

  • easy replacement of material cartridges,
  • no layer visibility.

Cons:

  • expensive,
  • additional costs for obtaining a medical version.
The

Formlabs Form 3 and its predecessor Form 2 set the benchmark for SLA printers (3D printing technology based on the layer-by-layer curing of a liquid material under the action of a laser beam). And the FormLabs Form 3 is by far the best printer on the market. This is a rather expensive product, but the quality of the results speaks for itself. Products are obtained with invisible layers, and the printer itself is equipped with a system that allows you to remove the finished product without the use of cutters. In addition to the impeccable print quality, the big advantage here is the ease of use. Changing media is as easy as replacing a cartridge on a conventional printer. For a little more, you will have access to biomaterials for use in dentistry and medicine. Oh, and the PreForm software is simple and intuitive too.

3Doodler

Best Portable 3D Printer

Price: $49.99

Pros:

  • you can take it anywhere,
  • No print volume limit.

Cons:

  • expensive consumables,
  • print quality is up to you.

One of the biggest limitations for 3D printing is the fixed volume. But since 3Doodler is a 3D printing pen, here you can print projects of any size. The cost of consumables can be quite high, especially if you are trying to model a car in 1:1 scale. What's more, it's fantastic fun to pick up a pen from a table top and draw lines in the air with plastic ink. The threads come in different colors, so you can consider it an added plus. But the downside is that you will have to rely only on yourself for printing accuracy, since the extruder is entirely in your hands, and not on rails. Several models are available, including 3Doodler Start (for kids) and a Pro version.

EasythreeD K5

Best budget option, safe for kids

Price: $99.99.
Print volume: 80x80x100 mm.
Layer thickness: 100-400 µm.

Pros:

  • affordable entry point to 3D printing,
  • fun and safety for kids.

Cons:

  • tiny build platform,
  • medium print quality.

It's hard not to love the EasythreeD K5 for its attractive looks and ease of use. This model on our list of the best 3D printers won't cost you much more than a couple of weeks of buying coffee to go. This is an enjoyable first 3D printing experience, so the device can be forgiven for its tiny printable area.

Direct Wall Printer

Wallpen (Germany) has launched an innovative UV inkjet printing system for indoor and outdoor direct wall printing!!!!

According to the manufacturer, Wallpen's patented technology allows high-quality, long-lasting widescreen images to be applied to a variety of vertical surfaces, including plastic, wallpaper, wood, stone, ceramic tile, glass, metal, and concrete.

The new Wallpen printer has been in development for two years and has 15 patents. It features a four-color Xaar 128 printhead and is imprinted with a durable, lightweight aluminum module. Before starting work, the system scans the surface with a laser to identify its defects and irregularities and automatically adjusts to them.

The system is easy to transport and set up and is able to apply an image on walls up to 4 m high of any width at a speed of up to 4 m² / h with a resolution of 370 × 600 dpi. It can be transported in a small passenger car. The company expects that designers, artists, decorators and outdoor advertising producers will be interested in this novelty!!!

The

Print-Wall is a flexible and mobile device that prints images and graphics in vibrant, durable, high quality colors directly from USB to plaster, wallpaper, wood, clinker, stone, plastic, glass, concrete, many metals and tiles, and more similar materials.

Create promotional images in foyers, design facades or walls with unique photographs, or bring life to apartments, offices, corridors and decorate kindergartens or schools.

Automated wall painter

Printing allows you to transform any room in a few hours. The client needs to select an image, drawing or photograph, as well as indicate the dimensions of the print (width and height). The printer will do all the work. The result is an exact copy of the image on the wall without errors.

The unique ink is odorless and absolutely safe for humans and animals. The curing time of the ink is a fraction of a second. The high resolution of the print (370x600 dpi) makes the print on the walls extraordinarily lively and realistic. The printer is controlled by a tablet wirelessly, and a special application facilitates the operator's work with print settings. It is easy to assemble and disassemble, easy to transport. Therefore, we can do our work even in remote customer locations.

Wall and wallpaper printing

Printed on plaster

Printing on wood

Printing on plastics

Printing on glass

Direct Wall Printer Models

1.

Wallpen printer. Germany is the most expensive option.

Cost of wall printing machine 45.700 euros without delivery and includes:

Three Packs of WallPen UV Ink Cartridges (85ml Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow)

WallPen cleaning fluid kit (500 ml for cleaning printheads)

Android tablet 10" for wireless operation

Six corrugations for transporting the machine

Two days of training for two people

One year warranty

Download presentation (in German)

WP100 printer specifications
Warranty: 2 years

Capacity:

8 square meters per hour

Certification: European Conformity Certificate, CE Independent Testing and Certification Certificate Colour:Multicolor
After-sales service: Online support, video technical support Dimensions (L * W * H): 1. 8 * 1 * 0.8 m
Features: Print length endless Weight: 65 kg
Resolution: 1440 DPI Ink Type: Water based ink
Print head: DX7 Ink Colour: 4 colors/CMYK
Applications: Hotels, clothing stores, building materials stores, manufacturing plant, restaurant, home use, retail, printing stores, construction work, advertising company Ink volume: 4 print colors 200CBM

2. Perfect Laser Co., Ltd. printer (China.)Model

PE-h40

Price from $12,000.00-$13,500.00

Shipping: US$22

Guaranteed Money Back

Single Head Wall Printer - CMYK

Industrial grade printhead (Japan) x 1

Color print speed 32 sqm/h

3d wall printer for special wall decoration. Has a computer control system. The device connects to the computer via a USB cable. You edit pictures (photos) in the computer and then send them to the printer. Management is very simple and convenient. The printer prints very quickly.

1. The printer can print photos on the wall directly.

2. Uses an Epson print head.

3.Printer has 1 year warranty period (does not include ink and print head)

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

3. Chulei laser printer. Model chulei laser

PE-P40

US $15 500.00

Dual Head Wall Printer - CMYK+W

Industrial Grade Printhead (Japan) x 2

Download Technical parameters of the printer in Russian:

Printer capabilities. how to organize your business.

work examples Order

Is it necessary to use rails for printing?

Question: Is it necessary to use rails for printing?

Answer: The car can work both on rails, and without them. Rails are required on objects with uneven floor surfaces

What is the set of consumables?

Question: What is the set of consumables?

Answer: The consumable part is ink. One set of ink has 4 bottles with 4 different colors.
One bottle of ink - 500 ml. With one set of inks, 200 m2 can be printed.
h40 supports four CMYK colors.
Price - $100 for one ink set.
h50 supports CMYK+W five colors.
Price - $150 for one set of CMYK and $375 for 1 bottle of white ink
White ink is imported from USA, Dupont brand. Bottle capacity 1000 ml. The white ink ingredient is different from CMYK. It is not recommended to use cheap analogues of white ink, because. they can easily block the print head.
We offer original ink produced by a well-known American brand, the quality of which has been tested by time.
Protective Liquid
Price is $85 per bottle. One bottle - 1000 ml. We suggest you buy 2 bottles for one year use

How is the machine controlled?

Question: How is the machine controlled?

Answer: Management using a built-in computer with a simple and understandable software for an ordinary user

What is the print height?

Question: What is the print height?

Answer: Print Height: 2m

What is the print length?

Question: What is the print length?

Answer: No limit. The standard rail length is 3 m. The rail can be extended. One set of rails is 1.5m. The price is $275 for one set. Rails can be disassembled. They can be easily and conveniently put into the car

Which cleaning fluid should I use?

Question: What kind of cleaning fluid should I use?

Answer: It doesn't need cleaning fluid, just uses purified water to clean the print head. The machine has an automatic cleaning system that can automatically clean the print head. Just click the "Clear" button in the program.

How much does a replacement print head cost?

Q: How much does a spare print head cost?

Answer: The price is $1500 for one piece. The scope of delivery includes fasteners for h40 and H40. The resource of the print head is from 60,000 to 80,000 m2. This print head is specially designed by Japanese company Epson only for our company. According to an individual contract, this type of print head is supplied only to our company.

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