Best 3d printer for hobbyists

Since the surface of the model is perfectly smooth, SLA has become used in the jewelry and dental industries.

Pros:

Cons:

DLP technology appeared later than SLA, but it is very similar to it. The main difference is that the light source is not a focused beam, but a projector. This made it possible to illuminate the entire layer at once, which significantly accelerated the production of models. The quality of the surface was slightly inferior to SLA, but modern DLP printers, in terms of the quality of models, are almost as good as SLA technology.

How DLP works

Pros:

• Faster production of models due to the illumination of the entire layer

• Consumables are slightly cheaper than SLA

• High surface quality (although may be inferior to SLA)

Cons:

LCD technology is the youngest of all. The DLP principle is taken as a basis, but an LCD display is used as a matrix or illumination pattern. LEDs are used as a source of UV light in LCD technology. Thanks to inexpensive components, we managed to get a simple, but high-quality and affordable photopolymer printer.

How the LCD printer works

Pros:

• small cost

• Cheap parts

Cons:

• Low accuracy compared to SLA and DLP (for jewelers and dentists, the quality of LSD prints may not be enough, although more and more accurate models appear with the development of technology)

• Possible stray light

• The quality of models may decrease at the edges of the printable area (this can be corrected programmatically)

Resins that are used as a consumable for photopolymer printing can smell strongly and unpleasantly during operation. Try to use the printer in a well-ventilated area, or choose a printer with a sealed cabinet and filter.

When choosing an LCD printer, pay special attention to the rigidity and positioning accuracy of the platform along the Z axis. If there are poor quality guides along the Z axis or even a slight play, then the surface quality of the finished model may turn out to be sloppy or the model will turn out to be unevenly striped.

Rating of the best LCD 3D printers for home

Anycubic Photon Mono

This is an LCD printer with a matrix that allows you to increase the speed and accuracy of printing. Anycubic Photon Mono will be a good helper for hobbyists and modellers.

Anycubic Photon Mono SE

Anycubic Photon Mono SE has an unusual parallel light source. This minimizes distortion at the edges of the printable area. You can effectively use the entire working area of ​​the machine and produce many small models at a time.

Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K

Model with high resolution LCD display and large print area. The monochrome display transmits UV rays better and allows you to print much faster than similar devices with a conventional display. The manufacturer claims a screen life of more than 2000 hours. Phrozen Sonic mini 4k is suitable for almost any task.

Wanhao GR1

Wanhao GR1 has high precision and large print area (140x78x200mm). The manufacturer tried to reduce distortion at the edges of the display, this allows you to make the most of the entire work area. High precision and large print area make Wanhao GR1 not only for hobby use, but also for production.

Anycubic Photon Zero

Small and very budgetary LCD device. Its resolution and small working area (total 97x54x150 mm) is enough for printing small miniatures, figurines or small engineering models. Anycubic Photon Zero is a good choice for beginners who want to get into photopolymer printing without spending a lot of money.

Choosing an FDM printer

If you plan to produce large and diverse functional models or experiment, a 3D printer that prints using FDM technology is an excellent choice.

First, decide on the size of the printable area and the properties that the finished model should have. After all, some materials require a closed chamber or good airflow to work.

Some printer models can be “upgraded” in the future. For example, if necessary, purchase spare parts for a closed case, put a nozzle of a different diameter, or change the thermal barrier to an all-metal one. But not all manufacturers provide for the possibility of such upgrades.

Printer design

Despite the same principle of operation, there are several different mechanics, which have their pros and cons.

Kinematics “Prusa” (Prusa)

Perhaps the most popular kinematics among home FDM devices. Mainly due to its simplicity and low cost. The main feature is the table that moves along the Y axis, while the extruder moves along the rest of the axes. Because of this, such kinematics was nicknamed “dragstol”.

Prusa kinematics

Pros:

Cons:

• Slow print speeds. A massive table with a model is forced to constantly move along the Y axis, because of this, print quality will be worse at high speeds.

• Some models have design flaws (for example, insufficient frame rigidity), they can be fixed, but for this you have to be a little inventor. Or find a ready-made solution on the Internet.

This category also includes 3D printers with console kinematics. The same prusa, only halved. Because of this, the frame is less rigid, but the printer itself is more compact.

Kinematics Ultimaker

The extruder moves along the X-Y axes, and the table only along the Z axis. All motors are trying to be fixed on the body to lighten the weight of the moving mechanisms, thanks to which it is possible to achieve high print quality at high speeds.

Ultimaker kinematic diagram

Pros:

Cons:

H-BOT or Core-XY

These are 2 similar but more complex kinematics - the table moves only along the Z axis, and the extruder along the X-Y. But to move the extruder, 1 or 2 long belts and 2 stepper motors work in concert.

Example Core-XY kinematics

Pros:

• High print quality

• High print speeds without loss of quality.

• Can be easily closed completely

Cons:

MakerBot Kinematics

Similar to Ultimaker kinematics, but one of the motors is located on the Y or X axis carriage.

Pros:

Cons:

Delta

Deltas do not have the usual XYZ axes. There are 3 columns in the deltas, along which the carriages move, and the position of the extruder in space is calculated using a complex formula. The table is usually statically fixed to the body.

Delta printer example

Pros:

Cons:

Nuances of choosing an FDM 3D printer

In addition to kinematics, when choosing a printer, it is important to take into account some design features.

One or two extruders?

Two extruders can be used for dual color printing, but most commonly the second extruder is used for solvent support printing. If you need to print complex parts with internal cavities, then you should choose a dual extruder printer.

Closed or open printer?

Printing of functional models and parts uses plastic, which usually requires a closed chamber. If you plan to print functional prototypes or various models, you should look at printers with a closed chamber.

Bowden or direct?

There are 2 types of material supply to the print head of the printer - bowden and direct.

In a bowden, the feed mechanism motor is located on the printer body. This allows you to reduce the weight of the extruder and print at higher speeds without losing quality. But because of the long tube, printing with very soft plastics can be problematic.

Bowden feed pattern

In direct feeding, the motor and feed mechanism are located on the extruder. This increases the weight of the print head, but allows you to print with any kind of plastics.

Direct feeding scheme

Heated table or not?

The heating of the table improves the adhesion of the first layer of the model. And engineering plastics cannot be printed without a heated table.

Many manufacturers add useful additional features. They do not affect the quality of the print, but save time and nerves. The most useful additional functions are the filament presence sensor and remembering the print location after a power outage.

Filament sensor.

It will automatically pause printing if the plastic runs out. When there is a little plastic left on the spool, this feature will allow you not to stand over the guard printer until the old spool runs out in order to have time to push in a new bar “on the go”.

Power outage protection.

Remembering where to print when the power goes out can save you a lot of nerves when printing large models. You won't have to worry that after a power outage, you will have to run the model again for many hours or cut and reprint a piece of the model. It is especially disappointing to throw away a complex underprinted model with supports due to a one-minute outage.

There are also many extras. features that make using the printer more comfortable. For example, automatic calibration, touch screen, Wi-Fi and others.

Rating of the best FDM 3D printers for home

Anycubic Mega Zero 2.0

Inexpensive model with Pryusha kinematics. Good for getting started with 3D printing without a big investment. Despite the low cost, Anycubic Mega Zero 2.0 has a heated table and a resume function after a power outage. Thanks to direct feed, printing with soft materials should not be difficult.

Creality3D Ender 3 Pro

A very popular device due to its low price. But despite this, the Ender 3 Pro has a heated table and a decent print area. Can be sold assembled or as a DIY kit.

Flash Forge Finder

Small home appliance intended for children or educational institutions. The Finder doesn't have a heated table, but it does have a calibration assistant, a Wi-Fi module, and other extras that make getting to know it a lot easier. All moving and heated elements are hidden as much as possible in the case so that the child cannot get burned.

Wanhao Duplicator 6 Plus

Wanhao Duplicator 6 Plus was based on Ultimaker kinematics, but instead of bowden feed, they made direct. Because of this, it will not be possible to print super fast, without quality loss, but there will be no problems with printing with soft types of plastics. There are 2 trim levels - with a closed case and without.

Flashforge Dreamer

The Dreamer is a closed body dual extruder printer with MakerBot kinematics. Thanks to this, he can cope with printing models of any complexity. Using a second extruder for soluble support, models with complex geometries can be produced. A good choice for engineers and those who like to experiment with different materials.

FlyingBear Ghost 5

Most commonly sold as a kit (assembly kit). Assembly usually does not cause any great difficulties, even for people far from electronics or mechanics. Flying Bear is equipped with a filament sensor, a function to resume printing after a power outage and Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Flying Bear makes a great first printer for the novice user who is ready to build their own printer.

Totals

In order for the printer not to become a useless toy, you should clearly understand what it is for.

For a fan of miniatures or detailed figurines, a photopolymer printer is a good choice. A small work area is more than offset by the detail that cannot be obtained using other technologies.

For an engineer or a fan of experiments, an FDM machine with a closed chamber and two extruders is well suited. This will allow you not to limit yourself in the choice of plastics and comfortably experiment with any materials.

For a beginner who has not yet decided whether he needs 3D printing, you can opt for inexpensive machines with slick kinematics. Due to their great popularity, you can find a lot of upgrades and reviews on them. In the future, it will be possible to modify the printer for specific tasks or change it to a more suitable model.

For a child, safety is paramount. As the first children's printer, models without a heated bed are suitable, in which the main emphasis is on printing with safe PLA plastic. Or models in which all moving and heating mechanisms are hidden in the case.

A 3D printer is a handy tool, and whether it brings joy or frustration depends on the user.

TOP-15 best models in terms of quality and reliability

A 3D printer is a device used for 3D printing. In this article, we will tell you how to simplify the search for the necessary 3D printer model among the variety on the market. We analyzed the options available in online stores, studied their functionality, got acquainted with the technical characteristics and user reviews. Here we present the ranking of the best 3D printers for 2022. They are grouped by the most popular request categories.

Ranking of the best 3D printers for 2022

Contents

• Top 3D printers for 2022
• How to choose a 3D printer?
• Best 3D printers by price/quality for 2022
  • 1. Wanhao D12/500
  • 2. Crely 3DPRINTMill CR-30
  • 3. PhROSEN Schuffle XL Lite
• The best children's educational 3D
• 1. Creality Ender 7
• 2. .FlyingBear Aone

How to choose a 3D printer?

When looking for the model you need, pay attention to the following parameters:

• printing technology and volume;

If you are going to produce high precision and small parts, SLA or DLP is the way to go. If the range of tasks is wider and low manufacturing cost is important, then your choice is an FDM printer.

• workspace size;

Many 3D printers have a working space of 200x200x200mm. This is enough for most tasks. However, you may need a smaller size, or vice versa, you will need a larger one, it depends on your needs.

• print accuracy;

Nozzle size affects print accuracy. Not only smooth layers depend on it, but also the detailing of the model. A smaller nozzle diameter gives more detail, but slower production speed. Many printers have the ability to change the nozzle for a specific task.

• platform heater;

The presence of this function ensures better adhesion of the first layer. Engineering plastics, for example, cannot be used without heating the table, since the figures can warp.

• camera type;

Can be open or closed. The latter options are usually presented on more expensive and advanced models.

• number of extruders;

When printing complex elements, you will need a model with two materials and corresponding extruders in order to be able to print supports from soluble material. Models with a large number of angles greater than 30 degrees or a large number of hanging elements are called complex. If the models are not too complex, one extruder will suffice, which will greatly help save the budget.

• print speed;

The parameter implies the maximum head movement speed. A 14x4x10 tablet stand will print approximately 6-6.5 hours at 100mm/sec.

• functionality;

Printers can support wireless communication with various devices: phones, tablets, etc., as well as memory devices. Plus, as a rule, printers are already equipped with software when they are sold. Pay attention to the compatibility of the OS with the OS of the computer.

Best Price/Quality 3D Printer for 2022

1. Wanhao D12/500

Wanhao D12/500 is the best price/quality 3D printer for 2022 as voted by users. A 3D printer that is great for mass production. The optimal size of its zone makes it possible to print a large model in one cycle. The control system here is intuitive and clear, the user can easily calibrate the printer to fit his needs.

Wi-Fi wireless connection helps you connect to your PC or laptop. Extruders will allow you to print using supports. The color display with touch keys will be an excellent assistant in setting up the device.

Designed with a heavy duty frame and adjustable straps. The working surface is automatically heated to achieve adhesion to the first layers of plastic. The switch is equipped with 2 fuses for emergency protection.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM/FFF/PJP
• working space dimensions: 500x500x500 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 150mm/s;
• number of extruders: 2;

Features:

• 2 extruders;
• high speed printing;
• workspace size;

Drawbacks:

• cost;

2.

The Creality 3DPrintMill CR-30 is a quality 3D printer using a conveyor printing method, which is perfect for small and medium businesses with the ability to organize mass production. Instead of a platform, there is a nylon-based transport tape with excellent adhesive properties.

The design allows printing of long products of non-standard dimensions. Three powerful fans provide excellent airflow. Management is carried out using a convenient display, which is located on the right side of the case. There is an SD slot for downloading files offline.

End of filament sensor will stop the device if the filament breaks. In the event of a power failure, auto-update will help restore functionality. The maximum extruder temperature is 240 degrees.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM/FFF/PJP;
• working space dimensions: 200x170 mm;

Advantages:

• wireless connection;
• the ability to adjust the temperature and speed;
• is suitable for small and medium businesses;

Disadvantages:

• noisy;

3.

The Phrosen Schuffle XL Lite is a stable and easy to use large format 3D printer. It makes it possible to print both large models as a whole, and many small ones at once. The new matrix shows excellent print accuracy. The software is included in the kit, so it is quite easy to manage the device.

The printer is suitable for dentistry, jewelry and prototyping as it prints reliably with high precision. The double linear guide guarantees long-term operation without interruption.

Operation is simplified by the large and bright display with an easy-to-use touch panel. The device can be used not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. Z-axis of the printer is stable, has zero fluctuations during printing.

Specifications:

• print technology: DLP, LCD;
• print material: photopolymer;

Advantages:

• acceptable cost;
• high precision printing;
• stable Z-axis;

Disadvantages:

• sometimes there are some difficulties when changing already programmed material;

Best Kids Educational 3D Printer

1.

The Creality Ender 7 is the ultimate children's educational 3D printer and one of the fastest in the mainstream segment. Its speed is its main trump card, but you need to remember that it is impossible to work with some types of thermoplastic at high speed. In general, not very high-precision details are printed quickly.

Operation is carried out using a convenient display, which is located in the central part of the housing. For downloading files offline, there is an SD slot and a USB connector. The maximum extruder temperature is 260 degrees.

The print platform is heated to 100 degrees. The nozzle has one of the most popular diameters of 0.4 mm. The printer is also equipped with a filament control sensor, and calibration is automatic.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM/FFF/PJP;
• working space dimensions: 250x250x300 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 250mm/s;

Advantages:

• reasonable cost;
• high speed printing;
• large working space;

Flaws:

• small print area;

2.

The Anycubic Vyper is a great value 3D printer with a new board and a high performance Cortex M3 control chip. It features good speed and smooth operation. It prints not only accurately, but also silently. The platform has a high-strength coating that provides easy removal of the finished model.

The blower system consists of a pair of fans that will allow you to quickly cool the models. Management is carried out using a large touch screen. It features a new interface, simple and smooth operation, and the ability to switch languages ​​to English and Chinese.

The electronic system automatically calibrates the platform with sixteen points. The dimensions of the device are compact, and the working space is large. Printing is recommended at a speed of 80-100 mm/sec.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM, FFF, PJP;
• working space dimensions: 245x260x245 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 100mm/s;

Advantages:

• quick and easy to assemble;
• silent operation of the device;
• convenient and clear control;

Disadvantages:

• not very convenient location of the coil;

3.

The FlyingBear Aone is a low cost educational 3D printer for kids in a compact size suitable for home projects. It comes as a self-assembly kit. Its case is open, like many inexpensive models. The printing table is heated from 60 to 100 degrees Celsius.

Print speed up to 100 mm/sec. Management is carried out using a special color touch screen, which is located at the bottom of the printer.

The USB port can be used to connect to a PC or laptop, while the SD slot is suitable for stand-alone operation. The power supply is installed in the bottom of the case and is built-in. The extruder is equipped with a nozzle with a diameter of 0.4 mm.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM, FFF, PJP;
• working space dimensions: 190x190x190 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 100mm/s;

Advantages:

• fast and clear assembly;
• inexpensive 3D printer;
• is easy to use for beginners;

Disadvantages:

• very noisy fans;

Best industrial 3D printers

1.

The Anycubic Photon Mono X is the best industrial printer according to experts today. It has the largest printable area among resin printers. It features good speed and smooth operation. It prints not only accurately, but also silently. The platform has a high-strength coating that provides easy removal of the finished model.

Controlled by large touch screen. It features a new interface, simple and smooth operation. The dimensions of the device are compact, and the working space is large.

Printing recommended at 80-100 mm/sec. The printer is equipped with a wireless Wi-Fi connection to connect to the Internet, to a computer or laptop. The matrix light source consists of UV LEDs. This improves accuracy and reduces exposure time.

Specifications:

• Print technology: LCD, SLA;
• working space size: 120x245x192 mm;

Advantages:

• high detail;
• large height and print area;
• comfortable and bright screen;

Disadvantages:

• high cost of spare parts;

2.

The Phrozen Sonic Mighty 4K is a robust 3D printer for industrial projects with a large build area and high print speed. It is an excellent choice for both creative and professional use. The new matrix shows excellent print accuracy.

The software is included, so the device is easy to operate. The printer is suitable for dentistry, jewelry work and prototyping, as it has a reliable print with high accuracy.

Double linear guide ensures long, trouble-free operation. Operation is simplified by the presence of a large and bright display with a convenient touch panel. The device can be used not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. Z-axis of the printer is stable, has zero fluctuations during printing.

Specifications:

• Print technology: DLP/LCD/SLA;
• working space dimensions: 200x220x125 mm;
• printing speed (layer building): 80 mm/h;

Advantages:

• quiet operation;
• fast print;
• compact dimensions of the device;

Disadvantages:

• high cost;

3.

CF Chef is a new chocolate 3D printer that is suitable for making various kinds of chocolate figurines. It can be used to create openwork chocolate toppers for confectionery, print corporate chocolate gifts, make text messages and logos, and print chocolate figures.

The dimensions of the printer are 300x300x380 mm, so it can be placed in any room, but the working area is quite large. The printing time of chocolate models depends on their complexity. The printer allows you to create 2D, 2.5D and 3D products. You can use a USB cable or a wireless WI-FI connection to connect to a computer. The printing speed can reach 100mm/s.

Specifications:

• print material: tempered chocolate and chocolate glaze;
• print speed: 100 mm/s;

Advantages:

• the ability to connect to a computer or laptop;
• good print speed;
• is suitable for the food industry;

Drawbacks:

• cost;

Top 9 Resin 3D Printers0009

1.

Creality HALOT ONE PLUS is the best large area photoresin 3D printer according to users today. It can be used for both business and home projects. The device is controlled using a convenient display, which is located in the central part of the case.

Wi-Fi port and USB port for uploading files and updating firmware. The nozzle has one of the most popular diameters of 0.4 mm. The printer is also equipped with a filament control sensor, and calibration is automatic.

UV source for improved detail and print quality. Windows and Mac OS are compatible with the printer. Quad-core ARM Cortex M4 processor provides high power and performance, as well as stable operation.

Specifications:

• Print technology: LCD;
• working space dimensions: 102x160x172 mm;

Advantages:

• low cost;
• the presence of a USB connector;
• UV source;

Drawbacks:

• 1 extruder;

2.

The Phrozen Sonic 4K 2022 is a good photopolymer 3D printer that is often used in dentistry and dental laboratories. The new matrix shows excellent print accuracy. The software is included in the kit, so it is quite easy to manage the device.

The printer is suitable for dentistry, jewelry and prototyping as it prints reliably with high precision. The double linear guide guarantees long-term operation without interruption.

Operation is simplified by the large and bright display with an easy-to-use touch panel. The device can be used not only by professionals, but also by amateurs. Z-axis of the printer is stable, has zero fluctuations during printing. In the event of an unexpected power outage, operation can be resumed from the point at which it was stopped.

Specifications:

• Print technology: DLP, LCD;
• working space size: 134x200x75 mm;

Advantages:

• improved accuracy;
• excellent performance;
• availability of various interfaces;

Disadvantages:

• very high cost;

Best 3D printers for home

1.

The Creality Ender 3 Pro is the ultimate 3D printer for home projects. It is quick to assemble, easy to understand and set up and ensures stable operation. Both an experienced user and a beginner can handle it.

Operation is carried out using a convenient display, which is located in the central part of the housing. For downloading files offline, there is an SD slot and a USB connector. The nozzle has one of the most popular diameters of 0.4 mm.

The printer is also equipped with a filament control sensor and calibration is automatic. The device can be used both as a main and as an additional to professional equipment. Branded power supply makes the device more stable. The camera of the printer is open, like many inexpensive models.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM, FFF, PJP;
• working space dimensions: 220x250x220 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 180 mm/s;

Pros:

• great for beginners thanks to clear assembly;
• simple and inexpensive repair;
• inexpensive model;

Faults:

• noisy model;

2.

FlashForge Adventurer 3 is a reliable and high quality 3D printer for various home projects. With its use, you can print pre-prepared files. The device has a closed chamber. The supply end sensor will tell you when to add it. The printer will automatically stop when the media runs out.

The nozzle has a typical diameter of 0.4 mm. It is made of stainless steel, which perfectly resists mechanical stress and quickly warms up during operation. LAN, USB and WI-FI interfaces allow you to connect to a computer or laptop. The printer is compatible with all major operating systems: Windows, Linux, MAC, which will be a big plus. The main working program FlashPrint will provide professionals and hobbyists with all the basic functions to work with.

Specifications:

• print technology: FDM, FFF, PJP;
• working space size: 150x150x150 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 100mm/s;

Advantages:

• convenient and clear slicer;
• works silently;
• flexible detachable platform;

Disadvantages:

• expensive to repair;

Best Inexpensive 3D Printers

1.

The Creality Ender 3 is the ultimate budget 3D printer that comes as a DIY kit. The device is controlled using a convenient display, which is located in the central part of the case. For downloading files offline, there is an SD slot and a USB connector.

One of the most popular nozzle diameters is 0.4 mm. Mechanical and electronic parts of the device are separated from each other. The device can be used both as a main and as an additional to professional equipment.

Proprietary power supply makes the device more stable. The camera of the printer is open, like many inexpensive models. The workspace allows you to manage most projects. Even a beginner can handle this device.

Specifications:

• Print technology: FDM, FFF, PJP;
• working space dimensions: 220x250x220 mm;
• print speed (extruder speed): 180 mm/s;

Pros:

• platform area is great for most tasks;
• simple and clear assembly;
• budget model;

Disadvantages:

• slightly skewed in the Z-axis due to design features;

2.

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