Best enclosed 3d printer

The 9 Best Enclosed 3D Printers (2022) – Clever Creations

There are many benefits to using an enclosed 3D printer. For example, it provides a much higher level of safety than an open-frame printer, as it contains all the heated components within the printer enclosure. This helps to keep fumes and particles from escaping, which makes using it safer for both the user and the environment.

In addition to their safety, 3D printers with enclosures come in a neat boxy design, have premium features, and give better print results with high-temperature filaments than open-frame printers do. With choices ranging from simple Flashforges to the high-end Ultimakers, however, choosing the best enclosed 3D printer for your needs might be difficult.

To help narrow down your selection, we have compiled a list of the best enclosed 3D printers available right now. No matter your budget, we’ve got you covered.

Best 3D printers with enclosure in 2022

Flashforge Adventurer 3

Best under 500

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AmazonFlashforgeBanggood

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 is an easy-to-use, budget-friendly, enclosed 3D printer. Aimed towards beginners in 3D printing, the Adventurer 3 gets the basic features right and provides a hassle-free 3D printing experience.

The Adventurer 3 comes with a detachable nozzle system that quickly lets you swap between different nozzles. By default, the 3D printer comes with a 0.4 mm nozzle that can be heated up to 240 °C. This is sufficient to let you 3D print with PLA, ABS, and PETG with ease.

At its low price point, you can expect several downsides. Some of its most significant are the small build volume and proprietary software. Its relatively small print area is enough only for small-to-medium-sized objects and limits what you can 3D print without splitting your models.  The proprietary software (Flashprint) has limited features compared to what you can find on more open-source printers.

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 is still an excellent enclosed 3D printer on a budget, excelling in use in classrooms or for other educational purposes. Both its ease of use and safety are great for these scenarios, and the printing quality is more than sufficient for typical classroom models.

Standout Features

• Detachable nozzle
• Flexible, removable heated bed
• Wi-Fi connectivity

Technical Details
Build volume	150 x 150 x 150 mm
Max. hot end temperature	240 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	100 °C
Bed leveling	Manual
Connectivity	USB stick, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, FlashCloud, PolarCloud
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, PETG

What We Like

• Easy to use
• Portable design
• Remote 3D printing

Could Be Better

• Small build volume
• Limited material compatibility

Find Flashforge Adventurer 3 at

AmazonFlashforgeBanggood

QIDI TECH X-Pro

Best under 500

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AmazonBanggood

The QIDI Tech X-Pro is a budget-friendly, dual extruder, fully enclosed 3D printer. While it is not high on features, a decent build volume of 230 x 150 x 150 mm is enough to print most small-to-mid-sized objects. It comes with a flexible aluminum print bed that can reach up to 120 °C. Enough for 3D printing with ABS or PETG.

The QIDI Tech X-Pro uses a proprietary QIDI Print slicer remarkably similar to the earlier versions of Ultimaker Cura. You can use the inbuilt Wi-Fi of the X-Pro to print remotely. The sturdy aluminum body of the X-Pro ensures long-term durability, while the 4.3 full-color touchscreen provides an intuitive user experience.

Everything considered the QIDI Tech X- Pro is a great dual extruder 3D printer. It is a good choice for getting started with dual extrusion 3D printing in classrooms or even in a semi-professional setting.

Standout Features

• Dual extruder setup
• Wireless 3D printing
• LCD Touchscreen

Technical Details
Build volume	230 x 150 x 150 mm
Max. hot end temperature	250 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	120 °C
Bed leveling	Manual
Connectivity	USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, and PETG

What We Like

• Beginner friendly
• Great printing quality
• Reliable company support

Could Be Better

• Limited slicer features

Find QIDI TECH X-Pro at

AmazonBanggood

Elegoo Saturn

Best under 500

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AmazonELEGOOMatterHackers

Even though all resin 3D printers come in enclosed designs, only a few of them are as good as the Elegoo Saturn. The Saturn 3D printer is the big brother of the Elegoo Mars line of resin 3D printers and delivers excellent printing results with consistent performance.

It features a 4K monochrome LCD that cures resin layers under 2-3 seconds and promises great 3D printing speed. The high-resolution screen ensures an XY accuracy of 50 microns, leading to highly detailed and smooth 3D printed models.

The Saturn 3D printer also features dual linear rails on the Z-axis, ball-bearing leveling for the build platform, and an aluminum resin vat. The double linear railing and the ball-bearing leveling system ensure smooth and stable printing, reducing the chances of print failures.

This is one of the best resin 3D printers in its price range, because of its large build volume and excellent 3D printing quality. If you want high-detail 3D prints at a budget price, the Elegoo Saturn is a great choice.

Standout Features

• 4K LCD monochrome screen
• Dual-linear rails on Z-axis
• UV LED Matrix

Technical Details
Build volume	192 x 120 x 200 mm
XY-axis resolution	0.05 mm
Bed leveling	Automatic
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet
Materials	405 nm UV resin

What We Like

• Fast printing speed
• Large build volume
• Excellent value

Could Be Better

• No air filtration

Find Elegoo Saturn at

AmazonELEGOOMatterHackers

Flashforge Creator Pro 2

Best under 1000

Check price at

AmazonFlashforgeGeekbuyingAliExpress

The Flashforge Creator Pro 2 is the successor to the first Creator Pro and improves upon many aspects of its predecessor. With the Creator Pro 2, Flashforge aims to deliver an easy-to-use 3D printer that can print reliably and offers a great 3D printing experience.

The Creator Pro 2 features an Independent Dual EXtruder (IDEX) setup. This lets you 3D print with two individual extruders simultaneously. To get the most out of the IDEX setup, you get different 3D printing modes such as the mirror mode, duplicating mode, and multi-material printing mode.

With its multi-material mode, this 3D printer lets you print with multiple filaments at a time. This is useful if you plan to 3D print complex structures that need soluble supports. Simply use one extruder for your regular filament, and the other for water-soluble PVA filament.

Other than the IDEX feature, the Creator Pro 2 comes with excellent features for its price category. You get a 3.5-inch touch screen, a fully enclosed body, a removable top cover, and a heated bed. The print quality out of the box is good, and with a bit of calibration, you can get consistent high-quality 3D prints.

The Creator Pro 2 is a great 3D printer for hobbyists, semi-professionals, and printing farm users alike. It is compatible with a wide variety of materials, and the IDEX feature is one that is not commonly encountered in this price range. If you’re looking to get started with multi-material 3D printing, the Creator Pro 2 is a superb 3D printer to start your journey.

Standout Features

• IDEX system
• Fully enclosed design
• Touchscreen interface

Technical Details
Build volume	200 x 148 x 150 mm
Max. hot end temperature	240 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	120 °C
Bed leveling	Manual
Connectivity	SD card, USB
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU

What We Like

• Multi-material 3D printing
• Beginner friendly
• Community support

Could Be Better

• Limited build volume
• Limited to Flashprint software

Find Flashforge Creator Pro 2 at

AmazonFlashforgeGeekbuyingAliExpress

Flashforge Adventurer 4

Best under 1000

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AmazonFlashforgeGeekbuyingAliExpress

The Flashforge Adventurer 4 is a solid upgrade over its previous generations, and if you’re willing to spend a little more, it is a superb 3D printer for the price.

Like the Adventurer 3, you get a detachable nozzle system that quickly lets you swap nozzles. The Adventurer 4 comes with a high temp nozzle that can reach 265 °C. This enables you to print with a lot more materials. To accompany that, you get a flexible, removable heated metal build plate to remove your 3D prints easily.

The rest of the improvements are in the build volume, Y-axis and Z-axis, and its HEPA filtration system. The build volume is now 325% more than its predecessor, and it offers a dual Y-axis design with a reinforced Z-axis for a stable and higher quality 3D printing experience.

The Adventurer 4 is feature-rich and provides good quality prints consistently. The ease of use, well-built quality, and reliability of Flashforge make it an excellent choice for beginners, hobbyists, and professionals alike.

Standout Features

• HEPA 13 air filter
• Quick-release nozzle
• Sturdy build quality

Technical Details
Build volume	220 x 200 x 250 mm
Max. hot end temperature	265 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	110 °C
Bed leveling	Semi-automatic
Connectivity	USB stick, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, PC, PETG, PLA-CF, PETG-CF

What We Like

• Supports many materials
• Remote 3D print monitoring
• Convenient nozzle system

Could Be Better

• Poor camera quality
• Expensive nozzle replacements

Find Flashforge Adventurer 4 at

AmazonFlashforgeGeekbuyingAliExpress

Creality CR-5 Pro

Best prosumer

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AmazonCreality3DComgrow

The Creality CR-5 Pro is a premium design 3D printer by Creality 3D, which offers a decent printing quality with a nice enclosed all-in-one design. The boxy white body and the open-end top closely resemble the Ultimaker S5 mentioned above.

Other than that, the CR-5 Pro has a 300 x 225 x 380 mm print volume to let you print more oversized objects with ease. The PTFE-lined hot end can reach only up to 240°C, however, which means you’re limited to printing with only PLA, ABS, and PETG. For an “industrial-grade” 3D printer, these materials are pretty basic.

The print quality on the CR-5 Pro is consistent and reliable, and you can definitely get some very nice-looking 3D printed parts. Considering the high price point of $1199, it is certainly not your average Creality 3D printer. It is aimed towards prosumers, schools, and professionals looking for a reliable desktop 3D printer that delivers high-quality 3D prints without any hassles.

Standout Features

• Large build volume
• Carborundum glass bed
• Intuitive touchscreen UI

Technical Details
Build volume	300 x 225 x 380 mm
Max. hot end temperature	240 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	100 °C
Bed leveling	Manual
Connectivity	SD card, USB
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU/TPE

What We Like

• Easy to set up and use
• Silent operation
• Sturdy body

Could Be Better

• Poor quality control
• Costly

Find Creality CR-5 Pro at

AmazonCreality3DComgrow

Dremel DigiLab 3D45

Best prosumer

Check price at

AmazonMatterHackers

The Dremel Digilab 3D45 is a fully enclosed 3D printer aimed at educational use but is still equally suitable for professional applications. It is manufactured by the renowned toolmaker Dremel and features a sturdy built with premium quality design.

The Digilab 3D45 has a large footprint with a 255 x 155 x 170 mm rectangular build volume. It features an all-metal hotend that can reach up to 280 °C with a direct drive extruder to let you print with advanced as well as flexible filaments.

It has an automatic bed leveling sensor designed to level your printing area before beginning your 3D prints. One nice touch is the addition of an active carbon filter to filter out harmful 3D printing fumes and VOCs emitted during the printing process. As the 3D printer is fully enclosed, and considering that it’s designed for use in classrooms, the carbon filter is a great feature to have.

The heated bed and high-temperature nozzle allow ABS, Nylon, and even Polycarbonate printing. Regardless of whether you are considering the Digilab 3D45 for your hobby or your small business, it is capable of living up to your demands.

That is, you can justify paying the high price. Its high cost is not easy to justify for everyone.

Standout Features

• Industrial design
• All metal hotend
• Active carbon filter

Technical Details
Build volume	255 x 155 x 170 mm
Max. hot end temperature	280 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	100 °C
Bed leveling	Semi-automatic
Connectivity	USB stick, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Compatible materials	PLA, PETG, Nylon, ABS

What We Like

• Advanced material support
• Consistent, high-quality 3D prints
• Educational support

Could Be Better

• High price

Find Dremel DigiLab 3D45 at

AmazonMatterHackers

Raise3D Pro2

Best professional

Check price at

AmazonMatterHackers

The Raise3D Pro2 is an industrial-grade 3D printer designed with professionals in mind. Its premium build quality, use of high-quality materials, and smooth workflow with proprietary 3D slicer make 3D printing on the Pro 2 a breeze.

The Raise3D Pro2 has a dual extrusion system and retracting hot ends that can reach a maximum temperature of 300 °C. Not only does this let you print with multiple materials at a time, but the high temperature ensures that you can easily print with advanced plastics as well.

Pro 2 comes with a HEPA filtration system to filter toxic particulates and fumes. Ideal when working with filaments like ABS and Nylon.

Similarly, its heated bed allows for stable printing of the same filaments. And because the printer is enclosed, there is little need to worry about warping.

On the electronics side, the Raise3D Pro2 offers a powerful 32-bit motion control board and Wi-Fi to monitor and control your 3D prints remotely. Its 7-inch touchscreen has a neatly laid out UI and feels intuitive to use.

With its rich feature set, Raise 3D Pro 2 does not disappoint and consistently delivers excellent, high-quality 3D prints. Even though its capabilities are well-suited for both beginners and advanced users, its price suggests that it is more oriented towards the latter.

Standout Features

• Large build volume
• High temperature hotends
• Wi-Fi and camera

Technical Details
Build volume	305 x 305 x 300 mm
Max. hot end temperature	300 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	110 °C
Bed leveling	Automatic
Connectivity	SD card, USB, Wi-Fi
Compatible materials	PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, ASA, HIPS, PC

What We Like

• Advanced materials support
• Ideamaker slicer integration
• Premium build quality

Could Be Better

• Large footprint
• High price

Find Raise3D Pro2 at

AmazonMatterHackers

Ultimaker S5

Best professional

Check price at

AmazonMatterHackers

The Ultimaker S5 is a premium 3D printer with an excellent track record of delivering outstanding 3D prints. Its large white boxy design houses a dual extruder setup capable of printing two filaments simultaneously.

Note that his is not the same as an IDEX setup of the Flashforge Creator Pro 2. Instead, the S5’s dual extruder setup is mainly designed to print with multiple materials, such as soluble supports for complex designs.

The dual extruders come with swappable print cores. These are specifically designed for Ultimaker 3D printers and help increase productivity while printing with different materials. A dual gear feeder system grips the filament on both sides increases reliability when for 3D printing with flexible materials, such as TPU filament.

With the Ultimaker S5, you also get access to the Ultimaker Digital factory, a wide range of Ultimaker materials, and premium support. With a price tag of $6355, it is certainly not for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a professional and reliable 3D printer for your next business, the Ultimaker S5 is the top choice.

Standout Features

• Dual extrusion system
• Automatic bed leveling
• Intuitive touchscreen interface

Technical Details
Build volume	330 x 240 x 300 mm
Max. hot end temperature	280 °C
Max. heated bed temperature	140 °C
Bed leveling	Advanced active leveling
Connectivity	USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Compatible materials	Ultimaker PLA, Tough PLA, ABS, Nylon, CPE, CPE+, PC, PP, TPU 95A, PVA

What We Like

• Premium printing experience
• Quick swappable nozzles
• Support for 200+ materials

Could Be Better

• High price
• Not recommended for beginners

Find Ultimaker S5 at

AmazonMatterHackers

Buyer’s Guide

What to look for when buying an enclosed 3D printer?

Now that we’ve looked at some of the best enclosed 3D printers, it is time to understand what to look out for when buying one. This section will go over the most important features that you need to look at when buying an enclosed 3D printer.

Fully vs partially enclosed

You’ll find that some 3D printers like the Raise 3D Pro 2, Flashforge Adventurer 3, and Adventurer 4 are fully enclosed. This helps maintain a stable printing temperature and protects the 3D prints from air drafts. 3D printer enclosures also reduce stepper motor noises and contain potentially harmful 3D printing fumes from non-PLA filament.

Having a fully enclosed 3D printer basically enhances the overall 3D printing experience and improves the printing quality.

In comparison, 3D printers like the Ultimaker S5 and the Creality CR-5 Pro have a partially enclosed open-top design. While all the electronics are housed well within the body, the filament spool and the Bowden tubes are exposed. The temperature in the printing area in open-top 3D printers can fluctuate greatly and its exposed print area means that it is impossible to include an air filtration system.

HEPA and Carbon Filters

3D printing releases toxic fumes and particulates in the atmosphere during the printing process. These 3D printer fumes consist of harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Ultra Fine Particles (UFPs). Long-term exposure can cause headaches, nausea, and even respiratory disorders in extreme cases.

HEPA filters are designed to absorb 99.97% of particulates with a 0.3 microns (µm) size. This filters out most of the toxic VOCs. With a built-in active carbon filter, you can get rid of any smell and even the UFPs. If you’re printing in a home environment or around children, it is crucial to consider a 3D printer with a HEPA filtration system.

Build Volume

In open-frame 3D printers, you don’t have to account for the extra space required for the panels, top cover, and the entire enclosure. The build volume to footprint ratio of an open 3D printer is more than that of an enclosed one. Enclosed 3D printers have extra body panels, spool holders, electronics, and some even have extended top covers.

To put things into perspective, the enclosed Flashforge Adventurer 4 has a build volume of 220 x 200 x 250 mm, while the overall footprint of the 3D printer is 500 x 470 x 540 mm. The open-frame Creality Ender 3, which has a similar printing area, only has a 440 x 410 x 465 mm footprint.

You should be aware that enclosed 3D printers can take up a lot of space on your desktop and still have a limited printing area. If you want a bigger build volume and an enclosure, be prepared to give up some of your precious desktop real estate.

Heated Print Bed

A heated print bed in a 3D printer lets you print with a wide variety of 3D printing materials. It is a necessity if you want to 3D print with Nylon, ABS, PETG, Carbon fillers, and Polycarbonate.

Especially when you consider that a heated bed in an enclosed 3D printer serves as an excellent way to warm up the printing area and keep it at a stable temperature, it improves the printing quality with specific materials. It helps negate the side effects caused by temperature fluctuations, such as warping and peeling of layers.

Open-source vs closed ecosystem

Some 3D printer manufacturers like end-to-end control over their 3D printers to deliver an optimal 3D printing experience. This closed ecosystem is designed to give you the best software, filaments, and custom-tailored solutions specific to your 3D printer.

3D printers like Flashforge, Ultimakers, and the Raise 3D have proprietary slicers and filaments. Everything is designed for your specific 3D printer, from the software to the hardware, and you can guarantee consistent quality 3D printing results. These are the printers you start to encounter in the ‘3D printers under $1000‘ and higher segments.

The closed ecosystem is excellent if you want a hassle-free 3D printing experience and do not want to fiddle with too many settings. However, these 3D printers tend to have a higher 3D printer price because of their extra development costs. Similarly, their materials and replacement parts tend to be on the costlier side.

With open-source 3D printers, you have complete control and a wide range of options to choose from. You can select your favorite slicer, your favorite filament manufacturer and are not limited to what the 3D printer manufacturer can provide. Open-source printers are great if you like to tinker with your machines and do not want to spend a premium on replacement parts and filaments.

Filament Support

Most enclosed 3D printers come with a heated bed, and some even have dual extruder designs.

Besides the regular PLA filament, ABS, and PETG, some enclosed 3D printers can easily print with Nylon, PVA, and HIPS. The enclosed design helps maintain a warm temperature in the build chamber, crucial for these materials.

Price

Enclosed 3D printers tend to be more expensive than open-frame 3D printers. The extra body materials, sophisticated design, proprietary software, and enhanced user experience are pricey.

Some of the best enclosed 3D printers, such as the Ultimaker S5 and the Raise 3D Pro 2, can go upwards of $4000. Even cheaper enclosed 3D printers, like the Flashforge Adventurer 3, can cost around $400.

This is more than a similar level of open-frame 3D printer, like the Creality Ender 3 v2. If you are looking for a 3D printer under $300, an enclosed printer is unlikely to be an option.

FAQ

What does a 3D printer enclosure do?

An enclosure protects your 3D prints from external elements. It lowers the stepper motor noise, contains the 3D printer fumes, and prevents air drafts. This enhances the overall print quality. In terms of safety, an enclosure protects the hot elements like the hot end and the heated build platform from children and pets.

What are the downsides of an enclosed 3D printer?

Enclosed 3D printers tend to cost more than open-frame 3D printers. Most of these 3D printers use proprietary software, components, and filaments which also increases the overall cost of the 3D printer.

It is also difficult to access the various elements of an enclosed 3D printer. The enclosed design makes it hard to reach the different components of the 3D printer and affects the repairability of the machine.

Conclusion

3D printers with enclosures are essential if you want to protect yourself from 3D printing fumes or want to work with advanced or high-temperature materials that are prone to warping. To help you pick the best enclosed 3D printer, we have a variety of recommendations depending on your budget.

If your budget is $500 or less, the best option is Flashforge Adventurer 3. With its low price, very easy setup, and enclosed printing process, the Adventurer 3 is a great option for beginners in 3D printing.

If you have a bit more to spend for an enclosed 3D printer, say up to $1000, our recommendation is the Flashforge Adventurer 4. The Adventurer 4 offers more advanced features than the Adventurer 3 at an affordable price. Most notably, it offers a significantly larger build volume and a HEPA filtration system.

For serious hobbyists or small businesses with up to $2000 to spend for a 3D printer with enclosure, you can’t go wrong with the Dremel DigiLab 3D45. It is one of the best 3D printers on the market today with its wide material compatibility, large build volume, and filtration system. It does come with a pretty hefty price tag, so you need to be serious about its benefits and features to justify spending that much money on it.

Lastly, for the professionals out there that are more concerned with reliability than price, there is the Ultimaker S5. The S5 is one of the best 3D printers in the world and it doesn’t come cheap with a $6355 price tag. However, its excellent performance, wide material compatibility, and massive build volume make it perfect for serious implementations such as professional prototyping or small business use.

Recommended:

9 Amazing DIY 3D Printer Enclosure Ideas

8 Best Enclosed 3D Printers 2022 (All Price Ranges)

Enclosed 3D printers keep the cool air from getting to your print, causing warping or other issues. For basic filaments like PLA, 3D printer enclosures don’t make all the difference, but for trickier filaments like ABS and Nylon, they’ll save you time and time again.

Most cheap 3D printers are open 3D printers — they have no frame or enclosure (you can sometimes buy them separately) and print in the open air. Almost all 3D printer kits, like the Ender 3 and CR-10, are open air 3D printers (though you can buy Ender 3 enclosures).

However, this can cause problems. ABS, a commonly used 3D printer filament, warps when not cooled slowly. Moreover, enclosed 3D printers keep the hot and dangerous-to-touch 3D printer parts away from yours and anyone else’s prying hands. This is especially important around children, making enclosed 3D printers some of the best 3D printers for kids.

Best 3D printers with enclosures

Name and brand	Build Volume (mm)	Price	Where to buy	Alternative purchase option
Monoprice Voxel	150 x 150 x 150	$449	Amazon here	Matterhackers here
Qidi Tech X-Pro	230 x 150 x 150	$499	Amazon here	3DJake UK & Europe
Bibo 2	216 x 187 x 160	$679	Amazon here
Flashforge Creator Pro / Max	227 x 148 x 150	$699 / $879	Amazon here	3DJake UK & Europe
Dremel 3D45	254 x 152 x 170	$1,599	Matterhackers here	Dynamism Store here
Raise3D E2	330 x 240 x 240	$3,499	Matterhackers here	Dynamism Store here
Raise3D Pro2 / Pro2 Plus	305 x 305 x 300(600)	$3,999 / $5,999	Matterhackers here	Dynamism Store here
Ultimaker S5	330 x 240 x 300	$5,995	Dynamism Store here	Matterhackers here

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Best enclosed 3D printers under $1,000

Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite – cheapest enclosed 3D printer

• Price: $339 — Available at Flashforge Official store here / Available at Amazon here
• Build volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite is a compact and quiet, fully enclosed beginner-friendly printer that offers frictionless out-of-the-box printing. There’s minimal setup involved, bar a well-guided five-point assisted calibration process, which makes it a top choice for first-timers or students looking to cut their 3D printing teeth free of hassle.

It’s modeled almost exactly on the full-fat Adventurer 3, minus a built-in camera and filament run-out detector. These minor features don’t detract significantly from the easy printing experience on offer here.

Aside from the sleek enclosed design, the Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite has everything you need to work with thorny materials like ABS: a flexible, heated bed with a top temperature of 100°C and a max nozzle temperature of 240°C. With these features, you can also dabble in more exotic heat-sensitive filaments such as metal-fill, wood-fill, and others.

It also has a robust selection of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and remote print monitoring, thanks to FlashForge’s 3D Cloud Print. A 150 x 150 x 150 mm build volume makes for a tight print area, one of the few complaints that stick when assessing the Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite. You won’t have much luck printing bulky, towering parts, but this is easily remedied by printing in parts instead.

It’s also worth pointing out that the filament bay mounted on the side of the printer, while practical, isn’t geared to accommodate all types and brands of filament. You may need to fashion an external holder if your third-party filament of choice won’t fit.

Key points:

• Enclosed chamber
• Reliable, beginner-friendly printer
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Materials: PLA, ABS, Ultra Strong PLA, PLA Color Change, Metal-Filled, Wood, and High Speed PLA
Monoprice Voxel — budget enclosed 3D printer
• Price: $449 — Available on Amazon here / Available on Matterhackers here
• Build volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm

The cheapest enclosed 3D printer we recommend, the Monoprice Voxel is one of the best 3D printers for beginners. It’s super simple to set up (within 10 mins!), is easily operable via the touchscreen, can print via WiFi, and comes with 8GB onboard memory for storing 3D printer files. It comes with a few 3D models on file as well as some filament to get you started, so you can really go from unboxing to printing in minutes.

If you’re brand new to 3D printing and not too technical, the assisted leveling reduces expertise to just a tap. It also comes fully assembled so you don’t need any DIY skills, surprising considering most printers in this price range are 3D printer kits. It can also connect to the Polar Cloud, allowing you to remotely control and monitor your printer, and even do so for multiple printers simultaneously.

Key points:

• Cheap enclosed 3D printer
• Beginner friendly
• WiFi printing and touchscreen on an affordable machine
• Materials: ABS, PLA, PETG, Flexibles
QIDI Tech X-Pro — great 3D printer with enclosure for $500
• Price: $500 — Available on Amazon here / Available on 3DJake UK & Europe here
• Build volume: 230 x 150 x 150 mm

One of the most popular low cost 3D printers of the last year, the Qidi Tech X-Pro offers reliability, accuracy, dual extrusion, and an effective enclosed printing area, all at $500.

Layer thicknesses start at 0.05mm, and the printer can print at speeds between 30 and 150mm/s — though at these high speeds print quality will noticeably deteriorate. It’s Mac and Windows compatible, and can print via WiFi, as well as via USB or ethernet connections.

The flexible, removable build plate makes for easy print removal with minimal damage, and it comes with Qidi Tech’s own QidiPrint 3D slicer. Overall, it’s one of the best enclosed 3D printers for $500.

Key points:

• Large 4.5 inch touchscreen for ergonomic printing
• Flexible build plate
• WiFi printing and dual extrusion for $500
• Materials: ABS, PLA and PETG

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 – Top Affordable IDEX Printer

• Price: Available at Flashforge Official store here / Check price on Amazon here
• Build volume: 200 x 148 x 150 mm

A well-tooled refresh of the classic Creator Pro, the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 offers all the balmy goodness of an enclosure with features you wouldn’t expect in the $600 to $700 range. We see it as a perfect second printer for a maker that’s already tackled that initial learning curve on a budget FDM kit and is now looking for something more versatile and feature-rich.

While the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 features a sturdy, well-built enclosed print chamber suitable for both ABS and PLA thanks to the removable acrylic top cover, it’s the independent dual extruder system that sets it apart from the other best enclosed 3D printers out there.

An IDEX system is almost unheard of at this price, giving makers the possibility to spice things up with mirror prints, duplicate prints, soluble support structures, and even printing multiple materials or colors simultaneously. It’s one for complex prints with vertiginous overhangs or an ideal tool to help a teacher pump out as many student-designed prints as fast as possible.

These two central points aside, the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 rounds off the offering with a touchscreen interface, a 200 x 148 x 150 mm build volume, and compatibility with PLA, Pearl PLA, ABS, ABS Pro, PVA, and HIPS materials.

It’s worth noting that Flashforge made the unfortunate choice of anchoring the Creator Pro 2 to its in-house FlashPrint slicer. It does the job well enough but doesn’t have the versatility of an open-source software kit like Cura. Not necessarily a deal-breaker, especially for 3D printing newcomers or educators that want straightforward software and pre-loaded settings specifically tuned to work with the Creator Pro 2 from the get-go.

Key points:

• Affordable independent dual extruder system
• Fully-enclosed print chamber
• Materials: PLA, Pearl PLA, ABS, ABS Pro, PVA, and HIPS
BIBO 2
• Price: $679 —  Available on Amazon here
• Build volume: 216 x 187 x 160 mm

Full of character and affordable for hobbyist makers, the Bibo 2 offers 50-micron accuracy, dual extrusion, and WiFi printing, all at well under $1,000.

Though not an IDEX printer, this enclosed 3D printer still offers copy printing modes for printing two of the same objects simultaneously. It has an easy to use touchscreen — not a given in this price range — and has filament run out detection to avoid ruining prints.

As well as a 3D printer enclosure for effective ABS and Nylon 3D printing, the Bibo is built in a stable and strong aluminium frame, minimizing unwanted vibrations that can slightly affect performance and print quality. Overall, for the price it’s a great enclosed 3D printer — and it can also come with a laser engraver kit.

Key points:

• WiFi printing, dual extrusion, and a touchscreen, all for just over $500
• 50-micron minimum layer heights
• Claims to be able to print Polycarbonate, but also says max temperature is 270C
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, flexible filaments, PETG, Nylon, PC, Carbon fiber

Best prosumer enclosed 3D printers

Dremel 3D45
• Price: $1,599 — Available on Matterhackers / Available on Dynamism / Available on Amazon
• Build volume: 254 x 152 x 170 mm

Accurate, versatile and perfect for teaching 3D printing in schools, the Dremel 3D45 builds on almost a century of Dremel manufacturing excellence. Boasting up to 50-micron accuracy, connectable via WiFi as well as by USB or ethernet cable, and compatible on Mac or Windows computers as well as iPads, the Dremel Digilab 3D45 perfectly complements any school or business prototyping environment.

The heated plate means it can print Nylon and Eco-ABS, and the built-in HD camera makes for easy remote monitoring of print progress, which can be easily done via their cloud 3D printing software.

If you do run into any problems, Dremel’s USA-based support are on hand to help you. Overall, it’s a reliable and accurate enclosed 3D printer that offers good build volume and results for the price.

Key points:

• Effective auto leveling system
• Highly-rated customer support
• Versatile
• Materials: PLA, PETG, Eco-ABS, Nylon
Raise3D E2
• Price: $3,499 — Available on Matterhackers / Available on Dynamism / Available on Amazon / 3DPrima Europe here
• Build volume: 330 x 240 x 240 mm

Raise3D’s large, enclosed 3D printer brings IDEX dual extruder 3D printing to their already impressive 3D printing range. IDEX 3D printer extruders can move independently, greatly increasing print speeds and efficiency, especially for printing multiple similar or identical parts.

The E2 features two main modes:

• Mirror mode: 3D prints inverted mirror versions of your model, for example a left and right-footed shoe sole, simultaneously.
• Duplication mode: uses both extruders in synchrony, printing two identical objects at the same time and doubling printing efficiency.

The E2’s 3D printer enclosure keeps the heat in, and everything else out. If the door is opened during printing, progress is immediately paused to ensure nobody is burned or harmed by the extruder or heated bed. The E2 also has an effective air filtration system, removing melted plastic particles and aromas, as well as filament run out sensors and power outage recovery features.

Key points:

• Build volume drops to 295 x 240 x 240 mm if using the dual extruder
• Useful Mirror & Duplication modes
• Built-in safety measures
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, PC, TPU & TPE, PETG, Nylon, PP, ASA, PVA, Glass-infused, Metal-filled, Carbon fiber-filled, and wood-filled filaments

Best upper-range 3D printers with enclosures

Raise3D Pro2 / Pro2 Plus
• Price: $3,999 / $5,999 — Available on Matterhackers here / Available on Dynamism here / Available on Amazon here
• Build volume: 305 x 305 x 300 (605) mm

A true workhorse 3D printer with full enclosure, the Raise3D Pro2 range offer incredible accuracy, material compatibility, great workflow, and a host of other key features.

The standard Pro2 already features a very large build area, with the Pro2 Plus expanding the z-axis range up to up 605 mm tall parts. The extruders can reach 300C for even the toughest filaments like PC, and the dual extruders make for effective soluble support printing as well as 3D printing multiple colors.

With minimum layer heights of 0.01mm possible, the Pro2 enclosed 3D printers can print incredibly crisp and intricately detailed parts. Switch out the nozzle for a smaller nozzle, and zone in on small details for a fantastic finish. The built-in camera makes monitoring prints easy, and the 7-inch touchscreen offers data and a simple to use overall workflow.

Key points:

• Dual extruder build volume: 280 x 305x 300 mm
• Complete printer: accurate, reliable, enclosed, versatile.
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, PC, TPU, Nylon, ASA, PETG, PVA, Glass, Carbon fiber, Wood
Ultimaker S5 (with enclosure kit)
• Price: $5,995 — Available at Dynamism here / Available on Matterhackers here / 3DPrima Europe here
• Build volume: 330 x 240 x 300 mm

Capable of 3D printing industrial-grade parts with up to 20-micron layer resolutions, it doesn’t get much better than the Ultimaker S5. An enclosed 3D printer that becomes even more effective and safe with the S5 Pro Bundle, the S5 offers reliable and repeatable dual extrusion, at astonishing accuracy, even with abrasive filaments like glass and carbon fiber filaments.

Though Ultimaker make their own filaments, the S5 is open and can be used with any 2.85mm filaments. It prints via WiFi as well as a variety of other methods, and can be monitored remotely via the built-in camera.

If you purchase the S5 Pro Bundle, you gain access to 24/7 automated material handling, air filtration and heat control for up to 6 filaments, as well as the Air Manager which further encloses the 3D printer.

Key points:

• Excellent precision and print quality
• Reliable and effective with many materials
• Pro Bundle makes it an even more effective enclosed 3D printer
• Materials: PLA, CPE, NYLON, ABS, Glass, Carbon fiber, PC, PVA, PP, TPU

Buyer’s Guide – What To Consider

Fully or Partially-Enclosed Chamber

Partially-enclosed printers are somewhat of an oddity as they don’t offer the ideal environment for printing either of the two main filament types, ABS and PLA. However, they provide an extra layer of safety, useful for education or makers with children. We recommend a fully-enclosed chamber if you plan to print using ABS and an open design if PLA is your filament of choice. If you’re looking to print with ABS and PLA, choose an enclosed printer with removable covers.

Build Volume

Build volume represents the printable area available to you on an enclosed printer. In other words, it’s a measure of the size and type of prints you can make. If you plan on making large prints or multiple copies, we recommend printers with large volumes, such as the Ultimaker S5.

Material Compatibility

By design, an enclosed 3D printer offers compatibility with a broader range of material types due to the capacity to maintain a higher temperature around prints and keep cool air out. ABS is by far the most common filament type for enclosed chambers, but you’ll also find printers that can tackle nylon, PC, and other heat-sensitive materials. PLA is also a possibility as long as the printer’s covers are removable as the material requires cooler ambient temperatures for the best results.

Heated Bed

Given that the whole point of an enclosed chamber is to provide a stable thermal environment to print trickier filament like ABS, a heated bed is a must-have. It helps provide an additional heat source directly below the print, which helps with layer adhesion and slows the cooling rate, which avoids unwanted imperfections like warping and curling.

Connectivity

Connectivity determines how you interact with the printer, whether sending sliced prints or fine-tuning settings. An SD card reader is more or less standard, as is USB in many cases, but for ease of use, nothing beats Wi-Fi connectivity and, by extension, cloud-based printing and monitoring.

Layer Resolution

Layer resolution indicates the lowest layer height a print can produce. Opt for a printer with a lower layer resolution for parts with more detail, such as the 20 microns on the Ultimaker S5. On an enclosed FDM printer, a 100-micron layer resolution is relatively standard and allows you to create a wide range of parts.

Filters

If you’re buying an enclosed chamber, chances are ABS is part of your printing plans. ABS is not just odorous but also produces potentially harmful fumes. Having a printer equipped with filters, either carbon or HEPA, helps extract the most toxic elements from the fumes. Additionally, we also recommend working with ABS in a well-ventilated space.

Touchscreen

For convenience, we recommend an enclosed 3D printer with a touchscreen. After all, we’re all accustomed to scrolling and swiping on our phones, so it makes sense to want the same functionality and familiar interface when working with a 3D printer. Most modern printers feature a touchscreen as standard.

Price

Enclosed printers tend to bump up the price as you pay for the extra manufacturing and design involved. But, with the ever-growing popularity of the race-to-the-bottom budget category, enclosed chamber printers are more affordable than ever before. You can easily buy a reliable enclosed 3D printer for under $400. Naturally, if you have the budget, new professional-grade printers priced in the thousands of dollars hit store shelves each year, too.

Advantages of Enclosed 3D Printers

✅

Better ABS and Nylon 3D printing

Enclosures can cool parts down more slowly, and maintain more consistent and high heats within the build chamber. This reduces warping and splitting during the printing process.

✅

Much safer

3D printer enclosures keep hot parts like the nozzle and heated bed away from kids if you have family at home, or if 3D printing at schools.

✅

Quieter

The enclosed area keeps noise in, making them ideal quiet 3D printers. Enclosures contain the whirring and buzzing of the printing process, a genuine boon if you’re printing at home or in a confined space with bad acoustics likely to amplify noise levels.

✅

Sturdier and more reliable

Enclosed 3D printers are typically built with a sturdy cuboid structure, with four walls that prevent vibrations and other factors from worsening print quality.

✅ Noise Reduction

enclosures help keep noise levels down by containing the whirring and buzzing of the printing process, a genuine boon if you’re printing at home or in a confined space with bad acoustics likely to amplify noise levels.

Disadvantages of Enclosed 3D Printers

More expensive – 3D printers with enclosures cost more than open FDM printers. The logic is evident here; manufacturers have to spend more on raw materials and the assembly process, costs that invariably trickle down to consumers.

Difficult maintenance and troubleshooting – Due to the enclosed design, maintenance is much harder on an enclosed 3D printer. Cleaning, replacing, troubleshooting, or upgrading parts is far more troublesome than an open-design 3D printer.

FAQs

What Does a 3D Printer Enclosure Do?

Enclosures help enhance printing performance by keeping hot air in and cold air/drafts out. For heat-sensitive materials like ABS, a stable higher temperature environment is crucial for proper layer adhesion and to reduce the chances of warping, curling, and other issues. Similarly, an enclosure helps keep dust and dirt away from the printer’s parts and the print itself; essential for successful printing as impurities can affect adhesion and print quality.

Are Enclosed 3D Printers Safer? Why?

Yes. An enclosure keeps hot and moving parts away from curious fingers and hands, lessening the likelihood of injury compared to open-design printers where all the parts are exposed and readily accessible. If you live with children or work in an educational setting alongside younger students, an enclosed 3D printer provides peace of mind. Additionally, the filters often mounted in enclosed printers rid fumes of toxic elements.

How to Maintain an Enclosed 3D Printer?

Enclosed 3D printer maintenance is identical to what’s involved in keeping an open-design printer in tip-top shape: regular cleaning of the bed and nozzle, firmware updates, routine inspection of parts for wear and tear, and bed leveling/calibration at regular intervals.

Are Enclosed 3D Printers Better?

If you’re looking to print with ABS, yes. An enclosure provides the right, sustained ambient temperature for ABS to thrive. On the other hand, if you plan to print with PLA, an open-design printer stands as a better option. PLA requires plenty of cool air and ventilation to flourish.

8 Best Enclosed 3D Printers of 2022 (All Price Ranges)

Enclosed 3D Printers prevent cold air from entering the print, causing warping or other problems. For basic materials like PLA, 3D printer cases don't matter much, but for more complex materials like ABS and Nylon, they will save you time and time again.

Most cheap 3D printers are open 3D printers - they don't have a frame or casing (sometimes you can buy them separately) and print outdoors. Almost all 3D printer kits like the Ender 3 and CR-10 are open source 3D printers.

However, this can cause problems. ABS, a widely used material for 3D printers, warps if it is not cooled slowly. In addition, closed 3D printers allow you to keep hot and dangerous parts of the 3D printer away from your hands and others. This is especially important for kids, which is why indoor 3D printers are some of the best 3D printers for kids.

Contents

1. Best Closed 3D Printers Under $1,000
2. Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite - cheapest indoor 3D printer
3. Monoprice Voxel - budget indoor 3D printer
4. QIDI Tech X-Pro - great 3D printer with 0 case
5. Flashforge Creator Pro 2 - best inexpensive IDEX printer
6. BIBO 2
7. Best Enclosed 3D Printers for Consumers
8. Dremel 3D45
9. Raise3D E2
10. Best High End 3D Printers with Housings
11. Raise3D Pro2
12. Ultimaker S5 (with housing kit)
13. Buyer's Guide - What to look for
14. Benefits of Enclosed 3D Printers
15. Frequently Asked Questions

Best Enclosed 3D Printers Under $1,000

Flashforge Adventurer 3 - Cheapest indoor 3D printer

• Price: about $339
• Assembly volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm

Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite is a compact and quiet, fully enclosed beginner printer that provides friction-free printing. Printer setup is minimal other than a well-managed five-point calibration process, making it the best choice for beginners or students looking to start printing without the hassle.

It is almost identical to the Adventurer 3, except for the built-in camera and thread runout sensor. These minor features do not detract from the simple typing experience.

In addition to a sleek, closed design, the Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite has everything you need to handle tough materials like ABS: a flexible heated bed with a maximum temperature of 100°C and a maximum nozzle temperature of 240°C. With these features, you can also work with more exotic heat-sensitive materials such as metal, wood, and more.

It also has a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and remote print monitoring thanks to FlashForge's 3D Cloud Print technology. The build volume of 150 x 150 x 150mm results in a narrow printable area, which is one of the few gripes I had when evaluating the Flashforge Adventurer 3 Lite. You won't have much luck printing bulky and tall parts, but this is easy to fix by printing in batches.

It is also worth noting that the filament compartment located on the side of the printer, although practical, is not intended for all types and brands of filament. You may need an external holder if your chosen third party filament is not suitable.

Key points:

• Closed chamber
• Rugged, beginner-friendly printer
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Materials: PLA, ABS, Heavy Duty PLA, PLA Color Change, Metal Filled, Wood and High Speed ​​PLA

Monoprice Voxel - Budget Enclosed 3D Printer

• Price: $449
• Assembly volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm

The cheapest indoor 3D printer we recommend, the Monoprice Voxel is one of the best 3D printers for beginners. It's very easy to set up (within 10 minutes!), easy to operate with a touch screen, can print over WiFi, and comes with 8GB of onboard storage for 3D printer files. It comes with several 3D models in files, as well as some materials to get you started, so you can go from unboxing to printing in minutes.

If you're new to 3D printing and aren't too tech-savvy, the assisted leveling system reduces the experience to a simple click. It also comes fully assembled, so you won't need any DIY skills, which is surprising considering most printers in this price range are 3D printing kits. It can also connect to Polar Cloud, allowing you to manage and control your printer remotely, and even do so for multiple printers at the same time.

Key Points:

• Cheap Indoor 3D Printer
• Beginner Friendly
• WiFi Printing and Touch Screen on an Inexpensive Device
• Materials: ABS, PLA, PETG, Flexibles

QIDI Tech X-Pro is a great 3D printer with a $500 case

• Price: $500
• Assembly volume: 230 x 150 x 150 mm

One of last year's most popular low-cost 3D printers, the Qidi Tech X-Pro offers reliability, precision, dual extrusion and an efficient closed area print, all for $500.

The layer thickness starts from 0.05 mm, the printer can print at speeds from 30 to 150 mm/s - although at such high speeds the print quality deteriorates noticeably. The printer is Mac and Windows compatible and can print over WiFi, USB or Ethernet.

Flexible, removable plate allows for easy removal of prints with minimal damage, and comes with Qidi Tech's own QidiPrint 3D Slicer. Overall, this is one of the best indoor 3D printers under $500.

Highlights:

• Large 4.5" touchscreen for ergonomic printing
• Flexible assembly plate
• WiFi printing and dual extrusion for $500
• Materials: ABS, PLA and PETG

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 - Best value IDEX printer

• Build volume: 200 x 148 x 150mm

A well-equipped update to the classic Creator Pro, the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 offers all the benefits of a case with features you don't expect to see in the $600-$700 range. We see it as an ideal second printer for manufacturers who have already completed their initial training on a budget FDM kit and are now looking for something more versatile and feature rich.

While the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 has a solid, well-made enclosed print chamber suitable for both ABS and PLA thanks to its removable acrylic top cover, it's the independent dual extruder system that sets it apart from other best enclosed 3D printers.

The IDEX system is almost unheard of at this price point, giving manufacturers the flexibility to work with specular prints, duplicate prints, dissolvable support structures, and even print multiple materials or colors at the same time. It is suitable for complex prints with vertical overhangs or is the perfect tool to help the teacher to release as many student-designed prints as quickly as possible.

These two centerpieces aside, Flashforge Creator Pro 2 completes the offering with a touch interface, 200 x 148 x 150mm volume and compatibility with PLA, Pearl PLA, ABS, ABS Pro, PVA and HIPS materials.

It's worth noting that Flashforge made the wrong choice by tying the Creator Pro 2 to its own FlashPrint slicer. It does its job well enough, but doesn't have the versatility of an open source software suite like Cura. This isn't necessarily the deciding factor, especially for those new to 3D printing or educators who want simple software and pre-loaded settings specifically tuned to work with the Creator Pro 2 right from the start.

Highlights:

• Inexpensive independent system with two extruders
• Fully enclosed print chamber
• Materials: PLA, Pearl PLA, ABS, ABS Pro, PVA and HIPS

BIBO 2

• Price: $679
• Assembly volume: 216 x 187 x 160 mm

The Bibo 2 printer, with character and affordable for hobbyists, offers 50 micron accuracy, dual extrusion and WiFi printing, all for less than $1,000.

Although this closed 3D printer is not an IDEX printer, it still offers copy printing modes for printing two identical objects at the same time. It features an easy-to-use touch screen - which isn't a given in this price range - and has a low-filament detection feature to avoid spoiling prints.

In addition to the ABS and Nylon efficient 3D printing 3D printer body, Bibo is built in a stable and durable aluminum frame, minimizing unwanted vibrations that can slightly affect print performance and quality. Overall, this is a great indoor 3D printer for the price, and it can also come with a laser engraver kit.

Highlights:

• WiFi printing, dual extrusion and touchscreen, all for just over $500.
• Minimum layer height 50 microns
• Claims it can print polycarbonate but also says max temperature is 270C
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, flexible filaments, PETG, nylon, PC, carbon fiber
• Best Indoor 3D Printers for Consumers

Best Indoor 3D Printers for Consumers

Dremel 3D45

• Price: $1,599
• Assembly volume: 254 x 152 x 170 mm

Accurate, versatile and ideal for teaching 3D printing in schools, the Dremel 3D45 builds on nearly a century of Dremel manufacturing experience. Accuracy down to 50 microns, WiFi, USB or Ethernet cable connectivity, Mac and Windows compatibility, and iPad compatibility make the Dremel Digilab 3D45 the perfect addition to any school or business prototyping environment.

The heated plate allows you to print on nylon and Eco-ABS, while the built-in HD camera provides convenient remote control of the print progress, which is easily done using cloud-based 3D printing software.

If you have any problems, the Dremel Customer Service in the USA is here to help you. Overall, this is a solid and accurate indoor 3D printer that offers good volume and results for the price.

Highlights:

• Powerful automatic leveling system
• Highly rated customer support
• Universal
• Materials: PLA, PETG, Eco-ABS, Nylon
• Price: $3,499
• Assembly volume: 330 x 240 x 240 mm

Raise3D Large Enclosed 3D Printer adds to IDEX's already impressive range of dual extruder 3D printers. The extruders of IDEX 3D printers can move independently of each other, which greatly increases the speed and efficiency of printing, especially when printing multiple identical or identical parts.

Raise3D E2

The E2 printer has two basic modes:

Mirror mode: 3D printing simultaneously prints inverted mirror versions of your model, such as the sole of a shoe for the left and right foot.
Duplicating mode: uses both extruders synchronously, printing two identical objects at the same time and doubling the printing efficiency.

The E2 3D printer case keeps heat inside and everything else outside. If the door is opened during printing, the process is immediately suspended so that no one is burned or injured by the extruder or the heated layer. The E2 is also equipped with an efficient air filtration system that removes melted plastic particles and odors, as well as filament end sensors and power-off recovery functions.

Highlights:

• Build volume is reduced to 295 x 240 x 240mm when using the
dual extruder
• Useful "Mirror" and "Duplicate" modes
• Built-in security measures
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, PC, TPU and TPE, PETG, nylon, PP, ASA, PVA, glass-filled filaments, metal-filled, carbon-fiber and wood-filled.
• Price: $3,999 / $5,999
  Build Volume: 305 x 305 x 300 (605) mm

Top of the line 3D printers in the upper price range with housings

Raise3D Pro2

A true workhorse full body 3D printer, the Raise3D Pro2 series offers incredible precision, material compatibility, great workflow and many other key features.

The standard Pro2 already has a very large build area, while the Pro2 Plus extends the z-axis range to parts up to 605mm high. The extruders can reach temperatures of 300C for even the toughest materials such as PC, and the dual extruders enable efficient printing with support for soluble materials as well as multi-color 3D printing.

With a minimum layer height of 0.01mm, Pro2 3D printers can print incredibly sharp and finely detailed details. Swap out the nozzle for a smaller nozzle and focus on the small details to get a fantastic finish. The built-in camera makes it easy to control prints, while the 7-inch touch screen provides data and an easy-to-use overall workflow.

Highlights:

• Dual extruder build volume: 280 x 305 x 300 mm
• A complete printer: accurate, reliable, closed, versatile.
• Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, PC, TPU, nylon, ASA, PETG, PVA, glass, carbon fiber, wood.

Ultimaker S5 (with housing kit)

• Price: $5,995
• Assembly volume: 330 x 240 x 300 mm

The Ultimaker S5 is capable of printing industrial grade parts with layer resolution down to 20 microns. An enclosed 3D printer that becomes even more efficient and safer with the S5 Pro kit, the S5 delivers reliable and repeatable dual extrusion with amazing precision, even with abrasive filaments such as glass and carbon fiber.

Although Ultimaker manufactures its own filaments, the S5 is open and can be used with any 2.85mm filament. It prints over WiFi as well as other methods and can be monitored remotely using the built-in camera.

When you purchase the S5 Pro Bundle, you get access to 24/7 automated material handling, air filtration and heat control for 6 filaments, as well as an Air Manager that further encloses the 3D printer.

Highlights:

• Excellent accuracy and print quality
• Reliable and efficient in many materials
• Pro Bundle makes it even more efficient indoor 3D printer
• Materials: PLA, CPE, NYLON, ABS, glass, carbon fiber, PC, PVA, PP, TPU

Ultimaker s5 with optional pro kit including housing, air filter and filament storage

Buyer's guide - what to look for

Fully or partially enclosed chamber

Partially enclosed chamber printers are a bit of an oddity because they don't provide ideal printing conditions with either of the two main filament types, ABS and PLA. However, they provide an extra layer of security, which is useful for educational institutions or those with children. We recommend a fully enclosed chamber if you plan to print with ABS, and an open chamber if you choose PLA as your media. If you are going to print with ABS and PLA, choose an enclosed printer with removable covers.

Stock Volume

Build Volume is the printable area available to you on a closed printer. In other words, it is a measure of the size and type of prints you can make. If you are planning on making large prints or multiple copies, we recommend high volume printers such as the Ultimaker S5.

Material Compatibility

By design, the enclosed 3D printer is designed to be compatible with a wider range of media types due to the ability to maintain higher temperatures around prints and keep cold air out. ABS is the most common type of material for sealed chambers, but you will also find printers that can work with nylon, PC, and other heat-sensitive materials. PLA can also be used if the printer covers are removable as this material requires cooler ambient temperatures for best results.

Heated bed

Given that the purpose of the closed chamber is to provide a stable thermal environment for printing with more complex materials such as ABS, a heated bed is a must. It helps provide an additional source of heat directly below the print, which promotes layer adhesion and slows down the cooling rate, thus avoiding unwanted defects such as warping and curling.

Connectivity

Connectivity determines how you interact with the printer, whether it's sending cut prints or fine-tuning settings. An SD card reader is more or less standard, as is USB in many cases, but for ease of use, there's nothing better than a Wi-Fi connection and thus cloud printing and monitoring.

Layer Resolution

Layer Resolution indicates the smallest layer height that can be printed. Choose a printer with a lower layer resolution for parts with more detail, such as 20 microns on the Ultimaker S5. On a closed FDM printer, 100 micron layer resolution is relatively standard and allows for a wide range of detail.

Filters

If you're buying a sealed chamber, your plan is most likely to include ABS printing. ABS not only has an unpleasant odor, but also emits potentially harmful fumes. A printer equipped with filters, carbon or HEPA, helps to extract the most toxic elements from the fumes. In addition, we also recommend working with ABS in a well-ventilated area.

Touch Screen

For convenience, we recommend an enclosed touch screen 3D printer. After all, we're all used to scrolling and swiping on our phones, so it makes sense to want the same functionality and familiar interface when working with a 3D printer. Most modern printers come with a touch screen as standard.

Price

Closed printers tend to increase in price as you pay for additional production and design. But thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of the budget category, enclosed camera printers are more affordable than ever before. You can easily buy a reliable indoor 3D printer for less than $400. Naturally, if you have the budget, new professional-grade printers that cost thousands of dollars also hit store shelves every year.

Benefits of Enclosed 3D Printers

Better ABS and Nylon 3D Printing

Housings can cool parts more slowly and maintain a more stable and higher temperature in the working chamber. This reduces buckling and splitting during the printing process.

Much safer

3D printer housings keep hot parts such as the nozzle and heated bed away from children if you have a family at home or if 3D printing is done in schools.

Quieter

The closed area keeps noise out, making them ideal quiet 3D printers. The enclosures keep out the buzz and hum of the printing process, which is a real boon if you're typing at home or in confined spaces with poor acoustics that can amplify noise levels.

Stronger and more durable

Enclosed 3D printers typically feature a sturdy four-walled cubic design that keeps vibrations and other factors from degrading print quality.

Noise Reduction

Enclosures help reduce noise by reducing hum and hum during printing, which is a real boon if you're printing at home or in confined spaces with poor acoustics that can amplify noise levels.

Drawbacks of Enclosed 3D Printers

More Expensive - 3D printers with enclosures are more expensive than open FDM printers. The logic here is obvious: manufacturers are forced to spend more money on raw materials and the assembly process, which invariably reflects on consumers.

Difficulty in maintenance and troubleshooting - Due to the enclosed design, maintenance of an enclosed 3D printer is much more difficult. Cleaning, replacing, troubleshooting or upgrading parts is much more of a hassle than an open design 3D printer.

FAQ

What is the 3D printer case for?

Enclosures help improve print performance by keeping hot air in and cold air/draughts out. For heat sensitive materials such as ABS, a stable higher temperature environment is critical for proper layer adhesion and reduced chance of warping, curling and other problems. Likewise, the shroud helps prevent dust and dirt from getting on printer parts and the print itself; this is essential for successful printing as contamination can affect adhesion and print quality.

Are closed 3D printers safer? Why?

Yes. The housing shields hot and moving parts from prying fingers and hands, reducing the chance of injury compared to open design printers where all parts are exposed and easily accessible. Whether you live with children or work in an educational setting with younger students, an enclosed 3D printer will give you peace of mind. In addition, filters, often installed in enclosed printers, remove toxic elements from the fumes.


How to maintain a closed 3D printer?

Maintaining a closed 3D printer is identical to maintaining an open design printer: regular cleaning of the bed and nozzle, updating the firmware, regularly inspecting parts for wear, leveling/calibrating the bed at regular intervals.

Are closed 3D printers better?

If you want to print on ABS, yes. The housing provides the correct, stable ambient temperature for ABS to thrive. On the other hand, if you are planning to print to PLA, an open design printer would be the best option. PLA needs plenty of cold air and ventilation to thrive.

Which 3D printer to choose for home and hobby use

A few years ago, 3D printers were bulky industrial machines, but now 3D printing is becoming more accessible for home use. When buying their first printer, many are disappointed. This may be due to the unsatisfactory quality of the resulting models or the complex setup and maintenance of the 3D printer.

In the reviews that are found on the Internet, printers are often shown after a lot of upgrades or a long selection of settings for printing. This is not at all the result that a beginner who first got acquainted with 3D printing will get.

In order not to be disappointed, before buying, you need to understand which model is suitable for your tasks. First of all, it is worth deciding what the printer will be used for. What is the main property that finished products should have? What is more important, the physical properties of the model or the ideal surface and detail? Not only the model depends on this, but also the technology by which the 3D printer will work.

Which technology to choose? FDM or LCD?

If you need to make a small detailed figurine with a perfectly smooth surface, you should pay attention to models that work on LCD technology (LCD works on a principle similar to DLP - Digital Light Processing or “digital light processing”).

LCD prints using a photopolymer resin that cures under UV light. This makes it possible to produce without deformation, even small and thin products that cannot be manufactured using FDM technology.

Resin model


Now on sale there are many photopolymer resins with different properties. A few years ago the choice was not great. Basically, finished products were not strong enough for use in functional models. Now engineering resins have begun to appear on sale. Products from them are not inferior in strength to models made using FDM technology from ABS or even nylon.

If it is necessary to produce large products with different properties, or the tasks will be very diverse, then the choice is with FDM technology. But it is important to understand that finished products will not have a perfectly smooth surface. Of course, you can polish the model, but this is additional time and labor costs.

FDM technology builds a model using molten plastic filament, which is fed from the print head. The print head (extruder) “grows” the model layer by layer on the printing table.

FDM Models

FDM technology became widespread much earlier than DLP. Thanks to this, a wide variety of 3D printers and consumables for them has appeared. You can find many decorative plastics that mimic various materials, or engineering plastics for making functional models or mock-ups.

Choosing an LCD printer

Photopolymer printers work on one of 3 technologies - DLP, LCD or SLA.

As home printers, devices based on LCD technology are usually used due to their availability and low price.

Printer design

SLA technology appeared the very first among photopolymer printers. With the help of a point-focused beam, the desired areas of the resin are gradually illuminated. This is repeated layer by layer.

How SLA 9 works0455

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 Kinematics

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.

Diagram of direct feed


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.

Flying Bear 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.

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