Instone mini 3d printer review


Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Review

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Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Rated

  • Print Quality
  • User Experience
  • Ease of Use
  • Durability
  • Value for Money

Craft Schmaft Verdict

If you’re on a budget, or new to the world of 3D printing, the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Kit for Beginners may be just what you’re after.

It’s super easy to use and made so you can get started right out of the box. Its Wi-Fi connection makes using this cheap 3D printer all the easier.

>>> Check current price on Amazon.

While 3D printing may seem complicated and very technical, it truly depends on the printer you use and its user-friendly qualities.

If you’re a beginner, the more simplistic, the better – and the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer delivers on this front. That said, users who have more knowledge of 3D printing can also enjoy its features and abilities.

The Instone Mini is easy to set up, effortless to use, and (considering the typical expense of a 3D printer) relatively cheap to purchase.

Nonetheless, there are downsides. Some users thought it was very noisy and had a spotty connection when printing through Wi-Fi.

Is that enough to turn us away? Before you make your final decision, let’s take a closer look at the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer.

Contents

        • 0.0.0.1 Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Rated
  • 1 Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer: The Details
    • 1.1 Specs
    • 1.2 How Does It Work?
    • 1.3 Accessories
    • 1.4 Features
  • 2 Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Review
    • 2. 1 The Positives
    • 2.2 The Negatives
    • 2.3 Overall Verdict
  • 3 Where to Buy the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer

Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer: The Details

Specs

  • Weight: 25 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 20.7 x 17.5 x 20.7 inches.
  • Print Dimensions: 240 x 160 x 160mm.
  • Filament Types: ABS, PLA.
  • Ready to Print? Yes.
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac, and Linux.

How Does It Work?

Whether you’re a novice to 3D printing or have been at it for years, the Inventor Pro is effortless to set up and use. As it comes fully assembled, you need only to calibrate the printer and dive into your next project.

To calibrate, start by heating the bed to your desired temperature. After this, insert either the PLA or ABS filament you intend to use, then choose the design you want.

You can choose a design from either a website with pre-made options or by making a design of your own. Once it’s selected, send the plan to your splicing software and then to your printer.

You may need to apply some glue (included) to the bed, so as to ensure the filament sticks and begins to correctly form your design.

The Inventor Pro Mini will then begin printing your design. All that’s left is to wait for your new creation to be finished!

Accessories

  • Filament.
  • SD card.
  • Glue.
  • Instructions.
  • Allen wrench.
  • Scraper.
  • USB cord.
  • Power cord.

Features

Heated Bed

The heated bed of the Inventor Pro allows you to create a design up to 240 x 160 x 160 mm, or 9.4 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches.

Since the bed is heated, it guarantees your prints adhere to the surface more securely, preventing accidents or mistakes throughout the process.

As a final bonus, it also means you’re not limited to just PLA, as with other inexpensive printers, but can instead use many different types of filament options.

Wi-Fi Control

The Inventor Pro Mini can be used through a Wi-Fi connection, which gives you the freedom to send designs from anywhere in your home, without the need for a USB cord tethering your printer to a computer.

Even better, you can transmit designs and begin the printing from your phone. That being said, keep in mind the Inventor Pro is only compatible with Android at the moment.

Touchscreen

The Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer includes a touchscreen to help you navigate through its different functions.

With its placement at the top of the printer, you can set and monitor the temperature, check on the progress of your design, or select any of the other functions or settings included in the printer.

This touchscreen also makes it effortless to work the printer no matter if you’re a novice or an expert at the craft.

Filament

As mentioned, you’re not limited to one kind of filament with the Inventor Pro. You can choose either PLA (a roll of which is included with the package) or ABS.

If you have a preference between the two, you’re free to select your favorite, without making a sacrifice based on the configuration of your device.

There is also a guide tube that will help the filament along, so it is less likely to break.

Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer Review

The Positives

Easy to Set Up

The set-up required on this 3D Printer is almost nonexistent. As it comes entirely assembled, you need only level the heat bed and calibrate the machine.

With other 3D printers, even those fully enclosed like this one, you usually have to assemble its many complex parts. If you’re inexperienced, this can lead to confusion and frustration before you even begin your projects.

If you are new to 3D printing or are wary about a complicated learning curve, this Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3d Printer is ideal.

There will be minimal work to do once you get this printer out of the box, so you can begin to get crafty in no time.

Easy to Use

Speaking of a gentle learning curve, our testers noted how simplistic this 3D printer is to use.

There is a touchscreen that controls most settings, along with a switch to turn the printer on. After this, you need only heat the bed, choose a design, splice it in the software, and send it to the printer.

Finally, be sure to insert your choice of filament into the extruder and put a bit of glue on the bed. The Inventor Pro will do the rest for you.

This is great for those who are just starting out in 3D printing since you won’t be daunted by a complicated machine.

If you’re looking to do some teaching with this printer, you won’t need to worry about it being too advanced for others to keep up. This makes it a great option for classes and workplaces too!

Safe

With an open 3D printer, there is a risk of getting burned, especially if you take this to a classroom. However, with a fully enclosed 3D printer, those safety issues disappear.

All the printing happens within a structure, so you can observe the process without the temptation to poke a very hot surface or filament.

If you’re in an environment with children (whether at home or in a classroom), this takes away the worry of curious fingers getting hurt or burnt. This, in turn, will also keep your projects safe from disruption.

Inexpensive

This is one of the least expensive 3D printers on the market. At around $200 on Amazon, it’s a great option for trying your hand at 3D printing without breaking the bank.

As these devices can easily cost over $1,000, it’s a bargain that allows to you test the hobby without too great an investment.

If you’re on a budget, the Instone Inventor Pro Mini will appeal to your wallet since everything is included for you to get started, saving you money (and time) right off the bat.

For the price, it produces quality prints too, so there’s no worry of compromising functionality for affordability.

Not Too Big

Wherever you choose to keep your Instone Inventor Pro, it shouldn’t be an issue when it comes to space, thanks to its size. It allows you to print decent sized projects without being too grandiose.

It won’t hog all the space on a counter or desk, and thanks to its enclosed construction, you don’t have to place it too far away from everything else.

It weighs in at just over twenty pounds, so carrying this with you to a classroom or workplace won’t be too much of a hassle, since you probably won’t need an extra hand to move it.

The Negatives

Bad Wi-Fi Connection

Sadly, users reported a spotty connection between this printer and Wi-Fi. Specifically, the printer disconnects from the Wi-Fi regularly and may refuse to print the design you send.

This can be worrying if you constantly rely on a wireless connection (if you’re in an office or classroom) to use this machine.

If you have a weaker Wi-Fi connection, you are better off using the USB cord to ensure a stable relationship, as the connection will never drop out.

Noisy

Some users disliked the noise levels of this printer. While this may not be a deal-breaker for everyone, it is definitely worth considering.

If you bring it into a classroom or place it near a bedroom, you may experience quite a number of complaints.

Despite the fact that this is an enclosed 3D printer, which is typically quieter, the Inventor Pro does make a commotion, so be prepared to use it exclusively in the day or in an area that won’t disturb others.

Customer Service

While there is an Instone website, there is no real online support for customers who may have questions.

Should you have an issue that needs troubleshooting, you may be left to your own devices or are forced to contact Amazon. Although very few users have encountered an issue worth getting in touch over, it’s still worth noting.

That being said, they do have an email and other social media accounts listed on their website that customers can contact.

Those who have managed to get a hold of Instone’s customer service say that they have been helpful and supportive, replacing parts when needed.

The hard part is finding out how to get in contact with them, and should you need immediate help, contacting a service like Amazon may be more efficient.

Overall Verdict

After going through all the positives and negatives, we are cautiously recommending the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer.

It’s effortless to use, easy to set-up and boasts of an attractive price tag. However, the Wi-Fi issue is one concern. And since this is a main feature, you shouldn’t be forced to disregard it because of a faulty connection.

Instone’s lack of direction when it comes to customer service may also be a deterring point for some customers.

Nonetheless, if the Wi-Fi connection is not the main selling point for you, and customer service isn’t an issue, this 3D printer should fit all your needs!

Where to Buy the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer

Instone is gaining in popularity thanks to their growing line of 3D printers.

The Inventor Pro Mini isn’t the only printer by Instone with positive customer feedback, in fact, this brand is starting to become a known name in the community for accessible and affordable devices.

Chances are, since Instone is still in its growing phase, you won’t be finding the Instone Inventor Pro Mini 3D Printer through many retailers in-store or online.

Thankfully though, you’ll be able to find this cheap 3D printer on Amazon.


That’s the end of our Instone Inventor Pro review. Curious to give it a try?


iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit Review

6.2 Fair

It’s easy these days for companies to pump out cheap 3D printers to a curious customer base. If you’re looking to get started 3D printing, such an inexpensive investment seems like a safe start. The iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit is just one such 3D printer, marketed to inexperienced makers who want to try out this new technology. Is this 3D printer worth your money, though? Find out in today’s iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit Review.

  • Printing Speed 7

  • Build Size 5

  • Precision 6

  • Value 7

  • Design 6

  • User Experience 6

More Details ❯

Unsurprisingly, the iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit features modest specs to go alongside its modest price tag. Starting with its 4.3” x 4.3” x 4.7” build space, this 3D printer falls comfortably in the “mini” category. There’s no heated print bed, limiting you to PLA filaments only. The bed is magnetic and removable, however, which is nice to see.

More Details ❯

The iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit’s dimensions measure 7.7” x 7.5” x 10.4” and weighs just 5lbs, in part due to its injection-mold plastic frame. Build speed is pretty quick, clocking in at between 30-200mm/s, erring on the 30mm/s side for higher quality prints. Resolutions range between 100 microns and 400 microns, which is average for this type of 3D printer. Connection options include tethered USB or via SD card. The included SD card is loaded with iNSTONE’S slicing software and some test models for you to experiment with.

iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit Review Pros

Assembled and Ready-to-Print

This 3D printer may be called a “kit”, which usually refers to machines that must be built before using, but in fact, the iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer arrives fully assembled and ready to go. Pop the SD card in, choose a model, load the included filament, and you’re ready to print.

More Details ❯

Attentive Customer Support

Despite having a loose-ish grasp on the English language, the customer support at iNSTONE is very attentive. They keep customer support options online, including email and a Facebook page, and are quick to answer complaints or help troubleshoot. This company clearly cares about customer experience, and want everyone to be happy with their 3D printer.

iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit Review Cons

Uneven Print Bed, Overall Cheap Components

One resounding issue that’s repeated across user reviews and even in our own experience, is that the print bed is extremely fickle. If bent too hard when trying to remove a model, it cracks. When installed, it is visibly uneven from front-to-back, requiring some serious troubleshooting to get right because, you guessed it, the iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer lacks even the most basic assisted bed leveling. These problems compound over hours of use.

This problem is also found in many of the iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit’s components, which are prone to failure over time and don’t work very well even when they’re brand new. One user even complained that their extruder nozzle fell off! Not a great sign.

Poor Support Documentation

Both the colorful instruction pamphlet and online resources, such as their website, are woeful. Between broken English instructions and missing steps, it’s difficult to recommend this 3D printer to beginners because of the lack of support documentation.

PLA Only

These days, we consider it downright ridiculous for 3D printers to have such limited filament options. Even if you never print in ABS or other filaments, it’s always nice to have the option. This isn’t even mentioning the fact that PLA-only 3D printers usually don’t have a heated print bed. This oversight means that it’s much more difficult to get models to stick to the print bed, resulting in more mess-ups and frustration.

iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit Review Verdict

More Details ❯

The iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer Kit may have passed as a decent mini 3D printer five years ago, but today it’s overshadowed by superior printers cost less and offer more. If you’re in the market for a beginner-friendly mini 3D printer, we suggest alternatives like the MP Mini Delta or MP Select Mini, both of which boast similar build spaces and cheaper prices but include sturdy metal frames, heated print beds, and more filament options. Even a printer like XYZprinting miniMaker provides auto-calibration at a lesser cost. At the end of the day, the iNSTONE Easier 3D Printer is outclassed by better options.

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3D Printer Review UP! Mini

3D printers have long ceased to be expensive, bulky and noisy devices used only in industrial production, various institutions and large companies. Printing and modeling three-dimensional objects at home no longer requires high costs and in-depth knowledge. There are many types of 3D printers now: self-assembly kits, expensive European and American 3D printers, high-precision 3D printers with a large print area, for jewelers and dentistry, etc. But among all the models available and with stable high print quality, there are not so many. One of them, compact and elegant - 3D printer UP! mini. nine0003

The Mini has been on the market since 2013 and is still one of the best compact 3d printers around. Model UP! Mini - developed by PP3DP. Because Since PP3DP is part of Tiertime, a large Chinese corporation that produces industrial 3D printers, you don’t have to worry about build quality and reliability. Serious production control and the absence of marriage are confirmed by numerous world awards, including the authoritative MAKE magazine for the best printer in the "get it and print" class. nine0003

Design

UP! Mini is a closed chamber 3D printer that has a positive effect on print quality, filters possible unpleasant odors, reduces the noise of moving parts inside the printer, and protects you and your children from burns if you accidentally touch the nozzle or 3D printer platform. With a modern design, UP! The Mini looks more like a coffee machine or something like that, rather than a modern machine that prints three-dimensional models from plastic. nine0003

Another advantage of this model is the patented perforated working surface of the platform with Teflon coating. Thanks to it, adhesion increases, stability and a stable position of the printed model increase. You do not need to spend money and time on the purchase of special coatings: adhesive tape, glue, varnish, special film, etc. which are widely used on many 3D printers from other manufacturers.

Getting Started

UP! Mini does not require you to seriously and deeply study the instructions for assembly, configuration and calibration. All you need to start printing is to take the printer out of the box, install the spool of plastic and the build platform, and start printing. Everything you need to run your 3D printer smoothly is included. Together with the device you get: a spare platform, a plastic coil and special tools for setting up and maintaining the device.

Sizes UP! The Mini is only 240 x 340 x 355 mm and weighs 6 kg. As mentioned above, according to these parameters, the device rather resembles an elegant and stylish household appliance that will complement and decorate your interior. With this in mind, you can safely place it anywhere in your home or office. nine0003

UP! Mini uses its own software, which any user can understand, the program is simple and intuitive, fully Russified and allows you to change and customize:

- Print speed
- Material type
- Percentage of material filling of the internal cavities of the model
- Scaling and rotation of the model
- The operating temperature of the extruder and platform.
- Size, type of supports and rafts

Or just select the type of plastic and start printing, all other values ​​recommended for this type of plastic, the program will change on its own. All current operating systems are supported - Windows from XP to 8.1, and Mac OS X.

One of the main advantages of the UP 3d printer! Mini - is the presence of the "Pause" function, when during operation you can pause printing, replace the material and continue printing with a different color, which allows you to create bright and multi-colored models.

Getting started

So, you have connected the printer, loaded the model into the program and start printing. After sending the model for printing, the printer will need some time to load and prepare the virtual model for printing, the extruder and platform heat up, the layers of the model are calculated programmatically. After starting printing, you can safely disconnect the computer from the printer, then the printer will work autonomously. nine0003

Worktop size UP! Mini - 120x120x120mm. very good figure for such a small 3d printer. And don't let those numbers scare you, you can always print a large multi-part model. Special programs allow you to divide your virtual model into components already prepared and configured for 3D printing, print, and then glue. We recommend this method due to the fact that when printing on devices with a large print volume, any power outage, power surges, or suddenly running out of plastic will stop the printer and printing, which took several hours, will have to start over. nine0003

Maximum print resolution UP! Mini - 200 microns, or 0.2 mm. On our own, we add that due to the special closed design, uniform heating of the surface and the extruder, visually the models look comparable to those produced on 3D printers with a higher resolution (for example, 150 microns) and an open circuit. And do not forget that the higher the resolution, the longer it will take to print. For example, printing a model on printers with a resolution of 20 microns will take 10 times longer. nine0003

UP! Mini uses the most common consumables ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PLA (Polyactide). But thanks to the heated bed and high extruder temperature, you can print flexible, engineering and decorative plastics. The printer comes with branded plastic, but you can use third-party plastics without loss of warranty and quality, the only condition is a diameter of 1.75 mm.

When UP! The Mini emits a short, rather loud and unpleasant squeak, but this is where all the unpleasant things from the printer end - both in terms of smell and noise from it, as expected, no problems. The printing process is monitored visually by the color of a single button. The backlight of the button changes color depending on the stage. And thanks to the backlight inside the case, you can observe the printing process without opening the printer door. nine0003

Output

UP! Mini is a full-fledged and serious device, perfect for both a beginner and an experienced professional. If you don't want to tinker with assembling, setting up, modifying the device, adding additional components, then the UP! Mini just for you. With a closed, safe design, no odors, and low printing noise, the UP! Mini is ideal for educational institutions, or use at home. nine0003

UP! Mini is an affordable 3D printer for everyone, not just professionals.

Up Mini
90,000 Overview of the budget 3D printer Monoprice Select mini

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