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Monoprice 13860 maker select 3d printer v2
Monoprice Maker Select V2 Review
The Maker Select V2 by Monoprice is a bare-bones, simple printer that did average to slightly above average across the board. It would be a good entry point for someone who doesn't want to shell out a bunch of cash and isn't afraid to tinker or troubleshoot a bit.
The Monoprice Maker Select V2 is an alright printer and a good value, making it something to consider for an introductory model.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Performance Comparison
To test these products, we conducted over 45 different tests and ranked their performance side-by-side. Our testing plan consisted of four weighted metrics — Print Quality, Ease of Use, Print Capabilities, and Support — with the following sections detailing how the Maker Select V2 stacked up against the rest of the printers in the test.
The collection of models printed by the Monoprice.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Print Quality
This metric accounted for the largest portion of the final score, accounting for 40% of the total. We printed a set of test models, in both ABS and PLA, and had a panel of novice and experienced 3D printer users rate the appearance of the sample prints. The panel did not know which printer had produced each set of prints, eliminating any bias or preconceived notions. The Maker Select V2 did an acceptable job, meriting a 5 out of 10.
The Maker Select did a subpar job at our first test print, the 3D Benchy tugboat, in both PLA and ABS. The ABS version had layers separating and a poor surface finish. The PLA version was superior to the ABS but still had some noticeable wobble in the Z-Axis and the layers were less smooth.
The tugboats made by this printer didn't impress us all that much.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
This model also didn't excel at printing our bridging test or the Eiffel Tower. The Printer did about average in the PLA versions, with only some minimal sagging in the longest bridges and an alright Eiffel Tower. However, both ABS versions of this test print failed to complete.
The ABS versions of these complex prints were complete failures.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Moving on to our next three test prints, the Monoprice Maker Select didn't too much in boosting its score. While it did do quite well on our overhang test, both in PLA and ABS, printing up to the 70° mark, the underside wasn't quite as smooth as the Lulzbot or the QIDI. The articulated elephant turned out terrible in ABS, with a ton of layer separation. The PLA version was acceptable, with joints that moved alright but having a body that overall looked a little rough. The nickel test turned out to be slightly oversized, with the nickel falling through easily and the ABS version warped slightly, costing it a few points.
The ABS version of the elephant was splitting apart due to the layers warping and separating.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The next two prints — the platform jack and the hollow cube — were two of the more difficult prints in our test.
Once again, the Maker Select didn't impress, doing a relatively subpar job. The PLA platform jack was acceptable — opening and closing, but having plenty of Z-Axis wobble and shoddy bridging. The ABS version failed to print entirely. The ABS hollow cube had some layer separation, while the PLA version also had plenty of Z-Axis wobble.
The platform jack didn't look great but it did open and close.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Monoprice did a mediocre job at our pair of low-poly figurines. One ABS version failed to print, while the successful prints had sloppy overhanging sections and some layer separation.
The overhangs on the low-poly figures could have been a little cleaner.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Continuing the trend, the Maker Select delivered a similar performance in our tall tower test and spiral vase but did surprise us slightly by its stellar performance in the support test — at least in PLA. Both ABS and PLA spiral vases had some thin spots and layer separation.
The tall towers were both slightly subpar, with two sides exhibiting noticeable undulations. The PLA support test did score above average, with the sacrificial structure breaking away easily and leaving behind a clean surface. The ABS version failed to print.
You could clearly feel the waves in the towers as you moved up the vertical axis.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Maker Select delivered a reasonable showing in the last two tests, a threaded jar and lid.
The threaded containers that printed were about average.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The PLA version of the jar had alright threads and was reasonably smooth, though the ABS version failed to print. The lids were pretty good, though not as high resolution as the FlashForge and the ABS version had a little warping.
The Monoprice required a little bit of assembly.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Ease of Use
The next metric in our review --Ease of Use — accounted for 30% of the total score.
We compared the difficulty at initially setting up and unboxing the printer, changing filament, leveling the print bed, and connecting to the printer, as well as what sort of display the printer had. The Maker Select once again earned a 5 out of 10 for its overall average performance.
Unboxing the Maker Select V2.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The initial setup was about average compared with other models. After unboxing, you only need to attach the base, connect the wires, and attach the spool holder. However, this was a little more difficult as the spool holder attached with fasteners, rather than snapping or sliding into place. We did find that the connector for the extruder cooling fan had worked loose in shipping, causing our first print to fail, but was easily remedied by re-attaching the connector.
We found the manual leveling system to be a pain and this was one of our least favorite machines to level. We also found it easy to inadvertently hit the thumbscrews and change the bed level accidentally.
It was about average to swap filaments and this printer used Cura as a slicer, which we found to be one of the better software programs.
Like many others, this model uses Cura as the recommended slicer.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
This printer has an LCD display on it power supply box that shows current printing progress while it is operating.
The display is built into the power supply for this model.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
This box also has a microSD card slot to allow for standalone printing and the USB connector for when the machine is tethered to a computer.
The Maker Select is a reasonably capable printer.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Print Capabilities
Boosting its overall score, the Monoprice Maker Select V2 performed above average in this metric, earning it a 6 out of 10. We compared the build volume and build plate, the filament capabilities, cooling setup, as well as the slicing software between models to determine scores.
The Monoprice uses Cura as a recommended slicer, with the option to upgrade to a more sophisticated program, such as Simplify3D.
This printer had a decently large build volume of 200 x 200 x 175mm, putting it in the middle of the pack. The print surface itself is slightly subpar, with a stick-on print bed attached to an aluminum plate. This print surface proved to be a little problematic, giving us a handful of bed adhesion issues.
We had multiple ABS prints detach from the print bed partway through, even when using adhesive and a raft to secure them.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Maker Select is compatible with generic, 1.75mm filament. The extruder can hit a maximum temperature of 260°C. This wasn't exceptionally high but does allow this model to print ABS, PLA, PET, PVA, or HIPS — just none of the higher temperature filaments like Nylon. This model also has one layer cooling fan.
Support
Our fourth and final metric — Support — made up the residual 10% of the overall score.
This was determined by the helpfulness of the customer support team and the ease at contacting them, as well as the quality of instructional videos on the manufacturer's site and the warranty included with the printer. The Monoprice Maker Select V2 did a good job, earning a 6 out of 10.
You can contact the support team via email, contact form, phone, or instant messenger. However, We didn't find the team to be that helpful, basically telling us that we needed to return the printer to fix what seemed to be a simple issue with print quality.
The printer does include a 1-year warranty — better than most. However, there wasn't a ton of helpful instructional videos on their website, losing it a few points.
Value
This printer is one of the most budget-friendly but it isn't necessarily a great value. Its low retail price is accompanied by an overall mediocre performance.
Conclusion
The Monoprice Maker Select V2 is a low-cost, budget-friendly model that had an impressively mediocre performance.
This might be a good option for those diving into 3D printing and are unafraid of tinkering and troubleshooting, with a good probability of more difficult prints failing or requiring a few attempts to complete.
Maker Select V2 - Ep 1 | Overview and Assembly
Full Overview
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Table of Contents
Purchase Choice
So why the Monoprice 13860 Maker Select 3d Printer V2 instead of the hundreds of other affordable/cheap 3d printers out there?
One important aspect that I was looking for besides the price, of course, was build volume. A lot of the cheap 3D printer’s available have a pretty small area to print in, which really limits your potential but the Maker Select has a 200 x 200 x 180mm print area, that’s roughly 8 inches by 8 inches putting in the same spectrum as some printers double or triple its price.
Having an open source software platform for modeling was another important feature.
I’d like to be able and choose the best modeling program for men without being hamstrung to one proprietary program.
It also supports a variety of different filaments such as PLA, ABS, and some of the more exotics types as long as they come in 1.75mm diameters. For now, though we will be sticking with PLA since it’s pretty much the best choice for beginners. I’ll discuss the difference between these filaments in another episode.
I got 2 1kilogram spools of PLA filament in white and black but there is any number of colors available and all for around $30.
Lastly, because this machine is based on the Prusa i3, which is the most popular printer kit in the market, there is a huge community you can lean on to learn new tricks or troubleshoot any issues.
Pre Assembly
I do like that the printer came in some nice soft foam packaging, unfortunately, the screen on the power supply/control unit was almost completely ruined. I see a crack that must have occurred during shipping (cough) UPS.
This was a bit disappointing; hopefully, I can get it warrantied out. But I wasn’t going to let this ruin the day, I persisted and pulled out the assembly instructions.
Blog Update - Getting a Replacement
Getting a Replacement I have to say I was pleasantly surprised that within two business days after I initiated the return/replace process with Amazon I received my new printer. This even before I shipped off the old one. I can only assume if they never got the old they would charge me for the new one. Never the less I loved the fast service on this.
Assembly
While this printer is mostly pre-assembled from the factory, there are a few steps you need to run through to get it operational. Following the step by step instructions, we first cut the zip tie holding X-axis gantry.
Then we slide the base through the tower frame, this will be easier with two people. Then we line up the bolt hole mounts on the outside and fasten the included Hex bolts with included Hex keys on both sides.
There are two more bolts that need to be inserted from underneath as well. You will have to turn the printer on its side to get to them; don’t worry if the printer head or base plate start to slide down.
The Spool holder
And attach the spool holder. You have the choice of attaching it to the printer itself or to the power supply unit. For now, I attached it to the printer but I may put it on the PSU in the future to save a little vertical space.
Next cut the zip tie holding the connectors together underneath the base plate and simply match up the lettered connectors with their lettered receptacle. A first, keep this cable free from the others as it will have to rise with the gantry, then B, C, and finally D.
Final Steps
The final step of assembly is very important and will require some patience. What we want to accomplish with this step is setting the proper distance between the tip of the extruder the base plate. With extruding in the home position, basically, where it starts, you have to adjust the springs on each corner of the plate to raise or lower it to the appropriate height from the extruder.
The end result you should be able to just barely be able to slide a piece of paper beneath the extruder without pinning it. You will physically have to move the extruder assembly and plate around until each corner is at the right height and then test varies places on the plate for the same paper sliding height. You will have to adjust each corner multiple times to get this just right, so be patient!
First Print
Once that’s done you are ready to print your first model. Even with the busted screen, I was able to preheat the extruder and base plate and insert the filament with no problem. Be warned the extruder gets up to 400 Fahrenheit and the base plate gets up to a toasty 140 degrees so stay clear of both in operation.
The Maker Select comes with a 4gig micro SD card that has some models preloaded to it. To test the printer I selected one of these models but the file names didn’t actually give me any idea what it was actually printing. The owner’s manual said the pre-loaded models were either a robot, a vase, a small gear, or a unicorn.
But I wasn’t sure which I picked so all I do was watch.
Final Product
Alright so here is the final product in all it’s orange glory, a recliner, because why not right? I’m pretty impressed with the level of detail on this little guy, it even has a little lever on the side. For a raw product it’s pretty smooth to the touch. I just need to remove the scaffolding on the bottom which should simply break off from the rest of the model.
There we go an orange model recliner. Man this thing is cool. Can’t wait to start printing my own models on this thing! I plan on bring all you along for that as well.
Maker Select V2 Installation Guide - PDF
Simple step by step guide to set up the V2. While this guide is made for the Maker Select i3 model 13860 the images and instructions will apply to the V2 all the same.
Maker Select V2 User Manual - PDF
In-depth user manual that covers all most everything from un-packing and setup to 3D slicing program settings and fan speed configuration.
Please read before using this printer.
The Conclusion
In part 2 we’ll focus on finding and using the best 3D modeling program compatible with GCode files that the Maker Select uses. In the mean time I will have to look into getting the control screen replaced, unfortunately I will probably have to send the whole printer back. That’ll give us more time to work on some new models!
Read Part 2 | SketchUp + Cura = Awesome
Top 7 3D Printers of 2020
Our editors independently research, test and recommend the best products; You can learn more about our
review process here. We may earn commissions for purchases made through the links we select.
The Rundown
Best Overall for Beginners: Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer at Amazon
"Best 3D printer on the list as an introductory unit."
Best Overall for Experienced Users: Makergear M2 at Amazon
"Praised for its all-round solid engineering.
"
Best Budget: FlashForge Creator Pro at Amazon
"Absolute best value for the money."
Best for Beginners: Monoprice 13860 Maker Selected 3D Printer V2 at Amazon
"The Maker Select assembles with just 6 screws."
Best Simple Design: LulzBot Mini at Amazon
"Notable for its simplicity and reliability—you can just plug it in and get started."
Best for 3D Printing Pros: Formlabs Form 2 at formlabs.com
"Resin printer for intermediate or pro users."
Best Mini: Monoprice Mini Delta at Amazon
"Stability that's often found in larger, more expensive 3D printers."
There's something that feels inherently futuristic about bringing something physical out of the air with some of the best 3D printers out there. Although it is an oddly specific hobby, when used properly, 3D printing has a number of outstanding industrial and educational applications.
Depending on where you plan to use your 3D printer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Industrial installations will benefit from larger volume printers capable of producing large components at a rapid pace for prototyping. However, if you're using this for educational purposes, you can get by with a lower end printer as long as it has an intuitive interface.
Best for Beginners: Monoprice Select Mini
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What we like
What we don't like
The Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer is by far the best 3D printer on the list as an introductory device. Monoprice offers not only an economical option for 3D printers, but everything you would expect from other high-end models.
The Monoprice Select Mini supports all filament types. A heated build plate with different temperatures allows it to work with basic filaments such as ABS and PLA, as well as more complex materials such as wood and metal composites.
The 3D printer comes assembled straight out of the box with a full calibration and includes a PLA filament sample and a microSD card with pre-installed models so you can start printing immediately. Comes with a one year warranty.
Best for Power Users: Makergear M2
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What we like
What we don't like
The M2 from Ohio State's Makergear is a pro-level 3D printer that renowned for its all-round robust construction. The M2 has a build area of 254 x 202 x 203mm and a minimum layer height of 20 microns. This is a standard FDM printer that is best suited for ABS and PLA and comes pre-assembled, but it also has many upgrades and potential customizations to make it your ideal 3D printer. For example, there is an option for built-in controls, a dual extruder, and interchangeable nozzles.
This is not the easiest 3D printer to get started with and is quite noisy, so the M2 might not be the best choice if this is your first 3D printer.
Its design seems basic, but that simplicity becomes a strength as you can use it year after year. Once you calibrate the M2, it will produce consistently high quality prints at high speeds. As it is an open platform, you are free to use the software of your choice, such as the popular Simplify3D. A clear winner for 3D printing enthusiasts.
Top 5 Ways to Make Money with a 3D Printer
Best Budget: FlashForge Creator Pro
Provided by Amazon.comBuy on Amazon
What We Like
What We Don't Like
FlashForge0 Fantastic value for those who want to plunge into the world of 3D printing without spending a lot of money. Often described as "the absolute best value for money", the plug 'n' play setup is just one of the many reasons this FlashForge makes it onto this list. The build area of 225 x 145 x 150 millimeters, which can be used with ABS, PLA and exotic materials, provides a minimum layer height of only 100 microns.
With dual extruders, FlashForge is ready to print a wide range of experimental materials. Many spare parts are available and maintenance is quite easy.
There are some reviews that highlight noise as a notable drawback, and many reviews recommend using open source software to print over the included FlashForge software. And for £24.25, you'll want to create a space for him in your home or office before he arrives.
6 Best 3D Printers Under $500 in 2020
Best for Beginners: Monoprice 13860 Maker Selected V2 3D Printer
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What we like
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High print volume
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Compatible with various types of thread
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Very little assembly required
What we don't like
If you're just getting into the world of 3D printing, then you should consider the Monoprice 13860 Maker Selected 3D Printer V2.
While more experienced 3D printers are based on kits that require a certain level of knowledge and experience, Maker Select comes with just 6 screws. The included 2GB microSD card offers pre-loaded 3D printable models that you can try out with the PLA sample also included. And when it's over, what you want to use is up to you, as Maker Select can print with any type of 3D filament.
Large 8" x 8" build plate and 7" vertical spacing provide extra space for printing larger and more complex models than most beginner 3D printers. The heated build plate provides highly reliable printing when used with compatible open source professional software that works with Windows, macOS and Linux. Online reviews highlight readily available replacement parts if they can't be 3D printed, as well as the many upgrades you can make for more professional and sophisticated prints.
7 Best 3D printers for beginners in 2020
Best simple design: Lulzbot Mini
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com Buy on Amazon
that we like 9000,9000 Reliability - you can just plug it in and get started. The automatic leveling bed, all-metal hot end and self-cleaning nozzle make the LulzBot easy to use. It also has a strong user community behind it when you need technical support.
Not accurate compared to Ultimaker 2 at 50 micron minimum layer height. It's also significantly smaller than the Ultimaker 2, with a build area of 152 x 152 x 158mm. As an FDM 3D printer, running costs are low. It can print at temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius and the included Cura LulzBot Edition software is very easy to understand and use.
So what's not to like? The LulzBot Mini is a bit noisier than most, and unlike many printers, it requires a constant connection to a computer while printing is complete. Otherwise, it is highly recommended for beginners in 3D printing.
Do you need ABS or PLA material for your 3D printer? Check out this great list
Best for 3D printing Pros: Formlabs Form 2
Provided by Formlabs.
com Buy from Formlabs.com
What we like
What we don't like
On the other end of the scale professional resin desktop printer for medium to professional users, and the Formlabs Form 2 is the best choice for this segment. New peel function and heated tank improve print stability. The touch display and wireless control make it easy to manipulate, while the automatic resin system ensures cleanliness and less mess.
The build volume is slightly larger at 145 x 145 x 175 mm. The layer height remains at 25 µm. SLA resin printing is still much slower and more expensive than FDM, so take this into account if you plan on choosing Form 2 because you want to increase your print runs. It may be better to use Form 2 to create an excellent master and use other methods such as injection molding or resin casting to make hundreds of copies.
Consider the Formlabs Form 2 if you value a larger, high-quality resin printer with optional wireless controls to make your day-to-day life easier.
"Always check the compatibility of your printer filaments, while most printers can handle the most common PLA filament, using the wrong type can result in inconsistent print quality or potentially damage your printer." - Alice Newcomb-Bill, Trade Editor
Best Mini: Monoprisa Mini Delta
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Buy on Jet
What We Like
What we don't like
If you're looking for a professional 3D printer in a compact package, the Monoprice Mini Delta is an excellent option that won't break the bank. Thankfully, mini doesn't mean fragile, as the anodized aluminum body and 50 microlayer resolution provide the same level of stability often found in larger, more expensive 3D printers. Continuously self-calibrating, the 110 x 110 x 120mm printbed never needs alignment, ensuring prints are always properly aligned.
The real highlight of the Mini Delta is the inclusion of three motor-driven levers that write directly on the round typing platform. The approach, of course, is new, but it leads to excellent results - especially given the low price of the machine. Able to work with 1.75 mm thread and ABS and PLA materials, thread of any manufacturer will do. Setup is as easy as all the necessary controls available on the LCD and supplied on the microSD card in the box. Wireless is also an option; You can sync print controls right on your Android or Apple smartphone.
These are the 3D printing apps you need
Top 10 3D printers to buy in 2018
Our editors independently research, test and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may earn commissions on purchases made from our selected links.
Summary
- Best for Beginners: Monoprice Select Mini on Amazon, "Best Listed 3D Printer as an Introductory Module.
" - Best for Power Users: Makergear M2 at Amazon, "Praised for its all-round solid technique."
- Best Budget: FlashForge Creator Pro at Amazon, "The absolute best value for money."
- Best for Beginners: Monoprice 13860 V2 at Amazon, "The Maker Select assembles just 6 screws."
- Best Simple Design: LulzBot Mini at Amazon, "Due to its simplicity and reliability, you can just plug it in and get started."
- Best for 3D printing. Pros: Formlabs Form 2 at Formlabs, "Resin printer for intermediate or professional users."
- Best for building big objects: MakerBot Replicator 2 at Amazon, "One of their most successful models."
- Best Splash: LulzBot TAZ 6 at Amazon, "Fast high quality 3D shots."
- Best mini: Monoprice Mini Delta at Amazon, "A stability often found in larger, more expensive 3D printers.
" - Best for classrooms: Dremel Digilab 3D20 at Amazon, "Perfect for schools looking to embrace 3D printing."
Our best elections
Best for beginners: Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer
4.3 cm. Amazon See nt Walmart
View on the Amazon 9000
9000 9000
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cm. On Formlabs.com
, View on the Amazon
This 3D printer impressed our tests for how much it was used, its quality was used, its printed quality and its printed quality were used, its printed quality was used, its quality overall value: "It was able to achieve a level of fine detail that I didn't expect from such an inexpensive printer," one reviewer admitted.
