The best 3D printers for beginners

Even 3D printers for beginners can feel intimidating if you’re not familiar with the process. A recent 3D Printing Sentiment Index study by Ultimaker found that 71 percent are familiar with 3D printing. However, 29% businesses that are likely to use 3D printers have never heard of it. Engineers and entrepreneurs are still finding innovative ways to use 3D printing. Astronauts will use a 3D Printer on the International Space Station in order to print elements of a knee. And engineers at Columbia University, New York, have recently discovered how to reproduce a seven-layer cake. What’s encouraging is that in the last 12 years, 3D printers have also gotten more affordable.

What does a 3D-printer do exactly? Most consumer-grade 3D printers produce, or print, a three-dimensional object using a technology called “additive printing.” The process creates a three-dimensional object by building it layer upon layer using various materials, such as plastic or metal that adhere together during the process to eventually form the object. The object’s design is made from a digital design file. This is often created using computer-aided software or CAD. You’ll have to get over the initial learning curve, but watching that first print take shape can feel downright magical. The best 3D Printers for Beginners offer an easy setup, intuitive user interfaces and enough flexibility to grow along with your skill level.

How to choose the best 3D printers beginners can use

We considered several factors when compiling the list of 3D Printers that we recommend in this guide. We selected models that were easy to use, but could handle more complex tasks as you improve your skills. We also made sure the 3D printer was compatible with software so that you could create your own digital design, on which the print is based. Last but not least, we looked at the price. We selected printers under $1,000. You can spend up to $10,000 on professional or commercial grade 3D Printers. The specific choices we made are a mix of our personal experiences, specs comparisons, feedback from users, and editorial reviews.

The best 3D printers for beginners: Reviews & Recommendations

In the past 12 years, 3D printers have not just come down in price, but they’ve also become easier to use, for a number of reasons, most notably because of the involvement of the RepRap movement, which helped forge the way for the 3D-printing industry to create products that were more affordable, accessible, and reliant on open-source technology. The RepRap movement helped standardize 3D-printing technologies, which is beneficial to consumers and businesses. 

Best Overall: Creality Ender V2 Neo

Why it made the Cut: It takes a little more setup than some other models, but it’s a near ideal mix of features and value for beginners.  

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, 
• Print volume (HWD): 8.7 x 8.7x 9.8 in
• Connectivity: Micro USB transflash memory cards
• Dimensions (HWD: 17.2 x 16 x 18 inches
• Weight: 21.60 lbs.

Pros

• Cheap
• Its redesign enhances the overall experience.
• Faster than previous generation 

You can also read more about Cons

• Some people have a steep learning curve.

Creality’s new 3D printer, the Creality 3D-100, has some impressive upgrades to an already powerful 3D printer. The CR-Touch function, for example, collects bed deviation data through multiple touch points on the bed, and compensates for them accordingly. This allows for easy bed leveling. It comes with a Bowden full-metal extruder that, according to the company, allows for smooth feeding of the material through the system. 

Creality also redesigned the UI. Its new 4.3″ user interface is more readable. There is also a new buildplate: the PC spring steel magnetic plate adheres well to the model and allows for quick removal with only a slight bending of the platform.

With prints up to 8.7×8.7×9.8inches, this model can quickly produce some of the most common 3D-printed items, such as fidgets, gaming miniatures, and replacement parts.

While this isn’t the simplest model on the list (you’ll find some truly automated versions later on down the line), it isn’t prohibitively difficult to learn. It also allows users to improve their 3D-printing process and sharpen their skills as they gain experience. If you’re a quick learner, too much automation can rapidly start to feel like more of a hindrance than a help.

Because Creality is one of the more popular brands in the space, it’s also very simple to find information, communities, and discussions online to help troubleshoot issues or clear up trouble spots.

Best Upgrade: Original Prusa I3 MK3S+ 

Why it made the Cut: This 3D printer, which is very reliable and versatile, is suitable for those who have experience with 3D printing or for those learning. 

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, 
• Print volume (HWD): 9.8 x 8,3 x 8,3 inches
• Connectivity: USB and SD Card
• Dimensions (HWD: 19.6 x 221.6 x 15.7 inches 
• Weight: 15.4 lbs.

Pros

• Produces excellent quality prints 
• Very versatile
• Easy to Use
• Reliable

You can also find out more about Cons

This well-built Prusa 3D printer is for just about any user, from those just getting started to those who’ve been 3D printing for years. That’s because the i3 MK3S+ delivers high-quality results for most typical home users, time after time. But it’s not just reliable. It also produces excellent quality prints with lots of detail, which is partly due to the 3D printer’s very solid build quality, which ensures those details will render properly. The i3 MK3S+ prints with fewer mistakes than other models. 

It’s not a perfect 3D printer, though. I only had two minor complaints about the i3MK3S+. It has a 3.4-inch display that is a good size, but it’s monochrome, and not touchscreen. Other models have color touch screens. Connecting your SD card is a simple way to add the project to the machine. However, if you want to connect via Wi-Fi, you’ll need an accessory—a Raspberry Pi Zero W. 

But those quibbles aside, it’s an excellent performing 3D printer, overall. For instance, it’s compatible with Ultimaker Cura, an open-source slicing application for 3D printers, as well as Prusa’s own software, PrusaSlicer. What’s also nice about this model is you have the option to automatically calibrate it or use the Mesh Bed Leveling process to compensate for microscopic imperfections of the print sheet. Plus, it prints pretty quietly, so it won’t disturb others around you. 

Fast printing is best: Bambu Lab P1P

Why it made the Cut: Printing speed is high without sacrificing print quality.

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS, PETG 
• Print volume (HWD): 10 x10 x10 inches
• Connectivity: SD Card, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Dimensions (HWD: 15 x 15,3 x 18 in.
• Weight: 21.3 lbs.

Pros

• Fast printing speed
• Excellent print quality
• Setup is easy
• Can print multiple colors

You can also find out more about Cons

This printer may be more expensive than other models, but it can save you a lot of time. The Lab P1P clocks at more than eight times the speed of most consumer 3D printers. While most 3D printers produce PLA objects at a speed of 60mm/s (different materials will quicken or slow down the speed), the maximum speed of the Lab P1P’s toolhead is 500 mm/s, according to the manufacturer. But what’s also important to note is that even though this model has a much faster printing speed, the quality of the 3D printing isn’t affected. Such an increase in speed can be incredibly important if you’re using the Lab P1P for a small business. Of course, it’s also important no matter how you use it since no one really likes to waste time waiting around for 3D prints.

But it’s not just a 3D printer that prints fast. It’s also very capable, with a number of advanced features, including the ability to print in different colors, vibration compensation, and a camera. It also comes with Bambu Lab’s Automatic Material System (AMS), which communicates with the toolhead to ensure smooth filament feeding.

The fast print speed is accompanied by a relatively large print size. So, if you’re trying to print that Iron Man helmet for your massive noggin, this could be your savior.  

Best for printing larger objects: Anycubic Kobra Max

Why it made the Cut: This model can print larger scale objects compared to other 3D printers available for consumer use. 

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA, ABS PETG TPU
• Print volume (HWD): 17.7 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches
• Connectivity: MicroSD card
• Dimensions (HWD: 28.4 x 28,2 x 26.8 inches
• Weight: 43 lbs.

Pros

• Its large size lets you print larger scale projects
• Features automated features such as its 25-point auto-leveling function

You can also find out more about Cons

• The printing of some projects can take longer
• The unit is heavy and large 

If you need to produce projects that are somewhat larger than your average-sized 3D printer can produce, you’ll want to check out this Anycubic model. Its build volume is 17.7 by 15.7 by 15.7 inches, which is much larger than other models in this class. The larger area does have a downside, however. It takes longer to produce your item. The larger area also means more calibration work and, of course, larger prints need more filament.

The 3D printer also comes packed with other useful features: it has a self-developed Anycubic LeviQ leveling function, which uses the printer’s 25-point smart and precise calibration system in order to compensate for the heated bed unevenness automatically. According to the company’s claims, printing and leveling can be done with the simple press of a single button.

Best budget: Monoprice MP Cadet

Why it made the Cut: If you’re on a budget, this small model should fit the bill.

Specs

• Materials Supported: PLA Pro
• Print volume (HWD): 3.9 x 4 x 3 inches
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, microSD card
• Dimensions: 8.3 x 8,3 x 11.4, inches  
• Weight: 6.6 lbs.

Pros

• Small, compact, lightweight
• Quick Setup Time
• Features auto-leveling feature

You can also read more about Cons

• Small Print Volume
• Other models are more versatile

There are many 3D printers available that cost a lot. This model by Monoprice is a good choice for students and beginners. This is an easy, fast option if you want to get started printing right away without having to dive into the process. 

Despite its small size, though, it’s a solid performer: It can print relatively quickly. It’s also compatible with Ultimaker Cura, an open source slicing application for 3D printers, as well as Wiibuilder softare. This printer consistently produces prints of decent quality. However, it’s not as versatile as some other, more feature-packed entry-level 3D printers.

Expect some downsides to the low price. Print size is the main drawback, with a maximum of four inches per axis. This is our most portable printer at just 6.6 lbs.

3D printers have many uses, which is why they are available in so many sizes and with such a variety of features. They also come at a range of prices. A designer could use it to create a prototype while an educator may develop a print in order to reproduce an artifact for his history class. Artists might use 3D printing to explore the possibilities of working with a different medium. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. That’s why you need to take some time to consider the following features and capabilities before you buy your 3D printer.

Learn about 3D printing

A number of processes can be used for 3D printing. But today, the most commonly used method on consumer 3D printers is fused deposition modeling (FDM)—and all the 3D printers in this review use FDM technology. FDM printers send a plastic filament (usually from a spool inside the printer) to a heated nozzle that precisely deposits thin layers of material on the base surface in order construct the object. (In the 3D printer industry, FDM is also referred to as “fused filament fabrication”, or “FFF.”) An FDM 3D printer is pretty flexible, but if you’re looking for different results, you’ll want to research some of the other processes, such as stereolithography (SLA), which uses a resin-based method to print, or other methods.

Discover 3D Printing Materials

It’s important to learn what materials you can use with your 3D printer: The filaments used in FDM 3D printers can be made of different types of material, too. There are many materials you can choose from, but the two most common are polylactic acids (PLA) or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrenes (ABD). Replacement filament is available in spools, but make sure that the size and material are compatible with your model. Select models have dual extruders that allow you to print in two or more colours.  Adding colors adds complexity, however, so that’s out of the scope for beginner skills.

Assess your 3D Printing needs

When it comes to 3D printers, you’ll also want to closely examine and evaluate the features, specifications, and capabilities you think you’ll need. For example, if you’re looking to print objects that are a bit larger, you’ll want to go with a model with a larger print volume that can handle larger prints. Or maybe you’re looking to produce a lot of objects quickly. Then pay close attention to the printer’s speed. Additionally, look to make sure it has the connectivity options, like Wi-Fi, that allow you to work in the manner you’re expecting. 

There are other considerations you’ll want to consider, as well: 

• What is your 3D Printer’s highest resolution? The resolution is measured in microns. A lower number means more detail. Many printers default to 200 microns. Some printers can print up to 100 or 50 microns.  
• What is the difference between an open or closed frame 3D printer? Closed frame 3D printing is safer. Open frame 3D printing, however, tends to be larger.
• What’s the size and the quality of the print bed? A good surface is essential for printing, since your first print will depend on the quality of the print bed. 
• Do you have any automated features on your 3D printer? There are more and more 3D Printers that include automated features such as auto-leveling the printbed, to speed up and make the 3D Printer easier to use. 
• Do you want to design your 3D prints yourself? If so, then you’ll need software, which is known as a “slicer” to create it. PrusaSlicer by Prucer or Cura by Ultimaker are popular choices. 

FAQs

The best 3D printers: Final thoughts

Some scientists and environmentalists have long considered 3D printers a “greener choice.” However, like conventional inkjet and laser printers, 3D printers do produce waste, mainly due to the various processes used in printing 3D objects, which are most often plastic. Adding more plastic to our environment is never good. How sustainable your 3D Printer is for the Environment depends on many factors including the materials that you use. For example, PLA plastic is relatively easy to recycle, and only slightly more biodegradable than the other materials used as filaments. 

Some experts in the 3D printing industry also believe that there are fundamental aspects of 3D print technology which should benefit the Earth and its environment. One of the projects undertaken by the RepRap Movement, which has made 3D printing and technology more affordable over the last 10 years, involved the creation of self-replicating 3D Printers. The group hoped that by creating self-replicating 3D printers, they could help society as a whole and reduce waste in the global ecosystem. 

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