Dealing with 3D printers can be a pain, whether it be deciding which machine to buy, setting up the device, or printing out your creations. Luckily for you, we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed down the best 3d printers of 2021.
Our Best 3D Printers Choices In 3 Different Price Ranges
Contents
Considerations When Choosing A 3D Printer
- Size of the printer: Cost and space constraints can make certain 3D printers unusable for you.
- Quality of the printer: The quality of print is important to assess. The better the print, the more expensive it is. You’ll need to determine what’s most important.
- Speed: Speed can vary greatly depending on your needs but it might be something to factor in when you’re making your decision. You will want to consider the amount of time you might need to print something; for example, if you need a small part for an electronic device or a finished piece of jewelry. Ask yourself your goals and what you’re using your printer for and look for printers that can accommodate those needs.
- Design criteria: Before you buy a printer, try to get as much information about its capabilities and abilities. Ask questions and try some 3D prints of the printer in action or bring sample data with it to see how it prints. Don’t be afraid to ask about the machine’s hardware capabilities.
- Also, you must look at the types of materials the printer can print with, the software it works with, and its overall ease of use. The more expensive printers are generally easier to use and work faster; however there are also great beginner-friendly options that have good 3d printers reviews that can produce quality prints in small batches.
Our Higher End Best 3D Printers Recommendations
LulzBot Mini 2
Its compact frame retains the Mini’s signature appearance, with a polished stainless steel top and an aluminum frame. The motorized Mini 2 has a smaller build volume of 150 mm x 150 mm x 150mm and weighs just under 3 kg. Like other LulzBot printers, the Mini has an open design for easy maintenance.
For a printer of this size, the Mini 2 has a wide range of hardware and software features that can help you learn as you print. The machine comes standard with a touch screen interface that includes a web-based control panel for printing instructions and a built-in Arduino shield for extending the functionality of your printed circuit boards.
Pros:
- The printer is stocked with features that make it a favorite for many different applications.
- The Mini 2 printing head moves quickly, which helps it to produce quality work without much wait.
- It has a versatile design that can fit into small spaces.
- It has an open frame design for easy maintenance and access to all of the internal components of the machine.
- This 3D printer does not require assembly, which saves time in the operation process. It also comes with an instruction manual, so there’s no need to spend hours figuring out how the printer works before you start creating your first project.
Cons:
- It has a small build volume, which could be limiting for many designs.
- The printer head is dual extrusion, so it has a limited number of filament options.
- The user interface is not as simple as some other 3D printers on the market.
MakerBot Replicator
You can use any material you like to print with the MakerBot Replicator. It has a heated bed for ABS, PLA and other materials. The Replicator is a single spool printer that has a smart chip that prevents you from overloading it and making it crash. A dial on the front of the machine allows you to adjust printing settings according to how much filament you are using. This feature also lets you use an external filament spool for even more control over your print job.
Pros:
- It can print large objects, which many other 3D printers cannot do.
- It is easy to set up and operate, so you are able to start printing quickly.
- You can use any material that you want with the Replicator; it has a heated bed and smart chip that makes it easier than ever before.
- You have more control of the printer because of the dial on the front that allows you to adjust settings according to how much filament you’re using.
Cons:
- There are sometimes errors and problems with the software when using it.
Dremel DigiLab 3D45
Dremel DigiLab 3D45 has an automatic bed leveling system that ensures perfectly aligned parts. The powerful motor has brushes that are made from stainless steel and high-end carbon. There is a display in the interface to monitor the print job. This machine has a USB port for easy connectivity and its complete set includes a stand, an LCD, and two extruder heads for different materials. It also has a projector to ensure that the printing process is done exactly as required.
Pros:
- It’s fast, with print speed up to 300mm/sec.
- The bed size is 400mm (15.75″) x 280mm (11″), which can print parts as large as 400 x 280 x 340mm.
- The maximum build volume is about 300 cubic inches (9L).
- It has a heated build platform, which can be set to 60C/132F, adjustable in 1 degree increments.
- The extruders are clog resistant.
- It comes with a 3 year manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- No included USB cable.
- Unable to print PLA parts without modifications to the extruder cooling fan and nozzle diameters.
Ultimaker S5 3D Printer
This 3D printer works by extruding melted plastic filament or other materials through a nozzle(s) to build up a solid three-dimensional object from the bottom up. Its advanced and modular design allows for printing in multiple materials, or using multiple materials at once.
High resolution printing via Ultimaker HD print head(s) and extruder with Ultimaker S5 print head mounted on an aluminum alloy frame. Heatbed with integrated cooling fan and auto-leveling for best surface quality. Spool holder and filament guide can be reversed to accommodate 3mm, 5mm and 6mm plastic filaments. The color of the filament spool holder can also be changed to match your other printer parts. Otherwise just a good quality plastic label holder. It works well.
Pros:
- Advanced and modular design for multiple material printing.
- Advanced print core components, with an optimized nozzle that provides a more reliable 3D printing experience.
- Online support available 24/7 from the Ultimaker Learning Center and the Community Forum.
- Top quality prints even when using third part filament brands.
Cons:
- Feed port design may be smaller then other models in this price range.
Raise3D E2 Desktop 3D Printer
The printer is the first desktop 3D printer that uses Heated Bed Slots and the heated bed is a standard feature of most 3D printers, but no other desktop printer can provide you with the flexibility of being able to change out your heated bed for a different material or size without any modifications.
The Raise3D E2 comes with a USB cable and Power Supply, and an SD card with preloaded software. The E2 can also attach to your computer via USB or Wi-Fi. And it comes with the Raise3D Wizard that provides a simple, intuitive interface for easy printing.
Pros:
- The machine is well designed and built with an aluminum core frame and plate to provide excellent stability throughout its operation.
- Dual layer cooling fan and electronics are contained within the aluminum core frame for enhanced rigidity.
- Parts can be printed at a very detailed resolutions of up to 50 microns, or 0.050 millimeters.
- High quality build plate with the Raise3D Anti-Vibration Alignment Technology that helps to provide a faster and more precise printing process.
Cons:
- The included power supply unit is small and may not be enough for some enthusiasts.
- A standard USB connection cable is included, which could be an issue for some users.
Our Mid Range 3d Printer Recommendations
Anycubic Photon Mono X
Pros:
- It has a print speed of 100mm/s, which is quite fast for a mono-extrusion 3D printer.
- The machine is well built and made from top quality components such as the heated bed with an aluminum plate to provide better stability and rigidity.
- It has a switchable nozzle, which can be changed according to various filament shapes and sizes.
- The power supply for the printer is included in the package.
Cons:
- It does not come with any instructions on how to assemble the machine.
- It can be difficult to get the machine to recognize your computer USB port.
Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 3D Printers
Pros:
- It is compatible with a wide variety of materials, including ABS, PLA and HIPS.
- It has dual extruders that are perfectly designed to work together.
- It comes with the necessary power supply to start printing right off the bat.
- The heated print bed allows you to easily print with ABS or PLA materials.
- The machine has an auto-leveling system so that you can avoid any errors or complications when printing.
- It supports dual extruder printing, which is a feature not found on many 3D printers that are in the same price range.
Cons:
- The print capacity of the sidewinder X1 v4 can be too large at times.
- The build plate of this machine can heat up pretty quickly.
FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro2
Pros:
- The machine comes with a heated build platform, which you don’t normally find in 3D printers at this price point.
- The printing speed is top notch, with a resolution of up to 20 microns per layer or 0.002 millimeters.
- It has an LCD screen with a control panel that allows you to easily monitor the printer status.
- The package comes with a power supply and everything else you need to get printing right away.
Cons:
- It doesn’t come with any instructions on how to assemble the machine.
QIDI TECH 3D Printer
Pros:
- The machine is super simple to operate and set up.
- The prints come out at a resolution of up to 75 microns, or 0.075 millimeters.
- The printer can handle multiple materials such as ABS, PLA and Wood.
- It has a four color gantry system for even more 3D printing versatility.
- Printing from SD cards is simple because the controls are very user-friendly and easy to navigate.
- You can print using a PC or you can even use your smartphone if you prefer.
- The printer is fully enclosed to help protect it from damage during operation.
Cons:
- The machine may start to wobble on its axis after a while. This is something that could be remedied by making sure that the bolts are tightened every once in a while.
Monoprice Voxel 3D Printers
Pros:
- The machine is very easy to set up.
- The printer comes pre-assembled, which means that you don’t have to worry about anything else when you buy it.
- It uses Dual Extruders for printing faster and with better results.
- The machine has a built-in SD card slot so you can load files directly from the printer.
- The printer features a large build plate for printing bigger objects.
- It has an LCD screen and straightforward controls for easy navigation.
- Dual Extruders allow you to print out two materials at once, which increases your productivity and decreases your time spent waiting for prints.
- The printer is enclosed and features a lock and key, which allows you to keep it secure when not in use.
Cons:
- The machine may start to wobble after a while. This can be remedied by making sure to tighten the bolts on the machine every once in a while.
Our Budget 3D Printer Recommendations
XYZ da Vinci Nano
Pros:
- The printer has a silent printing process that adds to the user experience.
- It comes with an SD card slot so you can load designs with ease.
- It’s super simple to use and operate, which allows you to get started right away.
- The printer heats up within minutes of being turned on, which allows quicker printing times overall.
Cons:
- The print speed is relatively slow.
Polaroid PlaySmart 3D Printers
Pros:
- It’s very easy to set up and use.
- It comes with everything you need to get started right away, including two cartridges of PLA/ABS filament in assorted colors of your choice.
- The print speed is relatively fast.
-This machine features WiFi connectivity for better results.
-The PlaySmart has a temperature control system, which allows you to adjust temperature setting according to the filament material you’re using.
-It’s compatible with several operating systems, including Windows XP or later versions and Mac OS X 10.6 or later versions.
-It comes with a 12 month warranty on parts and labor.
Cons:
- The machine can be a bit noisy when printing.
Creality Ender 3 Pro
Pros:
- The machine has an LCD screen that allows you to monitor the printer status.
- It comes with two different types of hotends, which allow you to print with ABS or PLA materials, as well as PVA and HIPS.
- The printer can handle a wide variety of filaments, such as ABS and PLA.
- Its print speed is very fast.
- It has a heated build plate to ensure that the print comes out with an optimal finish.
Cons:
- The print bed isn’t 100% flat, which can cause problems with printing accuracy.
Flashforge Finder 3D Printer
Pros:
- It comes with an SD card slot for loading files right from the printer.
- The machine has an LCD display with straightforward controls for easy navigation and monitoring of prints.
- The Finder has a heated platform that allows you to print out objects with materials such as ABS and HIPS.
- The only thing you’ll need to make is a 2A power supply.
Cons:
- The print bed isn’t 100% flat, which can cause problems with printing accuracy.
ANYCUBIC Mega S 3D Printer
Pros:
- The Mega S is compatible with Windows XP or later versions and Mac OS X 10.8 or later versions.
- It features an LCD screen that allows you to monitor the print process without a problem.
- The machine comes with a built-in SD card slot for loading files on the go.
- It has a heated print bed that can reach up to 120ºC.
- The machine prints out at a resolution of 0.15mm.
- It features eCloth PLA filament with a resolution of 25 microns, which is great for professional results.
- With dual extruders, you can print out two materials at once, which increases your productivity and decreases your time spent waiting for prints.
Cons:
- The printer may start to wobble on its axis after a while. This is something that could be remedied by making sure that the bolts are tightened every once in a while.
Conclusion On These Top 3D Printers
This article has given you a list of the best 3d printers on the market. The top 3d printers have been discussed in detail, with their pros and cons highlighted at the end of every section. Hopefully, you have found a 3d printer that best fits your needs. There are plenty of cheap 3d printers on the market for people who know their way around new technology like the 3D printing world. These are some of the best 3d printers and most appealing models out there, so why not consider getting one today?
