Those days are past behind when 3d printing was just a futuristic dream and to the max, only limited to professionals. But now it has crossed all its boundaries and has opened the door to creativity, and the ability to make customized objects even for beginners. All thanks to the user-friendly 3D printers.
Yet, it can be challenging to choose the right 3D printer for beginners, but essential to start a smooth printing journey. As a beginner, you should choose a printer that is easy to use, reliable, and affordable.
However, today’s guide will help you to decide the best and right 3D printer for you. Just explore our recommendations and get the perfect fit for your needs.
Why 3D Printing?
3D printing is the process through which you can make three-dimensional objects from a digital file. Typically, in this process, it layers down the many thin layers of material in sequence until the object is created.
Likewise, 3d printing is becoming popular more quickly as it has made manufacturing more accessible than ever before. Not only limited to the professional, 3D printing is now promoting creativity and innovation of the beginner also. This creative technology is enabling them to bring their ideas to life.
Above all, 3D printing has many more benefits. For instance,
- Freedom in design
- More durable and faster prototypes
- Individualization and decentralization
- Fast production but cost-effective
- Minimize the waste and environment friendly
Understanding 3D Printers
As for the 3D printers, there are mainly two types available.
- One is Fused Deposition Modeling or FDM and
- The other one is Stereolithography or SLA
Let’s get to know them briefly.
First FDM printers. It builds objects layer by layer and utilizes polymers as raw materials. In addition to this, the SLA printer. It uses a UV laser to cure a light-sensitive photopolymer layer by layer and transform it into solid projects.
You know the FDM printer is more easy to use and budget-friendly than the SLA printer. The SLA printer is more complex, expensive, and needs expertise to operate. That’s why for beginners, the FDM printer is more suitable even though the SLA printer offers higher precision.
Buying Guide for Beginners: Key Considerations
No wonder, 3D printing can be exciting. But at the same time can be daunting when it is about buying a new printer. But don’t worry about it anymore. Consider the below-highlighted factors to find the best 3d printer that can meet your needs as a beginner. Check it out.
Ease of Use:
Feeling skeptical, can a beginner use a 3D printer? Yes, of course. You know, modern 3D printers are user-friendly and very easy to use. That is why beginners can use it who do not even have prior experience.
That’s why as a beginner, a user-friendly interface is the first thing you should consider when choosing a printer. Like simple controls and clear instructions.
Moreover, you should also consider the automatic bed leveling as it simplifies the setup process. The feature not only saves time but also improves the print quality.
In addition to this, filament detection is another valuable feature that prevents errors, making the printing process smoother.
Print Quality:
Another crucial thing to consider is the print quality of the 3d printer like resolution and layer height.
Here print resolution refers to the ultimate detail that a printer can achieve. The higher the resolution, the smoother the surface of the printing objects. As for the layer height, it affects both print speed and quality.
For example, when you are considering your first 3d printer, choose a printer that is easy to use, has higher print quality, and has features suitable for beginners.
Build Volume:
Coming to the next is the build volume. It is the size of the part that a 3d printer can produce.
Choose the build volume that meets the needs of your initial projects and your potential future requirements. Furthermore, as a beginner, you should consider the medium-size build volume as it can be beneficial for your variety of projects.
Print Speed:
In the printing projects, the print speed plays a very crucial role, especially for the larger projects. Although a faster printer can save time, it can compromise the print quality.
That's why as you’re just about to experience 3D printing, you should consider print quality over the print speed so that you can have a better understanding.
Connectivity:
Next is the connectivity. Generally, modern printers use USB and Wi-Fi connectivity.
While the USB is reliable and straightforward, Wi-Fi connectivity offers wireless printing and easy file transfer. In fact, both of them have their own bright side, so choose according to your needs and preferences.
Affordability:
You are starting out with your 3d printing journey. So, you should consider a 3d printer that fits your budget but doesn’t compromise the quality.
Be mindful of the potential hidden costs like the filament, maintenance, and replacement parts costs as you can add this up over time.
Customer Support and Community:
With reliable customer support, one can troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly. There are many online resources, tutorials, and communities related to 3D printers. These sites can be a great help for you to learn about 3D printing. You should look for a brand that has a good reputation for customer support.
Top 5 Best 3D Printers for Beginners
To help you with your decision-making process, here we have highlighted the top 5 best 3D printers for the beginner. Get to know every detail about them below.
1. AOSEED X-MAKER 3D PRINTER
Gateway to easy 3D printing, the best 3d printer for kids!
AOSEED Maker 3D Printer has earned its first place in our top picks list thanks to its user-friendly interface and easy setup. Just in a word, the printer is a perfect getaway for beginners and kids to step into the world of 3D printing.
While the consistent performance of the printer offers detailed and slick prints, it remains within the budget. Adding to the impressive features of the printer, it comes fully assembled, with zero hassle with the setup process. The printer has a printing rate of 160 mm/s and the precision is as fine as 0.1/0.5 mm.
As for the layer height, it is about 100 to 300 microns. The AOSEED Maker 3D Printer comes with a suite of toy-building apps, ready-to-print toys, and kid-friendly design software.
Well, need help in the 3D printing process? No worry as the AOSEED Maker offers the most powerful customer support and a thriving online community. Thus it ensures that you are never stuck at one point for long.
So, whether you are crafting toys, and prototypes, or exploring the creativity of your kids, don’t wait anymore to get the AOSEED Maker 3D Printer right away!
Pros:
- Easy to use due to its user-friendly interface
- Flexible build plate making it easy to remove the prints
- Amazing and high print quality
- Comes with design apps for the kids
Cons:
- Average speed
- Small build plate
App Support:
Kid 3D Design App:
- 15 Fun Mini-Programs
- 2 Free Design Apps
- Huge Toy Library
- One-Click Printing
Where to Buy:
AOSEED X-Maker 3D Printer on aoseed.com
2. CREALITY ENDER 3 3D PRINTER
Beginner-friendly 3D printing excellence!
CREALITY Ender 3 3d Printer is an open-source DIY kit 3D printer that will surely make you fall in love with how it’s making the prototype a breeze.
You know, the resume printing function of the printer is just like a lifesaver during a power outage. You start your project, power cuts but you get the project the same you left.
That’s just a relief!
Moreover, setting up the CREALITY printer feels like solving a future-tech puzzle that you can solve within only two hours. The layer height of the printer is about 0.05 ~ 0.35 mm and the layer resolution is 50 to 350 microns / 0.05 to 0.35 mm.
Despite the slick design, stability, and precision, CREALITY Ender 3 3d Printer can be the ticket to enter the 3d printing community for the beginner.
Pros:
- Easy and quick assembly with clear instruction
- Fastest operation
- High durability
- Rapid heating up
- Resume printing function due to stable power supply
Cons:
- Only laptop compatibility
- Interface feels outdated
App Support:
Kid 3D Design App:
3. Prusa MK4 3D Printer
Setting new standards in performance and creativity
In the world of 3d printing, the Prusa MK4 3D Printer has set a new benchmark due to its exceptional performance and amazing improvements.
This best 3d printer comes in a DIY kit version and in a fully assembled one which you just need to unpack. As for the DIY kit version, you may set aside around 8 hours but you can save around $300. The printer has a maximum layer resolution of 0.30 mm and a minimum layer resolution of 0.05 mm.
Moreover, bed leveling is a no-brainer as the printer is fully automatic, with no need for manual adjustment or adjusting Z offsets. It features simple loading filament, brimming with minor QoL flourishes, and superb printing performance.
All in all, the Prusa MK4 is a delightful machine to use but the 3d printer price is a bit expensive, $799 for a DIY kit and $1099 for a pre-assembled machine.
Pros:
- Accurate and fast
- Excellent printing quality
- Connected out-of-the-box
- Automatic bed leveling
Cons:
- Not cost competitive
- Seems a bit rushed even though 5 years of development
Where to buy:
Prusa MK4 3D Printer on Amazon and the official Prusa3D
4. Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer
Revealing multicolor creativity in 3D printing
Bambu Lab P1S creatively addresses the single-color limitation of the other printers. You can install four different color filaments at one time in the printer and can achieve 16 different colors in a single print job. The printer has a layer height of 0.1 mm and the maximum printing speed is 500 mm/s.
Additionally, setting up the Bambu Lab P1S is very easy. It will just take 15 minutes to half an hour to set up after you unbox it first. Ultimately, you can get your multicolor printer right away.
Consequently, an internal camera, the rarely clever feature of the Bambu Lab printer, lets you monitor the project in real-time. You can quickly detect the error and cancel just with the touch of a smartphone. No need to sit in front of your printer to monitor.
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy to use
- A single print can create 16 different colors
- Initial setup, within 15 minutes to half an hour
- Featured with internal camera
Cons:
- Sometimes Interface lags
- Not budget friendly
5. Entina Tina 2 Mini 3D Printer
Small size, high precision: budget 3D printing
If you want a 3D printer ready to go just need to take it out of the box, then the Entina Tina 2 Mini 3D Printer is for you. No screws, bolts, hex wrenches, or anything to deal with, and on top of that affordable and well-rated. It is an added advantage of the Entina printer.
The printer has a desktop-sized unit and is perfect for beginners and adult hobbyists alike. Moreover, the Entina printer features a clear LCD screen for easy operation, an automatic leveling bed, and can be paired with different types of software. The build volume of the printer is 100 x 120 x 100mm.
Above all, the only drawback of the printer is you can print the object more than 3.9 inches by 4.7 inches.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Excellent customer service
- Comes in fully assembled
- Easy operation
Cons:
- Operation is slow
- Limited to only small object printing
Detailed Comparison
Have a detailed comparison of the AOSEED X-Maker with other models:
- Ease of Use: When it comes to usability each of the models in our guide is user-friendly. In the case of AOSEED X-Maker, you’ll get a user-friendly interface that will be super easy to use for you.
- Print Quality: The print quality of the AOSEED X-Maker, CREALITY ENDER 3, Prusa MK4, Bambu Lab P1S, and Entina Tina 2 Mini are good enough. Bambu Lab P1S, you will get high-quality print capability with up to 16 color grades.
- Build Volume: Bambu Lab P1S has the largest build volume, followed by Prusa MK4, CREALITY ENDER 3, AOSEED X-Maker, and Entina Tina 2 Mini.
- Reliability: All printers are rated as reliable.
- Support and Community: AOSEED X-Maker is rated as having the strongest support and community. Other printers like CREALITY ENDER 3, Prusa MK4, Bambu Lab P1S, and Entina Tina 2 Mini are also have good rated as having dedicated support and communities.
Tips for Getting Started with Your 3D Printer
Getting started with your 3d printer is of course a thrilling experience. To make the experience more thrilling and smooth, here are some effective tips that should follow.
Setting Up Your Printer
Set up your printer following the below steps.
Step 1: First identify the kit whether you have pre-assembled, partially assembled, or a DIY kit.
Step 2: Now read and follow the setup instructions carefully and organize the components accurately. Attach the frame, secure the print bed, and connect the wires.
Step 3: Level the print bed and load the filaments
Step 4: Adjust the setting to make sure the printer is ready for printing.
Choosing the Right Filament
You have to choose the right 3d filament to get the desired printing quality. Many options are available for you. Among them the most common are-
- PLA filament: Easy to print and environment-friendly
- ABS filament: Excellent toughness and can withstand high-temperature
- Carbon fiber filament: Improved mechanical properties and good dimensional stability.
Basic Print Settings
Temperature, layer height, and speed are the crucial but basic settings to get started with 3d printing. You should choose the temperature precisely according to the recommendation.
Also, consider the layer height and speed. A larger layer height will print faster at the expense of dimensional resolution. Small layer height will take time but will have higher resolution.
Coming to the speed. You should choose a moderate speed for 3D printing like 40-60 mm/s. As a beginner, it will be easy for you to operate and will ensure good printing quality.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Have regular maintenance to keep the printer in good condition. You should regularly clean the filament nozzle, ensure enough lubrication, clean the fans, or check the cables.
Moreover, when you face any problems, often simple troubleshooting steps can save you from unnecessary frustration and effort. So, have a quick insight from below.
- Printer is warping
- Ensure the print bed is leveled properly and heated
- Enclose the printer
- Printer is stringing
- Adjust the printer’s retraction setting
- Ensure you’re printing at the right temperature
- Layer is shifting
- Tighten all the printer’s belt
- Lubricate the moving parts
- Over extrusion
- Check whether you’ve put the correct filament diameter
- Print slowly
- Under extrusion
- Inspect for the clogged nozzle
Benefits of 3D Printing for Beginners
Well, at this point of the discussion, let’s have an insight into the crucial benefits of 3d printing for beginners.
Educational Value
3D printing offers the chance to learn STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to the beginners.
When you have the practical knowledge of how the 3d printer works, you can also achieve knowledge of CAD or computer-aided design, geometry, and material science.
Creative Expression
For beginners like you, 3D printing is a great platform for creative expression. As it allows you to design and fabricate your own design, it enables you to bring your ideas to life.
Cost-Effectiveness
Additionally, 3d printing is also cost-effective for producing parts and prototypes. With 3D printing, you don’t need to purchase expensive components. You can design and print the objects within your budget.
Success Stories and Testimonials
We know it can still be doubtful whether it can be a success to buy a 3d printer. To help you with this confusion, let me share one of the many success stories.
In the online community site forum.prusa3d, a beginner named Mr. Shaky shares his first experience with the 3d printer. Being annoyed with the loud cooling fan noise, he decided to have a 3d printer to have a more reliable solution other than the cardboard and duct tape.
Although he faced the initial challenge with the first-layer calibration and sacrificed some PLA filament, he achieved nominal success. He admitted there were minor flaws in the results, but he won’t call anything catastrophic. Surprisingly he has achieved his primary goal in only one week.
Isn’t it amazing?
You know the experts also encourage beginners to use 3d printers. Experienced 3D printing enthusiasts highlight that persistence through challenges can offer you rewarding outcomes with 3d printing projects.
What 3D printer should I start with?
I should start with a 3D Printer. It will be easy to use and can help you with the printing tasks. For instance, AOSEED X-Maker 3D Printer. It can be the best choice to start with.
Can I teach myself 3D printing?
Of course, you can. If you search you will find guides, tutorials, and online tips that can help you to learn the basics of 3d printing. Moreover, you can also become a member of the online communities of 3D printing enthusiasts. They can assist you in every step.
Can a beginner use a 3D printer?
Yes, the beginner can use a 3d printer. Beginners find it easy and helpful with the pre-assembled model. That’s because these printers let you dive straight into the process without any added complexity.
What is the first 3D printer I should buy?
The first printer you should buy should be efficient, easy to use, budget-friendly, and reliable. For instance, AOSEED X-Maker 3D Printer. The printer is entry-level and will be perfect for the hobbyist and the beginners.
To choose the right 3d printer for you, you just need to consider several key factors. For instance, as we’ve mentioned, ease of use, print quality, and build volume.
Additionally, print speed, connectivity options, affordability, and the availability of customer support and an online community are also crucial factors worth thinking about. Do thorough research before buying one, search and compare the different models, check reviews, and gather insights for the users.
It will surely pay you off in starting your new journey with the 3d printer. Don’t wait any longer. Just buy the best-suited printer for you and explore the unlimited possibilities of 3d printing with the 3d printer that has to offer.
