A Guide to the Best 3D Printers
Whether you’re a hobbyist, an educator, or an entrepreneur, a 3D printer can bring your ideas to life. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
This guide categorizes the best 3D printers of 2024 by use case, helping you find the ideal machine for your needs.
For Beginners: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
The Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo is the go-to option for first-time users, offering affordability without compromising on features.
What Makes It Great:
- Easy assembly with step-by-step guides.
- High-quality prints for an entry-level price.
- User-friendly interface and a sturdy build.
Who It’s For: Beginners and hobbyists looking to explore 3D printing without a steep learning curve.
Price: ~$280
For Professionals: Prusa i3 MK3S+
The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a trusted name in 3D printing, combining reliability and precision.
What Makes It Great:
- Exceptional print quality for intricate designs.
- Automatic bed leveling for consistent results.
- Robust support network and upgrades.
Who It’s For: Engineers, designers, and professionals who need dependable performance.
Price: ~$800
For Large-Scale Printing: Anycubic Kobra Max
If you need to print big, the Anycubic Kobra Max has you covered with its spacious build volume.
What Makes It Great:
- Massive 400mm x 400mm x 450mm build area.
- Fast printing speeds without sacrificing quality.
- Stable frame for handling larger projects.
Who It’s For: Makers creating prototypes, large models, or multiple parts in one go.
Price: ~$569
For Multi-Material Printing: Bambu Lab X1 Carbon
The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon supports multi-material printing, making it perfect for complex projects.
What Makes It Great:
- Built-in AI monitoring to detect errors.
- High-speed printing and multi-material compatibility.
- Enclosed chamber for better performance with specialty filaments.
Who It’s For: Advanced users seeking versatility and high-speed production.
Price: ~$1,200
For Resin Printing: Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra
Resin printers are known for their precision, and the Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra is a standout in this category.
What Makes It Great:
- 9K resolution for ultra-detailed prints.
- Fast curing times with updated monochrome LCDs.
- Compact design, perfect for smaller workspaces.
Who It’s For: Artists, jewelers, and anyone working on intricate models.
Price: ~$350
For Educators: FlashForge Finder 3.0
The FlashForge Finder 3.0 is designed with safety and ease of use in mind, making it ideal for classrooms.
What Makes It Great:
- Enclosed design to protect students from hot components.
- Quiet operation for distraction-free lessons.
- Intuitive touchscreen for easy control.
Who It’s For: Teachers introducing 3D printing to students.
Price: ~$399
For Budget Buyers: Monoprice Select Mini V2
The Monoprice Select Mini V2 is an affordable, compact printer that’s perfect for experimenting with 3D printing on a tight budget.
What Makes It Great:
- Fully assembled out of the box.
- Heated build plate for compatibility with more materials.
- Compact and portable design.
Who It’s For: Beginners or budget-conscious buyers looking for basic functionality.
Price: ~$220
What to Look for in a 3D Printer
1. Print Volume:
Consider the size of the objects you want to create. Larger build volumes allow for bigger projects but take up more space.
2. Material Compatibility:
Some printers work with common materials like PLA, while others support specialty filaments like ABS or TPU.
3. Ease of Use:
For beginners, look for printers with auto-leveling and straightforward setup.
4. Price vs. Features:
Determine your budget and prioritize the features most relevant to your needs, such as speed, resolution, or multi-material capabilities.
Your Path to Creation Awaits
The world of 3D printing is vast, but the right printer can transform your creative potential. Whether you’re crafting intricate models, building prototypes, or diving into a new hobby, there’s a machine suited to your goals.
Explore these top picks and bring your ideas to life—layer by layer.