5 best 3D printers for makers and hobbyists

3D printing
3D printing (Image via Unsplash/Gavin Allanwood)

3D printers have revolutionized the way we approach creating things. With 3D printing technology, you can turn digital designs into physical objects, making it an exciting tool for makers and hobbyists alike. The possibilities with 3D printing technology are endless. The ability to transform digital designs into physical objects has opened up a whole new world of creativity and innovation.

Whatever your needs and budget may be, there's a 3D printer out there that can help you bring your ideas to life. Let's take a look at some of the best options that are available right now.

Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's views.


Check out the 5 best 3D printers you should consider

1) Creality Ender 3 Pro ($209.00)

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The Creality Ender 3 Pro is one of the most affordable 3D printers on the market, but that doesn't mean it skimps on quality. Its rigid frames and advanced features, such as a filament-runout sensor and a resume-printing function, make it a great option for beginners and experienced makers alike. The Ender 3 Pro offers a build volume of 220mm x 220mm x 250mm.

Pros:

  • Large build volume.
  • Affordable price.
  • High-quality prints with a resolution of up to 100 microns.
  • Easy to assemble and operate.
  • Wide range of compatible filaments.

Cons:

  • May require some modification or upgrades for optimal performance.
  • Noisy operation.
  • Limited customer support.
SpecificationValue
Build Volume (mm)220 x 220 x 250
Print TechnologyFDM
Print Resolution (microns)100
Extruders1
Filament CompatibilityPLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
ConnectivityUSB, SD Card
SoftwareCura, Simplify3D

2) Anycubic Photon ($439)

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The Anycubic Photon uses a process called stereolithography (SLA) to print high-quality, highly detailed models. It has a small build volume of 115mm x 65mm x 155mm, but its precision and accuracy make it a great choice for makers and hobbyists who need to print small, intricate models.

The device also features a touchscreen interface and a UV-blocking cover to protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation.

Pros:

  • High-resolution prints with a minimum layer height of 10 microns.
  • Large build volume.
  • Capable of printing highly detailed and intricate models.
  • Easy to use with a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
  • Affordable price for a resin printer.

Cons:

  • Limited build volume compared to other options on this list.
  • Messy and time-consuming post-processing is required.
  • Resin can be expensive and may require special handling and storage.
SpecificationValue
Build Volume (mm)115 x 65 x 155
Print TechnologyResin
Print Resolution (microns)10
ExtrudersN/A
Filament CompatibilityResin
ConnectivityUSB
SoftwarePhoton Workshop

3) Printrbot Simple Metal ($599)

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The Printrbot Simple Metal is a compact and sturdy 3D printer that's perfect for makers on a budget. It offers a build volume of 152mm x 152mm x 152mm and can print at resolutions up to 100 microns. The Simple Metal also features a heated bed and an all-metal hot end, which allow it to print with a wide variety of materials.

Pros:

  • Affordable price.
  • Solid construction and reliable performance.
  • Large build volume.
  • Easy to assemble and operate.
  • The open-source design allows for customization and modification.

Cons:

  • Limited customer support.
  • Noisy operation.
  • Lower print quality compared to some other options on this list.
SpecificationValue
Build Volume (mm)152 x 152 x 152
Print TechnologyFDM
Print Resolution (microns)100-200
Extruders1
Filament CompatibilityPLA, ABS
ConnectivityUSB
SoftwareRepetier, Cura

4) Prusa i3 MK3S+ ($649)

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The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is known for its high-quality prints, thanks in part to its advanced sensor technology that can detect and correct any issues during printing. It also features a removable magnetic bed, making it easy to remove prints once they're finished. The printer can be assembled in just a few hours and offers a build volume of 250mm x 210mm x 200mm.

Pros:

  • Large build volume.
  • High-quality prints with a resolution of up to 50 microns.
  • Easy to assemble and operate.
  • The open-source design allows for customization and modification.

Cons:

  • More expensive than some other options on this list.
  • May require occasional calibration and maintenance.
  • Noisy operation.
SpecificationValue
Build Volume (mm)250 x 210 x 200
Print TechnologyFDM
Print Resolution (microns)50
Extruders1
Filament CompatibilityPLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, and more
ConnectivityUSB, SD Card
SoftwarePrusaSlicer

5) MakerGear M2 ($3,495.00)

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The MakerGear M2 is a well-known 3D printer that offers high-quality prints and a sturdy build. It offers a large build volume of 200 x 250 x 200 mm, which provides ample space for printing large objects. While it's a bit more expensive than some of the other 3D printers on this list, the MakerGear M2 is a great investment for makers and hobbyists who want a reliable and high-quality printer.

Pros:

  • Solid construction and durable components.
  • Large build volume.
  • High-quality prints with a resolution of up to 50 microns.
  • Compatible with a wide range of filaments, including PLA, ABS, nylon, and more.
  • Easy to use with a user-friendly software interface.
  • Good customer support and resources.

Cons:

  • More expensive than some other options on this list.
  • Noisy operation.
  • Limited compatibility with third-party upgrades and modifications.
  • May require some calibration and maintenance to keep it operating smoothly.
SpecificationValue
Build Volume (mm)200 x 250 x 200
Print TechnologyFDM
Print Resolution (microns)50
Extruders1
Filament CompatibilityPLA, ABS, Nylon, PET, TPU, and more
ConnectivityUSB, SD Card
SoftwareSimplify3D

Choosing the right 3D printer for your needs depends on a variety of factors such as build quality, print quality, compatibility, ease of use, customer support, and price. Each of the printers mentioned has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Careful consideration of these factors will help you select the best 3D printer for your specific needs and budget.

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