Too Many 3D Printers? Here's How to Choose the Right One

Typical price i
400.– to 1200.–

Builds objects layer by layer using a filament that is melted and extruded through a nozzle.

FDM is cost-effective and versatile, suitable for prototyping and creating durable parts with a variety of materials.

Typical price i
340.– to 570.–

Uses a laser to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic in a layer-by-layer process.

SLA offers high precision and smooth surface finishes, ideal for detailed models and intricate designs.

Typical price i
260.– to 640.–

Employs a digital light projector to cure resin, similar to SLA but often faster.

DLP provides excellent detail and speed, making it suitable for small, detailed parts and rapid prototyping.

Typical price i
320.– to 940.–

Biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch.

Ideal for beginners due to its ease of use and low warping, suitable for simple indoor objects and prototypes.

Typical price i
360.– to 1200.–

Durable thermoplastic known for its strength and heat resistance.

Great for creating parts that need to withstand higher temperatures, such as automotive components and functional parts.

Typical price i
400.– to 940.–

Combines the ease of printing of PLA with the strength and durability of ABS.

Perfect for creating strong, impact-resistant objects, making it suitable for outdoor and mechanical parts.

Typical price i
340.– to 570.–

Liquid photopolymer that hardens when exposed to UV light, used in SLA printers.

Produces highly detailed and smooth finishes, ideal for intricate models and prototypes requiring fine details.

Typical price i
400.– to 750.–

Offers a moderate level of detail suitable for prototyping and general use.

Ideal for projects where speed and cost are more important than fine detail, such as large models or functional parts.

Typical price i
290.– to 1200.–

Provides finer detail and smoother surfaces compared to 100 microns.

Recommended for projects that require a higher level of precision, such as detailed models or small intricate parts.

Typical price i
360.– to 1900.–

Delivers the highest level of detail and precision available in consumer 3D printing.

Perfect for highly detailed models or professional applications where surface finish and accuracy are critical.

Typical price i
270.– to 990.–

Allows direct connection to a computer using a USB cable for file transfers.

Ideal for stable, secure data transfer, especially when printing directly from a PC.

Typical price i
420.– to 840.–

Enables wireless connection to a network, allowing for remote access and control.

Convenient for managing multiple printers and sending print jobs from various devices without physical connections.

Typical price i
750.– to 2900.–

Provides a wired network connection for reliable and fast data transfer.

Suitable for office environments where stable connectivity is crucial for uninterrupted operations.

Typical price i
400.– to 640.–

Allows for wireless communication with nearby devices for quick file sharing.

Useful for short-range connections, enabling easy setup and operation without cables.

Recognized for producing affordable and reliable 3D printers, ideal for beginners.

Offers a wide community support network, making troubleshooting and upgrades accessible.

Known for user-friendly and durable 3D printers, suitable for educational settings.

Provides consistent performance and quality prints, appealing to hobbyists and small businesses.

Famed for cutting-edge technology and high-speed printing capabilities.

Ideal for users seeking state-of-the-art features and quick production times.

Specializes in 3D printing pens, offering a unique approach to 3D creation.

Perfect for creative projects and educational purposes, allowing for hands-on experience.

Renowned for high-precision printers and open-source collaboration.

Perfect for professional environments where precision and reliability are crucial.