Not sure whether to look at resin or filament? Visit our Ultimate Guide to Buying: 3D Printer Edition to find out which fits your style!
First off
Filaments
Filament is the material used in FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printers, where it's melted and layered to create objects. For instance, PLA (Polylactic Acid), a biodegradable plastic, is great for decorative items and prototypes, while ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), a durable and heat-resistant material, is commonly used in everyday items like phone cases and car parts. Filament comes in a variety of types, each with unique properties suited for specific applications. Let’s break down the most common options to help you choose the right material for your project.
PLA
An eco-friendly, beginner filament, ideal for prototypes, decorative items, and educational models. Its low cost and ease of use make it the most popular choice for FDM 3D printing.
Features
Biodegradable and derived from renewable resources (e.g., cornstarch). Low heat resistance (softens at ~60°C). High dimensional accuracy and minimal warping. Not suitable for outdoor use due to poor UV resistance.
ABS
A durable and heat-resistant filament often used for functional parts like phone cases, car components, and toys. It’s strong and versatile but requires careful handling due to warping and fumes during printing.
Features
High heat resistance (softens at ~100°C). Durable and impact-resistant, ideal for mechanical parts. Moderate warping; requires a heated bed and proper ventilation. Emits fumes during printing, so use in a well-ventilated space or with an enclosure.
PETG
Combines the strength of ABS with the ease of use of PLA, making it a versatile choice for durable, weather-resistant prints. It’s ideal for outdoor tools, mechanical parts, and food-safe containers.
Features
High impact resistance and flexibility. Good weather resistance and UV stability for outdoor use. Prints easily with minimal warping, but may require a heated bed. Slightly glossy finish with excellent layer adhesion.
TPU
A flexible filament known for its durability and elasticity, making it perfect for creating parts like gaskets, phone cases, and wearable items. Its stretchiness and impact resistance set it apart from more rigid filaments.
Features
High elasticity and tear resistance, ideal for flexible prints. Excellent impact resistance and durability. Requires slower printing speeds for optimal results. Moderate heat resistance (softens at ~80°C).
Nylon
A strong, durable filament with excellent flexibility, making it ideal for industrial and functional parts like gears, hinges, and mechanical components. It’s highly resistant to wear and impact, perfect for demanding applications.
Features
High impact and abrasion resistance. Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), so it must be stored in a dry environment. Moderate heat resistance (softens at ~90-100°C). Often requires a heated bed or enclosure.
PC
An extremely strong and heat-resistant filament, ideal for high-performance applications like engineering prototypes, light diffusers, and automotive parts. Its toughness and clarity make it a premium choice for advanced users.
Features
Exceptional strength and impact resistance, even at elevated temperatures. High heat resistance (softens at ~110-120°C). Naturally transparent, making it suitable for optical and lighting applications. Requires high printing temperatures and an enclosure to prevent warping.
Step Two
Your Wallet vs. Your Wishlist
3D printers come in all shapes, sizes, and price-tags. Whether you're looking for an affordable entry into 3D printing or professional-grade performance, here's what you're paying for at each price point. *Note: This guide focuses on hobbyist-level printers and excludes high-end commercial models typically costing well over $10,000.*
Entry-Level ($150-$300)
Expect decent print quality, visible layer lines, smaller build volumes, aslower speeds, and manual calibration with some noise.
Mid-Range ($300-$800)
Expect higher precision, smoother surfaces, larger build volumes, faster speeds, and features like auto bed leveling and filament sensors.
Pro-Grade ($800+)
Expect ultra-fine detail, high-speed printing, quiet operation, and advanced features like multi-material printing, integrated recording, and AI assistance.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tier
Step Three
Before You Hit Print...
Now that you've narrowed down resin vs. FDM and figured out your budget, let's talk about the final touches. From plate size to material compatibility, these key considerations can make or break your 3D printing experience. Ready to dive in?
Build Volume
The maximum dimensions a printer can create in one print, making it essential for larger projects but less critical for small-scale models or miniatures.
Print Speed
Determines how quickly your projects are completed, with faster printers saving time for high-output needs but often compromising on quality.
Layer Resolution
Defines the smoothness and detail of a print, with lower resolutions ideal for prototypes and higher resolutions perfect for intricate designs.
Filament/Resin Compatibility
The range of materials a printer supports impacts durability, flexibility, and finish, making it crucial to match materials with your project needs.
Ease of Use
Features like auto-bed leveling, touchscreen interfaces, and software integration simplify setup and operation, especially for beginners or those with limited time.
Community and Support
A robust user community and reliable manufacturer support provide invaluable resources for troubleshooting, upgrades, and improving your printing experience.
Now
Onto the Fun Part!
Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of window shopping for your perfect 3D printer. Use the insights from this guide to compare options, weigh the features that matter most to you, and find the printer that sparks your creativity. Whether you’re dreaming of intricate miniatures or functional prototypes, this is your moment to explore and discover the perfect match for your needs and budget. Happy printing!
Our Favorite FDM Printers
Entry-Level
Creality Ender 3 V2
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ Good Build Volume
- ✔ Quiet Operation
- ✔ Incredible Community Support
Cons:
- ✘ Manual Bed-Leveling
- ✘ Not Great For Flexible Filament
Mid-Range
Printer Name Here
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ High print quality
- ✔ Easy to assemble
- ✔ Affordable
Cons:
- ✘ Limited build volume
- ✘ Can be noisy
Pro-Grade
Printer Name Here
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ High print quality
- ✔ Easy to assemble
- ✔ Affordable
Cons:
- ✘ Limited build volume
- ✘ Can be noisy
Our Favorite Resin Printers
Entry-Level
Printer Name Here
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ High print quality
- ✔ Easy to assemble
- ✔ Affordable
Cons:
- ✘ Limited build volume
- ✘ Can be noisy
Mid-Range
Printer Name Here
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ High print quality
- ✔ Easy to assemble
- ✔ Affordable
Cons:
- ✘ Limited build volume
- ✘ Can be noisy
Pro-Grade
Printer Name Here
4.7 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- ✔ High print quality
- ✔ Easy to assemble
- ✔ Affordable
Cons:
- ✘ Limited build volume
- ✘ Can be noisy