The 8 Best 3D Printers for Beginners According to 10,500+ Satisfied Reviewers

From Thomasnet.com

With the 3D printing market expected to quadruple by 2027, there will be no shortage of opportunities to learn how to make new and exciting 3D creations. From streamlining the creation of prototypes for your business to producing replacement parts for your automotive shop, 3D printing is changing the future. While most of the expected increase in the industry will be from businesses, other areas are noting the upward trend, like universities, schools, and parents who are now training the next generation of 3D techs.

3D printing is the method of creating a three-dimensional object from a digital file through a layering process (usually by filament) until the object is produced. This takes place in three steps. The first step is designing your model, with most beginners starting with the free software Tinkercad that provides how-to videos, and the ability to export your design to a printable format. Almost all 3D printers come with their own software, but Tinkercad is made specifically with novices in mind. The next step, slicing, prepares your model for printing by slicing it into thousands of layers. Once it’s sliced, it can be transferred to your 3D printer via USB, Wi-Fi, Cloud, or another feature, depending on the 3D printer purchased. The speed at which the model is produced greatly depends on the quality of your printer, with more expensive printers capable of faster speeds or having dual extruders to print a model in two colors or two models at the same time.

How to Choose a 3D Printer for Beginners

One of the primary concerns for 3D printing beginners is leveling the bed on which the object will be layered. Buying an auto-leveling printer can save you time, although even auto-leveled printers can become uncalibrated, so learning the basics of leveling is recommended. Next to look for is whether your printer comes already assembled, semi-assembled, or needs complete construction. Some parents choose to buy printers that require complete assembly so their children gain more insight into how the 3D printer works, while businesses may need an almost fully assembled unit so they can get to printing as quickly as possible. In addition, the type of filament your machine uses (usually 1.75mm or 2.85–3mm versions) is of utmost importance in order to reduce the risk of jamming. Lastly, customer service will also be your best friend as you learn the ins and outs of this new technology, so look for a company that has stellar customer service reviews for being readily available and responding quickly.

Thomas’ Top Picks for the Best 3D Printers for Beginners

Our list of the top 3D printers for beginners, including for schools, small businesses, and those on a budget, has something for every novice looking to get into the hobby.

• Best Budget 3D Printer for Beginners: Creality Ender 3 3D Printer

• Best 3D Printer for Beginners for Schools: Creality Ender 3 Pro Printer

• Best Resin 3D Printer for Beginners: ELEGOO Mars 2 Pro 3D Printer

• Best Quality 3D Printer for Beginners Under $500: Monoprice Voxel 3D Printer

• Best 3D Printer for Beginners for Home: FlashForge Dreamer 3D Printer, Dual Extruder

• Best 3D Printer for Beginners for Small Businesses: FlashForge 3D Printer Creator

• Best Dual-Extruder 3D Printer for Beginners: Bibo 3D Printer Dual Extruder

• Best 3-in-1 3D Printer for Beginners : Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3-in-1 3D Printer

View the original article to learn more details about these printers.