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10 Best Plug And Play 3D Printers – The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

The greatest 3D printers are the wave of the future, and it is nowhere. 3D printers are no longer a science fantasy concept. Whether you own a business that could profit from one or simply have a lot of money and want a new toy to play with, you will be glad to know that they are more affordable than ever.

There has never been a better moment to get one of the top 3D printers, considering the current and potential benefits they bring to the table.

You can use them to make whole items, spare components, or just make things for your house, workplace, or workshop. And, because 3D printing technology is accessible to almost everyone, you do not have to use one to your advantage.

Here are the top plug-and-play 3D printers to consider, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned pro. Our recommendations range in price, size, functionality, and use case, so no matter what you are searching for, you will find them here.

Keep in mind that the more expensive options are better suited for professionals, whereas the plug-and-play 3D printers are perfect for individuals who are just getting started.

What Kinds of Things Can You Print with a 3D Printer?

The following are some examples of common applications:

  •  Replacement parts or custom components are produced quickly.
  •  Making solid models for architecture, design, commercial presentations, or just for fun
  •  Customized medical equipment, such as prosthetic limb components or customized instruments and equipment

Comparison Chart

NameLinkNominationRating
Creality CR-5 ProVersatility9.5
Original Prusa i3 MK3SHigh quality Printing9.2
Flashforge Creator ProUser Friendly8.7
MakerBot Replicator PlusSpeed9.8
Qidi Tech X-One 2
Inexpensive9
Raise3D Pro2Reliability9.5
Craftbot plusHigh Precision9.3
Tiertime UP Mini 2 ESEfficiency8.5
MakerGear M2High Accuracy8.7
Ultimaker 3Powerful Printing Capability8.8

List of Best Plug And Play 3D Printers

Creality CR-5 Pro

Creality CR-5 Pro

The Creality CR-5 Pro is an all-metal, semi-enclosed FDM 3D Plug and Play 3D printer. The machine is sent fully assembled, eliminating any play that could have resulted from incorrect self-assembly.

Because of its futuristic and attractive design, this 3D printer stands out amid the rest of Creality’s offerings. It’s a good-sized computer with a sleek ivory frame that’ll look great on any desk.

Uses:

  • This simple gadget can be used for reverse engineering, rapid prototyping, and continuous quantity production of props, one-of-a-kind household goods, cookie cutters, tabletop miniatures, and more.
  • It has a huge print area of 300 x 225 x 380 mm (11.8 x 8.9 x 15 in.)
  • The printer allows you to produce dimensionally precise models with a clean surface finish at a minimum layer height of 100 microns.
  • Aside from that, there are a few key features for a simplified, stress-free 3D printing experience, such as resume printing and a filament run-out sensor.
  • The Creality CR-5 Pro comes with a high-end motherboard that has five TMC2208 ultra-silent drivers for a quiet printing experience.
  • For simple standalone operation, you can use the printer’s 4.3-inch touchscreen, which has a clean UI and crystal-clear rationale behind menu options.
  • You may also use a USB cable to connect the printer to a computer and control it remotely.
PROS:
  • Pre-assembled
  • The design is sleek and contemporary.
  • No noise
  • A more powerful cooling fan
  • The touchscreen of 4.3 inches
  • Carborundum glass print bed of the highest quality
  • Lights made by LEDs
  • Filament runout sensor
  • Printing can be resumed

CONS:
  • Automatic bed leveling isn’t available
  • The body is semi-enclosed, but you can acquire the top cover to increase the selection of materials available
  • The use of a touch screen can be problematic
  • There is no access to Wi-Fi or Ethernet

Original Prusa i3 MK3S

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This 3D printer is the successor of the award-winning Original Prusa i3 MK2 3D printer. The former extruder is rebuilt with surplus sensors. Original ...
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Model

Original Prusa i3 MK3S

Manufacturer

Prusa Research

Price Range

$ 999

Release date

2019

Country

Czech Republic

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

Max. build size

250 × 210 × 210 mm 9.84 × 8.27 × 8.27 in

Max. build volume

11.03 L

Max. print speed

200 mm 7.87 in /s

Min. layer thickness

0.05 mm 0.002 in

Dimensions

500 × 550 × 400 mm 19.69 × 21.65 × 15.75 in

Weight

7 kg 15.43 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

110W @ 110-220 V 50-60 Hz AC

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

Yes

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

Yes

Touchscreen

No

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

No

Bluetooth

No

SD card

Yes

Ethernet

No

Original Prusa i3 MK3S’s creators have created a range of printers aimed at different types of consumers due to the large number of innovations this machine has provided over time.

The printing series deserves praise for its outstanding printing outcomes. Are you new to the game? If you answered yes, don’t worry; this machine comes with secure packaging.

Uses:

  • This Plug and Play comes with two slicer software programs: Prusa control for beginners and Prusa edition for intermediates.
  • The E3 V6 hot end adds to the machine’s reliability by allowing it to handle higher temperatures.
  • Its magnetic bed is not removable, yet it does not make it difficult to pop up objects. You can easily remove the thing once it has cooled down.
  • Bond tech drive ensures a constant flow of filaments.
  • All you have to do is select the filament type and load it into the printer; the sensors will handle the rest. An automatic filament feeder feeds the material into the machine.
  • You may easily keep the printer in your room because it operates quietly.
  • If you lose power in the middle of the procedure, your work will be saved and resumed where it left off.
  • In the event of a power outage, the printer resumes operation from where it left off.
  • One of the noticeable qualities of this equipment is the ability to print layer heights ranging from 50 microns to 300 microns.
PROS:
  • The print quality is unmatched.
  • Budget-friendly.
  • An automatic filament feeder is available.
  • A heated print bed is used.
  • A big number of people can help you use this super friendly machine.

CONS:
  • It does not have a detachable print bed.
  • The print bed cannot be removed.
  • It is not a good idea to work with an open frame at home with children.

FlashForge Creator Pro

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Budget is the first thing that is important for any user and the company has just banked upon this logic by providing them a 3D printer that falls ...
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Model

Creator Pro (2016)

Manufacturer

FlashForge

Price Range

$ 699

Release date

2016

Country

China

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.011 mm 0 in

Max. build size

227 × 148 × 150 mm 8.94 × 5.83 × 5.91 in

Max. build volume

5.04 L

Min. layer thickness

0.1 mm 0.004 in

Dimensions

526 × 360 × 550 mm 20.71 × 14.17 × 21.65 in

Weight

14.8 kg 32.63 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

100-240 V | ~2amps | 50-60 Hz | 350 W

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

No

Closed frame

Yes

Dual extruder

Yes

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

Yes

Touchscreen

No

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

No

Bluetooth

No

SD card

Yes

Ethernet

No

Flashforge, which is made by one of China’s most well-known manufacturers and filaments, has wowed many users. This Plug and Play printer is a combination of affordability and technology that sets it apart from other low-cost printers.

One of the most notable features of Flashforge Creator Pro is the ability to create a large model by printing individual sections and then putting them together.

Uses:

  • The dual extruder’s distinctive feature is that the nozzles can move independently on the x-axis from one another.
  • To print with two distinct materials, two different nozzles can be used.
  • Its enclosed design features two doors, one of which can be removed.
  • Its pre-assembled parts are great for beginners and makers who don’t want to spend time putting the machine together.
  • The metal frames that provide excellent stability to the printing technology have enhanced the print speed by up to 60%.
PROS:
  • Because time is money, its pre-assembled delivery will help you save it.
  • As a result, the print quality is acceptable.
  • Dual extruders.
  • This printer is available for a reasonable price, ranging from $600-$1000.
  • Another useful feature of this printer is the heated bed.

CONS:
  • There is no auto-calibration on the printer.
  • It makes a lot of noise.

MakerBot Replicator Plus

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Equipped with Smart Extruder Plus, the MakerBot Replicator Plus is an award-winning desktop 3D Printer created for those wanting a reliable solution ...
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Model

Replicator+

Manufacturer

MakerBot

Price Range

$ 2499

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

XY accuracy

0.011 mm 0 in

Max. build size

295 × 195 × 165 mm 11.61 × 7.68 × 6.5 in

Max. build volume

9.49 L

Min. layer thickness

0.1 mm 0.004 in

Dimensions

528 × 441 × 410 mm 20.79 × 17.36 × 16.14 in

Weight

18.3 kg 40.34 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

0.76-0.43 A @ 110-220 V 50-60 Hz AC

Heated print bed

No

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

Yes

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

Yes

Touchscreen

No

On-board camera

Yes

Mobile app

Yes

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

Yes

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

Yes

MakerBot Replicator Plus is a quiet Plug and Play 3D printer with a slew of additional innovative features that make it one of the most formidable competitors among 3D printers in its class.

Uses:

  • The firm has stated unequivocally that the new edition is supposed to be 30 percent faster than the previous one.
  • For an additional fee, MakerBot offers a smart extruder that is designed to use PLA with a 1.75mm diameter.
  • MakerBot’s print quality is adequate and superior to that of most professional 3D printers.
  • The printer produces good print quality and fine details.
  • The USB port allows you to operate this machine without a desktop computer.
  • The 3D printer has a construction volume of 6.5 x 11.6 x 7.6 inches for its users.
PROS:
  • It’s simple to set up with the help of the mobile app’s instructions
  • Wi-Fi access is provided
  • Print speed is excellent
  • In comparison to its predecessor, it has a larger build volume

CONS:
  • There are concerns with the USB port’s connectivity.
  • Limitation on the use of third-party filaments
  • It’s unsafe to use around kids and beginners because of the open design

Qidi Tech X-One 2

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Printing with the most popular 3D printing materials such as ABS, PLA, TPU is an area where this printer specializes in. Its build plate quickly ...
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Model

X-One 2

Manufacturer

Qidi Tech

Price Range

$ 298

Release date

2018

Country

China

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.011 mm 0 in

Max. build size

145 × 145 × 145 mm 5.71 × 5.71 × 5.71 in

Max. build volume

3.05 L

Min. layer thickness

0.05 mm 0.002 in

Dimensions

380 × 320 × 360 mm 14.96 × 12.6 × 14.17 in

Weight

19 kg 41.89 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

No

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

No

Touchscreen

Yes

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

No

Bluetooth

No

SD card

Yes

Ethernet

No

QIDI Technology is a Chinese company known for creating and marketing a variety of low-cost, high-capacity 3D printing devices. QIDI 3D printers are changing 3D printing since they are built for both personal and semi-professional use.

The QIDI X-one2 is an improved version of the first X-one. Like its predecessor, this plug-and-play printer comes fully assembled and ready to print right out of the box.

Because of its large enclosed structure, it is stable, safe, and quiet. It is a low-cost printer with a set of quality-of-life features that other 3D printers on the market lack.

Uses:

  • It contains a 3.5-inch touch screen that may be utilized for a number of functions. This touchscreen may be used to control the printing process as well as the temperature of the bed.
  • During the printing process, the X-One 2’s removable panel-shaped covers ensure temperature stability. Moving parts are also protected from dust and other pollutants.
  • The Qidi Tech X-One 2 is a plug-and-play 3D printer
  • On all sides, this 3D printer is well protected. Despite the lack of a top cover, this is a good thing because not all materials are resistant to temperature changes.
  • The Qidi Tech X-One 2 includes a PEI suction cup printing bed made of aluminum alloy.
  •  The printer has a USB connector and an SD card slot on the back for connecting to the X-One 2.
  •  The Qidi Tech X-One 2 is a Fused Deposition Modeling printer with a build volume of 145 mm * 145 mm * 145 mm
PROS:
  • It offers exceptional customer service.
  • This 3D printer’s aluminum frame is well made.
  • The X-One 2 is delivered completely assembled, making setup a pleasure.
  • The print quality of parts and working prototypes is exceptional.
  • On the printer, there is a touchscreen interface.
  • It has a print bed that can be readily leveled.
  • There is an odd pause and resume function in this game.
  • The Qidi Tech X-One 2 is compatible with third-party slicers.

CONS:
  • The printer’s build size is limited.
  • There are adhesion issues with the printer’s stock build plate.
  • The printer’s documentation is highly ambiguous in certain areas.
  • It is tough to load the Qidi Tech X-One 2 filament.

Raise3D Pro2

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If you are looking for a professional 3D printer that costs below $10000, Raise 3D Pro 2 can be your go-to. Not only does the printer offers large ...
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Model

Pro2

Manufacturer

Raise3D

Price Range

$ 3999

Release date

2018

Country

United States

Availability

Available

Classification

Professional

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Carbon fiber and composites, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.0125 mm 0 in

Max. build size

305 × 305 × 300 mm 12.01 × 12.01 × 11.81 in

Max. build volume

27.91 L

Max. print speed

150 mm 5.91 in /s

Min. layer thickness

0.01 mm 0 in

Dimensions

620 × 590 × 760 mm 24.41 × 23.23 × 29.92 in

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

100-240 VAC | 50/60 Hz

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

No

Closed frame

Yes

Dual extruder

Yes

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

No

Touchscreen

Yes

On-board camera

Yes

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

Yes

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

Yes

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

No

Raise3D is an award-winning brand that, while not defying the 3D printing industry’s general design trend, has upgraded its equipment enough to catch your eye. The Pro2 is a desktop plug-and-play 3D printer with a big print area designed for professionals.

Uses:

  • The Raise3D Pro2 3D printer’s two gear-powered extruders have been completely overhauled.
  •  The 3D printer comes with a V2 hot end. This nozzle head will reach temperatures of around 300° C.
  •  It is no surprise that the 3D printer’s print bed is magnetically swappable. Makers can change the build plate as needed without generating any problems with the device.
  •  This 3D Printer is capable of a wide range of tasks, from small details to big designs.
  •  One of the most crucial components that protect user safety is the HEPA filter. The filter is capable of removing more than 90% of dust and pollutants from the system, ensuring the makers’ safety.
  • This printer can print heat-sensitive materials like ABS and HIPS.
PROS:
  • The Pro 2 has a reliable and strong frame.
  • Even with a 0.2mm nozzle, the printer can achieve 10-micron layer resolution.
  • This 3D printer is pre-calibrated and comes with two print heads.
  • The touchscreen control interface is rare for FDM 3D printers in this price range.

CONS:
  • The program that is used to utilize this printer has a few difficult settings.
  • The Pro 2’s app has been criticized for being difficult to use. This is especially true when it comes to temperature controls.

Craftbot Plus

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Easy to operate, has huge potentials, and developed for the beginner as well as advanced users, the Craftbot Plus is a fairly large printer with many ...
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Model

CraftBot Plus

Manufacturer

CraftUnique

Price Range

$ 1099

Release date

2015

Country

Hungary

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.04 mm 0.002 in

Max. build size

250 × 200 × 200 mm 9.84 × 7.87 × 7.87 in

Max. build volume

10.00 L

Max. print speed

200 mm 7.87 in /s

Min. layer thickness

0.1 mm 0.004 in

Dimensions

400 × 360 × 370 mm 15.75 × 14.17 × 14.57 in

Weight

14 kg 30.86 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

No

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

No

Touchscreen

Yes

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

Yes

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

No

This is one of the greatest plug-and-play 3D printers. It’s quite simple to use. You’ll be able to open the package and start printing your first print in minutes.

Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the features of CraftBot PLUS will allow your creativity to flourish. It has the same effect on everyone!

Uses:

  • Its plug-and-play design includes an inbuilt LCD touchscreen for monitoring and controlling prints.
  • It also works with meta controls to provide the greatest 3D printing experience possible.
  •  The build volume of the CraftBot PLUS is outstanding at 250 x 200 x 200, which is very usual for a machine of this size.
  • It confidently employs the entire build volume. The build plate itself distributes heat evenly. So that printing materials such as ABS do not pose a problem for CraftBot PLUS.
  •  The nozzles and bed calibration are adjusted manually. Three thumbscrews are needed to level the bed in order to achieve a perfect print. This simple yet efficient leveling technique is maintained by repeatedly removing and replacing the build plate, ensuring that it will remain rock solid for many prints.
  •  It has an aluminum heated build plate as well as a removable plate. The build plate can be removed, cleaned, and reinstalled.
  • It can print at low resolutions of up to 100 microns, with any number you choose in the slicing software.
  •  G Code can be loaded with a USB drive or by using their software to link it to your computer.
  •  The system can be controlled using either USB-connected software or a vivid responsive touch screen with logical iconography.
  • It’s a fantastic machine for industries, print shops, and education, especially at its price point. CraftBot PLUS is usually a good option if you want a rock-solid printer, and it ranks high on the list of top budget 3D printers.
PROS:
  • Exceptionally reliable
  • Handling is simple
  • The most versatile user interface
  • Scratch-resistant

CONS:
  • A little too loud and hefty
  • While printing is in progress, it is not possible to make changes to the print parameters

Tiertime UP Mini 2 ES

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Said to be a mid-range desktop 3D printer for beginners, Tiertime UP Mini2 ES has some amazing features that put printers that are available at price ...
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Model

UP Mini 2 ES

Manufacturer

Tiertime

Price Range

$ 599

Release date

2018

Country

China

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.1 mm 0.004 in

Max. build size

120 × 120 × 120 mm 4.72 × 4.72 × 4.72 in

Max. build volume

1.73 L

Max. print speed

200 mm 7.87 in /s

Min. layer thickness

0.02 mm 0.001 in

Dimensions

255 × 365 × 385 mm 10.04 × 14.37 × 15.16 in

Weight

7.5 kg 16.53 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

110-240VAC 50-60Hz 90W

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

Yes

Closed frame

Yes

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

No

Touchscreen

Yes

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

Yes

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

Yes

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

Yes

This printer uses Melted Extrusion Modeling technology. It can be a treasure for both makers and novices. It has a limited number of settings yet produces high-quality prints and can deal with a variety of materials to achieve better results.

Functional prototypes can be made out of ABS and PLA. This Plug and Play printer is highly suggested for beginners who want to join in on the fun because it is a complete plug-and-play 3D printer.

Uses:

  • This printer is totally enclosed, with only one front door and one back door, which helps to keep the environment at a comfortable temperature.
  •  Working with ABS has certain health risks because of the toxic vapors it produces, but if you use the Tiertime UP Mini 2 ES, you won’t need to operate in a ventilated area because it’s BUILT-IN HEPA filter eliminates 90% of the harmful fumes.
  •  The HEPA filter is supplemented by a carbon filter, which improves the printer’s reliability.
  •  It has a build volume of 120 mm x 120 mm x 120 mm.
  • A printer with a removable print bed is more user-friendly, and this one does precisely that for under $1000.
  •  Two different filaments at two different timings can be utilized in the same print.
  • One of the most important requirements is automated calibration and this printer offers that.
PROS:
  • This machine stands out due to its automatic material detection.
  • It is easily affordable.
  • HEPA and a Carbon Filter are included with this machine.
  • The printing quality has been improved even more.
  • Standard and flexible materials require different build plates.

CONS:
  • Your task will be tougher if you have a limited build space.
  • There isn’t any advanced software available.

MakerGear M2

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Recognized as one of the most popular home-use machines, the MakerGear M2 3D printer has a lot of amazing functionalities that give it an edge over ...
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Model

M2 (Kit)

Manufacturer

MakerGear

Price Range

$ 1475

Release date

2013

Country

United States

Availability

Available

Classification

DIY/Kit

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, PLA

Filament diameter

1.75 mm 0.07 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.01 mm 0 in

Max. build size

203.2 × 254 × 203.2 mm 8 × 10 × 8 in

Max. build volume

10.49 L

Max. print speed

200 mm 7.87 in /s

Min. layer thickness

0.1 mm 0.004 in

Dimensions

500 × 500 × 500 mm 19.69 × 19.69 × 19.69 in

Weight

12.7 kg 28 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.35 mm 0.01 in

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

No

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

No

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

No

Touchscreen

No

On-board camera

No

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

No

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

No

The MakerGear M2 is similar to the Upbox in that it has a metal frame, a heated print bed (up to 110°C), and an 8 x 8 x 10 in the build area. It does not, however, come with an enclosed casing or software.

Although Simplify3D is recommended, you can use whatever modeling platform you like. Aside from the specs listed above, the M2 has 4-point leveling, a single/dual extruder, and is made of aluminum.

Uses:

  • MakerGear is easy to use.
  •  Connect via USB (or SD card), perform initial setup, and upload your 3D model—the M2 is arguably the only 3D printer on this list that comes close to being plug-and-play or set-and-forget.
  •  It comes with a copy of Slic3r and Pronterface, two open-source software that is both free.
  • Extra extruders, filament spools, and LCD screens may all be added, and spare components are also available on the Makergear website.
  • With a base temperature of 110°C, this printer is capable of printing even materials that require a lot of heat.
PROS:
  • Affordable
  • Easy to uses

CONS:
  • Loud

Ultimaker 3

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Being a new generation machine, Ultimaker 3 boasts of having dual extruders and a lot of other supporting features to help its user scale their ...
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Model

Ultimaker 3

Manufacturer

Ultimaker

Price Range

$ 3295

Release date

2017

Country

Netherlands

Availability

Available

Classification

Desktop

Technology

Extrusion (FFF- FDM…)

Material

ABS, Other plastics, PLA

Filament diameter

2.85 mm 0.11 in

OS compatibility

Linux, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows

Generic material

Yes

XY accuracy

0.0125 mm 0 in

Max. build size

215 × 215 × 200 mm 8.46 × 8.46 × 7.87 in

Max. build volume

9.25 L

Min. layer thickness

0.02 mm 0.001 in

Dimensions

342 × 505 × 588 mm 13.46 × 19.88 × 23.15 in

Weight

10.6 kg 23.37 lb

Nozzle diameter(s)

0.4 mm 0.02 in

Power input

221W @ 110-220 V 50-60 Hz AC

Heated print bed

Yes

Heated build chamber

No

Automatic calibration

Yes

Closed frame

No

Dual extruder

Yes

Independent Dual Extruder

No

Full color

No

LCD screen

Yes

Touchscreen

No

On-board camera

Yes

Mobile app

No

3D scanners

No

CNC mill

No

Electronics 3D printing

No

Laser engraving

No

Conveyor belt

No

Air filter

No

Pellet extruder

No

USB

Yes

Wifi

Yes

Bluetooth

No

SD card

No

Ethernet

Yes

This computer, unlike its predecessor, has aimed to exceed all of its consumers’ expectations. After a series of promising devices for 3D printing communities, Ultimaker has unveiled Ultimaker 3.

With a dual extruder and a bevy of other capabilities to allow users to push their imagination even further, this is certainly a next-generation rig. In this price range, the Ultimaker 3 is the best FDM 3D printer, with a variety of color printing possibilities.

Uses:

  • This plug-and-play 3D printer supports dual extrusion. This implies that two colors can be printed simultaneously. As a result, making multicolor models with this 3D printer is quick and easy.
  • PVA material that is compatible with the unit is available. This means the support structure can be printed using PVA, which is a water-soluble substance.
  •  The 3D printer comes with a detachable print core. For consumers, this makes content shifting easier and more convenient.
  •  WIFI connectivity is available.
  •  Automatic Bed Leveling is included with this FDM printer.
PROS:
  • The printer generates printouts of excellent quality.
  • The Ultimaker 3 is simple to operate.
  • The printer has Wi-Fi, LAN, and USB interfaces for networking.

CONS:
  • Customers have criticized the return time of the printer.

Buying Guide

Enclosed Space

To avoid layer separation, printing materials such as ULTEM 9085, ABS, PC, and others require an enclosed chamber.

The heated bed maintains a steady temperature inside the machine, and some machines include additional heaters to keep the printing surface warm.

Volume and Speed

If speed is vital to you, choose a printer with a nice print finish. Models created with 3D printers, on the other hand, require post-processing. If you want to print multiple components at once, use a printer with a big build volume.

Reliability

What if the 3D printer continues to work for a few days before discontinuing doing so? What happens if your 3D printer breaks down now and then?

It’s also untrustworthy if the results aren’t consistent. So, keep a lookout for it and join online communities to learn more about it.

Nozzle for High-Temperature Applications

The type of 3D Printing Materials that a 3D Printer can print is determined by the temperature of the Hotend Nozzle. The E3Dv6 hotend can reach 380 degrees Celsius, but the clone hotend can only reach 260 degrees Celsius.

In 3D printing, the nozzle temperature is the most important factor. The clone Hotends come with bulb sensors, which are a little more difficult to install and have a propensity to fall out of the mounting hole, causing temperature readings to fluctuate.

Auto-Leveling Feature

This feature warns the machine if the bed is slanted and needs to be adjusted in order to achieve a smooth initial layer. It also ensures that the build plate does not collide with the nozzle.

Cartesian 3D printers require auto bed leveling due to the higher frequency of calibration. Delta Mechanism 3D Printing Machines, on the other hand, require less frequent calibration.

Connectivity

This function isn’t necessary if you only plan to buy one or two machines, but it will come in handy if you plan to start a farm.  You’ll save time looking for files in folders and be able to handle a lot more PCs with just one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is The History Of 3D Printing Technology?

The concept of 3D printing was initially proposed in the mid-1970s, and it became a commercial product the following decade. During the 1990s, more breakthroughs were made.

Is It Expensive To Run 3D Printers?

This question does not have a clear answer. The price will vary depending on the model you purchase and how often you use it. However, the following elements may be useful to consider:

  • The Cost Of Purchasing A Printer

There are a variety of models available, ranging from basic budget printers to high-end, fully-featured machines.

You should always choose the model that best fits your budget, but you should also think about the cost of spare components and replacement 3D printer parts in case you run into technical issues, such as extruder jams. Another potential future cost to consider is component updates.

  • Costs of Filament

The price of the filament varies depending on its quality and the size of the objects you want to make. A one-kilogram rolls of filament each month is likely to be required by a frequently used printer. By reducing filament waste, costs can be cut.

  • Electricity

3D printers typically use around the same amount of electricity as a residential fridge – about £60 per year. If left unattended for an extended period of time, some models will go to idle mode, which will consume electricity.

It’s impossible to give a precise amount, but a good estimate for the average annual operating costs of a mid-range 3D printer is roughly £300+.

Is It True That 3D Printers Just Use Plastic?

No. The most common fabrication material is plastic; however, some higher-end versions can also mold resins, ceramics, and even metal.

Do 3D Printers Require Ventilation?

Standard 3D printers that use PLA filament have been found to generate a mist of ultrafine particles, volatile chemical compounds, and a material called styrene, which is a component of plastic. Although no definite link has been established between inhaling this mist and illness, ventilation is recommended whenever possible.

Conclusion

There are numerous 3D printers on the market that can handle nearly every project requirement—some with high resolutions, some capable of using practically any material, and yet others with a variety of connection choices and simple software programs.

The number of plug-and-play or “set it and forget it” solutions are getting shorter. They can still be found and at practically any price point. However, there should be “standards” that apply to all of them, making them as simple to operate as a PC-connected laser printer. Onward to a world when every garage has a 3D printer!


Editorial Team

Editorial Team

Stay updated on the recent happenings in 3D Printing and be the first to know when an awesome product hits the market.

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