Before it was commercialized, it was in science fiction films that we had the opportunity to see what a 3D printer could do. Now it is possible to print 3D objects at home or from the office. For your information, this device appeared in the 1980s, and since then, it has never ceased to amaze us.
Moreover, the objects that can be created are becoming more and more detailed, hence the magic of 3D modelling. The Anycubic Mega-S Upgraded FDM 3D Printer is an excellent value for money and will make an excellent first printer. This model starts up quickly to save you time and is compatible with different printing materials. Equipped with a 2K LCD screen, the Anycubic Photon LCD 3D Printer in UV resin is ahead of its competitors.
Buying Guide – How to Choose a Good 3D Printer?
There is no point in using a price comparison chart if you don’t even understand how a 3D printer works. That’s the point of this buying guide for the best 3D printers. In addition to introducing you to modelling and 3D printing, this article also includes tips and tricks. What criteria should I consider when buying this type of device?
The performance of the device
One of the first things you should check is the printing speed. Expressed in mm/second, it will give you a taste of the machine’s performance. The value of the accuracy can also explain this variation. On a 3D printer, there are two types of precision, namely vertical precision, which is none other than the thickness of the filament layers, and horizontal accuracy, which is the positioning of the X and Y axes.
As an indication, the maximum thickness of the layers that a personal 3D printer will be able to handle will vary between 50 and 100 microns. The best performing models offer an accuracy of 20 microns.
To talk about performance without comparing the advantages of a single and double extrusion printer would not be honest on our part. Remember that a single-head printer will only be able to print one colour and one material at a time. On the other hand, a double extrusion machine can handle two different materials and colours.
Nevertheless, we would like to warn you that the print quality will be much better on a single-head printer. On top of that, these machines will be easier to set up.
So far, we have not yet addressed the volume of printing, although it is one of the points that should not be neglected. Generally, this volume will not exceed 1m50. A large object will take longer to be printed and may not even take shape. Indeed, the risks of printing failure will be high. If you have this problem, try resizing your artwork, and everything should be fine.
Supported materials
The material(s) you will need to use will depend on the printer. This information is often mentioned in the device description. On the market, there are seven types of consumables which are PLA or Polylactic Acid filaments; ABS called Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, polycarbonate, nylon, PET or polyethylene terephthalate, TPE commonly called flexible filament and polypropylene.
Each of these materials requires a different tray and extrusion temperature, printing speed and ventilation level. Also, there are advantages and disadvantages to their use. Take PLA filaments, for example.
Easy to use, this material does not require a heating platen. It is also a very robust material with a low risk of deformation. On the other hand, PLA does not tolerate heat and humidity. ABS, on the other hand, is highly resistant to impact, sanding and painting. However, a heating plate is required for its use. Besides, Styrene-Butadiene Acrylonitrile is not biodegradable.
Cutting software
This program will allow you to create your objects and adapt it to your machine. This way, you will be able to make retouches if a detail does not suit you. There are many licenses available, but what you will need to remember is whether or not the software is compatible with your computer and printer, and how easy it is to use.
Some licenses like SliceCrafter or IceSL are only for advanced users while Z-Suite and Tinkerine Suite are for the general public. By following our advice, you will progress faster in 3D modelling.
Now that you know how a 3D printer works and what are the primary purchasing criteria you should consider, we will now guide you to better products and help you find out where to buy a new 3D printer.
1. Anycubic Mega-S Upgraded FDM 3D Printer
The quality of a printout depends mainly on the printer configuration. Supporting TPU, PL, ABS as well as hip and woods, the Anycubic Mega-S is a versatile model. Based on the FDM modelling technology, it will be able to print reasonably complex parts, tools, but also templates and fasteners.
With an operating accuracy of X/Y 0.0125 mm and Z 0.002 mm, a printing speed between 20 and 100 mm/s and a travel speed of 100 mm/s, this model remains the most powerful of its generation.
In terms of design, this printer integrates a 0.4 mm diameter nozzle. Note also that it can reproduce a layer from 0.05 to 0.3 mm thick. Solid, its frame is entirely made of metal.
On top of that, it includes a suspended filament holder, which simplifies its storage. All settings are made on a TFT touch screen. Through the description of the Anycubic Mega-S, you should know how to choose the best 3D printers of 2022.
Pros
- Easy to use: All instructions are straightforward to understand.
- Solid: The metal structure of the printer will withstand shocks and will last over time. Touch screen: The touch screen makes navigation much smoother and more enjoyable.
- Easy to feed: Filament loading is a breeze. This is due to the location of the holder which, let’s recall, is suspended.
Cons
- Heavy: The weight of this printer is around 11 kg.
2. Anycubic Photon LCD UV Resin 3D Printer
Of all 3D printer manufacturers, Anycubic is the only one that offers models that combine modernity and efficiency. Being at the cutting edge of technology, these machines benefit from the latest functionalities, as shown in this model.
Using 405 nm photosensitive resin as printing material, this device will be delivered with a pair of rubber gloves, a mask and a scraper. Concerned about user safety, Anycubic is the best brand of 3D printers at the moment.
With its 2.8-inch touch screen, you will be able to follow the printing progress. Also note that the display will be at high resolution, i.e. 2k. The printing speed is 20 mm / h with a layer resolution of 25 to 100 um.
For information, the nominal power of this printer is estimated at 40 Watts. Whether you are a novice or an experienced user, this model will give you complete satisfaction. Thus, you now know which 3D printer to choose.
Pros
- Easy to use: On the Anycubic website, there is a tutorial that explains in detail how to use this device. Moreover, it is compatible with the Photon slicer software.
- Functional: Half a litre of resin will be provided by the manufacturer. This quantity will allow you to familiarize yourself with the machine and start printing.
- Convenient: This printer is large enough to accommodate a rotating solar display.
Cons
- A non-adjustable arm: The resin compartment is located at the top and much too close to the arm, which does not facilitate its use.
- Does not recognize all USB keys: Some USB keys are not recognized by the printer.
3. Comgrow Creality 3D Printer Series Ender 3
Since everyone is looking for the best 3D printer on the market, we have compiled a list of machines that might be of interest to you. Operating with FDM technology, the nozzle of this printer reaches a maximum temperature of 255°C.
The bed can be raised to over 110°C. This machine is also capable of resuming printing that has been interrupted due to a power failure. By using a 1.75 mm PLA filament, this machine will print at a speed of 180 mm/sec.
Supporting STL, obj and NC programming files, the Ender 3 is often presented as the best 3D printer.
Regarding its operation, this model has both online and offline modes. As far as accuracy is concerned, the margin of error is estimated at ± 0.1 mm. As a reminder, this printer is equipped with a 0.4 mm diameter nozzle and develops a power of 360 Watts.
Pros
Easy to assemble: Having taken the time to read the user manual, the assembly will be done in less than an hour. Moreover, the process is very well explained.
- Very solid: Designed with quality materials, this equipment has an excellent frame. Printing is done quickly and with a tiny margin of error.
- Economical: From a bench to objects such as SD cards to decorative items, the Ender 3 can print almost anything. Also, its consumption per PLA roll is moderate.
Cons
Suitable only for PLA: As this is a thermal printer, the hotel is only ideal for PLA.
4. Kingroon 3D aluminium printer with touch screen
From the creation of the first 3D printer until now, this device has never gone out of fashion. The research on how to buy a 3D printer with better value for money continues to grow. Equipped with a 2.4-inch LCD and touch screen, this model is part of the latest generation of 3D printers.
In terms of size, this machine measures 320 x 273 x 370 mm. As for the nozzle, its diameter is estimated at 0.4 mm. It is easy to use and works with 1.75 mm PLA filament rolls.
In terms of format, this machine recognizes G-code, OBJ and STL files. High performance, the maximum printing speed is measured at over 150 mm/s with an accuracy of ± 0.1 mm.
For a cheap machine, it is still very efficient and can compete with its competitors. As far as file transfer is concerned, you can use either a USB stick or an SD card.
Pros
Simple to use: The interface is intuitive, making navigation and settings even more comfortable. In all, the printer has six mounting screws, which isn’t a lot.
- Rugged: Since the frame is made entirely of aluminium, it will last as long as a high-end printer.
- Well packaged: The packaging is both well finished and sturdy. And the instructions in the package insert are easy to follow.
Cons
Weak quality SD card: The SD card that comes with this machine is not at all reliable. Formatting will not change it much.
5. Labs Mini 3D printer X1
Where to buy the best 3D printer when you’re about to order your first machine. It will all depend on your budget, but also on the items you plan to print. With a flexible construction plate and a volume of 100 x 100 x 100 mm, this version produces quality objects. The extruder developed by Labists has a precision of 0.05 mm, which considerably reduces printing defects.
Despite its dimensions of 450 x 400 x 500 mm, this device is still easy to move and transport. Silent, this machine integrates three motors controlling the movement of the X, Y and Z axes, respectively. To reach a temperature of 180°C, this printer takes only 3 minutes.
Note also that it is recognized by computers running under Windows, but also by Macs. Easy to assemble, the assembly will be done in less than half an hour. On top of that, it is considered to be the cheapest model of the moment.
Pros
Easy to use: The software that performs cutting and printing is easy to use. Moreover, it recognizes files that are published on the internet. From an aesthetic point of view, the prints remain convincing.
- Robust: Whether it is the motor or the frame, nothing has been neglected by the manufacturer. Very discreet, this printer does not produce noise.
- Easy to configure: The platform setting should not be a problem for you. Note also that Labs has made its printer easy to assemble.
Cons
Fixed support: The tray is not adjustable.
