3D printing is one of those technologies that is changing the way we work. Now it is no longer necessary to resort to clay and silicone to mold models or any other object, but simply load the plans and let the printer do its work. But, for the results to be up to the bar, you are surely interested in having a quality product adjusted to your needs and preferences. In this search, you will find models such as the BQ Hephestos 2 printer, which offers a work area of 22 x 21 x 9.7 centimeters in an easy-to-assemble design and with good print speed and quality. Something similar to what the Anet A8 DIY printer offers.
At a Glance:
3d Printer
BQ Hephestos 2
- Media Loader: The media loader supports the use of oversized rolls, so you don’t have to worry about running out early.
- Connectivity: The device includes a micro USB port, as well as a card reader, which makes it easy to connect the equipment or load maps.
- Cooling: The cooling of the device has been improved with elements such as an axial fan heatsink or a printed cooling nozzle.
Best Technical Grade 3d Printer
KKmoon 3D Printer Stereolithography
- Accuracy: This product has been designed to achieve high-resolution prints.
- Easy to use: Thanks to its interface, it is possible to make prints with a single click.
- Speed: The printer only needs 8 to 15 seconds to print each layer of the model.
Home 3d Printer
Anet A8 M Reprap I3 DIY
- Printing area: The printing area measures 22 centimeters on the side at the base and 24 centimeters high.
- Metal body: Its metal body adds extra quality and resistance to the printer.
- Autonomous: This model does not require a computer to connect the plans, being totally autonomous.
This product is compatible with all types of filaments, is totally autonomous in its use, and has a printing volume of 22 x 22 centimeters at the base and 24 in height, to carry out all types of jobs.
- Our Recommendation Best 3d Printers 2021
- BQ Hephestos 2
- Anet A8 M Reprap I3 DIY
- KKmoon 3D Printer Stereolithography
- Tigtak Intelligence
- XINDI QIDI TECH X-Plus
- FlashForge Finder FFF985
- Elegoo Mars ES-EL-3D
- Comgrow Creality Ender 3 DIY
- XYZ Printing Da Vinci Mini
- Buying Guide Best 3D Printers
- Print space
- Print resolution
- Material compatibility
- Printing control
- Assembling the printer
- Manufacturing materials
- How to use a 3D printer
- Review of plans
- Loading the plans
- Prepare the base
- Preparing the material and the output
- Filament purge
- Frequently Asked Questions
If you are thinking of jumping into the world of 3D printing, surely you want to know which is the best 3D printer you can find, which is efficient and of quality. And although it is still not clear which is the best 3D printer brand on the current market, the truth is that in our selection of the best 3D printers of 2021 you can find some good candidates.
Our Recommendation Best 3d Printers 2021
Let’s see what the different manufacturers put at our disposal so that your projects become reality just by dumping them on these innovative devices.
| Award | Design | 3D Printers | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3d Printer | Best Pick | Check Price | |
| Home 3d Printer | Budget Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Technical Grade 3d Printer | Staff Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Budget 3d Printer |  | Check Price | |
| Industrial Grade 3D Printer |  | Check Price | |
| Best 3d Printer for Kids |  | Check Price | |
| Best 3d Printer For Beginners |  | Check Price | |
| Best 3d Printer |  | Check Price | |
| Best Mini 3d Printer |  | Check Price |
BQ Hephestos 2
Best Pick3d Printer
Without having to leave the country, we can find the BQ Hephestos 2 3D printer. A complete model with which to carry out all kinds of jobs, even of a certain volume, thanks to a printing area 21 centimeters wide by 22 long and 29.7 high. A considerable area, but it does not affect the speed of the jobs, since the device has a printing speed of 200 mm per second.
This BQ 3D printer has other quality details such as a very resistant structure through which the extruder moves smoothly and efficiently, as well as an automatic leveling system with a quick change of the printing base for when you need it. A design that is finished with a micro USB connection, as well as a card reader, working independently and without the need for a PC.
So that the areas of your 3D work in your plans, let’s see what this modern printer can do for them.
Pros
- Media Loader: The media loader supports the use of oversized rolls, so you don’t have to worry about running out early.
- Connectivity: The device includes a micro USB port, as well as a card reader, which makes it easy to connect the equipment or load maps.
- Cooling: The cooling of the device has been improved with elements such as an axial fan heatsink or a printed cooling nozzle.
Cons
- Heated bed: Since it does not have a heated bed, you can only use PLA filaments in your work.
- Junction box: The electrical junction box, in which the connectors are located, has tight measurements that do not make the connection process easy.
Anet A8 M Reprap I3 DIY
Budget PickHome 3d Printer
The Anet A8 DIY kit is a very complete and easy-to-use product, with which it is possible to print any model with relative comfort. This product consists of a highly resistant metal structure, which generates a printing area of 22 centimeters in square format, as well as a maximum height of up to 24 centimeters.
A large space that we can manage autonomously since the product does not require a PC to function. In return, the equipment includes a good size screen and an SD card port, with which to load the plans directly on the device, without the need for anything else.
This complete printer is finished off with details such as wide compatibility with all types of filaments and materials, including 10 meters of PLA as a gift, to start printing right away.
For your 3D prints to have a good quality, you just have to trust everything that this product offers you.
Pros
- Printing area: The printing area measures 22 centimeters on the side at the base and 24 centimeters high.
- Metal body: Its metal body adds extra quality and resistance to the printer.
- Autonomous: This model does not require a computer to connect the plans, being totally autonomous.
Cons
- Assembly: The product assembly process is somewhat complex, although the instructions make it somewhat simpler.
- Thread dispenser: The thread dispenser is independent, taking up slightly more space than the models with an integrated roll dispenser.
KKmoon 3D Printer Stereolithography
Staff PickBest Technical Grade 3d Printer
If you prefer a resin 3D printer, the Kkmoon SparkMaker model is our most interesting choice. A model that offers remarkable resolution and print quality, using this type of material. Something that allows you to achieve precise results and generate a printing process that hardly needs a click to start. And thanks to its USB port, serial port or SD card, you just have to load the plan to start printing right away.
A product that is made of high-quality materials, such as its stainless steel motor or its outer cover, which protects the print from dust and dirt. It is finished off with details such as a printing speed that requires only 8 to 15 seconds to print each layer or its Z resolution, which can reach 20 microns.
If you are not sure if this is the model that suits you, let’s see some more details about it.
Pros
- Accuracy: This product has been designed to achieve high-resolution prints.
- Easy to use: Thanks to its interface, it is possible to make prints with a single click.
- Speed: The printer only needs 8 to 15 seconds to print each layer of the model.
Cons
- Material: As with the rest of the resin printers, the availability and versatility of materials are reduced.
- Space: The interior space is tight, being suitable for very precise but small prints.
Tigtak Intelligence
Best Budget 3d Printer
The TigTak A + 3D DIY 3D printer kit is among the most interesting options for those who are looking for a cheap 3D printer and do not want to complicate things. The model uses the renowned Prusa i3 system as a base, offering a 20-centimeter base printing space, in a square format, as well as 18 centimeters high.
An integral approach where we find quality materials, such as the aluminum heating plate or a high-resistance structure, through which the material extruder element moves with solvency. This set also has a simple assembly, suitable even for users who have just arrived in this world.
Some principles are similar to the way of use, regarding the load and management of your projects. So if you want to turn any idea into reality, this model will be of great help.
Let us know more details about this 3D printer and its full range of functions.
Pros
- Extruder: The high-precision extruder generates optimal results at high printing speeds.
- Bed: The aluminum bed has fast heating and avoids problems when executing your prints.
- Assembly: Assembly is quite simple and is accompanied by all the necessary tutorials to do it.
Cons
- Printing area: The printing area is not as large as that of the other models that we have analyzed.
- Samples: It just includes a 10-meter roll of material to start your prints, less than in other more complete options.
XINDI QIDI TECH X-Plus
Industrial Grade 3D Printer
Those who want a suitable model of industrial 3D printer should take a look at the attributes of the X-Plus model, which stands out as one of the best for its good performance.
This model is built with a metal and plastic body frame, with advanced properties Qidi software, to create giant scale models with a high level of detail, through fused deposition modeling printing technology.
In addition, it works with a power of 350 watts and has a layer resolution between 50 and 40 microns. Its use is simple and, once the project is finished, the printer will automatically turn off.
In the same way, it has a mechanism that stops the process, saves progress, and allows the model to be resumed later. For better connectivity, it incorporates a WiFi connection and an interface with a 4.3-inch color touch screen.
Before making a hasty purchase, it may be helpful to know the positive and negative attributes of the models. Read the corresponding to this option.
Pros
- Screen: It incorporates a color touch screen, with icons that facilitate the recognition of functions.
- Power: It works with an efficient power of 350 watts and a voltage between 115 and 230 volts.
- Compatibility: It is compatible with the Qidi printing system, Simplify3D software, and with Windows 64 bit and Mac operating systems, being adaptable and versatile.
- Connectivity: It can be connected via USB memory, Ethernet port, or WiFi, which means better use of functionalities.
Cons
- Use: Its use can be complex if you do not have experience because the instructions are deficient.
FlashForge Finder FFF985
Best 3d Printer for Kids
Considered for its performance as a professional 3D printer, this model from the manufacturer FlashForge is one of the best in its segment. It is available in black with red and was equipped with a 3.5-inch color touch screen, with an interface that facilitates its use and navigation through the menu options.
According to its specifications, it has a printing capacity of 50 microns and includes a 360-degree cooling system, which increases the quality of the printing.
In addition, it operates at a speed of 24 cm3 / h with a build volume of 14 cm by 14 cm by 14 cm. During the printing process, the machine is silent, producing about 54 decibels, so only smooth movements of the axes are heard. Similarly, it is equipped with WiFi, for a more profitable use when sending instructions. Also, it supports the use of SD memory and USB cable.
FlashForge Finder FFF985 is a user-safe printer. These are its pros and cons.
Pros
- Screen: It is equipped with a 3.5-inch color screen that facilitates its use.
- Design: It has a classic and compact design, which is available in black with red.
- Connectivity: It has a WiFi connection to be able to print from a mobile phone or a computer. For this, it also has a USB port and an SD slot.
- Sound: During its operation, this equipment is silent, since it only emits about 54 decibels.
Cons
- Extraction: Extracting the printed content after the process can be a bit complex for some people.
Elegoo Mars ES-EL-3D
Best 3d Printer For Beginners
This Elegoo model has been equipped with a simple and practical operating system that can be accessed through a touch technology screen, which has dimensions of 3.5 inches. It has a classic black design and an aluminum fuselage construction and acrylic cover, being lightweight and portable.
In addition, it is equipped with Chitubox Slicing software that is fast and functional. Similarly, with this printer you can empty the model before starting the cutting process, to save resin. It is also equipped with 40 V UV lights.
Its connectivity system is via USB and it works with a print speed of 22.5 mm / h precisely. For high-end results, the alternative includes a number of useful resources such as a build platform, resin tank, scraper, funnel, mask, gloves, measuring cup, power adapter, and tool kit.
A good purchase is one that has been previously analyzed to know its positive and negative aspects. Read the details about this model.
Pros
- Design: It has a compact and lightweight design that is available in black.
- Construction: It has a robust construction with an aluminum body and an acrylic surface.
- Screen: Includes a 3.5-inch touch screen that facilitates its use through an intuitive interface.
- Accessories: Incorporates helpful accessories such as the build platform, scraper, funnel resin tank, gloves, tool kit, and more.
Cons
- Noise: The machine may be a bit noisy due to the sound of the fan and printing beep.
Comgrow Creality Ender 3 DIY
Best 3d Printer
If you need a model with a slightly larger print area than usual, the Comgrow Creality Ender 3 model offers it. This modern 3D printer has a printing area with a square base measuring 22 centimeters on a side by 25 centimeters high. A printing that is made with a high-quality thanks to the design of its extruder, capable of working with all kinds of materials, while having a system that avoids jams and other inconveniences of poorer quality models.
Something that is improved with a smooth operation of the head, maintaining the necessary stability during the printing process. A 3D printer where other quality details are not lacking, such as the heated bed that barely takes 5 minutes to reach 110 degrees or the size of its screen, where you can see everything clearly when working.
For your 3D prints to have the quality you deserve, it is necessary to equip yourself with quality equipment, such as this model that we analyze below.
Pros
- Printing area: The printing area has measurements of 22 centimeters on the side at its square base, combined with 25 centimeters in height, one of the largest on the market.
- Resume printing: In the event of a jam or power failure, the printer takes care of picking up your job from where you left off.
- Quick heating: The bed only needs five minutes to reach the operating temperature of 110 degrees.
Cons
- Instructions: The included instructions for use do not make assembly easy, since its content is not as good as it should be.
- Leveling: The leveling of the printer is manual, although it is something that will allow you to give an extra point to your work if you need it.
XYZ Printing Da Vinci Mini
Best Mini 3d Printer
The XYZ Printing Da Vinci 3D printer is the most interesting model for those who do not want to complicate their lives with the printer and its assembly. And it is that this model is shipped already assembled, so you just have to take it out of its box and connect it to start working. A complete model with a semi-closed system that allows you to print objects measuring 15 centimeters high, long and wide in cubic form.
This equipment also has a good printing speed, of 120 mm per second maximum, also has an automatic leveling system that makes everything easier. Something that also helps its WiFi connectivity and the included software, which make the process of loading drawings and managing the functions of the printer easy.
For those of you who do not want to complicate your life assembling your printer, let’s see everything that this model has ready for you to use.
Pros
- Assembly: Since this printer is delivered already assembled, it is not necessary to carry out any type of assembly.
- Support: The manufacturer offers you all kinds of resources, such as models, video tutorials, and everything you need to get the most out of your printer.
- WiFi connectivity: The 3D printer has WiFi connectivity, so you can connect directly from any device with it.
Cons
- Printing area: The printing area has measures of 15 centimeters on the side in a cubic format, being somewhat smaller than the usual 3D printers.
- Filaments: This model only works with the original manufacturer’s filaments, which can make the 3D printing process more expensive.
Buying Guide Best 3D Printers
3D printing is one of the latest technologies that we have to create objects in plastic materials economically and without excessive complications. A process in which it is convenient to have quality products adapted to our knowledge and needs. Therefore, it is advisable to have in front of a guide to buy the best 3D printer like the one we offer you below so that you know what aspects are the most important when investing in one of this equipment. Especially considering how much a good, inexpensive 3D printer costs.
Print space
The printing space is the available capacity of the printer to capture our ideas. This space has a cubic shape, since it is a 3D printer, so it has three different measurements: length, width, and height. A parameter that we must assess based on the work that we are going to carry out.
And it is that the work capacity of the different printers is variable so that we have products designed for small and precision jobs and also others for larger jobs but somewhat less precise … or not. For reference, the smallest models print in measurements from 13 centimeters per side, while the largest ones increase those measurements to 33 centimeters per side. Anyway, the usual thing is that the base is square, while the height of the object can be somewhat greater than the side of that base.
Print resolution
The resolution of the print has to do with the minimum size of the details that the printer generates. The smaller this size, the better the prints we make will look. Something that, again, depends on the level of quality we need in our 3D prints.
As a guideline, the maximum resolution we should use is 100 microns. Sufficient for large objects where detail is not particularly important. If we need more definition in the printed object, it will be necessary to reduce this level to 20 microns of the most efficient. Everything is a question of budget and needs.
Material compatibility
3D printers can use different types of materials. But the ones that stand out the most in any 3D printer comparison are those that can be used by all, or at least the vast majority. And it is that this compatibility depends on different parameters. As an example, some materials require higher or lower temperatures, while others require a heated bed to work. So if you want to have the maximum amount of options to choose materials, do not forget to check this point.
By the way, although generally, the printers are filament, there are also printers that work with liquid resins that solidify when they cool. However, the high price of these resins, their poor incompatibility between manufacturers, and the limited supply of colors make them a secondary option when printing. And obviously, these resins cannot be used in filament printers.
Printing control
When controlling the machine, it is also convenient to verify what options the printer offers us. Some models can be used directly from a PC, through the Ethernet port, the USB port, or even the included WiFi connection. Something that makes it easy to maintain maximum control over the printer.
However, we also have independent models, which include these ports and allow direct loading of plans. These models should have a good size screen and a control panel that makes this loading and control process easy. Anyway, these models are more recommended for users already immersed in this technology and not so much for newcomers.
In this regard, it is also worth taking a look at the software included with the printer, both for design and control. Especially in order to verify that these are adjusted to the user’s abilities and the own needs of our impressions.
Assembling the printer
The assembly of the printer is another of the great problems that we have to face before putting it into service. In this case, the choice depends especially on the skill and experience of the user. Newcomers are sure to appreciate the kit models, which come pre-assembled and simplify the work required to get the printer up and running in no time.
However, users who are already experienced in these tasks may prefer models from which they can get a little more performance. Something that they can achieve with adjustable computers or printers so that they offer more options in their assembly to customize their operation and optimize it according to our preferences.
Manufacturing materials
Although we have left it a bit for the final part, the manufacturing materials of the printer are also important. And it is that unsuitable or low-quality materials can be a problem.
Nowadays, the chassis and scroll bars of the printers are usually made of stainless steel, although in the higher quality models the use of aluminum is already frequent. This metal has higher strength and lighter weight, which benefits the life of the motor and the printing process itself.
As for the rest of the elements, the normal thing is that the covers and other elements are made of plastic, of variable quality depending on the level of printer that we choose. In some models, it is even common that these covers do not exist, running the printing process in the air. In this case, we must try to keep the environment clean to avoid contamination of the print.
Like the last section, it does not hurt either to check the quality of the extruder, the wiring, or the junction boxes. Many entry-level printers come with components of improved quality that, over time, can end up becoming a problem when they begin to fail.
How to use a 3D printer
The process of using a 3D printer is somewhat complex, so you may be interested in knowing the first steps to take when using one of these products. Something that we are going to try to clarify for you with this guide to using a 3D printer. A guide in which we focus on use rather than installation since it is often complex and varied. For this reason, we recommend that you refer to the installation guide to proceed.
Review of plans
Before loading, it is necessary to review the plans that we have prepared for that printing. Among the details that we must control is to verify that the measurements of the object to be printed are within the range of the machine’s work. If not, we may run into later problems.
It is also convenient to verify the existence of gaps and other elements that may cause defects in the printing process, due to material spills or other inconveniences. And although it is obvious, it is necessary that the plans are in a format compatible with those that the printer can accept.
Loading the plans
Once we have the plans ready, the next step we must take is to load the plans into the printer. This charging process can be done through a USB port, Ethernet connection, or WiFi connectivity, depending on the different options that the printer offers us. Depending on the model, they can also be loaded onto an SD card and activated directly from the printer itself.
Prepare the base
As a previous step to start printing, we need to verify that everything is in order. This involves checking that the bed is properly leveled and does not have scratches or other elements that can cause problems when printing. The bed must be adequately heated, depending on the material, and be leveled according to the procedure indicated by the manufacturer of the product. Some initial precautions will save us trouble once we have started the printing process.
Preparing the material and the output
It is also necessary to check the supply of the material and verify the correct output of the same. That is why it is worth making an estimate of the weight of the printing prior to executing it, as this will avoid having to stop the printing half-done due to lack of material.
Something for which the most common printing programs are used, which with the volume of the piece give us a reference of the weight of filament or necessary material. Also, verify that the extrusion material has been correctly loaded and placed in its original position.
Filament purge
The final step before starting the 3D printing process is purging the filament. This purge prevents the filament from starting to come out later than it should, causing the first layers produced to show material defects. That can be done by manually heating the extruder and extracting that material until we obtain the appropriate output flow or by modifying the corresponding option in the program, as you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to program a 3D printer?
The programming of the 3D printer is executed by loading the maps or plans into your system. A process that is carried out either by means of an SD card or by means of WiFi connectivity, depending on the functions that the equipment includes. All this without forgetting the models with a USB port, which can even be connected directly to the PC and managed from it in a simple way. Something that varies from printer to printer.
How to design parts for a 3D printer?
The design of parts for 3D printers is executed by specific design programs, which have a similar operation and range of options to those of any assisted design program you know. Many of these programs are part of the software repositories that accompany most 3D printers, so one of these programs is probably already included with your printer. And if that’s not the case, there are plenty of free options to choose from on the web.
How to calibrate a 3D printer?
The manual calibration process of a 3D printer varies according to models, although it usually follows more or less similar guidelines. In this process, we must start by leveling the X-axis, in which the extruder moves, placing it at an equivalent height on both sides. Next, we must use the leveling of the Z-axis on the bed, which is usually done via software.
Finally, it is time to adjust the corners of the base using the included screws. Something that as a reference is achieved with a distance similar to that which a folio would hold without breaking it, but allowing it to come out with difficulty. In any case, check the product instructions for more details.
Which 3D printer to start with?
On the market, there are numerous 3D printers designed for newcomers, which are easier both in terms of assembly and use. These models are the most suitable to start with since they allow you to become familiar with these types of products and obtain quality prints. In addition, its cost is accessible compared to the most professional models, so it will not cost you too much to have a low-cost printer to get started.
Who invented the 3D printer?
The 3D printer is a product that was originally invented by Chuck Hall. An invention that, however, had to wait around 30 years before it was recognized by society. And it is that the invention arises in the eighties, but it was not until 2013 when it began to gain fame until it became one of the latest developments in the design of all kinds of objects as we know it today. Something that has not prevented its inventor from receiving the recognition he deserves, although a little later than expected.
Which is better, a resin or filament 3D printer?
When it comes to printing at home, the most convenient is to turn to filament printers. And it is that this material is not only cheaper but also offers acceptable results in adequate times compared to resin models.
The latter also depends on what each manufacturer offers since the resin models do not have the same facility to exchange consumables, as happens with the filament models. So the latter would be the most recommended today.
How to lubricate a 3D printer?
The lubrication of the 3D printer must be carried out with suitable greases for each use of its elements. For the bars, for example, it is advisable to use specific greases that prevent the deterioration of the metal, but that also collect the remains and do not cause lubricant drips during use.
As for the rest of the sensitive areas, it is convenient to use materials that are suitable for each area and that withstand the high temperatures that can be reached within the product, especially in the elements that support the hotbed or the extruder.
Why doesn’t my 3D printer heat up the extruder?
This error is usually due to either a wiring connection failure or a component that is not in good condition and causes this problem. So to begin with, it is necessary to check that all the cables are correctly connected and have the correct tension.
If this is not the case, it will be necessary to check the elements involved, such as the connectors, the cable itself, or the resistance, to verify if each of them has the corresponding power for heating, normally 12 volts. Once the element that fails is isolated, it will be enough to change it so that the extruder works normally again
What is the advantage of a self-leveling 3D printer?
The main advantage of a self-leveling printer has to do with saving time and improving results. Time savings are obtained by not having to manually level the bed, as is the case with models that do not include this function. Something that adds an extra quality by eliminating errors and improving the precision of the manual leveling process, generating more security when starting a print.
Which option is better, 3D printing or plastic injection?
Generally speaking, the 3D printing process is usually better than the plastic injection process. And is that the printing process is much simpler and cheaper than molding when it comes to making very small runs, creating models, and disposing of them quickly.
Obviously, as we need more parts or that they exceed in size what 3D printing can achieve, it is time to make the leap to injection. Although this is something that is surely recommended only for more professional applications than those of the home user.
What to do when the 3D printer stops extruding?
When the filament stops flowing properly, this can be due to two main reasons. The most common is a jam in the extruder element, in which material has accumulated that prevents its correct exit. Something that we will have to solve manually by manually unblocking the extruder as indicated in the product instructions.
The other possibility is that the outlet temperature or the input rate of the material is not adequate and the printer itself stops the process for safety. Something that must be solved well by checking the connections, or by changing the material for another more suitable.
