Currently, 3D printers are becoming more affordable, making them accessible to more people. This is the best time to find out more about 3D printing.
Beginners should invest in a 3D printer! The best 3D printer for beginners must be affordable and easy-to-use.
It’s a thrill like none other to create your very first 3D item from scratch with your printer. Choosing the wrong printer, however, could result in you spending more time troubleshooting. You’ll soon become frustrated trying to troubleshoot it.
It’s for this reason that I wrote this guide to the best entry-level 3D printers available. In order to purchase a 3D printer, you should consider the following features.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best 3D printers for beginners. Throughout this article, you’ll find something to fit every budget, so read on to find out what’s right for you!
A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a 3D Printer – What to Look for? A Buying Guide
Simple Assembly
Having trouble setting up your printer can be frustrating for a beginner. While some will come fully assembled, others will come semi-assembled and need some work.
There are also 3D printer kits available on the market. It is very affordable to purchase these kits. You’ll have to assemble the parts from scratch, though.
It is important to know exactly how to assemble a DIY 3D printer kit to get the best results. You could lose print quality if you make a mistake.
Thus, you should take into consideration how long you want to devote to the printer’s assembly. Whether you know how to assemble kits, and whether you’re handy.
Detailed Instructions
Your overall experience can also be affected by the quality of the instructions. Instructions for assembling a 3D printer should be clear.
Printing instructions should be easy to follow. In addition to tips on how to get a good print, they ought to be able to offer some suggestions as well.
There aren’t all printers with comprehensive, user-friendly manuals. Find out if other users appreciated the instructions by reading the reviews.
Ease of Use
After you have set up the printer, you can start printing. Newcomers should avoid certain types of 3D printers. You might be disappointed with your prints if you do not have enough experience with them.
Therefore, a beginner-friendly 3D printer is essential. This factor was taken into consideration when choosing the printers reviewed here, since they are suitable for beginners.
Print Quality
Nevertheless, the user experience isn’t the only thing that matters. A good 3D printer for beginners should be able to produce excellent prints of your designs, just like a professional 3D printer. Each print should be accurate and clean.
Even so, it’s not just about the printer that makes a difference. The most common problems that may arise during the 3D printing process will need to be avoided. You can produce amazing models if you are knowledgeable and have a bit of experience.
Top 3 3D Printers for Beginners: A Quick Comparison
For those who don’t have a lot of time to spare, here is a list of the best 3D printers for beginners. These products will not disappoint!
| Product Name | ANYCUBIC Photon Mono XBeginner’s guide to choosing the right 3D printer | Elegoo Mars ProEasiest 3D Printer for Beginners | Creality Ender 3 ProBest Starter 3DPrinter on a Budget |
| Size | 270 x 290 x 475 mm | 199 x 199 x 409 mm | 440 x 440 x 465 mm |
| Material | 405 nm UV Resin | Resin | |
| Max Build Volume | 192 x 120 x 245 mm | 115 x 65 x 149 mm | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
| Technology | LCD-based SLA | LCD UV Photocuring (SLA) | Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) |
| Connections | USB, WiFi | USB | WiFi or SD Card |
The Best Beginner 3D Printer for Beginners: My Reviews
ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X 3D Resin Printer- Best Overall Beginners 3D Printer for UV Resin
(Image credit: ANYCUBIC)
ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X is an excellent choice if you have the budget to splash out on your first 3D printer. Despite being more expensive than many other beginner printers, this printer is well worth the price.
One of the highest levels of precision can be found in the prints produced by this printer. It also prints very quickly. It doesn’t take hours to build a small model.
A great printer for getting started with resin is the Photon Mono X. Although this printer is expensive, it produces better results than plastic.
Additionally, it comes already assembled and is ready to use. The aluminum makes it feel very sturdy and durable. It’s also compact, so it is perfect for smaller homes or workspaces.
However, thanks to the large print plate, larger models can be produced despite the small footprint. The dimensions are generous for a 3D printer, measuring 192 x 120 x 250 mm.
In addition, you will receive all of the tools you need. All you’ll need is the resin, so you won’t need anything else. It comes with everything from a spatula to a funnel to gloves.
Moreover, this printer has a 1-year machine warranty to ensure it works properly. A lifetime customer service warranty is included as well. Whenever you have a problem with 3D printing and are new to the technology, that’s invaluable.
Anycubic has an active and helpful customer community as well. Facebook groups are available to answer any questions you might have.
It takes some time to learn how to use this printer. Resin isn’t the easiest thing to work with if you don’t handle it carefully. To get the best results from your prints, you will also need to learn how to level the printer.
This printer, however, can be used to produce fantastic models with a little dedication. Despite being basic, the software does the job and isn’t difficult to learn.
A 3D printer that produces great results and is easy to use is what you will love about this model. Intricate details, precise printing, and an excellent user experience are hard to beat in this printer.
- The dimensions are 270x290x475mm
- UV resin of 405 nm wavelength
- Maximize. Building Dimensions: 192 x 120 x 245 mm
- SLA based on LCD technology
- Connectivity: USB, WiFi
- The print speed is fast and the accuracy is excellent
- Due to the large print plate, this printer can produce larger models
- Compact and small, it takes up very little space
- The customer service is excellent in case of any problems
- An entry-level 3D printer would find it very pricey
Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer
Best Starter 3D Printer on a Budget
(Image credit: Creality)
It’s nevertheless not possible for everyone to afford a 3D printer for the first time. Students who need to save money and still wish to learn are particularly likely to benefit from 3D printers purchased on a budget.
When that is the case, the Creality Ender 3 Pro is your best option. This is a great 3D printer on a budget, suitable for anyone who is looking for affordability.
There is one thing to note: It does not come pre-assembled. Despite the low price, this printer requires some time and effort to assemble. Care should be taken to properly assemble this printer. The quality of your prints may be adversely affected by poor assembly.
However, you shouldn’t automatically dismiss the Creality Ender 3 Pro. Printing models with this printer are accurate and it can be used for a wide range of materials.
Its flexible build plate and removable hotbed are some of its best features. The models can be easily removed once they are done.
As a result, this printer is extremely quiet.
The fan has been repositioned to prevent scrap filament from falling onto it in this latest model. With a better cooling fan, prints will be of better quality.
Designed for beginners and intermediates alike, the Creality Ender 3 Pro is a great choice. Even if you’re a complete newbie, this printer will allow you to learn and progress.
A simple adjustment or upgrade can also be performed on this printer. Alternatively, you could use a glass bed instead of a magnetic bed.
It’s not for you if you want a printer that’s already assembled out of the box. In terms of printing cool models, it’s perfect if you want something cheap. Moreover, it will grow with you as you develop your skills – you won’t have to upgrade.
- 440x440x465 mm
- Text:
- The maximum. Size: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
- Fusion Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Connectivity options include WiFi and SD cards
- Student or anyone on a budget will love this budget 3D printer
- Models are accurate and high-quality
- A cooler fan and nozzle improve printing accuracy and stability
- Building it from the ground up will be necessary
- There isn’t much customer service responsiveness or help available
ELEGOO Mars Pro MSLA 3D Printer
Easiest 3D Printer for Beginners
(Image credit: ELEGOO)
We will now look at the Elegoo Mars Pro, an easy-to-use printer.
Elegoo has improved upon its popular Mars printer. This results in an incredibly affordable, powerful and accurate 3D printer.
MSLA is the technology used in this printer. Before, this technology could only be utilized by large-scale, expensive 3D printers. Fortunately, printers like the Mars Pro make it readily available.
In contrast to most FDM printers, it cures resin using LCD light. Thus, you can print highly detailed, highly accurate models.
There is, however, a smaller printing plate on this printer, so you cannot print as large models. Although it’s ideal for making small gaming models, the maximum print size is a bit limiting.
Still, if you’re planning to make intricate small models, it’s worth considering. It’s easy to use and very reliable. No more hours wasted searching for solutions or troubleshooting problems.
As a result, it’s fast, dependable, and comes with an excellent slicing program. It is built to last for a long time with no compromise to quality. There will be few times when you need to adjust the build plate or anything else – it’s like clockwork.
Additionally, the LCD is covered by a 6-month warranty in addition to the 1-year warranty. How can you go wrong with this printer? Get the Elegoo Mars Pro if you’re searching for a 3D printer that will not disappoint!
- A size of 199 x 199 x 409 mm
- Resin: Material
- Approximately. Size: 115 x 65 x 149 mm
- LCD UV photocuring technology
- USB connection
- Great value for money
- Setup and printing are very easy – the learning curve is smaller than most 3D printers
- The printer is reliable, has stable printing, and is very precise
- Models that are detailed and accurate can be printed
- Print sizes are quite small at the maximum
- No resin is included
Longer LK5 PRO
3D Printers for Beginners with Large Models
(Image credit: Longer)
Several home 3D printers limit the size of the models they can print. You might find that a nuisance. The longer LK5 Pro, however, allows you to produce bigger models, which gives you more options.
Make larger models with this affordable 3D printer, especially if you plan on printing larger models. Approximately 300 x 300 x 400 mm is the maximum build size, which is quite generous. There are many inventive and useful uses for this printer.
You only need to add a few finishing touches to the LK5 Pro, so it comes mostly assembled. You can skip the instructions and jump right to the video tutorial. You’ll understand and follow along more easily.
The triangular structure and braces offer extra support since this is a larger printer. The machine looks sturdy and feels durable as a result. When in use, it is also quite quiet.
The LK5 Pro doesn’t require an expert to use. It’s a little basic, but it’s still a good choice for beginners.
Getting more familiar with the software may make the limitations seem less restrictive. If you reach that point, you can upgrade the software rather than buying a whole new printer.
With a 4.3-inch touchscreen and an intuitive interface, the LD5 Pro is easy to use. An updated Teflon tube makes it better than previous versions.
Extruders with higher temperature capabilities are also available. They reduce the possibility of materials clogging up the extruder. Thus, you won’t have to worry about cleaning it out or regular maintenance.
I like the lattice glass bed a lot. This very sturdy, flat platform makes it easier to remove printed models.
The LK5 Pro’s size is one consideration. Make sure you have room in your house for it, as it is bulky and will take up a lot of space.
For those who want to create bigger models at home, the Longer LK5 Pro is the perfect choice. At a reasonable price, it is a good FDM printer.
- Dimensions: 58050663 mm
- ABS, PLA, PETG: Consumer Materials
- Approximately. Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
- Modeling by fusing depositions (FDM)
- There are two types of connections: MicroSD and USB
- Due to the increased build size, this printer is ideal for 3D models of large dimensions
- It has upgraded features, such as an extruder and Teflon tube
- Printing is quick and quiet
- A weak fan duct doesn’t provide enough cooling for the filament
- You’ll need a lot of room for it since it’s very large and bulky
- In comparison to SLA printers, print quality is inferior
Creality Ender 3 V2
Best First Mid-Range 3D Printer
(Image credit: Creality)
It’s the next step up from the Ender 3 Pro. There are a few price differences between the two models. We explain them below.
Low-cost FDM printers are being developed by Reality. With Ender 3 V2, they have taken everything they know and combined it.
You can print on a flatter surface due to the glass bed’s improved tempered carborundum. Using that method, you can print high-quality models and easily remove them.
For improved user experience, the screen now has HD color. Despite this, a touchscreen would be more user-friendly than a dated click wheel.
It doesn’t end there! 32-bit motherboards are quieter, compared to previous models. You can, therefore, let your printer run in the background without worrying about being disturbed.
You will receive a Creality Ender 3 V2 that is semi-assembled. It is quick and easy to assemble the final parts, but you will need to be practical.
The MeanWell power supply delivers more power to this printer. Because of this, the printer heats up quickly and prints more quickly.
It is the Creality Ender 3 V2 that is one of the best first 3D printers.
The price is not the cheapest, but it does have some useful additional features. Besides being easy to operate, effective, quiet, and quick, it also has good print quality.
- Measures 475 x 470 x 620 mm
- The materials used are TPU, PLA, PETG, and ABS
- I’d say max. building volume is 220 x 220 x 250 mm
- Fusion Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- MicroSD, USB connections
- Printing is quiet
- A more powerful and faster version of the Ender 3 V2
- With this version, the glass bed has been improved for better model quality and easier removal
- A click wheel is used to navigate the screen since it isn’t a touchscreen
- Although it’s more expensive than the Creality Ender 3 Pro, it’s still not that much
The Wrap Up
We hope you found our guide to the best 3D printers for beginners useful. You can start 3D printing right away with one of these great printers!
This is a creative and rewarding hobby since you can use whatever you make. Learning new things and keeping up with trends is also part of it.
Tell me about your first experiences with 3D printing and what printer you chose.
Check out my Pinterest page if you want to find more creative resources. I’ll keep you informed about the newest tools, tips, and tutorials you need.
