Would you like to know everything about the different checks and considerations to make before buying a 3D printer? We are here to guide you.
Buying a 3D Printer: Why Do It?
Buying a 3D printer will allow you to create, innovate, and meet your needs with solutions that are not always easily available for purchase.
The applications of 3D printing
3D printing has various applications, ranging from home use to professional and educational fields.
At home, it allows the creation of custom objects such as spare parts, personalized accessories, or toys. In the professional environment, it is used for rapid prototyping, the production of specific parts, and in advanced fields like aerospace, medicine, or architecture. In education, 3D printing helps develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by enabling students to design and create their own projects, thus fostering creativity and hands-on learning.
The advantages of owning a 3D printer
Owning a 3D printer offers numerous advantages, including the ability to customize everyday objects based on your specific needs. This is ideal for making spare parts, unique accessories, or even artistic creations. Having such a machine also allows you to save time and money by producing items that would otherwise be expensive or difficult to find in stores.
Moreover, 3D printing stimulates creativity and innovation by providing access to rapid prototyping technology, enabling you to test ideas and develop projects more flexibly.
Finally, it allows you to fully control the production process, from the initial concept to the finished object, while also learning new technical skills.
What are the criteria to consider before buying a 3D printer?
Before buying a 3D printer, you need to determine which type of printer will suit your needs, the printing volume required, the materials you wish to use, etc. All these factors will help you choose the model that meets all your expectations.
The different types of 3D printers available
There are several types of 3D printers, each suited to specific needs:
- FDM Printers (Fused Deposition Modeling) are the most common. They use melted thermoplastic filaments to create objects layer by layer.
- SLA (Stereolithography) and DLP (Digital Light Processing) Printers use liquid resins cured by UV light to produce highly precise objects.
- SLS Printers (Selective Laser Sintering) use a laser to sinter plastic or metal powders, enabling the creation of solid and complex parts without the need for support structures.
- Finally, Binder Jetting or Powder Bed Fusion Printers, more industrial in nature, allow for the large-scale production of metal or ceramic parts.
The size of the printer and the printing volume
The size of a 3D printer and its printing volume vary depending on the technology and the intended use.
Home printers, primarily FDM, typically have a modest printing volume, around 20 x 20 x 20 cm, which is sufficient for most hobby or prototyping projects. Industrial models, such as those using SLS or powder bed fusion, can have much larger volumes, ranging from 30 x 30 x 30 cm to over one cubic meter.
However, the larger the printer, the more space it occupies and the more it requires a suitable environment for operation. Therefore, the printing volume is a key factor to consider based on the types of objects you wish to produce.
The compatible printing materials for each type of 3D printer
3D printers are compatible with a variety of materials depending on the technology used.
- FDM Printers, the most common, work with thermoplastic filaments such as PLA, ABS, PETG, nylon, and composite materials (wood, carbon).
- SLA and DLP Printers use liquid photopolymer resins that, once cured by UV light, offer high precision and a range of properties (standard, flexible, high-strength resins).
- SLS Printers use thermoplastic powders like nylon (PA12, PA11), but also metals and ceramics for certain industrial applications.Finally,
- Powder Bed Fusion or Binder Jetting Printers can work with metals (steel, titanium, aluminum) or ceramics, allowing for the creation of strong and complex parts.
The precision and print quality of each machine
The precision and print quality vary depending on the type of 3D printer.
FDM Printers offer an acceptable resolution, typically around 100 to 300 microns, which is sufficient for prototypes and functional objects, but they may leave visible layer lines.
SLA and DLP Printers, which use resins, provide much better precision, with resolutions as fine as 25 microns, resulting in smooth surfaces and fine details, making them ideal for applications like jewelry or figurines.
SLS Printers, which use powders, offer intermediate precision, around 100 microns, with the advantage of not requiring supports, allowing the creation of complex parts.
Finally, Powder Bed Fusion Printers, used for metals, offer high precision and quality for industrial applications, though the finish may require post-processing to achieve a perfectly smooth surface.
The difficulty of using 3D printers
The difficulty of using 3D printers depends on the type of machine and the user’s experience.
FDM Printers are the most accessible, with a simple interface and relatively easy maintenance, although regular adjustments such as bed leveling or fine-tuning print settings are necessary.
SLA and DLP Printers, which use liquid resins and require post-processing (washing and UV curing), require more care, especially when handling chemical materials.
SLS Printers and Powder Bed Fusion Printers are much more complex, requiring advanced technical skills, precise temperature management, and strict safety conditions, especially when printing metal parts. These machines are typically reserved for professionals or industrial environments.
The budget you will need to spend to buy your machine
The budget for a 3D printer varies greatly depending on the technology and intended use.
- FDM Printers, suitable for beginners and hobbyists, are the most affordable, with prices ranging from 200 to 1,500 euros depending on the size, features, and precision.
- SLA or DLP Printers, which offer better print quality with resins, are more expensive, typically ranging from 400 to 5,000 euros.
- SLS Printers, often intended for professional use, start around 5,000 euros and can reach several tens of thousands of euros.
- Finally, Industrial Powder Bed Fusion Printers, especially those used for metals, can cost between 50,000 and several hundred thousand euros, depending on their capacity and the materials used.
What are the best 3D printers on the market?
The best 3D printers available on the market depend on the features you are looking for, as well as the goals you want to achieve with your new machine.
3D printers recommended for beginners
For beginners, FDM 3D printers are generally the most recommended due to their ease of use, affordable cost, and compatibility with easy-to-handle materials like PLA. Some popular models offer a good balance between quality, price, and ease of setup. They are often delivered partially or fully assembled, come with active user communities for advice, and require minimal maintenance.
Additionally, their printing software is user-friendly, and there are many tutorials available to help you get started quickly. These machines allow for a wide variety of projects while offering room for learning.
3D printers suited for advanced users
For advanced users, 3D printers that offer greater precision, versatility, and control are recommended. Some models are perfect for those looking to optimize their prints or work on more complex projects.
These printers provide high reliability, better management of dual extruders for printing with multiple materials, and advanced features such as automatic bed leveling, filament end sensors, and network connectivity. Advanced users will also appreciate the ability to finely customize print settings via existing software to explore technical materials such as nylon, polycarbonate, or carbon-based composites.
These machines are designed for the production of functional prototypes or small series.
3D printers intended for professional applications
3D printers intended for professional applications are designed to offer superior precision, reliability, and production capabilities. Some of these models are commonly used in industries for rapid prototyping, production of functional parts, and small series manufacturing.
These machines allow for the use of a wide range of technical materials, such as high-performance thermoplastics (PEEK, PEI), specialized resins, and even metals for certain industrial printers. They feature advanced functionalities like remote control, heated print chambers, and air filtration systems, ensuring consistent quality and professional results.
Their higher cost is justified by the durability and precision they provide for industrial, medical, or engineering projects.
Practical tips for choosing and using your 3D printer
Different tips can be applied depending on the machine you have chosen and your level of knowledge in 3D printing.
Recommendations for beginners
For beginners in 3D printing, it is recommended to start with an affordable and easy-to-use FDM printer. You should focus on getting familiar with the basics, such as leveling the bed, choosing the filament (PLA is the easiest to handle), and using slicing software for models. It is also advised to start with simple projects and rely on the many online resources available to troubleshoot common issues you might encounter.
Lastly, take the time to learn all the basics of maintenance, such as cleaning the nozzle and adjusting settings, which will allow you to gradually improve the quality of your prints and prevent errors.
Optimizing your 3D prints
To optimize your 3D prints, start by properly calibrating your printer, ensuring precise bed leveling and correct settings for the nozzle and bed temperatures. Use print settings suitable for the material, such as print speed and recommended temperatures. Choose appropriate infill and wall thickness settings to balance strength and material efficiency. To improve surface quality, adjust smoothing settings and use supports when necessary.
Regular maintenance of your printer, including cleaning nozzles and components, will also contribute to optimal results. Finally, experiment with different slicing profiles and materials to find the combination that offers the best balance of speed, cost, and quality for your specific projects.
Safety and precautions related to 3D printing
When using a 3D printer, it is crucial to follow certain safety precautions to ensure protection. Make sure the printer is placed on a stable surface and that the wiring is properly managed to avoid any fire hazards. FDM printers reach high temperatures, so avoid contact with hot parts and use protective screens if possible.
For SLA printers, handle resins carefully, wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area to avoid toxic fumes. SLS printers and those using powders require respiratory protection and strict cleaning procedures to avoid inhaling particles. Finally, keep your workspace clean and well-ventilated, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations to prevent incidents.
Conclusion: Buying the right 3D printer
Choosing the right 3D printer is essential for achieving successful results, whether you’re a beginner, an advanced user, or looking for a professional-grade machine. Key factors to consider include the printer’s technology, build volume, material compatibility, precision, ease of use, and your budget. It’s also important to weigh your specific needs, such as the complexity of projects or the type of materials you plan to use.
By doing thorough research, reading reviews, and understanding your requirements, you can select the best 3D printer that will help you create high-quality prints and make your 3D printing experience enjoyable and productive.
Picture by Freepik.
The articles published on Imprimy.com are for informational purposes only. They are intended to provide general advice and information related to 3D printing. Imprimy.com cannot be held responsible for the results obtained or the consequences arising from the application of the shared information. We recommend always checking the specific instructions for your hardware and materials before use.
