The 5 Best 3D Printers for Beginners [All Budgets]

Embarking on the journey of 3D printing is both exciting and, at times, a bit daunting. Thankfully, this innovative technology has become considerably accessible, allowing users to convert digital designs into real-world objects. For 2024, a wide selection of 3D printers is designed specifically for beginners.

This guide offers genuine recommendations whether you are an educator, an entrepreneur working on prototypes, or a hobbyist pushing creative boundaries, to help establish a solid base for your 3D printing endeavors. But before we dive into these top picks, let’s explore what makes a 3D printer truly outstanding. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations based on specific needs and applications.

• Print Quality: Focus on obtaining high-quality prints first and foremost. Opt for a printer that generates detailed, clean, and precise prints, as these are crucial for any printing project. Elements such as resolution, measured in microns, play a role; a lower micron count results in a higher resolution. Furthermore, the layer height is pivotal, with thinner layers yielding finer details. While faster speeds can reduce print time, they might affect print quality, hence balancing speed and quality is key.
• Build Volume: The build volume dictates the maximum size of objects you can print. Choose a printer with a build volume that aligns with your intended print sizes.
• Reliability and Durability: A dependable 3D printer should consistently produce quality prints and remain durable over time. Prioritize printers with robust construction and reliable components.
• Ease of Use: For beginners and those desiring easy printing, prioritize features that enhance usability. Look for elements like a user-friendly interface, perhaps via touchscreens or intuitive software. Automatic bed leveling diminishes the necessity for manual calibration, streamlining the process. Additionally, filament sensors are handy for notifying users about low filament levels or if issues arise during printing.
• Material Compatibility: Projects may require diverse materials. Top 3D printers support multiple filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, and specialized filaments such as flexible or composite variants.
• Connectivity: Depending on your setup, connection options for your printer may include USB, SD card, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet. Some models even offer remote monitoring and control via apps.
• Software: The software included with the printer, or compatible options, should smoothly translate designs into printable files. Look for slicer software balancing user-friendliness with advanced features.
• Safety Features: Safety is paramount, particularly in educational settings or around children. Consider printers with enclosed areas for temperature regulation and burn prevention. Furthermore, HEPA filters reduce potentially harmful particle emissions, enhancing operational safety.

• Support and Community: Having a strong user community and excellent customer support is invaluable, especially for troubleshooting and learning how to use your printer.
• Price: Lastly, consider the cost. The best printer for you balances these factors with your budget.

Here, we have intricately curated a list of the best 3D printers for beginners. So, let’s get started.

1. Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo

Best Value

Pros

• Auto-Leveling
• Improved Extruder System
• Removable Build Plate
• Print Resume Feature

Cons

• No Touchscreen
• Print Speed Limitations
• No Double Z-Axis
• Bare-Bones Appearance

No products found.

No products found.

-

Check Price

The Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo combines accessibility with precision, designed to make 3D printing approachable without sacrificing quality. This model exemplifies Creality‘s dedication to innovation, incorporating a CR Touch auto-leveling system for perfect layering. The printer features a PC steel printing platform, delivering strong adhesion and a smooth foundation for creations.

Its all-metal Bowden extruder ensures durability and stable performance, suitable for both beginners and experienced users. This upgraded version of the well-known Ender 3 V2 model is crafted with user-friendliness and print quality in focus. It comes 95% pre-installed, facilitating an easy setup.

The addition of the CR Touch auto-leveling kit significantly improves leveling accuracy, while the PC steel platform and all-metal Bowden extruder support its dependability and longevity.

↪ Pros

• Auto-Leveling: The CR Touch auto-leveling feature performs excellently, simplifying the process for beginners by negating manual leveling challenges.
• Improved Extruder System: Enhanced with metal construction, the extruder system boosts the printer’s performance and durability.
• Removable Build Plate: The removable build plate eases print removal, preventing damage caused by overly adhered prints.
• Print Resume Feature: The print resume feature saves progress during power outages, allowing for a smooth continuation once power is restored.

↪ Cons

• No Touchscreen: Despite its improvements, the Ender 3 V2 Neo lacks a touchscreen interface, which could enhance user experience.
• Print Speed Limitations: Higher speeds (around 120mm/s) may result in reduced print quality, indicating an optimization for moderate speeds.
• No Double Z-Axis: Missing a double Z-axis, the printer might not offer the maximum stability and precision that some users seek.
• Bare-Bones Appearance: Some might find the Ender 3 V2 Neo’s design quite basic, lacking the aesthetic appeal found in other models.

This printer is part of Creality’s initiative to make 3D printing more accessible and user-friendly while incorporating features catering to advanced users. It strikes a balance between usability and performance, making it a suitable choice for many 3D printing enthusiasts.

2. Original Prusa i3 MK3S+

Best Overall

Pros

• High-Quality Prints
• User-Friendly Software
• Good Support Resources
• Included PLA Spool

Cons

• Build Volume
• No Built-In 3D Scanner
• Dated Interface
• Price

-

Check Price

The Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ symbolizes continuous innovation, reflecting years of meticulous enhancement to provide superior print quality and reliability in 3D printing. A key feature is the SuperPINDA probe, which ensures meticulous first-layer calibration, paving the way for flawless prints. Its advanced extruder is engineered to handle filament smoothly and adapt seamlessly to various types, ensuring hassle-free printing.

More than a tool, this printer opens a world of precision and limitless possibilities, built upon Prusa’s lasting dedication to quality. As an evolution from the MK3S, the MK3S+ introduces enhancements while preserving the reputable Prusa i3 series’ legacy.

Additionally, the integrated filament sensor detects any filament type or color, enhancing its functionality. Retaining its direct drive system, the MK3S+ remains notably advantageous for printing flexible materials, lending versatility to a broad spectrum of printing requirements.

↪ Pros

• High-Quality Prints: The MK3S+ consistently delivers high-quality prints without errors, demonstrating its dependability.
• User-Friendly Software: The printer is accompanied by easy-to-use yet powerful software that supports multiple filament types.
• Good Support Resources: Prusa offers a professionally printed user guide and excellent support materials for the MK3S+.
• Included PLA Spool: A 1-kilogram PLA spool is included with the MK3S+, a beneficial bonus for beginners.

↪ Cons

• Build Volume: The build volume might be slightly small for the price, which could limit larger projects.
• No Built-In 3D Scanner: The MK3S+ lacks a built-in 3D scanner, unlike some other models.
• Dated Interface: The LCD screen and interface are somewhat outdated compared to more current 3D printers.
• Price: Although the MK3S+ is a robust printer, some users may feel it doesn’t justify the cost considering market alternatives.

The Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ remains popular in the 3D printing community for its consistent performance and Prusa’s commitment to open-source development. It strikes a balance between ease of use and advanced capabilities for both enthusiasts and professionals.

3. Bambu Lab P1P

Best Speed

Pros

• Blazing Speed
• Simple Auto Bed Leveling
• DIY Custom Side Panels
• Optional Multicolor Capabilities

Cons

• Appearance
• Noise Level
• Proprietary Parts
• Filament Wastage

-

Check Price

The Bambu Lab P1P excels in speed, characterized by a robust CoreXY framework engineered for rapid printing results. Ready for action from the start, this printer features a direct drive extruder and an all-metal hot end, accommodating various filament types.

Its automatic bed leveling sensor ensures a perfect first layer is effortlessly achieved, enabling prints that are both swift and visually appealing. Bambu Lab’s creation emphasizes not just speed but also reliability and versatility. The P1P offers a spacious build volume of 256 x 256 x 256 mm, coupled with impressive speeds reaching 500 mm/s and an acceleration of 20,000 mm/s.

Its direct drive extruder and high-temperature hot end facilitate printing with various filaments, including PLA, PETG, and TPU.

Additionally, the P1P is designed with future enhancements in mind, being compatible with Bambu Lab’s Automatic Material System (AMS) for multicolor printing, and can be further customized with printable mod plates, adding layers of flexibility to meet changing needs.

↪ Pros

• Blazing Speed: A key highlight is the P1P’s speed, which facilitates rapid printing without compromising quality.
• Simple Auto Bed Leveling: The auto bed leveling streamlines the printing process, particularly advantageous for beginners.
• DIY Custom Side Panels: Customizable side panels add a degree of personalization.
• Optional Multicolor Capabilities: Utilizing the AMS unit, the P1P supports multicolor prints, enhancing creative opportunities.

↪ Cons

• Appearance: The P1P’s “naked” design may not appeal to everyone as it lacks side panels.
• Noise Level: The printer can be loud in operation, which may be a concern for certain settings.
• Proprietary Parts: Using proprietary parts can increase maintenance and upgrade costs.
• Filament Wastage: The AMS unit can lead to filament wastage, affecting cost-efficiency.

The Bambu Lab P1P is appealing to those seeking speed, reliability, and customization with the flexibility to adapt to various needs.

4. Anycubic Kobra Max

Best for Large Prints

Pros

• Enormous Build Size
• Accurate Auto Bed Leveling
• Convenient Build Plate
• Comprehensive Kit

Cons

• Large Footprint
• Bed Slinger Design
• No Larger Nozzle Included
• Slow Printing

-

Check Price

The Anycubic Kobra Max is a powerhouse in 3D printing, offering an impressive build volume that allows creators to manifest large-scale concepts. With its responsive touchscreen and remarkable printing speed, the Kobra Max distinguishes itself in FDM printing.

Its robust frame and automatic bed leveling offer stability and precision, making it a preferred choice for tackling substantial projects. Designed for hobbyists, enthusiasts, and professionals, the Anycubic Kobra Max boasts a large build volume of 400 x 400 x 450 mm, perfect for ambitious prints. The 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen simplifies navigation and operation.

With a maximum printing speed of 180mm/s, faster than many rivals, it ensures swift progress without sacrificing quality, supported by its solid aluminum frame for continuous stability and precision.

↪ Pros

• Enormous Build Size: Ideal for large prints like props and costumes, accomplishing projects in a single run.
• Accurate Auto Bed Leveling: The auto leveling yields precise results, simplifying usage.
• Convenient Build Plate: The coated glass bed facilitates easy print releases as they cool.
• Comprehensive Kit: It comes with essential tools and a PLA sample to start off immediately.

↪ Cons

• Large Footprint: The significant size requires ample space to operate effectively.
• Bed Slinger Design: The design might be a drawback for some users.
• No Larger Nozzle Included: Lacking a larger nozzle, which can expedite larger prints.
• Slow Printing: Despite a high maximum speed, actual printing can be slow.

The Anycubic Kobra Max offers a budget-friendly solution for those requiring significant build volume, prized for automatic bed leveling and touchscreen interface. However, consider the large size and slower operation pace.

5. Toybox 3D Printer

Best for Newbies/Children

Pros

• Ease of Use
• Creative Freedom
• Kid-Friendly Design
• Educational Value

Cons

• Small Build Area
• Internet Dependency
• Unheated Bed
• Proprietary Filament

-

Check Price

The Toybox 3D Printer introduces a delightful touch of innovation, sparking creativity for both kids and adults. Its compact, intuitive design reshapes play by allowing users to easily design and print toys. With a simple, user-friendly interface, the Toybox invites everyone into the realm of 3D printing, serving as an ideal gateway for young enthusiasts.

Featuring a modest build volume of 7 x 8 x 9 cm, perfect for small hands and big imaginations, the Toybox operates at a pace of 60 mm/s with a resolution of 200 microns, ensuring precise toy reproduction. The 4mm Smooth-Flow Extruder Head and Easy-Peel bed simplify the printing experience, eliminating complexities.

Compatible with STL, OBJ, and gCode formats, and offering easy connectivity via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, sending designs from your smartphone or tablet is seamless. The Toybox puts the magic of creation at your fingertips.

↪ Pros

• Ease of Use: Known for reliable, misprint-free performance and one-touch operation, ideal for kids and beginners.
• Creative Freedom: Access to more than 2,000 printable toys and crafting your own designs expands imaginative possibilities.
• Kid-Friendly Design: The robust all-metal frame features rounded edges, safe and easy enough for children to operate with minimal supervision.
• Educational Value: Introduces children to 3D printing and design basics, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.

↪ Cons

• Small Build Area: The build area may limit the size of toys that can be printed.
• Internet Dependency: Requires an internet connection to access its design library, which could be a constraint.
• Unheated Bed: An unheated bed may affect print adhesion compared to other printers.
• Proprietary Filament: Limited to its brand of filament, which may restrict material variety and increase long-term costs.

The Toybox 3D Printer is a doorway into 3D printing, offering a joyful and educational experience that encourages creative thinking and idea realization.