Do you want to buy a 3D printer ?
Check out our tips on what to look out for here. Do you want a personalized advice quickly? Fill in the form at the bottom of the page and we will advise you without obligation . Would you rather do some research yourself? Then read on.
Especially when it becomes your first 3D printer, chances are that you have no idea which 3D printer is best for you. This is dependent on many different factors. The most popular 3D printers are currently the FDM printer. That is why the focus of these tips is also with the FDM 3D printers. More information about the different 3D printing techniques ?
What are you going to make with the 3D printer?
The first step is of course mapping out what you want to 3D print. What are the requirements for your projects. Think of the dimensions, details but also the type of material. Here you will find more information about different filaments . The filaments are the material with which you can start printing. This is available in many different varieties. Each type has different advantages and disadvantages. Think, for example, of (semi) flexible filament, incredibly strong or transparent. There is a filament for every application.
Standard or special filament?
The most commonly used material type is PLA filament . Any FDM printer can get started with this. But it may not meet your specific requirements. For example, because your objects must be very strong, weather resistant, chemical resistant, heat resistant, water resistant or flexible. Then it can happen that the filament has specific hardware requirements. Such as a high print temperature, heated print bed or a special nozzle. You can already filter a number of 3D printers based on these hardware requirements.
Convenience serves people.
Another question is how much time you want to spend on 3D printing. Are you looking to buy a plug&play 3D printer? Or do you want to adjust and adjust a lot yourself. When ease of use is very important, the Ultimaker s5 can be interesting. It is very user-friendly and forgiving. In addition, Ultimaker supplies the total package for 3D printing. This Dutch company develops the software, filaments and 3D printer. As a result, these three are perfectly matched to each other.
Small but nice or is the sky the limit?
3D printers are available in many different sizes. A compact printer such as the CR10 mini or a large printer such as the Raise3D pro 2 plus . (300*220*300mm and 305x305x600mm.) We notice that many people start out with the idea that bigger is better. However, bigger is only better when you really need it. In the case of the Raise3D, the smaller brother is enough for some people. That is why we advise you to take a good look at how much you really need.
Slicer software.
3D printing starts with a digital 3D drawing. Using the slicer software you create a file, so that the 3D printer knows what needs to be done. There are many different options available for the slicer software. There is "universal" software, but often software is also made by the 3D printer manufacturer. When the software is made by the manufacturer, it often works just that little bit easier. You can also often download the software in advance. So that you can already see if it works for you.
Nice extras.
In addition to the standard functionalities, there are also a number of extras. These make the 3D printing process easier or more pleasant. It is up to you whether these are decisive when buying a 3D printer. Think of a WiFi connection, instead of supplying the files via a USB or SD card. A built-in camera so you can monitor 3D printing from anywhere. A filament flow sensor, which prevents you from printing while the filament is empty. Automatic bed calibration. Things that are often not necessary but are experienced as pleasant.