Undoubtedly, the market for 3D printers is now quite expansive. There are tens of 3D printer models in the market, each model unique in its way. This is a good sign as it signifies improvements in 3D printing technology. But on the downside, the large variety could stick you in a difficult position. Now you have to decide which 3D printer is best.
However, there is no way of strictly saying one type of 3D printer is best. It all depends on what exactly you are looking for and in what ways you plan on using the printer. On that note, we will discuss a few parameters you could consider when making a shortlist of 3D printers you might be interested in.
Top 5 Parameters to Consider
- Nozzle and Hotbed Temperatures: These parameters are mostly almost the same for most 3D printers. With only a few 3D printers showing a considerable advantage over others about these temperatures. These temperatures in a way determine what kind of printing materials or filaments you can work with.
Most 3D printers have nozzle temperatures of less than 240 ᵒC (<240 ᵒC) and hotbed temperatures of less than 100 ᵒC (<100 ᵒC). These printers can work with a lot of materials or filaments. But some new-age materials require higher temperatures to work with. These materials include ABS, TPU, and even PLA. Temperatures such as a hotbed temperature of 100ᵒC and nozzle temperature of about 250ᵒC.
- Print Size: This is usually displayed in three dimensions (length * breadth* height). This is a measure of how much workspace you have. The larger the print size capacity of the 3D printer, the better.
This means that if you would be interested in printing large-sized models, you might want to go for a printer with larger print sizes. Some available print sizes include 300*225*380mm, 119*65*160mm, 450*450*470mm and many more. However, if you plan for only small scale jobs or to use the printer for educational purposes, a smaller print size might do the job.
- Print Material: Of course you would need to consider all available print materials
(filaments) and decide which you would like to use the most. Then you can check which 3D printer is compatible with the material you have chosen. - Precision: This is also vital. If you would be printing models that require a high level of precision, then you would most likely require some of the newer models. All 3D printers have their precision ranges.
These ranges could be from 0.01-0.05mm or the precision could simply be at +/-0.1mm. There are many more ranges, so choose whichever one suits you most. However, note that for precision, 3D laser printers might just be what you want.
- User Interface: All of the available 3D printers have been outfitted with smart and technologically advanced User Interface (UI). Hence they are relatively easy to use.
However, some would be easier to use compared to others as a result of more advanced and modern UIs. Some 3D printers are outfitted in such a way that they can neglect power outage. When the power is restored, they begin right from where they left off.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the vital factors to consider. There are many more parameters you could consider based on your requirements. So take your time and make your choice. Choosing the best 3D printer for you is a skill, a skill you can master
