3D printing or additive manufacturing is the method of creating three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file. 3D printing allows you to produce complex shapes using less material than conventional manufacturing methods. There are a lot of 3D printers for home available on the market that serve various needs. The vast range of 3D printer options only adds to the conundrum of making the right choice. Not every 3D printer is appropriate for each and every user. You can also read about the working of a 3D printer in our blog on how does a 3D printer work.
Best 3D Printers For Home
Voxelab Aquila 3D Printer
Voxelab Aquila 3D Printer is equipped with a carbon crystal silicon glass plate and a super quiet printing design. This printer can automatically resume printing when the power comes on. This model won’t print from scratch once meeting filament breakage, saving time and avoiding waste. It is a straightforward BD printer based on open source technology.
Official Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer
Official Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer provides all-around protection to your 3D printer build plate and ensures consistent temperature throughout the build surface. It comes with a UL Certified power supply, protecting your printer from unexpected power surges, that can heat the hotbed to 110℃ in just 5 minutes. This model can resume printing from the last recorded extruder position after suffering unexpected power outages.
FlashForge 3D Printer
The customer reviews of FlashForge 3D Printer claim that it features an acrylic cover that encloses the chamber to insulate and protect the prints. The integrated LCD screen and button board functions of this model make it easy to operate. It also offers a built-in heavy-duty z-axis guide rod that ensures steady and precise movement.
FOKOOS 3D Printer
FOKOOS 3D Printer comes in a foldable design that makes it easy to carry outside. It features dual Z-axis and Y-axis designs with a sheet metal case and frame that offers good heat dissipation. This printer comes with a quiet stepper motor driver module and a powerful STM32 control chip.
ANYCUBIC Wash and Cure Station
ANYCUBIC Wash and Cure Station’s reviews show that it comes with an advanced layer that helps to streamline the whole printing process. It is equipped with a closed-off design that prevents the cleaning agent from splashing/volatilization. The 360 automatic rotating cure table of this model makes it easy to use.
R QIDI TECHNOLOGY 3D Printer
R QIDI TECHNOLOGY 3D Printer offers redesigned UI interface that helps improve the print quality by 30 and speed by 20. The max printing temperature of this printer is 250C which can work well with PLA, ABS, and TPU. It features a double Z-axis driver ensuring more stable and more precise printing quality.
Brother is also a popular brand in the world of printers. Go through our blog on the advantages of buying Brother printers to know more.
Things To Consider Before Buying 3D Printers For Home
Material Compatibility
Material compatibility is an essential factor to consider when buying a 3D printer. If your 3D printed output is to be used for a particular application then the part has to be 3D printed in the most suitable technology. The material must retain the needed properties to perform as per the planned specifications.
Build Volume
Build volume is just the printing space. The printer should be chosen keeping in mind the most common size to be printed. Just purchasing a large printer to accommodate all sizes of print is not a viable option. The printer cost boosts and it may hamper the quality offered for smaller delicate prints. Large prints can even be outsourced if they are needed in fewer numbers.
Resolution
The resolution has a direct effect on the printing of tiny features and the finishing of the printed object. A printer with high resolution will efficiently print the tiniest of features and the layer height will be thinner leading to a smooth surface finish. Purchasing a 3D printer with a high resolution can prove highly profitable in the long run.
Cost
Most of the FDM filaments are easily available across the world at affordable prices but special materials like flame retardant polymers or metallic materials are not easily obtainable and may take a significant amount of time to be imported increasing the lead time and the cost of such materials. Material cost is another factor to consider while purchasing a 3D printer. It can increase the cost of the prototyping exercise. Powdered materials used in DMLS/SLM technologies are expensive and for some industries, it may not be justified to use metal 3D printing as the material cost is more elevated.
Is It Useful To Buy 3D Printers For Home?
You can use 3D printers to create complete products, make spare parts, or simply create things you’ll find useful for your home, office, and workshop. Since 3D printing technology is within the understanding of just about anyone, you don’t have to utilize one to your advantage.
A printer for students is a great way to keep a paper trail for college, take notes, sign up for classes, and other important documents. Read our blog on best printers for students to learn more.
Conclusion
3D printers provide a nearly infinite array of possibilities. Whether you’re printing out a figurine, a smartphone case, or a wrench, you need to pick the correct device for your needs and budget. Following a few tips and factors before buying these printers can help you make a better purchase.
AESA rates and reviews hundreds of top 3D printers, best computer printers, and best-selling photo printers on the basis of their print quality, performance, and controls.
