A Beginner's Guide to 3D Printers: Types, Sizes, and Top Brands

3D printing has emerged as a game-changer in various fields, from hobbyist projects to industrial manufacturing. If you're new to the world of 3D printing, this guide will walk you through the basics, the different types and sizes of 3D printers, top brands, and where to find the best 3D printers on the market.

What is a 3D Printer?

A 3D printer is a device that creates three-dimensional objects by depositing material layer by layer, based on a digital model. This process is known as additive manufacturing. 3D printers can produce complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to make using traditional manufacturing methods.

Types of 3D Printers

1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

• Description: FDM printers use a thermoplastic filament that is heated and extruded through a nozzle to build up layers.

• Use Cases: Prototyping, hobbyist projects, and functional parts.

• Popular Models: Creality Ender 3, Prusa i3 MK3S.

1. Stereolithography (SLA)

• Description: SLA printers use a laser to cure liquid resin into solid layers.

• Use Cases: High-detail models, jewelry, dental applications.

• Popular Models: Formlabs Form 3, Anycubic Photon.

1. Digital Light Processing (DLP)

• Description: Similar to SLA, but uses a digital light projector to cure resin.

• Use Cases: Detailed models, miniatures, and intricate designs.

• Popular Models: Anycubic Photon Mono X, ELEGOO Mars.

1. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

• Description: SLS printers use a laser to fuse powdered material layer by layer.

• Use Cases: Industrial applications, functional prototypes, complex geometries.

• Popular Models: Formlabs Fuse 1, Sintratec Kit.

Sizes of 3D Printers

3D printers come in various sizes to accommodate different project needs:

• Small Desktop Printers: Ideal for hobbyists and beginners. Examples include the Creality Ender 3 and Anycubic Photon.

• Mid-Size Printers: Suitable for more extensive projects and small businesses. Examples include the Prusa i3 MK3S and Formlabs Form 3.

• Large-Scale Printers: Used for industrial applications and large prototypes. Examples include the Ultimaker S5 and Raise3D Pro2 Plus.

Top 10 3D Printers

1. Creality Ender 3 V2

• Type: FDM

• Description: Affordable, reliable, and beginner-friendly.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, Creality

1. Prusa i3 MK3S+

• Type: FDM

• Description: High-quality, versatile, with excellent community support.

• Where to Buy: Prusa Research

1. Formlabs Form 3

• Type: SLA

• Description: Professional-grade printer with high-resolution prints.

• Where to Buy: Formlabs

1. Anycubic Photon Mono X

• Type: DLP

• Description: High-detail prints with a large build volume.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, Anycubic

1. Ultimaker S5

• Type: FDM

• Description: Large build volume and industrial-grade reliability.

• Where to Buy: Ultimaker

1. Raise3D Pro2 Plus

• Type: FDM

• Description: Dual extrusion with a large build area.

• Where to Buy: Raise3D

1. ELEGOO Mars 3

• Type: DLP

• Description: Affordable resin printer with excellent detail.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, ELEGOO

1. FlashForge Creator Pro

• Type: FDM

• Description: Dual extruder with a sturdy build.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, FlashForge

1. Anycubic i3 Mega

• Type: FDM

• Description: Easy to use with a solid build.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, Anycubic

1. LulzBot TAZ 6

• Type: FDM

• Description: Reliable with a large community and open-source support.

• Where to Buy: Amazon, LulzBot

Where to Find 3D Printers

You can purchase 3D printers from various online retailers, specialized 3D printing stores, and sometimes local electronics shops. Here are some popular places to find 3D printers:

• Amazon

• MatterHackers

• 3D Prima

• Prusa Research

• Filaments.ca

• Ultimaker

• Formlabs

3D printing offers incredible potential for innovation and creativity. Understanding the different types of printers, their sizes, and the top brands can help you choose the best 3D printer for your needs. Happy printing!