Dogzily.com – For those of you working in the manufacturing, toy, engineering, and healthcare sectors, you are probably familiar with 3D printer. This tool allows you to print three-dimensional designs that are more complex than traditional manufacturing processes.

You can easily find 3D printer brands such as Anycubic, Creality, and Phrozen on the market. In order to get a good 3D printer, there are several factors to consider.

We will share information on how to choose a 3D printer along with the best product recommendations for you. This article has been reviewed by our software engineer, Yosua Surojo.

Table of Contents

What is a 3D Printer?

A 3D printer is a printer used in the process of making three-dimensional (3D) solid objects. This machine will print objects according to the design of a computer-aided design (CAD) model.

The process of creating an object is created by laying down layers of material sequentially until an object is formed. Each of these layers is a slice or horizontal part of an object. A 3D printer machine has many functions, one of which is making 3D models.

The 3D model can be used to design a prototype before the original design is made. In the medical field, 3D printer machines can be used to make dentures or other objects for visualization purposes.

How to Choose a 3D Printer

3D design printers can be used to print various 3D solid objects. This machine can print simple designs to complex and complex designs. So, to add the information you need, let’s look at how to choose the following 3D printer.

① Choose based on the method or technology used: FDM/FFF, SLA, SLS, or DLP

In general, there are four methods or technologies for printing 3D objects. The right choice for you depends on your printing needs, your budget, the results you want, and the features.

FDM or FFF Method: Suitable for beginners with a limited budget

The filament deposition method (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF) method works like a glue gun. It will eject the plastic filament through the heated nozzle. Prior to use, the nozzles are positioned precisely on the X/Y coordinate system.

Next, the nozzle will move up on the Z-axis and add layer by layer to create the object. If you have limited funds and are interested in buying, you must be prepared for the Cons you have.

This is because the FDM/FFF method is difficult to achieve a layer height smaller than 0.1 mm. While it can be done, it will take longer to print the 3D object at that layer height.

SLA method: Using liquid resin material

The stereolithography (SLA or SL) method creates objects using UV light. Liquid resin material will be exposed to UV light until it hardens.

This hardening process is done layer by layer by moving the build plate (the flat surface where the object is printed). After one layer hardens, you can continue to the next layer until a 3D object is formed.

The downside to the SLA method is that you have to clean any remaining molten resin from the object. In addition, the resin also needs to be left for a while until it hardens. This makes the process of creating 3D objects take longer.

SLS method: Produces very fine coatings for a wide range of materials

The selective laser sintering (SLS) method uses a powder material that is placed in a very thin layer. Then, a laser is used to melt or harden the powder in the required position. The next layer of powder was reapplied.

Powder materials can include a variety of materials, such as plastics, ceramics, rubber, metals, and others. If you have limited funds, a 3D printer with the SLS method is not suitable for you.

This is because the price of a 3D printer using the SLS method is quite expensive. This device is also large in size and is generally used for industry, such as the automotive industry.

DLP Method: Having a digital projector screen to create 3D objects

Digital light processing (DLP) is very similar to the SLA style of printing. Both use vat polymerization to create each layer of the 3D object.

When the light targets a spot in the resin, the polymer reacts by hardening in place. Objects printed on a DLP 3D printer are also smoother than those on an FDM printer.

② According to the purpose of use

If you use a 3D printer for large objects, the FDM method 3D printer is suitable for you.

This printer has a print area measuring 220mm x 220mm x 200+mm (X/Y/Z). However, if you intend to design jewelry, such as rings, earrings and brooches, you need a smooth finish. For relatively small printed objects, you need 3D printer resin or SLA.

③ Consider a 3D printer with security features

Some good brands of 3D printers have a security feature that makes the printer turn off automatically. Printers with features like this are able to detect when the printer is opened or paused. Furthermore, the printer will stop automatically to maintain user safety.

When the power is off, the printer is also able to save the progress of printing objects so that printing can be continued again after the power is on.

3D printers with flexible steel plates also make it easy to remove prints safely. This is because prototypes or printouts usually feel hot.

Also, consider buying a 3D printer that has a reliable, certified filament. This type of 3D printer comes with a safety data sheet and provides a non-hazardous chemical composition.

④ Know the material used for 3D printer: Filament or resin

The materials used for 3D printers vary. To get optimal 3D object printing results, you need to know the type of material used for 3D printers.

Filament 3D printers: Requires a certain temperature for printing

Filament 3D printers use coils of filament made from a variety of materials. Here are some types of filament that are commonly used.

Polylactic acid (PLA): This type of material is good for indoor applications, but avoid using PLA for outdoor purposes. This is because this type of filament has a softer texture.
Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG): FDM 3D printers create a coating that easily traps moisture and bacteria. Because of this, PETG objects must be made with food grade epoxy glue before any contact with food.
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS): This type of filament requires a lot of heat to get ready to go. It is especially good for closed 3D printers to keep the ambient temperature warm. You should only use this filament if the room is well ventilated. Unlike PLA, ABS is the right choice for outdoor printing needs.

Resin 3D printers: Offers high-quality, detailed results

Resin 3D printers in the SLA and DLP styles use liquid resin to create 3D objects. The options also vary, but are usually divided into several categories, namely:

Standard resins. In general, standard resins are available in clear, white, and gray and are perfect for prototyping or small desktop gadgets. Unfortunately, the end result wasn’t solid enough.
Hard resins are often used in professional situations and engineering needs. These resins are physically stronger than standard resins. Hard resins are ideal to use for a stronger finish.
Medical grade resins are applied to various medical fields, from hearing aids to making special dental treatment designs.

10 Best 3D Printer Recommendations

Next, we will recommend the ten best 3D printer products that we have determined based on how to choose above. These products are carefully selected by considering product quality, buyer reviews, and the level of trust in the seller.

1. Creality Ender-3 Pro 3D Printer

The Creality Ender-3 Pro printer is the result of an upgrade from Creality Ender 3. This latest series has undergone several upgrades in components that allow you to print 3D objects more safely.

This machine can be assembled easily allowing you to assemble it yourself at home. For those of you who like to experiment or ” Do it Yourself ” (DIY), this 3D printer can be an option.

In addition, stabilized bearing wheels reduce friction and provide better overall dimensional stability. Meanwhile, some broad rubber feet can also help reduce noise levels when the 3D printer is being operated.

Pros:

Can be assembled by yourself easily
Can print from SD card

Cons:

Sometimes it requires additional adhesive glue to hold the print

2. Anycubic Photon Mono 4K

The Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is an impressive resin masked stereolithography (MSLA) printer. This product is suitable for those of you who want to get printing results in a fast time of around 50 mm/hour. That way, you can print a 12 cm tall model in just 2.5 hours.

Even though it’s fast, this printer still offers detailed and smooth printouts with the Photon Workshop software.

The quality-of-life feature as an angled-build platform prevents resin from pooling. Meanwhile, the presence of a pour-spout on the resin grease makes the machine easy to use.

Pros:

Can print fast about 50 mm/hour

Cons:

Cannot continue printing if power is off

3. Anycubic 4Max Pro

Anycubic 4Max Pro is equipped with safety features and is user-friendly so it can be used by both children and adults. This device is also suitable for use in the world of education and entry-level users, especially if your child is homeschooling.

The auto power off feature makes it energy efficient because the printer can turn off automatically after the job is finished.

This product is also equipped with a sensor that can make the machine pause the printing process when the filament runs out.

The closed design makes this 3D printer safe for children. You also don’t need to worry that your child will touch the inside of the printer during the printing process.

Pros:

Equipped with auto power off and auto stop for security features
It has a closed design so it is safe for children

Cons:

Despite having a closed design, the machine is not so quiet
There is no auto bed leveling function so it requires manual calibration

4. Anet 3D Printer ET4 Pro 3D Printer with TMC2208 Stepper Driver

ET4 Pro is equipped with a filament sensor that can detect when the filament used for printing runs out. That way, you can add new filament right away to prevent air-printing.

The printing process continues smoothly without any problems. You can work on other tasks while waiting for the process to complete. For those of you who often multitask, this 3D printer is suitable for you.

Pros:

Has filament detection which can detect when the filament runs out
Made from a strong aluminum frame

Cons:

Very limited software or firmware updates

5. Anycubic Photons D2

For those of you who work in quiet places like libraries and offices, this 3D printer is the best choice. The use of DLP technology allows this machine to work without overheating.

That way, the printer doesn’t need a fan that can produce noise. Anycubic Photon D2 only produces 35 dB of noise. Work becomes quieter and quieter.

Pros:

The 3D printer is quiet with a noise level of only about 35 dB
Save about 15 watts of power consumption

Cons:

Small screen with old school and less modern user interface
Special resins for DLP 3D printers are usually more expensive than SLA 3D printers

6. Phrozen Sonic Mini Resin 3D Printer

You won’t have any trouble operating the Phrozen Sonic Mini Resin 3D Printer thanks to its easy interface. You can prepare models with ChiTuBox software.

After that, you only need to use a flash drive to transmit data. The printing process will immediately run with just a few steps. This product is suitable for those of you who want convenience.

Pros:

Has an easy and simple interface
Using a monochrome LCD screen that prints four times faster than a regular 3D printer

Cons:

Many components are made of plastic
In some cases, USB cannot detect the flash drive properly

7. Sinterite Lisa X

Do you work in industrial or complex jobs that require high accuracy? The Lisa X synth looks like it might work for you. Using the SLS method, you can achieve precision results that cannot be achieved with FFF or SLA printers.

You can build reliable prototypes that can be used for industrial purposes. This product can also print large objects up to 130 mm x 180 mm x 330 mm in size. Printing various objects from small to large is no longer a problem.

Plus, you can use nine different materials. You can use materials that are ultradurable, flexible, or materials such as ESD powder.

Pros:

High accuracy printing results using selective laser sintering (SLS) technology
Meets industrial accuracy requirements and complex jobs

Cons:

Has an expensive price compared to other 3D printers
Not intended for beginners

8. Prusa SL1S SPEED 3D Printer

The Prusa SL1S SPEED 3D Printer is built in a tough aluminum body. The robust aluminum body minimizes vibration for stable operation for maximum results.

There is also an easy and quick release mechanism to maintain calibration on the Z axis. That way you don’t have to recalibrate after using it. You who want a 3D printer that is strong and stable, just choose this product!

Pros:

Made of tough aluminum for stable operation
No need for frequent calibration after use

Cons:

Vat sensor resin is very sensitive to overfilling

9. Snapmaker 2.0 Modular 3-in-1 3D Printers A350

Are you looking for a multifunctional 3D printer product? This product made by Snapmaker can be a consideration. Besides being able to do 3D printing, this machine can also be used as a CNC machine and laser engraver.

You only need to replace the module as needed. That way, you can make more than just beautiful scratches and engravings using a laser engraver. However, you can also use the CNC module to cut and engrave harder materials.

Pros:

3-in-1 printer that has three functions at once, namely 3D printer, laser engraver, and CNC

Cons:

The laser has low power compared to other laser machines
Replacing modules and calibrating tools takes a lot of time

10. Flashforge Hunter DLP 3D Printers

Flashforge Hunter DLP 3D Printer allows you to print more detailed 3D models even if their designs are complex. For jewelry designers, this 3D printer will help represent designs more realistically.

3D models can also reduce jewelry making time and avoid hand-made defects. Meanwhile, for dentistry, this device can be utilized by dental laboratories and clinical use. The choice of resin types which are quite varied can help users get the best 3D model results.

Pros:

High accuracy printing results using digital light processing (DLP) technology
Meets the accuracy requirements of the dental and jewelery industries

Cons:

Film replacement is not easy, it requires the expertise of an experienced user

What Software Can Be Used for 3D Printers?

3D printers use software from two main sources. The software, among other things, comes from the printer itself and the computer used to create the 3D printer files. Software that is on the computer is called a slicer.

The slicer does the slicing when you create a file for printing. Most 3D printer file types are gCode. There are many slicing programs available online.However, there are only two of the most popular slicing programs.

First is Cura, which is an open source 3D printer slicing program developed by Ultimaker.
The second product is Slic3r, a free gCode slicing program created by Alessandro Ranellucci.

Firmware is software on a 3D printer. Some 3D printers use Marlin firmware, but there are other applications fordifferent chips. The exact firmware used for your 3D printer may vary.

You can look it up online to see what other people have to say about the model you’re considering.

Conclusion

We have recommended the best 3D printers from various brands, uses, and price ranges. Have you found a product that fits your needs and budget?

You need to know that each brand of 3D printer has different connectivity, software, technology and materials. Therefore, make sure you get enough information before making a decision.

5 Best 3D Printers Recommendation

Creality ｜Ender-3 Pro 3D Printer
Anycubic ｜Photon Mono 4K
Anycubic ｜4Max Pro
Anet 3D Printer ｜ET4 Pro 3D Printer with TMC2208 Stepper Driver
Anycubic ｜Photon D2

Other recomendations:

Top 10 Best 3D Printer – Reviewed by Software Engineer

What is a 3D Printer?

How to Choose a 3D Printer