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Which 3D Printer Should I Buy?

Overview of 3D printer options

In this section I'll give you a brief overview of your options for 3D printers.  This list is certainly going to change quickly now that the market has opened up for lower end systems so be sure to send us a note  with a link to information if you know of a system that should be included on this page.  I'll review the information you send and I'll do my best to keep this page up to date.
There are two categories of 3D printers sold to the general public.  FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (stereolithography apparatus).  FDM printers and filaments are much cheaper than SLA printers and materials.  
FDM Printers

Overview

FDM stands for fused deposition modeling.  Picture a hot glue gun attached to a CNC gantry.  It lays down one layer of plastic at a time which creates a 3D shape.  The plastic used is called filament and it typically costs from $20/kg to $50/kg.  Some brands or specialty filaments cost less and some cost much more.   

Popular Choices
  • Ender - very low cost with decent quality
  • Creality series - (open source design) low cost with a large print area.  Some models have good quality.  Check reviews before choosing.
  • Zortrax - (proprietary hardware, firmware and software) Easiest to use and most reliable FDM printer.  Doesn't require the user to learn a maze of print settings.  It does require printing with a raft which is sometimes difficult to remove.  Best option for user's who want an easy to use printer and don't want to have to become an expert at using printing software.
  • Prusa - ( open source design)Originator of open source 3D printing.  Solid design and cult following.  Great support community.
  • Lulzbot - (open source design) Several models to choose from.  Very established vendor.  Prices are much higher than other open source designs.
  • Many, many others...
FDM Feature Options
  • Bowden extruders - allow lighter extruder which allows faster printing at the expense of slightly less precision
  • Direct drive extruders - can feed flexible filaments using direct drive.  Highest precision possible with proper design.
  • Multi material - feed multiple materials into one extruder and the system switches between filaments automatically
  • Multi extruder - each extruder is fed a different material
  • Materials - ABS and PLA are the most popular but there are hundreds of types and brands with more coming out every day.  ABS can be vapor polished for a smooth finish but it will warp if used for large prints with long straight sides.  ABS will withstand outside use and temperatures up to about 150F without becoming soft or warping under light load.  PLA warps much less during printing and can offer a slightly better stock finish than ABS but will sag under light loading if exposed to temperatures over 120F, UV light (sunlight), or water.  There are literally scores more types of materials with properties to fit every project.
​SLA (UV cure resin) Printers
​
Overview

SLA printers generally offer much higher resolution prints with smoother surfaces and are often the best choice if you need to print fine details such as jewelry or very small parts.  It is common for SLA materials to cost over $100/kg and FDM filament is closer to $20/kg.  This is a major factor to consider when selecting an printer since material costs will be higher than the cost of the printer over time.

Popular Choices
  • Form2
  • Peopoly Moai Laser SLA 3D Printer - Kit
  • There are several others but not nearly as many choices as there are for FDM printers.

Resin Feature Options
Laser
Projection
Materials

I have just barely scratched the surface here.  I suggest going to the 3D Printing Resources and Links page to check out videos and information from some of my favorite content creators in this area.
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© Copyright, Shop Hacks 2019
  • Home
  • Improve your Workspace
    • Dust Collection and Air Filtration >
      • Table Saw Dust Collection
      • All About Cyclone Separators
      • Dust Deputy and Dustopper Review and Comprehensive Scientific Testing
      • Dust Sheriff Cyclone Separator
      • Dust Collection System Options
      • Air Filtration System Options
      • Why clean air matters
      • Is your shop air safe???
      • How to maintain healthy air in your shop
      • Dust Collection Resources and Links
      • Why I became obsessed with dust collection and air filtration
    • Storage, Organization, Efficiency >
      • How to organize your tools and materials
      • Workbench Build and Restoration Options
    • Improve your workshop floors and lighting >
      • Improve your floors
      • Improve your lighting
  • Improve Your Tools
    • CNC Routing / Milling >
      • What you can make with a CNC router
      • What are your options?
      • Getting Started with a CNC
      • CNC Enclosures
      • My Journey to CNC Machines
      • CNC Router Resources and Links
    • Laser Cutting / Engraving >
      • What you can make with a laser
      • Types of Laser Cutters
      • Laser Cutting Resources and Links
    • 3D Printing >
      • What you can make with a 3D Printer
      • Which 3D Printer Should I Buy?
      • 3D Printing Tips and Tricks
      • 3D Printing Resources and Links
      • My Journey to 3D Printing
      • Modified Makergear M2 with Heated Build Chamber
    • Vinyl Cutting / Graphics
  • Shop
    • The Ultimate Air Filtration System
    • Dust Sheriff Cyclone Dust Collector
    • Shop Vac Hose Connector
    • Drill Organizer with Easy Access Charger Shelf
    • Quik Cleat Organization System
    • Ultimate Flip Top Workbench Plans
    • DIY Hydraulic Lift Mobile Tool Base
  • Contact
    • The Shop Hacks Story
    • Blog