10 Best 3D Printers for Beginners

As their name suggests, 3D printers assist you in creating a print of designs in a three-dimensional format that is created utilizing CAD. Leveraging 3D technology is a modern approach to communicating your thoughts to others.

In addition to helping businesses lower expenses, this technology also gives new and enhanced ways for the manufacturing process.

Today, we will look at the ten 3D printers that can bring your digital dreams to life. Let’s read on!

1. Ender 3 Pro

Ender 3 Pro

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What I Like

  • Highly affordable
  • Easy to assemble
  • Compact design
  • Prints can be high-quality
  • Beginner and child-friendly

Things to consider

  • Print bed leveling is tricky.
  • The magnetic bed is not to everyone’s liking.

Key features

This model’s CMagnet-built surface plate allows you to take apart your printing models quickly and easily.

It is an utterly open-source printer, so you can modify the software and share these updates with others to improve the Ender 3 Pro printer’s performance.

This printer is ideal for fields related to STEM. So it can help the kids in developing their creativity and originality.

You can teach your kid the assembly and work with one 3D printer through this impressive mode. Its user-friendly interface allows any beginner to learn to print 3D images quickly.

2. Robo E3

Robo E3

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What I Like

  • Wi-Fi-enabled.
  • Auto calibration.
  • Flexible connectivity.
  • Prints most materials.
  • Auto-calibrated print bed.

Things to consider

  • Expensive.

Key features

If you are serious about 3D printing and do not want to buy an entry-level model, the Robo E3 might be your best bet. It is the same weight and size as my other recommendations but can work with many more materials.

This model allows you to create 3D prints that other printers cannot. It will be helpful if you make objects that require different elements, like metal and glass.

You also get a two-hour online training course when you purchase this printer.

Although the E3 is quite pricey, it is still a good option for beginners thanks to its auto-calibrating print bed, increasing the odds of you ending up with a more satisfying print than a lopsided one.

3. Monoprice Voxel

Monoprice Voxel

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What I Like

  • Versatile software.
  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Budget price for printer.
  • Print over Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or a USB thumb drive.
  • Support PLA, ABS, and composite filament types.

Things to consider

  • Slightly balky touch screen.

Key features

If you prefer to buy a 3D printer without a learning curve, the Voxel is worth a look. It has some automated functions to make it extremely effortless to use.

This machine arrives fully calibrated and is all set to use. It has one auto-leveling feature, demonstrating that the build platform is in the proper position, and the auto-feeding filament function helps load filament easily.

Once you finish printing your object, just lift its heated, removable, and flexible build plate. With slightly flexing, your model will pop off quickly.

Also, this model is Wi-Fi-enabled, and its functions can be monitored and controlled through your smartphone or its touch screen.

4. ANYCUBIC Mega Pro

ANYCUBIC Mega Pro

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What I Like

  • Dual function.
  • Incredibly cheap.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Excellent print quality.

Things to consider

  • No enclosure option.

Key features

With 3D printing and laser engraving features in one machine, the Anycubic Mega is the best multifunction 3D printer I have ever tested. It is in the same price range as an average entry-level 3D model, making it ideal for beginners.

This model is easy to utilize, with a filament detection feature, smart leveling feature, and an auto-resume function.

Besides basic 3D printing, it lets you pause at specific layers and swap colors. That way, you can make multi-color creations in the same print.

The Anycubic Mega Pro is precise and suitable for common materials like wood, paper, and leather. Its laser engraving feature is effortless to switch out. Also, you can attach the 3D print head quickly.

5. ELEGOO Saturn MSLA

ELEGOO Saturn MSLA

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What I Like

  • Network connectivity.
  • Large print platform.
  • Accurate printing results.
  • Incredibly detailed print quality.

Things to consider

  • No built-in filter.
  • Test print needs improvement.

Key Features

The resin 3D printer can print detail at higher levels, making it great for making smaller models. If you are a beginner who wants to leverage resin printing, the ELEGOO Saturn MSLA is the one to get as it is an affordable option with some attractive features.

For the entry-level price range, this machine features a large build volume. It also prints sixty percent faster than its predecessor (the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro) but still offers superior printing results.

It is also easy to set up. A uniform light source and one easy-to-calibrate build plate will make excellent print results with fewer adjustments.

6. Monoprice 121711

Monoprice Select Mini 3D Printer V2

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What I Like

  • Hackable.
  • Sturdy Design.
  • Highly Affordable.
  • Simple to Operate.
  • Reliable Results at Low-Speed Prints.

Things to consider

  • Tricky to calibrate.
  • Fails at high-speed prints.

Key features

This model is one of the best budget models available. It is also effortless to utilize for any beginner. And it is refurbished, so you can save more money.

This machine can work well with 1.75mm filament types, including PLA, ABS, conductive PLA, metal and wood composites, and dissolvable PVA. That flexibility can open the door to various new projects.

The size of a printer is typically related to its price. Hence, this wallet-friendly model features a small build volume (approximately 4.7“ cubed). It means that this model is compact enough to fit any desktop.

7. ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X

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What I Like

  • WiFi is capable.
  • Detailed models.
  • Fast printing speed.
  • Large 8.9-inch screen.
  • Compatible with Lychee Slicer and Chitubox software.

Things to consider

  • Noisy cooling fans.
  • No USB drive included.

Key features

This machine offers fast and detailed printing. The print volume is not huge, but it can make highly-detailed items look impressive.

The build of this printer hints at stability and durability that are beyond its price tag. This model is WiFi capable, allowing it easier to link to your selected software. The software is also where it shines.

In addition to being compatible with ANYCUBE’s software, this model is compatible with Lychee Slicer and Chitubox, which offers more effortless control and more great printer options.

On the downside, the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X has loud cooling fans and does not feature a USB drive.

8. Mingda Upgrade Magician X

Mingda Upgrade Magician X

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What I Like

  • Direct drive.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Easy assembly.
  • Full-size SD card.
  • Auto bed leveling.

Things to consider

  • Difficult to upgrade.
  • Too sticky build surface.

Key features

The Mingda Upgrade Magician might help you to make the best 3D visuals with a 32-bit motherboard and the ST-407 main control chip with high performance.

With a smooth system and faster working speed, the Mingda printer is one of the best options for beginners.

In addition, you will find the silent feature of this model, which ensures that you do not deal with any noise during the printing process.

Another great feature is that this printer can auto-level itself, allowing you not to bother yourself about manual leveling.

9. Anycubic Vyper

Anycubic Vyper

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What I Like

  • Simple assembly.
  • Automatic bed leveling.
  • Relatively large build area.
  • Strong dual-gear filament feed.

Things to consider

  • Short warranty.
  • Small starter filament coil.
  • Not ideal for print perfectionists.

Key features

This inexpensive open-frame 3D printer can provide automatic print-bed leveling, generating good-quality prints in my testing. It is partially assembled, and the remaining steps are easy to do for beginners.

For the filament, this model supports the standard PLA and ABS, plus PETG and TPU. It only has a small starter coil, so you must purchase at least one spool.

Thanks to the generous build area, automatic print-bed leveling, and competitive pricing, this model is a good choice for hobbyists and newbies on a budget.

But some of my test prints looked a bit rough-hewn. Hence, print perfectionists may want to avoid this model.

10. Toybox 3D

Toybox 3D

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What I Like

  • Easy setup.
  • One-touch operation.
  • Reliable, misprint-free printing.
  • A wide selection of simple toys is available to print.

Things to consider

  • Hot and moving parts.
  • Unheated print bed.

Key features

This machine is made for use by young people and children who are older than 5 years old, and there is an adult around when the printer is in use.

It can help you bond more with your child by creating some nifty toys together.

This printer requires adult help for initial setup, including setting up a free account, downloading the app, and syncing the printer with the device. You also need to be present around when your children use this machine.

You can print through a browser or mobile device, designing your own objects or selecting printable ones from Toybox’s selection. Printing proved smooth, without misprints.

Buyer’s Guide

Things to consider when buying a 3D printer

Print Quality

It is preferable to choose a 3D printer that can create high-quality models, allowing your design to look exactly as you intended. All 3D printers that I have mentioned in this article have good specifications and high user satisfaction.

Ease of Use

Ease of use or user-friendliness is one of the top criteria when choosing a 3D Printer, especially if you are a beginner.

During testing, I prioritized some features such as easy material refilling, straightforward assembly, and a simple-to-use interface to get started.

Price

3D printers can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousands of dollars.

In most cases, beginners will want to buy a budget-friendly model for testing before investing in a more expensive model.

I have included some models in a modest price range, which lean towards more affordable prices to appeal to beginners and novices.

Weight And Size

3D printers still have reasonably small sizes. They are designed for home use, so most feature one compact footprint to fit well on a counter and desktop.

So you need to consider the weight and size of the printer and how the machine can fit in a space.

Remember that the printer size involves the build volume your chosen printer is attempting to accommodate. Larger printers can make larger items, while smaller ones would be limited to smaller objects.

The Bottom Line

I’ve provided the top 3D printers for people who have just started. Each model is great in its own way, but our top pick is the Ender 3 Pro for many good reasons.

If you have a creative mind and are considering investing in a 3D printer but have no information about how it works, you can opt for one of the printers that have been highlighted above.

Thanks for your time!