Best 3D Printers for Beginners in 2024 [TOP 13 Picks]

3D printing has revolutionized the way we create and manufacture objects. From small toys to large industrial parts, 3D printing has opened up a whole new world of possibilities. If you're new to 3D printing, you might be wondering where to start. What kind of printer should you buy? What features should you look for? What kind of materials can you use? In this article, we'll help you find the best 3D printer for beginners.

When it comes to 3D printers, there are many different types to choose from. Some printers use plastic filaments, while others use resin or powder. Some printers are large and expensive, while others are small and affordable. For beginners, we recommend starting with a basic FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer. FDM printers are easy to use and maintain, and they're also affordable. They work by melting plastic filaments and extruding them layer by layer to create a 3D object.

When choosing a 3D printer, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is build volume, which refers to the size of the objects you can print. If you want to print larger objects, you'll need a printer with a larger build volume. The second is print quality, which is determined by factors like layer height and print speed. The third is ease of use, which includes things like software, calibration, and maintenance.

In this article, we'll take a look at three of the best 3D printers for beginners. Each of these printers has a different set of features and benefits, so you can choose the one that's right for you. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, these printers will help you bring your ideas to life.

Best 3D Printers for Beginners

If you're looking to get into 3D printing, it can be overwhelming to choose the right printer. With so many options available, it's hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best 3D printers for beginners. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a printer with more advanced features, we've got you covered. Take a look at our top picks and find the perfect 3D printer for your needs.

Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer

If you're a beginner in the 3D printing world, the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is an excellent choice for you. With its advanced extruder technology and resume printing function, it offers a seamless and user-friendly printing experience.

Pros

• The resume printing function allows you to continue printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs.
• The easy and quick assembly process takes only about 2 hours to assemble 20 nuts well.
• The upgraded extruder technology greatly reduces plugging risk and bad extrusion, while the V-shape with POM wheels make it move noiseless, smoothly and durable.

Cons

• The printer is compatible only with laptops.
• The hot bed takes 5 minutes to reach 100 degrees, which may be slower than some users prefer.
• The strict testing for key components before delivery may add to the overall cost of the printer.

The Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is an excellent choice for beginners. With its advanced extruder technology and resume printing function, it offers a seamless and user-friendly printing experience. The easy and quick assembly process takes only about 2 hours to assemble 20 nuts well, making it a convenient option for those who don't have a lot of time to spare.

One of the best features of the Ender 3 is its resume printing function. This allows you to continue printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs, which can save you a lot of time and frustration. The upgraded extruder technology greatly reduces plugging risk and bad extrusion, while the V-shape with POM wheels make it move noiseless, smoothly and durable.

While the printer is compatible only with laptops, it's still a great option for beginners who are just starting out in the 3D printing world. The hot bed takes 5 minutes to reach 100 degrees, which may be slower than some users prefer. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits of the printer.

Overall, the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is an excellent choice for beginners who are looking for a user-friendly and reliable printer. With its advanced extruder technology and resume printing function, it's a great investment for anyone who wants to get started in 3D printing.

ELEGOO Neptune 4 3D Printer

If you're a beginner looking for a 3D printer that's easy to assemble and use, the ELEGOO Neptune 4 is worth considering.

Pros

• Lightning-fast printing speed of up to 500mm/s
• Reliable printing quality with dual Z-axis lead screws
• Direct drive extruder for powerful extrusion and smoother filament feeding

Cons

• Limited compatibility with devices - only works with laptops and smartphones
• Heavy weight at 18.3 pounds
• High price point compared to other beginner-friendly 3D printers

The ELEGOO Neptune 4 is equipped with a Klipper motherboard and high-performance processor, making it capable of achieving up to 500mm/s incredible printing speed. This allows you to produce your creations faster than ever before. The recommended printing speed is 250mm/s. Along with support input shaping and pressure advance function, you can get both high-speed printing and fine quality at the same time.

The dual Z-axis lead screws design allows Neptune 4 to work more stable and smoother, ensuring reliable printing quality. The upgraded self-developed dual-gear direct drive extruder has a 5.2:1 reduction ratio, providing powerful extrusion and smoother filament feeding. Paired with metal throat pipe and unique air duct design to reduce nozzle clogging risk.

The 300°C high-temp nozzle and an extended hot end allow Neptune 4 to handle a wider range of materials, including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and high-temperature filaments such as nylon. The newly designed 121 (11x11) points auto bed leveling ensures quick and accurate leveling of the build platform. For perfect first-layer printing, you can also use the hand-twist knobs under the PEI magnetic platform for auxiliary leveling.

In conclusion, the ELEGOO Neptune 4 3D printer is a solid choice for beginners who want to produce high-quality prints quickly. However, it may not be the most compatible option for all devices and comes with a high price point.

R QIDI TECHNOLOGY X-Smart3 3D Printer

If you're looking for an economical and powerful 3D printer for beginners, the R QIDI TECHNOLOGY X-Smart3 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• The X-Smart3 is a benchmark economic 3D printer with a 500mm/s highest printing speed, making it one of the fastest 3D printers for beginners on the market.
• The printing accuracy is increased by 20% even in high-speed printing, thanks to the precise detail and more stable printing capabilities.
• The X-Smart3 is fully enclosed, making it an excellent choice for kids home use and educational applications.

Cons

• The build volume is 175180170mm, which is smaller than some other 3D printers on the market.
• Although the X-Smart3 is a great option for beginners, it may not be the best choice for more advanced users.
• The X-Smart3 is a new product, so there may be some bugs or issues that need to be worked out over time.

The R QIDI TECHNOLOGY X-Smart3 3D Printer is a great choice for beginners who want a powerful and economical 3D printer. The X-Smart3 is ideal for creating innovative designs, and the open-source and stronger scalability provide powerful support. The printer is equipped with a 64bit Processor, Cortex-A53, Main frequency 1.5GHz, 8G-EMMC, and 1G DDR3, ensuring that most filaments can be printed freely and fast. The X-Smart3 is fully assembled and ready to print out of the box, with a completely enclosed structure design, 120℃ heated platform, and flexible and removable magnetic HF build plate, making it easy to remove models.

If you have any questions or concerns about the X-Smart3, QIDI TECH provides excellent after-sale service, including returns within 30 days, a 1-year warranty, and technical support.

Entina Tina2S 3D Printer

If you're looking for an easy-to-use 3D printer that is perfect for beginners, the Entina Tina2S 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• Comes fully assembled and ready to use out of the box
• Equipped with a new self-developed app for one-click control of the printer
• Upgraded wifi module with 5 times faster file transfer speed

Cons

• The app can be difficult to use and the wifi connection can be unreliable
• The printer does not have a heated bed, which can limit the types of materials that can be used
• Some users have reported issues with clogging and difficulty replacing accessories

This mini 3D printer is perfect for beginners and children, with a compact body that is easy to use right out of the box. The self-developed app makes it easy to control the printer, and the upgraded wifi module allows for faster and more stable file transfer.

The Entina Tina2S 3D Printer also features a built-in LED light that allows you to observe the printing process, and a quick-change test nozzle that reduces the printer clogging problem. The dual Z-axis guide design ensures stable movement, and the full silent motherboard creates a quiet printing environment.

One of the best features of this printer is the automatic leveling and heated platform, which eliminates the need for manual adjustments and makes successful printing much easier. The flexible and removable spring steel build plate reduces model warpage issues, and makes it easy to remove prints and clean the platform.

Overall, the Entina Tina2S 3D Printer is a great option for beginners who want an easy-to-use, affordable printer that still offers high precision and smart control. With excellent service and a 30-day return policy, you can feel confident in your purchase.

Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer

If you're looking for an affordable 3D printer that is easy to assemble and use, the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• Faster printing speed than most printers on the market
• Easy to assemble in just three steps
• Capable of smooth feeding of various filaments

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with leveling
• The default language is Chinese, which may require a language change on power up
• The power supply needs to be set to 115V before power on

This 3D printer is capable of printing at up to 250mm/s speed with 2500mm/s² acceleration, which is faster than most printers on the market. The optimized UI uses motion graphics to display the leveling process and other parameters, providing you with a perfect printing experience.

The printer is easy to assemble in just three steps within about 20 minutes, and it equips CR Touch for auto-leveling and a strain sensor for auto Z offset. This makes it easy to get a perfect first layer, which is friendly to all customers, including beginners.

The "Sprite" Direct Extruder of Ender 3 V3 SE enables smooth feeding of various filaments, including PLA, PETG, and TPU. The extruder is market-proven for its reliability, as over 500,000 units have been shipped worldwide.

The printer equips a 32-bit silent mainboard with an advanced stepper motor drive to control all axes more precisely for less operation noise. The PC spring steel build plate is sticky and flexible, making it easy to remove the printed models by bending it slightly. Moreover, Ender 3 V3 SE equips the auto filament loading and uploading, one tap to load the filament, and one tap to unload it.

In summary, the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer is a great option for beginners who want an affordable and easy-to-use 3D printer. With its fast printing speed, easy assembly, and smooth feeding of various filaments, it's a reliable choice for anyone looking to get started with 3D printing.

Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer

If you're a beginner looking for an affordable and easy-to-assemble 3D printer, the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• The printer comes with a resume printing function that allows you to continue printing even if the power is accidentally cut off.
• The compact size of the printer makes it easy to carry around.
• The V-profile and pulley design make the printer stable and low noise.

Cons

• The instructions may be difficult to follow for some beginners.
• The printer may require some calibration before use.
• The print bed may not be perfectly level out of the box.

If you're willing to put in the effort to assemble and calibrate the printer, the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is a great option for beginners. The resume printing function is a useful feature that can save you time and filament in case of power outages. The compact size of the printer also makes it easy to store and transport.

However, some beginners may find the instructions difficult to follow, and the print bed may require some calibration before use. Additionally, the print bed may not be perfectly level out of the box, which can affect print quality. Overall, if you're willing to put in the effort to set up and calibrate the printer, the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is a great option for beginners.

Asani Mini 3D Printer

If you're looking for a starter 3D printer that's simple and easy to use, the Asani Mini 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• Comes with a complete starter kit, including filament and pre-installed model designs.
• Fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box.
• Easy auto-leveling and one-touch filament loading for beginners.

Cons

• Print quality may not be as high as more expensive models.
• Limited compatibility with filament types.
• Small build size may be limiting for some projects.

This mini 3D printer is perfect for beginners and kids who are just starting to explore the world of 3D printing. With a complete starter kit included, you'll have everything you need to get started right away. The printer is fully assembled and ready to use, so you won't have to spend time putting it together.

One of the standout features of this printer is the easy auto-leveling system, which makes it simple to get high-quality prints without worrying about complicated calibration. The one-touch filament loading system is also a great feature for beginners, as it makes it easy to load and retract filament with the touch of a button.

While the print quality may not be as high as more expensive models, this printer is still capable of producing impressive results. The limited compatibility with filament types may be a downside for some users, but the printer is compatible with a majority of slicing software including WiiBuilder, Cura, Simplify3d, and Slicr3d. The small build size may also be limiting for some projects, but it's perfect for home use, classrooms, and dorm rooms.

Overall, the Asani Mini 3D Printer is a great option for beginners and kids who want to explore the world of 3D printing without breaking the bank.

Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer

If you are a beginner looking for a 3D printer, Creality Ender 3 V3 SE is a great option to consider. It offers various features that make the printing process easier and faster.

Pros

• The printer supports a maximum printing speed of 250mm/s, saving 73% of the time compared to other printers.
• The upgraded "Sprite" full metal dual-gear direct extruder provides smooth feeding and discharging of filaments without slipping.
• The CR Touch sensor for auto-leveling and strain sensor for auto z-offset make leveling much easier.

Cons

• The nozzles are wider than standard, so you may have excess extrusion if you don't change your settings in Cura.
• Upgrading to a Capricorn PTFE may not provide any noticeable benefit.
• Some users have reported occasional clumping of filaments with the default 0.4 brass nozzle.

The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D printer is designed for quick assembly and easy use. It takes only 20 minutes to assemble, and the user interface uses motion graphics to display the leveling process and other parameters. The printer also features automatic loading and unloading of filaments, making it effortless to replace the filament.

The printer has a sleek and compact design, taking up less space but providing an ample build volume. The stable dual Z-axis lead screws reduce Z wobbling effectively, avoiding printing deviation in single-axis printing. The Y-axis features two 8mm linear shafts made of strong and wear-proof steel, ensuring printing stability and higher printing accuracy over a long-lasting time.

Creality provides 12-month after-sales service for the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D printer. If you have any questions or need support about the product, you can contact them via Amazon, and they will respond within 24 hours.

Overall, the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D printer is an excellent choice for beginners who want a printer that is easy to use, fast, and reliable.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer

If you're looking for a beginner-friendly 3D printer that can deliver fast and accurate prints, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 250mm/s printing speed is more than 65% faster than other models, making it ideal for those who want to get their projects done quickly.
• The new integrated extruder and cooling system allow filaments to melt quickly and cool down rapidly, resulting in smoother and clearer model details.
• The LeviQ 2.0 automatic leveling feature compensates for Z-axis offset, ensuring efficient and easy creation even for novice users.

Cons

• The load and unload filament process may not be intuitive for beginners.
• While the print volume is impressive, the printer itself is quite large and may be difficult to store in smaller spaces.
• Some users have reported issues with the printer's accuracy and reliability.

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer is a great option for beginners who want to experiment with 3D printing without breaking the bank. The fast printing speed and automatic leveling feature make it easy to get started, while the integrated extruder and cooling system ensure high-quality prints every time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the printer may not be as accurate or reliable as some other models on the market, so it's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

Overall, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly 3D printer that offers a good balance of speed and accuracy, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer is definitely worth considering.

HEPHI3D Newest Tina2S 3D Printer

Looking for a 3D printer that is easy to use and ideal for beginners? The HEPHI3D Newest Tina2S 3D Printer is worth considering.

Pros

• The printer comes fully assembled and is ready to use right out of the box.
• The Tina2S mini 3D printer has a self-developed app called "Poloprint Cloud," which allows for easy online slicing and cloud printing via Wi-Fi.
• The printer is compatible with various software programs, including Wiibuilder, Cura, Kiri, and PrusaSlicer.

Cons

• The printer has a small build volume, which may limit the size of objects that can be printed.
• The printer's print speed may not be as fast as other models on the market.
• The printer's warranty period is only 12 months, which may not be sufficient for some users.

This printer is perfect for anyone who wants a 3D printer that is easy to use and has a range of features for beginners. With its fully assembled design and Poloprint Cloud app, you can start printing right away without any hassle. The printer is also compatible with various software programs, making it easy to customize your prints.

The HEPHI3D Newest Tina2S 3D Printer has a few drawbacks, including its small build volume and slower print speed. However, these are minor issues that can be overlooked if you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use 3D printer. Additionally, the printer comes with a 30-day return/replacement policy and lifetime technical support, so you can rest assured that you're getting a quality product.

In summary, if you're a beginner looking for a reliable and easy-to-use 3D printer, the HEPHI3D Newest Tina2S 3D Printer is a great choice.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer

If you're looking for a 3D printer that is easy to use and produces high-quality prints, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer is a great option.

Pros

• With a maximum print speed of 250mm/s, this printer is more than 65% faster than other models, making it perfect for those who need to print quickly.
• The newly upgraded extrusion system and cooling system melt filaments quickly and ensure rapid cooling and molding of the model, resulting in high-quality prints.
• The linear propulsion and input shaping functions in Marlin firmware reduce spillage and print resonance, improving print quality and stability.

Cons

• The Z-axis offset is intelligently compensated after automatic leveling, but some users may find it difficult to adjust the Z-axis compensation value to meet their needs.
• The printer comes with a one-year warranty, but the print head is only warrantied for 3 months and the heated bed for 6 months.
• The printer is made in China, which may be a concern for some users.

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer is a great choice for beginners who want a high-quality printer that is easy to use. With its fast print speed, upgraded extrusion and cooling systems, and improved print quality and stability, this printer is perfect for those who need to print quickly and accurately. However, some users may find it difficult to adjust the Z-axis compensation value, and the warranty on the print head and heated bed is relatively short. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use 3D printer, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo is a great option.

AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer

If you're looking for a user-friendly 3D printer for your child or yourself, the AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Effortless 3D printing with no complex setup required
• Enclosed design prioritizes safety for your family
• 15 mini-apps model library and two free design software make the process even more fun and accessible

Cons

• Some users reported issues with filament loading
• The printer's enclosure may limit the size of the prints
• The printer's app may not be compatible with all devices

The AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer is fully assembled and requires no complex setup or manual equipment calibration before you start printing. The intuitive software and user-friendly interface make it easy for kids to design and print their creations, bringing their ideas to life. This X-MAKER 3D Printer is the perfect tool for unleashing your child's creativity.

Unlike fully open-source 3D printers, the AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer's enclosed design offers a range of benefits that prioritize safety for your family. With an enclosed design, harmful fumes and emissions are isolated. The leveling-free bed guarantees a proper distance between the nozzle and the printing surface, resulting in consistent and high-quality prints. The printer's enclosure protects your children and won't accidentally touch any hot or moving parts during operation.

The AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer has elaborate LEGO-style design apps, making it easier for kids and beginners to design models. There are 15 gamified 3D design "mini-programs" to make the process even more fun and accessible. For those looking to take their creativity even further, the two free design software, "digital building blocks" graphic module design and "digital clay" free sculpture modeling, provide a unique and tactile approach to creating your own 3D masterpieces.

While some users reported issues with filament loading, the AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer is designed to deliver excellent print quality with advanced printing technology. With precision as fine as 0.1/0.05 mm and a printing rate of 160mm/s, you can trust that your prints will come out with incredible accuracy and detail. For sustainability, the 3D printer uses PLA filament, an eco-friendly material that is both durable and sustainable. This means you can enjoy high-quality prints while also doing your part to protect the planet.

The AOSEED X-MAKER 3D Printer provides an incredibly silent printing experience. With a specially designed motor, the small 3D printer operates at less than 50 dB, providing a virtually silent printing session, even during long print jobs. AOSEED X-MAKER 3D printer is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a quiet and high-performing printer.

WEEDO TINA2S 3D Printers for Kids and Beginners

If you're looking for an affordable 3D printer that's easy to use and perfect for beginners, the WEEDO TINA2S is a great option.

Pros

• Fully assembled and easy to set up
• WIFI printing for convenience
• Excellent print quality and reduce clogs

Cons

• Small print size
• Only supports 2.4G network
• Limited technical support

The WEEDO TINA2S is a great entry-level FDM printer that comes fully assembled and can be up and running in minutes. With WIFI printing, you can control the printer wirelessly and remotely, making it easy to use. The app model library has plenty of pre-sliced models available for printing, and the printer is compatible with Wiibuilder, Cura, Simplify3d and PoloPrint Pro App.

One of the standout features of the WEEDO TINA2S is its excellent print quality, thanks to the auto bed leveling and dual Z-axis design. The upgraded high-speed cooling fan and hotend also reduce clogs, while the clip-on design makes it easy to replace the nozzle in the event of a clog. The spring steel PEI magnetic build plate is removable and flexible, making it easy to remove prints.

However, the WEEDO TINA2S does have some limitations. The print size is quite small, at 100105100mm, so you won't be able to print anything too large. The printer only supports 2.4G network, which may be an issue for some users. Additionally, the technical support is limited, so if you run into any problems, you may have to figure things out on your own.

Overall, the WEEDO TINA2S is a great option for beginners who want an easy-to-use 3D printer with good print quality. It's affordable, convenient, and produces high-quality prints.

Buying Guide

When looking to buy a 3D printer, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look at:

Print Quality

The quality of the prints is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a 3D printer. Look for a printer with a high resolution, which means it can produce fine details and smooth surfaces. A printer with a high-quality print bed and nozzle will also ensure that your prints come out looking great.

Print Speed

The speed at which a printer can produce prints is another important factor to consider. If you plan to print large objects, you'll want a printer that can handle the job quickly. However, keep in mind that faster printing speeds can sometimes come at the expense of print quality.

Build Volume

The build volume refers to the maximum size of the objects you can print. If you plan to print large objects, you'll want a printer with a larger build volume. However, keep in mind that larger printers can be more expensive and take up more space.

Connectivity

Consider how you will connect the printer to your computer or other devices. Some printers come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, which can make it easier to print from your phone or tablet. Others may require a wired connection.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when choosing a 3D printer. Prices can vary widely, and you'll want to make sure you get the best value for your money. Look for a printer that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best 3D printer for your needs and start creating amazing prints right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should a beginner look for in a 3D printer?

As a beginner, it's best to look for a 3D printer that is easy to use, has a straightforward setup process, and has good customer support. Look for printers that have a user-friendly interface, a reliable bed leveling system, and a build volume that suits your needs. Additionally, consider a printer with a heated bed, as this can help with adhesion and prevent warping.

How does auto-leveling benefit a novice in 3D printing?

Auto-leveling is a useful feature for beginners, as it takes the guesswork out of bed leveling. This ensures that the first layer of your print is properly adhered to the bed, which is crucial for a successful print. Auto-leveling also saves time and effort, as you don't have to manually adjust the bed every time you start a new print.

Which 3D printer is recommended for starting a small business?

For a small business, it's important to have a printer that is reliable, efficient, and produces high-quality prints. Some recommended options include the Creality Ender 3 Pro, Prusa i3 MK3S, and the FlashForge Creator Pro. These printers offer a good balance of features and affordability, making them ideal for small businesses.

What are the best entry-level 3D printers for printing miniatures?

When it comes to printing miniatures, it's important to have a printer with high precision and accuracy. Some recommended options include the Anycubic Photon, Elegoo Mars, and the Creality LD-002R. These printers use resin-based printing technology, which allows for highly detailed and intricate prints.

Can you suggest a reliable and easy-to-use 3D printer for new users?

For new users, we recommend the Creality Ender 3 Pro or the Monoprice Select Mini v2. These printers offer a good balance of affordability, ease of use, and reliability. They also have a large community of users, which means there are plenty of resources and support available online.

What is considered a reasonable budget for a first-time 3D printer purchase?

A reasonable budget for a first-time 3D printer purchase is around $300 to $500. This will give you access to a range of reliable and high-quality printers that are suitable for beginners. However, it's important to keep in mind that additional costs may be incurred for filaments, accessories, and upgrades.