Modern technology is here to make our lives easier. So why not splurge on a home device that seems straight out of the future?
The last couple of decades have seen tremendous growth in the 3D printing market; from 3D printing fish filets to crafting steel frames for smartwatches, and even printing an entire Texas neighborhood.
Such magnificent developments have led some consumers to wonder how to snatch up their own machine for personal or business purposes, or even as a gift for the tech-lover in your life.
With such a new industry, there are still many questions to ask before purchasing your own 3D printer. From how much you should expect to pay, to what size, brand, and material you should be shopping for. And of course, even the seemingly simple questions, like how to assemble and turn it on.
The New York Post spoke with Spencer Gottlieb, the owner of HUSH Holsters, an entirely 3D-printed firearm holster company to learn the ins and outs of modern printing. Gottlieb has 12 years of commercial 3D printing experience, specializing in the design of defense, automotive, ornamental, and other 3D-printed products.
Why purchase a 3D printer?
Gottlieb explains that the vast majority of 3D printers are used for hobby purposes, but it is also becoming more common to see them being used for business purposes.
“3D printers are for people that want solutions to niche problems that larger companies aren’t considering or for making your idea a reality quickly and affordably,” noted Gottlieb. “For instance, if you have an old car or toy and are needing a small part replaced that isn’t made anymore, a 3D printer can be used to replicate it.”
According to Gottlieb, consumers should expect to see 3D printing creep into every industry and home slowly but surely, from housing to the military, and automotive sectors.
“You won’t be able to print everything in your life, but as more people are exposed to this technology, they will see that there are so many solutions available,” he adds.
What should you consider before buying a 3D printer?
Gottlieb suggests considering five factors before purchasing a 3D printer: material needs, cosmetic needs, size of the part, information feeding the printer, and safety.
When it comes to shopping for personal 3D printers, Gottlieb explains that most of the ones available on the mainstream market are made from metals, rubbers, and plastics. With a budget of under $10,000, shoppers can expect to make some tradeoffs.
“In the personal budget printers, there is a tradeoff between cosmetics and strength, material sciences will change this in the future, but for now, you can have gorgeous parts that aren’t very strong, or slightly less nice looking parts that are very strong,” Gottlieb says.
Information software should also be a high-priority consideration, according to the expert. Gottlieb points to the release of Autodesk Fusion 365. “Cheap or free CAD software with a massive online tutorial base has allowed people with no experience to get good 3D models made for projects they need,” he notes.
Finally, those shopping for 3D printers should be wary of the environment they are printing in. “3D printing does produce fumes that should not be inhaled for long periods of time, if at all,” Gottlieb warns. “There should be proper ventilation for all printers regardless of material.” He adds that fire is another concern, and fire extinguishers should always be present.
What are some of the best 3D printers?
Gottlieb recommends three specific brands for those looking for more advanced 3D printers, as well as beginners ready to embark on their printing journey: Bambu, Elegoo, and Ender. The New York Post shopping team has utilized Gottlieb’s suggestions, browsed other top brands, and scanned reviews to hand-select the top 3D printers of 2023.
Creality Ender 3 3D Printer
Ideal for school STEM Projects and printing small models and creations, this Ender printer is a great way to introduce novices to the 3d printing world. “These will require some knowledge to produce good prints, but if money is a main concern, these will print parts and the knowledge base is extremely large,” says Gottlieb.
Creality K1 3D Printer
For a slightly higher price point, Ender offers this upgraded 0.1 mm 3D printer with smoother detail, auto leveling, and a dual fan cooler. Reviewers have raved about the speed: “with how fast it goes I thought it was going to tip over on my little table so it’s on the hardwood floor for now.”
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Providing you with a building area of 11.8 x 11.8 x 11.8″, the Creality k1 Max leaves plenty of room for your larger and more robust creations. The K1 can print via USB drive or Wi-Fi wireless technology, allowing you to control the K1 in person or remotely.
ELEGOO Saturn 2 MSLA 3D Printer
“Elegoo Saturn is a Resin-based 3D printer for folks who can have a slightly less strong part but need incredible detail, like for toys, ornamental parts, and jewelry. Resin printing is FAR more complex than FDM (filament-based) printing, but the detail is unreal,” Gottlieb explains.
ELEGOO Mars 4 Ultra MSLA 3D Printer
While this ElEGOO printer has a smaller plate size, shoppers are very impressed with how user-friendly and straightforward this device is for beginners. Keep in mind, after printing, Reisen models need to be cleaned in a specific solution. Shoppers recommend purchasing an additional 2-in-1 wash and cure station to simplify the post-print process.
Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo The Basics Bundle
Gottlieb has a few reasons this Bambu printer sits at the top of his list: “This is now the standard by which all printers are measured; with cameras, AI, super fast print speeds and great material capabilities, this printer can take someone who is totally new to printing and have them making incredible parts with ease.”
Toybox Deluxe Bundle
Meet the 3D printer your kids will love. Little ones can bring their toys to life with Toybox’s one-touch technology, as well as a supplemental Toybox app that allows users to directly upload all their toy-designing ideas. Toybox is also made with kid-friendly, non-toxic materials so your family can enjoy printing fun without the mess.
Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 3D Printer kit
While the assembly on this 3D printer is a bit more complicated (one shopper compared it to putting together a Lego kit), the Prusa does earn points for durability. “Definitely the most reliable printer I’ve ever owned,” one reviewer writes, noting that they have had to do very little in the way of upgrades.
AnkerMake M5 Speedy 3D Printer
If you would rather be watching your printer build things, versus spending time building the printer itself, opt for the AnkerMake. The M5 promises to have you printing in just 15 minutes with straightforward assembly instructions. The 8GB memory stores pre-loaded objects to let you experiment right away. Spend less time building and more designing!
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