10 Things to Consider Before Buying a 3D Printer

10 Things to Consider Before Buying a 3D Printer

10 Things to Consider Before Buying a 3D Printer: Image Source: 123rf

The 3D printing revolution is here, and it is changing the way that products are designed and manufactured. 3D printers are capable of creating objects of any shape or size, and they are becoming increasingly accessible to the average consumer. Buying a 3D printer is no small decision, and there are many factors to consider before taking the plunge and investing in one.

Before purchasing a 3D printer, it is important to consider the type of printer you need for your project. SelfCAD offers a wide range of 3D printers, so make sure to choose the one that best fits your needs. You should also consider the size of the printer, its speed, the materials it can print with, the software compatibility, and the customer support provided. Consider the cost of the printer and the cost of materials, and make sure it fits into your budget. Finally, read customer reviews to make sure you're making the right choice.

In this article, we will look at the most important things to consider when buying a 3D printer, so that you can make the best possible decision.

1. Price:

3D printers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's no surprise that as the technology develops, the prices of these printers have also come down. With so many options available, deciding which 3D printer is right for you can be challenging. One important factor to consider is the prize - what you get for the money you spend.  This machine is capable of printing in a variety of materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and Nylon. It also has a large build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm, and the print quality is excellent. The Ultimaker 3 Extended is also more reliable and easier to maintain than the Monoprice Maker Select Plus.

When choosing a 3D printer, it's important to take into account the prize factor. Consider the features that you need, the build volume, and the cost of materials. Compare the features and prices of different 3D printers to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

2. Print Volume:

One of the most important features to consider when choosing a 3D printer is the volume factor. The volume factor of a 3D printer is the maximum size of the 3D printable parts it can manufacture. A 3D printer with a larger volume factor can print larger parts, while a 3D printer with a smaller volume factor can only print smaller parts. The volume factor of a 3D printer affects the size and complexity of the parts it can produce. A larger volume factor means that the 3D printer can produce larger and more complex parts Overall, the volume factor of a 3D printer is an important consideration when choosing the right 3D printer for your needs. It’s important to select a 3D printer with the right volume factor, as well as the right accuracy and speed, to produce parts of the highest quality.

3. Print Speed:

When it comes to purchasing a 3D printer, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important is print speed. The speed at which a 3D printer can produce an object is an important factor to consider when making a purchasing decision.

Print speed is a measure of how quickly a 3D printer can produce a 3D-printed object. It is typically measured in millimeters per second (mm/s). The higher the speed, the faster the 3D printer can create the object.

Print speed is also affected by the layer height of the 3D printer. A lower layer height will allow the printer to print faster, as it will require fewer passes to complete the object. On the other hand, a higher layer height will require more passes and therefore result in a slower print speed.

When deciding on a 3D printer, it is important to consider the print speed, layer height, and cost of printing. If you have limited time or need to produce high-quality prints, then a 3D printer with a higher print speed may be necessary. However, if you are working on a budget, then a lower-speed 3D printer may be a more suitable option.

4. Filament Type:

When purchasing a 3D printer, it is important to consider the type of filament it can use. Different 3D printers are compatible with different filaments, such as ABS, PLA, PETG, TPU, and more. Knowing which filament type is compatible with your 3D printer will help you find the right filament for your project and ensure that your 3D printing experience is successful.

5. Resolution factor:

Before buying a 3D printer, make sure to check the printing resolution factor. This factor will determine the level of detail of your 3D prints. The higher the resolution, the finer the details of your prints and the smoother the surface. Be sure to check this factor before you buy, as it can make a big difference in the quality of your prints.

6. Connectivity:

Connectivity is an important factor to consider before buying a 3D printer. Connectivity allows for easy transfer of 3D models to the printer and the ability to access print jobs remotely. Connection options include USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. Depending on the type of work you are doing, you may need a specific type of connection. For example, if you are planning to run multiple 3D printers, an Ethernet connection may be best. Wi-Fi is also great if you need to access the printer remotely or share files. USB is a great option for low-cost printers and those that are used primarily in-house. Bluetooth is a good choice if you need to connect to mobile devices. Make sure to choose the right connection option for your 3D printing needs.

7. Compatibility:

Software compatibility is an important factor to consider when buying a 3D printer. Not all 3D printers are compatible with all types of software, so it is important to make sure that the 3D printer you purchase is compatible with the software you plan to use. Some 3D printers are compatible with open-source software, while others are compatible with closed-source software. Additionally, some 3D printers can work with CAD programs, which can benefit more complex designs. For those with limited knowledge of 3D printing software, purchasing a 3D printer with a user-friendly interface may be beneficial. By ensuring the 3D printer is compatible with the software you plan to use, you can ensure your 3D printing experience is successful.

8. Print Quality:

When shopping for a 3D printer, it's important to consider the print quality factor. Print quality is determined by the resolution, layer height, and build material of a 3D printer. Resolution is the level of detail that a 3D printer can achieve, with higher resolutions creating more intricate and detailed prints. Layer height is the thickness of each layer of the print, with lower layer heights creating smoother and more detailed prints. The type of build material also affects the print quality, with different materials having different levels of detail and strength. Make sure to consider all these factors when shopping for a 3D printer to get the best print quality.

9. Maintenance:

When buying a 3D printer, consider its maintenance requirements. Look for a printer with an easy-to-replace nozzle, a durable build plate, and a low-maintenance design. Additionally, consider the cost of replacement parts and the availability of maintenance support. With proper maintenance and care, your 3D printer will give you years of reliable service.

10. Print Accuracy:

When buying a 3D printer, always consider the accuracy factor. Many 3D printers have a stated accuracy, but it's important to research online reviews and perform your tests to verify the printer's accuracy. Higher-accuracy printers will produce higher-quality prints, so always look for a printer that can meet your accuracy requirements.

Overall Best 3D Printing Software - “SelfCAD”

You can use various tools to create your files and prepare them for 3D printing, but we recommend using SelfCAD. SelfCAD is an easy to use and powerful 3D design software designed for professionals and hobbyists alike. It offers a wide range of features and tools to help you create stunning 3D models. From basic shapes and curves to complex 3D designs, SelfCAD has all the tools you need to make your creations come to life. You can use the in-built online slicer to slice your designs and generate the Gcode to send to your 3D printer, as shown in the video below.

With its intuitive user interface and easy-to-use controls, you'll be creating 3D models in no time. With the ability to easily import and export files, you can easily share your designs with friends and colleagues. SelfCAD also offers a host of advanced features, such as parametric modeling, sculpting, terrain editing, and more.

Conclusion:

When it comes to purchasing a 3D printer, there are a variety of factors to consider. From the type of printer to the printing materials and cost, it is important to make sure that you are selecting the right 3D printer for your needs and budget. Additionally, it is important to consider the maintenance involved in owning a 3D printer and make sure that you can commit to regular maintenance. With the right knowledge and research, you can find the perfect 3D printer for your needs.