Find the 3D printer that fits how you print.
Plain buying guides, side by side comparisons and setup help, so you can choose your next printer with confidence.
Start with what you want to print
Every printer is built for a different kind of job. Pick yours and we will show the machines that suit it.
First 3D printer?
Start here. Printers with auto leveling, guided setup and friendly software, so your first print works.
Beginner picks →Budget picks
Low cost machines that keep the essentials.
Resin printers
Fine detail for miniatures and models.
Multi color
Several filaments in a single print.
High speed
Enclosed machines for heavy use.
Large format
Big build volumes for cosplay, props, tools and full size parts.
Filament and resin
PLA, PETG, TPU and resin explained, with what to buy for each printer.
3D printing calculators
Work out what a print really costs, how far a spool will go, and whether the filament left on the roll is enough for your next job.
Tip: your slicer preview shows the filament weight and estimated print time.
Uses typical material densities. Brands vary slightly, so treat results as close estimates.
Empty spools usually weigh around 150 g for cardboard and 200 to 250 g for plastic. Weigh an empty one from the same brand for the best result.
Your slicer (for example Chitubox or Lychee) shows the resin volume for each print.
Isopropyl alcohol, gloves and FEP film add a little extra per print.
Latest reviews and guides
Filament quick guide
Typical starting temperatures and uses for the most common FDM materials. Always check the range printed on your spool, since brands differ.
| Material | Nozzle temp | Bed temp | Difficulty | Needs enclosure | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 190 to 220 °C | 50 to 60 °C | Easy | No | Prototypes, toys, decor, first prints |
| PETG | 230 to 250 °C | 70 to 85 °C | Easy | No | Functional parts, containers, outdoor use |
| TPU | 210 to 230 °C | 30 to 60 °C | Medium | No | Phone cases, gaskets, flexible parts |
| ABS | 230 to 260 °C | 95 to 110 °C | Medium | Yes | Heat resistant parts, car interior pieces |
| ASA | 240 to 260 °C | 90 to 110 °C | Medium | Yes | UV resistant outdoor parts |
| Nylon | 240 to 270 °C | 70 to 90 °C | Hard | Recommended | Gears, hinges, tough mechanical parts |
Nylon, TPU and PETG absorb moisture. Dry them before printing for cleaner results.
FDM or resin: the short version
Most buyers choose between these two technologies. Here is how they differ in day to day use.
FDM (filament)
Melts plastic filament and builds the part line by line.
- Best for
- Functional parts, larger models, household fixes and prototypes
- Detail
- Good. Layer lines are usually visible up close
- Build size
- Small to very large
- Cleanup
- Remove supports and the part is ready
- Learning curve
- Gentle, especially on modern auto leveling machines
Resin (SLA, MSLA)
Cures liquid resin with light, one full layer at a time.
- Best for
- Miniatures, jewelry models, dental and highly detailed figures
- Detail
- Excellent, with very smooth surfaces
- Build size
- Usually smaller
- Cleanup
- Washing in alcohol and UV curing after every print
- Safety
- Needs gloves and good ventilation, since uncured resin irritates skin
How we choose what to recommend
We compare specifications, manufacturer documentation, owner feedback and long term reliability reports. A printer earns a spot only when it is a good buy for a specific kind of user.
- Print qualitySurface finish, dimensional accuracy and how well fine details hold up.
- Ease of setupHow quickly a new owner gets from the box to a successful first print.
- ReliabilityCommon failure points, part availability and how the printer holds up after months of use.
- True cost of ownershipPrice, materials, spare parts and software, not just the sticker price.
Common questions
Quick answers to what new buyers ask most.
What is the best 3D printer for a beginner?
Look for automatic bed leveling, a simple setup process, reliable slicer software and an active owner community. Our beginner list highlights printers that are forgiving to learn on.
How much does it cost to 3D print something?
Most small prints cost very little in material. For example, a 50 g PLA print from a 20 dollar, 1 kg spool uses about 1 dollar of filament, plus a few cents of electricity. Use the print cost calculator above for your own numbers.
Is FDM or resin better?
Neither is better overall. FDM suits functional parts and larger objects and is easier to live with. Resin gives much finer detail but needs washing, curing, gloves and ventilation.
Which filament should I start with?
PLA. It prints at low temperatures, sticks well to the bed, barely warps and is available in many colors. Move on to PETG when you need stronger or more heat resistant parts.
How long does a 3D print take?
Anything from 15 minutes to several days. Time depends on the size of the model, layer height, infill and printer speed. Your slicer gives an estimate before you start.
Do 3D printers need ventilation?
Resin printers do, and so do ABS and ASA, which release fumes while printing. PLA and PETG are milder, but a well ventilated room is still good practice.
Not sure where to start?
Our beginner list covers printers that are simple to set up and forgiving to learn on.
Browse beginner printersWe may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.