Best Beginner 3D Printers in 2024
written by Mohsin Manzoor - updated Jul 25, 2024Meta Description: We have reviewed the best models for pricing, print quality, usability, and other factors to help you get started with 3D printing with confidence.
Good quality 3D printing is not just an impossible dream anymore. It is here and at your disposal! Selecting the ideal 3D printer is essential, regardless of your level of interest in this fascinating technology—hobbyist, aspiring engineer, or simply curious. But where do you begin with so many options?
Do not be worried! We have everything covered. The main goal of this article is to assist beginners in finding the ideal 3D printer for 2024. Although we understand it can be difficult, we are here to help. To present a carefully chosen list of the finest 3D printers for beginners, we have combed through innumerable models, read reviews, and tested the best.
You will find affordable, easily programmable devices that are also easy to set up and operate. There is something for everyone, ranging from small, reasonably priced devices to slightly more sophisticated models with added features.
Are you prepared to explore the world of 3D printing? Let’s get started!
Best Beginner 3D Printers in 2024
Bambu Lab P1s
The P1S is an upgraded model of the P1P, which is also the most incredible 3D printer. The P1S is our best choice because of its improvements, including plastic side panels, a glass top and door, a camera, a partial fan, and an LED light. The P1S is Bambu Lab's "Goldilocks" model; it has everything you desire.
Specifications:
- Build Volume: 256 x 256 x 256mm
- Machine Weight: 12.95 KG (28.5 lbs)
- Interface: LCD with D-pad selector
- Connectivity: microSD card, WiFi, Bluetooth
Features:
- Maximum print speed of 500 mm/s and an acceleration rate of 20,000 mm/s.
- Core XY printer provides fast and fluid printing.
- Optional Automatic Multicolor System for multicolor prints.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Fast speed | Expensive |
Easy auto bed leveling | Original replacement components |
Fully enclosed for temperature-sensitive materials like ABS and ASA. |
Price:
- $699
Price with AMS:
- $849 (On sale, normally $949)
Mingda Magician X2
An excellent, feature-rich 3D printer does not have to cost much money for enthusiasts and beginners. An inexpensive 3D printer that balances affordability and performance, the Mingda Magician X2 is one of many reasonably priced options available. For those looking to start 3D printing, the Mingda Magician X2 is an excellent option thanks to its fantastic feature set.
Specifications:
- Build Area: 230 x 230 x 260 mm / 10.2 x 9 x 9 in
- Print Surface: PEI steel plate
- Software: Cura, Simplify3D, Repetier-Host, etc.
- Print Speed: Up to 100 mm/s (recommended speed: 60 mm/s)
Features:
- Rapid swap extruder
- Touch screen LCD
- Hotbed temperature indicator
- 16-point auto leveling
- Filament detection
- Detachable PEI builds platform
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Effective 3D printing | Longer print times |
User-friendly design | |
Versatile features |
Price:
- $249.99 (On sale, normally $349.99)
Original Prusa MK4
Prusa has been ruling the market for almost a decade, and MK4 carries on the tradition of superior quality and customer support while upholding strict open-source standards.
Specifications:
- Minimum layer resolution: 50 microns
- Maximum layer resolution: 300 microns
- Build Area: 9.84 x 8.3 x 8.6 in / 250 x 210 x 220 mm
Features:
- Accurate Loadcell sensor for a smooth and uniform first layer.
- Equipped with necessary ports, four thermistors, and multiple hardware-based safety mechanisms.
- MK4 display supports G-code thumbnails, QR codes, and other elements.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Adaptable and customizable | Highly expensive for beginners |
Simple to operate |
Price:
- $1,099
AnyCubic Kobra Plus
With its revised Kobra 2 Max, Anycubic continues to live up to its reputation as an affordable provider of incredibly easy-to-use printers, doing giant printing jobs, essentially set-and-forget tasks.
Specifications:
- Memory: SD Card
- Build volume: 300x300x350mm
- Nozzle size: 0.4mm
- Layer height: 0.05-0.30mm
- Bed: Carborundum glass
- Software: CURA
Features:
- Simple-to-use LCD touch screen
- Allows for far larger models compared to most other 3D printers in this price range
- Filament run-out detecting feature
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Fairly priced | No upgrading possibilities |
Wide print area | Large footprint |
Price:
- $259.99
AOSeed X-Maker
The most incredible 3D printer designed especially for kids to use on their own is the AO Seed X-Maker. It is small and has a kid-friendly software design suite of its own.
Specifications:
- Build Volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm
- Build Platform: Soft PC Magnet, heated
- Interface: 3.5 Inch Touch Screen
- Bed Leveling: Factory Set (Semi-Auto)
- Connectivity: WiFi, USB
Features:
- “LighTurbo” technique produces smoother details
- Oversized screen protector for the LED glass
- Kid-friendly “walled garden” program for internet use
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Kid-friendly design programs | Great print quality |
Clunky software |
Price:
- $399.99
Bambu Lab A1 Mini
Bambu Labs A1 Mini printer is an excellent choice if you are looking to fit as much printing power as possible into a compact space and low budget. Though compact in build size, there is sufficient place for numerous proper printouts and entertaining models.
Specifications:
- Material: PLA/PETG/TPU (up to 300 degrees)
- Extruder Type: Direct Drive
- Build Platform: PEI textured spring steel sheet, heated
- Nozzle: 0.4 high flow
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bambu-Bus, Micro SD
- Machine Footprint: 347 × 314 × 365 mm (13.6 x 12.4 x 14.4 in)
Features:
- Easy-to-change nozzles with a direct drive and 300-degree hot end
- Filament run-out sensor and odometer for AMS
- Camera for time-lapse monitoring and recording
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Simple interface | AMS uses up a lot of space |
Rapid nozzle changing | AMS flings waste |
Flexible build plate with PEI coating |
Price:
- $199 (On sale, normally $299)
Price with ams lite:
- $349 (On sale, normally $459)
Conclusion
As a beginner, selecting the ideal 3D printer is an exciting first step into an infinitely creative and innovative world. We have looked at some of the top choices for 2024; each has specific qualities and characteristics designed for people who are new to 3D printing.