A question we often get from readers is: ‘What is the best 3D printer for beginners?’.
And by “beginner”, we mean anyone new to 3D printing, be it a tech-savvy junior maker, or an adult wishing to dip their toe into the world of additive manufacturing.
So for both types of beginner, we would recommend a 3D printer with plug-and-play functionality, good safety features, and a reasonable price point.
Check out our list of beginner’s 3D printers that fulfil all of those requirements below.
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Best FDM 3D Printers for Beginners
In this section we will look at some of the best beginner FDM systems. These printers are ready to print, require no assembly, and are easy to operate. And coming in at under $500 USD, they are easy on the wallet too.
Flashforge Adventurer 5M
The new Flashforge Adventurer 5M is aimed at those new to 3D printing and has a host of easy-to-use features making plug-and-play easy and fun.
- - Print size: 220 x 220 x 220 mm
- - fully enclosed
- - PEI build plate
- - quick-release nozzle
- - auto-leveling
- - cloud-control
AnkerMake M5C
The AnkerMake M5C 3D printer is ready to roll, right out of the box and features high-speed printing, multi-device control, and a customizable one-click button for ease-of-use.
- - Print size: 220 × 220 × 250 mm
- - full aluminum frame
- - 500 mm/s print speed
- - 7×7 auto-leveling
- - all-metal hotend
Best Beginner Resin 3D Printers
3D printing with resins is not for the faint of heart – it’s a messy business, and the chemicals can be irritant to the skin, lungs and eyes, if proper precautions are not exercised. So as a beginner, you want something that is easy to use, and works without too much messing around. These two resin printers are what we recommend for beginners.
They are smart, reliable, and come in at a decent price point.
Best Resin 3D Printers for Beginners
Anycubic Photon M5S
The Anycubic Photon M5S is the world’s first 12K resolution mSLA desktop printer and can print items at blistering speeds and with superb levels of detail.
- - Print size: 218 x 123 x 200 mm
- - 19 micron print accuracy
- - 10.1 inch mono screen
- - 12K resolution
- - resin level sensor
- - smart fault detection
- - cloud app
Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S
The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S is a user-friendly, reliable and small workhorse with 22 µm resolution for high-quality, realistic prints.
- - Print size: 165 x 72 x 170 mm
- - 22 micron print accuracy
- - 7.1” mono LCD screen
- - 8K resolution