Optimized UI displays auto-leveling process and printing parameters at a glance. Stable Dual Z-axis Still, while the Replicator+ isn’t a budget choice, its speed and versatility are impressive: if you’re looking for a 3D printing workhorse, it’s well worth considering.

Smaller to place around, but Creality Ender-3 V3 SE 3D printer still offers an ample build volume of 220*220*250mm. A problem in early models of the Ender 3 which still hasn’t been fixed is that the Z-axis threaded rod is not entirely vertical, because the stepper motor at the bottom is not directly under the bushing it goes through to connect it to theX-axis beam. One tap to load the filament, and one tap to unload it. Handy for filament replacement. Compact and Sleek Design

Ender 3 V3 KE Key Features

This unit itself is fairly large, with a footprint of 645 x 406mm, but built-in Wi-Fi allows you to locate it wherever’s convenient, without having to worry about trailing cables from your computer. It even has a built-in camera, so you can keep an eye on your printing progress while it’s whirring away in another room. Key specs – Printing type: Single-extruder FDM; Print materials: 1.75mm PLA, MakerBot Tough PLA, bronze fill, copper fill, wood fill; Nozzle diameter: 0.4mm; Print resolution: 0.1mm; Quoted printing speed: Not stated; Print volume (WDH): 295 x 195 x 165mm; Printer dimensions (WDH): 528 x 441 x 410mm; Interface: 3in colour LCD with control dial; Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi

With its 4.5in colour touchscreen the 3D45 is a breeze to use, and you can share it across multiple computers too – the supplied software supports both Windows and macOS – making it ideal for workshops and educational settings. Assemblyisshownon a large color instruction sheet that breaks down the process into 12 relatively straightforward stages. The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE has popped up as an alternative to the Ender-3 V2 series by featuring a maximum print speed of 250 mm/s and an“optimized” UI that shows auto-leveling progress and printing parameters.

Another question is whether you want a neatly self-contained printer or one where the workings are exposed for all to see. The latter style is easier to maintain, and if you’re into engineering and gadgetry you may prefer the look. However, 3D printing involves moving mechanical parts, and the extrusion unit can heat up to above 250°C – so an enclosed model is more appropriate for a domestic setting. An enclosed design will also minimise the noise from whirring motors and cooling fans. How does a 3D printer work? This mid-price personal 3D printer comes ready to work out of the box, and has a super-fine lateral print resolution of 0.047mm and just 0.01mm in the vertical plane – so you can produce prints with astonishing levels of detail. Heat the hotbed to 60~70 degrees Celsius, and then shovel a little bit from the edge with a spatula.