The 3D Printer I'd buy if I started over
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The 3D Printer I'd Buy if I Started Over
It seems like 3D printing is everywhere these days. Initially, you might not be interested. But then you see someone using it for something genuinely useful and think, “Maybe it’s worth looking into.” But you have no idea where to start. Don’t worry; I’m here to make this simple. I'll tell you exactly which 3D printer to buy, explain why, and show you how to get started.
Maybe I'm one of those annoying people on YouTube you've seen talk about 3D printing, or maybe you've just stumbled onto this article. Long story short, I’ve spent the better part of five years using 3D printers non-stop in a professional engineering setting. I’ve worked with both very expensive industrial printers and some fairly low-quality desktop models. Currently, I run a production print farm of about 40 printers that have amassed tens of thousands of print hours. Not just for making Pikachu figurines—I know what functional 3D printing looks like. And that’s really where my passion lies: using 3D printing to solve real-world problems.
If you're interested in this as well, here’s what you need to know.
Which Printer to Buy
These are the two solid options for beginners:
- Prusa Mark IV: Think of it as a Toyota Corolla with cloth seats: reliable and gets the job done.
- Bambu Lab X1: Think of it as a Tesla Model S: sleek, fast, but with a shorter track record.
Both of these printers just work, which is invaluable if you want to focus on printing rather than spending time working on the printer. While the Prusa brand is synonymous with reliability, the new kid on the block, Bambu Lab, is shaking things up by offering high-end industrial features in a consumer printer at a competitive price.
Bambu Lab P1P: The Clear Winner
My ultimate recommendation, especially for beginners, is neither of these two. Instead, I recommend the Bambu Lab P1P. It’s a stripped-down, less flashy version of the X1 and is about $ 500 cheaper. It checks all the boxes for what you need to get started.
Getting Started
Once your 3D printer is sitting on your desk, the first step is to get some reps under your belt. This means printing existing models to become familiar with the process. Websites like Thingiverse and Printables offer countless free models you can download and print.
Solving Real Problems
Eventually, you’ll need to create your own models to solve specific problems, and this requires 3D modeling skills. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it yourself. Websites like Fiverr or Upwork offer skilled individuals who can model parts for you, sometimes for as little as $ 5.
If you want to learn 3D modeling yourself, tools like Fusion 360 are highly recommended. Online resources like Product Design Online can take you from a complete beginner to a competent user.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bambu Lab P1P is my top recommendation for those new to 3D printing. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize how powerful and useful this tool can be.
Key Terms
3D Printing, Prusa Mark IV, Bambu Lab X1, Bambu Lab P1P, Thingiverse, Printables, Fusion 360, Fiverr, Upwork.
FAQs
Q: What is the best 3D printer for beginners?
A: The Bambu Lab P1P is an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordability and robust feature set.
Q: Do I need to know 3D modeling to use a 3D printer?
A: No, you can download existing models from websites like Thingiverse and Printables. For custom parts, you can hire someone from Fiverr or Upwork.
Q: How much does it cost to get into 3D printing?
A: Initial costs can vary, but a quality printer like the Bambu Lab P1P is reasonably priced and a great starting point. Additional costs for filament and accessories should also be considered.
Q: What software do I need for 3D printing?
A: You’ll need slicing software, which converts 3D models into printable layers. Prusa Slicer and Bambu Slicer are highly recommended.
Q: What materials can I print with?
A: Both the Prusa Mark IV and Bambu Lab P1P can handle a wide variety of materials, including PLA, ABS, and PETG.