3D printers are the new object of desire for technology lovers, allowing you to create useful objects with little effort and just a few plastic strips. We’ve already told you how they work, although before you rush to spend your euros to buy one it’s better to have a few things in mind to make a better choice.
1- Printing volume: With most domestic printers you will not be able to print objects that exceed 10-12 cubic inches. In general, depending on the price of the printer print objects smaller to larger: about 5-7 inches in the economic (less than 1000 euros) and up to 12 in the most expensive.
2- Compatible materials: Most printers use a material called PLA, which gives very good results. However, if you need harder objects or objects resistant to high temperatures you should check that the printer is compatible with ABS. Other materials you may be interested in:
– LayWOO D-3: It has a texture and appearance similar to wood.
– Soft PLA: It is flexible and has a texture similar to rubber.
– Laybrick: It has a texture similar to stone.
3- Price of the cartridges: Most printers use generic PLA (plastic filament) reels that do not exceed 40€, and last a long time. However, some printers require the purchase of spare parts that are only sold by the manufacturer and are more expensive.
4- Print complex objects: To print objects that use various colors, or different types of materials, you must have two or more print heads. Most models come with only one, although up to four printheads are already available. Prices usually go up if heads are added.
5- Print quality: To print a 3D object is divided into layers and then these are printed one on top of the other. Therefore, the thinner these layers the better the quality of the printed object. For optimal quality, look for at least 0.1 mm thickness.
6- Assembly version: Several 3D printers are also sold as assembly kits (they sell you the parts and your weapons the printer) at a reduced price, a few hundred euros less. It may seem tempting, but assembling these printers requires patience and skill. If this is your first time at this, you’d better buy a ready to use.
7- Future Expansion: 3D printer technology advances very fast, and you don’t want to adar changing the model every year. That’s why it’s important that the manufacturer of the model you choose provides expansion kits to upgrade your old model in the future. For example, Ultimaker provides extrusion heads and LCD screens for their old printer models. You also need to make sure to check User manuals database if you forget any function or feature of your printer
8- Additions: Some extras make the printer more comfortable and easy to use. For example the possibility to print from memory cards, Wi-Fi integrated or control panels with LCD screen are the most attractive. These aggregates are scarce in the most economical models.
9- Frame quality: Look for a solid 3D printer, preferably with metal frames. This will prevent future problems with calibration and faulty prints.
10- Best Models: With all this in mind, it’s time to compare the best models available and see which ones best fit your budget and needs. In Tecnonauta we talk about economic models as well as the most cutting-edge ones. You choose!
