3D printing is becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. It's a great way to create custom items from the comfort of your own home or office. Whether you're a hobbyist or a small business just getting started with 3D printing, knowing what you're looking for when buying your first 3D printer is essential.
What to Consider When Buying a 3D Printer
When shopping for a 3D printer, there are several factors to consider. First, consider your budget and how much you can afford to spend on a printer. You'll also want to consider the size of the printer and how much space it will take up in your home or workspace. Additionally, look into the type of 3D printer filament and its compatibility with different materials, as your experience with using a 3D printer will vary based on this.
Regarding support, head over to Google, Facebook, and YouTube and consider the size of the community of users. Often you will find fellow 3d printer users providing a better source of support than the manufacturer. You’ll also get a lot of tips on how to buy your first 3D printer.
Owning a 3d printer opens up a world of possibilities, but it may come with less customer support than you are used to. As a hobbyist or small business user, you will likely be responsible for your support — but have no fear! Check the 3d printer manufacturer's website first and see if they offer a parts store for when you need replacement parts. If your manufacturer doesn't offer official parts and supplies, look towards third-party vendors like resellers such as Matterhackers, who provide excellent customer service to their customers. You can find what you need regarding spare parts or support with some research and other options.
Types of 3D Printers
There are two main types of 3D printers: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography Apparatus). FDM printers use plastic filament that is heated and extruded through a hot nozzle onto a build plate in layers. FDM printer filament is safe to handle while resin printers use liquid resin that requires special handling. SLA printers require the curing of the completed print using ultraviolet light to create solid objects. Overall since FDM printers are easier to use I recommend them to most people as their first 3d printer.
Where To Buy A 3D Printer
Whether you're looking for an entry-level 3D printer or a high-end one with all the bells and whistles, there are plenty of e-commerce sites to choose from. Amazon is a popular source, offering quick delivery times, a range of products in stock, and the ability to return undamaged products making trying a 3d printer easy. Other online retailers, such as Materhackers and 3DJake UK, can also provide devices selected for quality, so you have multiple online options.
Another option is to purchase directly from the manufacturer; however, if they are overseas, look into their delivery times, as these can vary wildly depending on where you live. Moreover, larger companies like Creality and FLSun often have local warehouses in multiple countries offering lower shipping costs. So, when buying 3D printers, always consider your options!
Conclusion
Buying 3D printers can seem intimidating, but with some research and careful consideration, it doesn't have to be! First, think about what type of projects you plan on creating with your new machine, and make sure that whatever model you choose has all the necessary features. Once you've done all this research, it's time to shop for the perfect machine! Good luck!
