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      • Published 1 Feb 2023
      • Last Modified 9 Nov 2023
    • 11 min

    A Complete 3D Printer Buying Guide

    A guide comparing the different types of 3D printer, helping you choose which 3D printer is best for your needs.

    This guide is part of our Industrial Automation hub where you can discover more about AI, automation and control.

    3D printers represent one of the most innovative and interesting technologies to enter both the business world and the hobbyist sector in decades. This guide compares a range of 3D printers to help you choose the most suitable device for your requirements.

    What is a 3D Printer?

    Put simply, 3D printers are computer-controlled fabrication devices. A wide variety of objects designed and defined within software can be created in three dimensions within the printing device from different plastics and polymers - the possibilities depend on the size and model of printer used.

    The objects are formed via the rapid addition of multiple layers of material, each covering the previous layer. The printing material is applied via a nozzle called an ‘extruder’. It is supplied as lengths of filament which become soft and moldable when heat is applied and then solid again once they have cooled. This construction process accounts for another term used to describe 3D printing in an industrial context - additive manufacturing.

    3D printers allow the rapid and flexible production of prototypes, models, spare parts and many other items across the industrial, commercial and even domestic spheres. Models available range from high capacity designs intended for the factory floor right through to small and affordable 3D printers for home use.

    Designs intended for printing are normally created in 3D printing software as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) or AMI (Amazon Machine Image) files. These precisely define the dimensions of the object to be built and many designers make their creations available for download and reuse.

    Before printing can take place, the CAD or AMI file describing the 3D object must be converted into the programming language G-code, which will be directly readable by the device. The conversion is undertaken by 'slicer' software.

    Take a Look for Yourself!

    Check out our handy video for a clear and concise introduction to the world of 3D printing.

    With the help of Adrian Bowyer from RepRap, learn why 3D printing technology is so important and discover how it is being used today.

    Browse All 3D Printers

    How Do You Use a 3D Printer?

    1. Prepare Your Build Plate

    The build plate is the area where your item will be built. It is important to ensure the plate adheres firmly to the bed beneath it.

    2. Select Your Filament

    Various materials are available, each with specific strengths. Two of the most widely used are ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PLA (Polylactic Acid). Both are thermoplastics (plastics which become malleable when heated then solid again when they cool). PLA is made from corn starch or sugarcane and is biodegradable.

    3. Switch on Your Printer and Allow it to Heat

    Different filaments require specific heat settings, so make sure to familiarise yourself with these.

    4. Load the Filament

    The precise loading process varies but it is normally necessary to heat the extruder (filament nozzle) to a specific temperature, apply a release lever and then insert a length of filament. It is not uncommon to see melting filament begin to protrude through the extruder.

    5. Ensure the Bed is Correctly Positioned

    An uneven or incorrectly positioned bed can lead to inaccurate or uneven prints. As a result, it's important to ensure that the bed supporting the build plate is level and positioned at the correct height. Some 3D printers require manual levelling, while others have an automatic mechanism for this.

    6. Input Required Information

    You will need to measure the height and level and type these into the printer software in order to define the precise gap between the nozzle and the build plate.

    7. Start Printing!

    Once you've completed the above steps, all that's left to do is to open your G-Code file and begin printing!

    Need Some Filament? Look No Further...

    Black Filament

    Black Filament

    Browse our selection of black 3D printer filament, including products from brands such as Verbatim and Ultimaker

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    Blue Filament

    Blue Filament

    Explore our selection of blue 3D printing filament (including turquoise and translucent blue)

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    Red Filament

    Red Filament

    Find our range of red 3D printing filament (including translucent red) by leading brands such as our very own RS PRO

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    What Can You Print with a 3D Printer?

    Common uses include:

    • The rapid production of replacement parts or custom components
    • Creating solid models for use in architecture, design, commercial presentations or simply for display
    • Customised medical equipment - for example, prosthetic limb components or personalised tools and apparatus

    3D Printing is Changing People's Lives

    Take a look at this video featuring Ben Ryan, the creator of Ambionics.

    Learn how evolving technologies (including 3D printers) helped him form a prosthetic arm for his son and discover how he is planning to expand this technology to help many more people.

    Browse All 3D Printers

    The Possibilities are Endless!

    Check out this video of an RS 3D printing demonstration. See for yourself how this progressing technology allows us to easily create items as varied as whistles, children's toys and highly-detailed paperweights of individual's portraits.

    Browse All 3D Printers

    Professional 3D Printers

    Here are our picks for the best 3D printers on the market for professional users.

    UltiMaker S7

    3D printing with the UltiMaker S7 is the ideal way to start with the UltiMaker platform. Thanks to various plugins and programs, it allows you to find every tool you need, monitor and manage prints safely, and become more knowledgeable about 3D printing.

    This professional 3D printer is designed with efficiency and quality in mind. It features inductive sensor-enabled bed levelling and a built-in air manager to maintain build volume at an optimally regulated temperature.

    UltiMaker S7 3D Printer

    Key Features:

    • Easy monitoring and set-up
    • Flexible, PEI-coated build plate
    • User-friendly interface and experience
    • Reliable print adhesion and removal
    • Advanced active levelling
    Shop UltiMaker S7

    Raise3D Pro3 Plus

    The Raise3D Pro3 Plus is designed to ensure high-quality print performance. Created with user experience in mind, this product can effortlessly produce 3D-printed parts quickly and easily.

    As part of the prestigious Pro3 series, this professional printer features single-side nozzle lifting technology. This enables fast nozzle switching for efficient, stable performance. The Raise3D Pro3 Plus also features a flexible build plate to allow effortless removal of 3D-printed parts.

    Raise3D Pro3 Plus

    Key Features:

    • Integrated airflow manager
    • EVE smart assistant
    • Hot-end and extruder covers are interchangeable
    • Single-side nozzle lifting technology
    • 75% increase in Z-axis rod stiffness
    Shop Raise3D Pro3 Plus

    UltiMaker S3

    The UltiMaker S3 features advanced active levelling, a professional build, composite material compatibility, and high-quality yet cost-effective performance.

    Featuring seamless hardware, software and material integration, the UltiMaker S3 enables designers, engineers and manufacturers to approach the innovation process in a new and accessible way.

    UltiMaker S3 3D Printer

    Key Features:

    • Dual extrusion
    • Touch screen functionality
    • Composite material compatibility
    • Integrated camera
    • Advanced active bed levelling
    Shop UltiMaker S3

    Raise3D E2CF

    The Raise3D E2CF is a professional 3D printer with a dual direct drive extruder system. It is also optimised for 3D printing carbon fibre-reinforced filaments, making it ideal for prototyping and manufacturing applications.

    Raise3D E2CF 3D Printer

    Key Features:

    • Idea maker slicing profiles
    • Highly durable nozzles
    • Dual direct drive extrusion system
    • Optimised for use with carbon fibre-reinforced filaments
    • Desktop 3D printer
    Shop Raise3D E2CF

    Budget 3D Printers

    Here is a selection of 3D printers that are well suited to non-professional use. These models deliver an outstanding performance within a smaller price range.

    Raise3D Pro2

    The Raise3D Pro2 is a dual-head 3D printer featuring an electronic lifting system. It also features silicone heated bed material, a touchscreen interface, and wireless compatibility for increased reliability and ease of use.

    Raise3D Pro2 3D Printer

    Key features:

    • Wireless compatibility
    • Dual-head functionality
    • Touchscreen user interface
    • 1024x600 screen resolution
    • Electronic lifting system
    Shop Raise3D Pro2

    UltiMaker 2+ Connect

    The UltiMaker 2+ Connect 3D printer is a true competitor thanks to its reliability, efficiency, and precision combined with its reasonable price. This printer offers superior quality for its price range. It provides users with a wide choice of materials, a clean and intuitive design, and operating ease.

    With accelerated networking capabilities, lower prototyping costs, increased production flexibility and easy product customisation, an UltiMaker 3D printing solution is sure to give you a competitive edge.

    UltiMaker 2+ Connect 3D Printer

    Key Features:

    • Compatibility with 9 printing materials
    • Cloud-enabled remote printing
    • Touchscreen functionality
    • Swappable nozzles
    • Simple, easy setup
    Shop UltiMaker 2+ Connect

    BCN3D Sigma D25

    With the BCN3D Sigma D25 3D Printer, you can print high-quality 3D pieces efficiently and conveniently. This printer also features a fully enclosed passive heated chamber, touchscreen functionality, and both offline and online printing.

    BCN3D Sigma D25 3D Printer

    Key Features:

    • CE/FCC certified
    • Cloud-enabled online printing
    • Independent dual extractor
    • Suitable for multi-material printing
    • Range of modes including single, duplication, and mirror
    Shop BCN3D Sigma D25

    FAQs

    How Many Types of 3D Printer are There?

    There are ten basic types of 3D printer models:

    SLA, FFF and SLS are the most widely used.

    SLA was the first 3D printing technique to be developed. It works by exposing light-sensitive liquid resin to a laser beam. The object is built up layer by layer and the resin hardens.

    FFF is the technique typically used in 3D printers for the hobbyist sector. Objects are created from the bottom up as layers of heated filament are deposited. It is also a cost-effective solution for small businesses, engineering firms and design studios.

    SLS involves solidifying and bonding fine beads of material - typically plastics or ceramics - and forming a 3D object from these. A laser is used to etch a pattern onto the powdered raw material. This then lowers and the next layer is deposited over the previous one.

    Are 3D Printers Expensive to Run?

    There is no simple answer to this question. The cost will depend on the model you buy and how frequently you use it. However, it may be helpful to consider the following factors:

    The Purchase Price of the Printer

    Many different models are available, from simple budget printers to higher-end, fully-featured designs. You should always choose the model which best suits your budget but it is also sensible to consider the cost of spares and the replacement 3D printer parts you may require if you encounter technical problems - for example, extruder jams. Component upgrades are another potential future cost to keep in mind.

    Filament Costs

    Costs vary according to the quality of the filament chosen and the size of the objects you intend to produce. A regularly used printer is likely to require a one kilogram roll of filament roll per month. Costs can be reduced by minimising filament waste.

    Electricity

    Typically, 3D printers will consume around the same amount of electricity as a domestic fridge - roughly £60 per annum. Some models will also switch into idle mode if left unattended for long periods of time which will also burn electricity.

    An accurate, exact figure is difficult to specify but a reasonable estimate for the average running costs of a mid-range 3D printer is around £300+ per year.

    How Long has 3D Printing Technology Been Around?

    3D printing technology was first devised in the mid-1970s and developed into a commercial product the following decade. Further innovations followed during the 1990s.

    Do 3D Printers Only Use Plastic?

    No. Plastic is the most widely used fabrication material but some higher-end models can also mould resins, ceramics and even metal.

    Do 3D Printers Need Ventilation?

    Standard 3D printers using PLA filament have been shown to emit a mist of ultrafine particles and volatile chemical compounds, as well as a substance called styrene, which is a constituent of plastic. Although researchers have not identified a clear link between ill health and the inhalation of this mist, ventilation is recommended where possible.

    Top 3D Printer Brands

    RS is a leading international supplier of 3D printing technology. Explore our wide range of 3D printers and printing accessories below.

    Where to Next?

    3D Print Accessories

    3D Print Accessories

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