It’s not often a dual-extruder 3D printer comes along but when one does, the community gets excited. Maybe that’s why the Tenlog TL-D3 Pro is already one of the most popular 3D printers. This dual-nozzle printer promises big results for a relatively small pricetag, but is it worth your time? Find out in today’s Tenlog TL-D3 Pro review.
Tenlog TL-D3 Pro Review
It’s not often a dual-extruder 3D printer comes along but when one does, the community gets excited. Maybe that’s why the Tenlog TL-D3 Pro is already one of the most popular 3D printers. This dual-nozzle printer promises big results for a relatively small pricetag, but is it worth your time? Find out in today’s Tenlog TL-D3 Pro review.
Tenlog TL-D3 Pro Review Basics
First thing’s first, the Tenlog TL-D3 Pro uses dual extrusion. That means you can either print with two colors/materials seamlessly, OR you can print duplicates simultaneously. In the TL-D3 Pro’s case, both extruders are direct drive, meaning they work well with flexible filaments. With direct drive extrusion and a heated print bed, this printer comfortably handles a variety of filaments, including PLA, ABS, TPU, and PETG.
This is also a large machine that offers a big print volume measuring 11.8”W x 11.8”D x 13.8”H. This size is similar to the popular CR-10 series and its competitors. In fact, the TL-D3 Pro appears to be competing directly CR-X Pro judging by the design and price.
As for print quality, the TL-D3 Pro achieves layers as small as 100microns and prints at average speeds around 30-60mm/s. Don’t be fooled by lackluster print resolution, however. With some tweaking this printer is capable of excellent results.
Finally, the TL-D3 connects using either a tethered USB or an SD card. The printer includes a huge 4.3” color touchscreen, too, which makes interacting with the TL-D3 a pleasure.
Tenlog TL-D3 Pro Review Pros
Capable of Great Prints
This printer is a tinkerer’s dream. Much like the CR-10 series we’ve already mentioned, this printer’s value comes in its potential. Whether you intend to print upgrades, buy and install along the way, or experiment with existing hardware to get the best performance, the TL-D3 Pro gives you that freedom. With a little love, this rough stone can be polished into a diamond. If you’re into that sort of thing, of course.
Easy Assembly
The TL-D3 Pro comes to your door in just a few pieces that just need to be connected and screwed together. Experienced makers should have it up in under 20-minutes, though even veterans may need to tweak belts or realign axis rods to get it just right. Even with this extra work, the TL-D3 Pro is a quick and easy assembly job.
Quality of Life Features
For what it is, the TL-D3 Pro is a relatively cheap, barebones machine. That’s why we’re impressed to see a features like print resume protection, a large, color touchscreen interface, multiple connectivity options, and even filament runout detection. Incredibly the TL-D3 Pro even very quiet (<50dB) operation, even with two extruders.
Tenlog TL-D3 Pro Review Cons
Not Beginner Friendly
So, despite its easy assembly and user-friendly features, the Tenlog TL-D3 is not for the faint of heart. First, dual-extrusion can be complicated, especially when using different materials. Beginners should start with a single-nozzle 3D printer. Second, the TL-D3 isn’t a polished machine. For example, there’s exposed wiring and the print bed is attached using binder clips. You’ll need some troubleshooting knowledge to keep it in good shape, too. Overall, this is not a great choice as your first 3D printer.
Issues Out of the Box
Those of you familiar with Creality’s line will be familiar with some of the TL-D3 Pro’s issues. Although assembly is easy, it’s unlikely that your printer will be perfect out of the box. Common issues run from poorly-tensioned belts, warped print beds, loose screws, and even bent gantry rods. Chances are high you will encounter something like this. With that in mind, most of these problems are fixable and if worst come to worst, Tenlog is willing to work with customer for replacement parts or troubleshooting help.
Tenlog TL-D3 Pro Review Verdict
The TL-D3 Pro scratches an itch for plenty of experienced 3D printer customers. Dual extrusion is a rare luxury which Tenlog has made relatively affordable. This isn’t exactly a cheap printer, but that’s a good thing. Instead, it offers an incredible value with its sturdy all-metal build, large print volume, excellent filament compatibility, and numerous convenience features. So long as you can pass this printer’s learning curve, the TL-D3 Pro is an awesome choice.
