3D Printers keep getting cheaper all the time, but what can you really exect from a $150 machine? If past experience has taught us anything, not much. Does the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini have what it takes to change our minds about super cheap 3D printers or is it just a novelty toy? Find out in today’s LABISTS Entry-Level Mini review.
LABISTS Entry-Level Mini 3D Printer Review Basics
There isn’t a lot to this printer so let’s jump right in. The LABISTS Entry-Level Mini features a tiny build volume measuring 3.9” x 3.9” x 3.9”, which is the smallest print area we’ve ever reviewed. This size is really only good for beginners and possibly children who are interested in learning more about 3D printing.
The print bed itself is not heated, though it is flexible and removable, making it easier to retrieve your finished models. The print bed comes unheated because the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini only prints with PLA. Importantly, the means you can’t print with other popular filaments like ABS or TPU.
Unexpectedly, the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini achieves pretty high layer resolutions as small as 50-microns. The rest of the machine is still rudamentary, so print quality isn’t the best, but we’re still impressed with this printer’s max layer resolution. Finally, the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini reads your files through a microSD slot on the side. Predictably, this cheap 3D printer doesn’t offer too much variety when it comes to connectivity, though most users will be fine using an SD card. Load one file onto the card, then use the simple control box to start the print.
LABISTS Entry-Level Mini 3D Printer Review Pros
Easy Setup
This printer comes in two pieces and takes just minutes to assemble and level before you’re up and running. Since some cheap 3D printers tend to leave customers with the heavy assembly, it’s nice to see that the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini is truly designed for plug-and-play operation.
Safe for Children (with Supervision)
Since the Entry-Level Mini uses just PLA filament and no heated print bed, this machine is safer for children than most. It still doesn’t feature an enclosure, and there are exposed cables. That means we don’t suggest leaving kids, especially young children, alone around the running printer. However, if you’re looking for a fun activity for you and your child, the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini offers a potentially safer, cheaper alternative to other 3D printers.
LABISTS Entry-Level Mini 3D Printer Review Cons
Very Small Build Volume
Cheap printers don’t have to be small but the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini certainly is with its 3.9” x 3.9” x 3.9” build volume. Take this into consideration before buying this machine and think about the size of the objects you want to print. If you’re on a tight budget, you might be better off looking to printers like the Creality Ender 3. The Ender 3 offers much more build area and many other useful features the Entry-Level Mini lacks.
Rebranded Ripoff
We could say a lot about the overall quality of this 3D printer but it’s easier to mention this: the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini can be purchased around the web for under $100. It appears this company is simply rebranding these printers as their own and charging you $50 extra for the pleasure! The only difference we see between the LABISTS and EasyThreed versions of this 3D printer is that LABISTS offers a 2-year warranty over a 90-day guarantee. Is that worth an extra $50?
LABISTS Entry-Level Mini 3D Printer Review Verdict
There is a place in this world for the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini. It’s extremely simple to use and doesn’t cost a fortune, making it a real option for beginners and kids. Even experienced users might have fun tinkering with this little machine to improve print quality. However, if you’re looking to seriously enter the world of 3D printing, you’re much better off saving a bit more to buy a printer like the Creality Ender 3. Even other mini printers, like the Monoprice Mini Delta, cost the same but offer much better print and construction quality. Although it is cheap, the LABISTS Entry-Level Mini can’t compete with other budget 3D printers.
