LulzBot Mini 3D Printer Review Results
It’s always exciting when a favorite brand comes out with a new 3D printer. We already have some idea of what we can expect, based on what’s come before, and it’s fun to learn about the new features they’ve implemented in their latest model. For today’s review we’re going to be taking a closer look at LulzBot’s Mini 3D Printer. If you’re in the market, and can’t wait to learn what LulzBot’s latest has to offer, keep reading.
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Printing Speed
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Build Size
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Precision
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Value
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Design
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User Experience
LulzBot Mini 3D Printer Basics
Let’s start with a quick review of the basic features of this 3D printer, which will help you compare the Mini to other printers you may be considering. This LulzBot model weights about twenty-two pounds, and has exterior dimensions of 17”x22″x19”.
The LulzBot Mini prints using 3mm filament with a 0.5mm extruder nozzle size, and has a printing resolution range between 50 and 500 microns. You can expect this printer to reach a maximum printing speed of 275 millimeters per second. The LulzBot Mini has a print area of 6”x 6”x6.2” and a total usable build volume of 223 cubic inches.
LulzBot Mini 3D Printer Pros
Diverse Filament Compatibility
One of the greatest aspects of LulzBot 3D printers is the extensive list of filaments they are compatible with. For the LulzBot Mini that list includes the traditional ABS and PLA filaments as well as HIPS, PVA, wood filaments, polyester (Tritan), PETT, bronze and copper filled filaments, polycarbonate, nylon, PETG, conductive PLA and ABS, UV luminescent filaments, PCTPE, and PC-ABS, which will leave you with plenty of options for filament experimentation.
High-Heat Surfaces
With all of these filament options comes the need for a variety of heat options, and the LulzBot Mini provides this through a combination of their LulzBot Hexagon Hot End that can reach temperatures up to 572° F (300° C) and a heated borosilicate glass bed (covered with PEI film) that heats up to 248° F (120° C).
LulzBot Mini 3D Printer Cons
Although this printer does have its share of positives, I should be fair and leave you with a couple of things to consider that may make this printer less than desirable for your needs.
Open Printing Platform
First of all, the LuzBot Mini is an open platform printer, meaning that it does not have an enclosed printing chamber. If you’re going to be working in an area with a cool ambient temperature you may see warping and curling in your prints.
Small Printing Envelope
The other point I will mention is the printing area. At 6”x 6”x6.2,” it’s not exceptionally small. However, it is still on the smaller end of the spectrum. If you know that you’re going to need to print parts that exceed these dimensions, you may want to consider the LulzBot Taz 4 instead.
Lulzbot Mini 3D Printer Review Verdict
The LulzBot Mini has plenty to offer for anyone looking for a well-built compact printer. If you do decide that the LulzBot Mini is right for you, rest assured that with Lulzbot’s Libre philosophy, experimenting is encouraged.
