Hi everyone, welcome to our video countdown of the 5 best 3D printers for the holidays, 2016 edition. Details of all the printers featured in the video are below along with links to reviews and specs. Let’s get started:
The 5 Best 3D Printers For The Holidays 2016
#5 ROBO 3D R1 Plus
This futuristic-looking 3D printer has a lot going for it. It’s just 25lbs for easy portability, yet boasts an extra large, 8 x 9 x 10 build space. Select from a wide range of filaments thanks to the all-metal hot end that heats up to 300C. The heated print bed auto-calibrates and makes removing your creations a breeze. Use ABS, PLA, and exotics from 3rd party sellers with dependable results.
On the downside, you shouldn’t expect the ROBO 3D R1 Plus to perform like a professional-grade printer out of the box. It prints well for the price, but may need some tinkering and upgrades to achieve the very best builds. This is a good option for people who like to be hands-on with their toys.
#4 Sindoh DP200
Closed frame designs are favored because they keep the printing environment stable. They also provide a barrier between you and the dangerously hot extruders and print beds. The Sindoh DP200 is a great example of closed-frame printing. Objects come out flawlessly with 50 micron resolution accuracy. You’ll also enjoy conveniences like a 5” touchscreen and the 3DWox Mobile app, which allows for remote monitoring.
Although there is an easy automated loading feature for filaments, you MUST use 3DWox filaments. This limits you to PLA and ABS only. PLA and ABS are both wildly versatile, though, and this would make a great starting machine for any new enthusiast.
#3 FlashForge Finder
Looking for that “Wow!” gift? The FlashForge Finder definitely fits the bill. This great looking 3D printer is compact enough for the smallest places, weighing just 24lbs for ultimate portability. It’s one of the most affordable printers on the market, but it doesn’t feel cheap with fine details like the beautiful color LCD display, ultra-quiet performance, and modern design. You’ll have untethered access to all your projects, too, with both USB and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Unfortunately, the FlashForge Finder can only print in PLA filaments. Don’t let that stop you, though! There are plenty of neat features to explore with this 3D printer.
#2 LulzBot Mini
LulzBot makes some of the best 3D printers out there, and the Mini is their best entry-level option. It has plenty of great features for beginners like easy out-of-the-box setup and auto-calibration. The heated print bed is covered in PEI so your prints will stick right the first time, every time with no-mess removal. The LulzBot Mini lets you unleash your creativity with a wide selection of filaments, keeping experienced printers busy.
Although this makes a great gift for both beginners and experts, it lacks wireless connectivity options. That means you’ll need to have your LulzBot Mini plugged into a computer during the duration of the print.
#1 MakerBot Replicator+
The number one printer on our list is the MakerBot Replicator+. This IS the printer your loved ones want to receive this year. It offers professional print quality, advanced connectivity, and a large print volume. The Smart Extruder+ reduces clogging to a thing of the past, so you’ll waste less time and money on misprints. Expect smooth, fast prints that you can watch via the MakerBot Print App for remote monitoring.
The print bed is flexible, making it easy to remove your projects. It also adheres very well. On the downside, it’s unheated, so the Replicator+ should only be used with MakerBot PLA filaments. This isn’t as limiting as it sounds, though, with the option of using Tough PLA, too.
We hope you enjoyed our top 5 best 3D printers to consider for this holiday season! Are you buying a 3D printer for yourself or someone else this year? Tell us about it in the comments section of the video.
