Buying a 3D printer is an exciting step for makers, hobbyists, and professionals alike. However, with the rapid advances in technology and the variety of models on the market, selecting the right 3D printer can be overwhelming.
At Everything Smart, we've created this comprehensive 2025 buying guide to help you understand the key features, specifications, and considerations you need before making your purchase. Whether you want to print prototypes, cosplay props, or functional parts, this guide will ensure you pick the perfect machine for your needs and budget.
1. Types of 3D Printers
Understanding the main types of 3D printers is crucial when choosing the right machine. The most common technologies available today include:
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) – Also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), FDM printers use thermoplastic filament that is melted and extruded layer-by-layer. They are widely popular for their affordability, ease of use, and compatibility with many materials.
- Stereolithography (SLA) – SLA printers use a UV laser or LCD screen to cure liquid resin into hardened layers. They produce highly detailed prints with smooth finishes but often require post-processing and are pricier.
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) – SLS uses a laser to sinter powdered material, typically nylon or other polymers. These printers excel at functional, durable parts and don’t require support structures but are generally expensive and industrial-grade.
- Digital Light Processing (DLP) – Similar to SLA, DLP uses a projector to cure resin layers quickly. It balances speed and quality and is commonly used in jewelry and dental industries.
For most beginners and hobbyists, FDM is the go-to choice due to its low cost and wide filament options. Resin-based SLA and DLP are favored for ultra-fine details and small parts, while SLS targets professionals needing rugged parts with complex geometries.
2. Key Features to Consider
Once you've selected the printer type, the next step is to evaluate key features that will impact your printing experience and results.
Build Volume
The build volume determines the maximum size of your printable objects. It is typically measured in cubic centimeters (cm³) or by its dimensions (width × depth × height). Larger build volumes offer more versatility but usually come at a higher cost and require more space.
Layer Resolution
Layer resolution indicates the thickness of each printed layer, usually in microns (μm). Lower values (e.g., 50 microns) yield smoother surfaces and finer details, while higher values (e.g., 200 microns) print faster but with less detail. Consider your project requirements when balancing speed versus quality.
Print Speed
Print speed affects how fast your projects finish. While faster speeds are tempting, printing too quickly can compromise quality, causing defects such as ringing or layer shifting. Many printers allow you to adjust speed settings to balance quality and efficiency.
Heated Bed
A heated build plate helps improve adhesion and reduces warping, especially when printing with materials like ABS or PETG. Some entry-level printers lack heated beds and are mostly limited to PLA filament.
Enclosure
Printers with enclosed build chambers maintain consistent temperatures, reducing warping and improving print quality. This is especially important for temperature-sensitive materials and professional applications.
Filament Compatibility
Check which filament types a printer supports. Common materials include PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU (flexible), and specialty filaments like carbon fiber or wood-infused. More versatile printers offer greater creative freedom.
Extruder Type
The extruder pushes filament through the hotend. There are two main types:
- Direct Drive: The extruder is mounted close to the hotend. This setup is better for flexible filaments and provides more precise control.
- Bowden: The extruder feeds filament through a long tube to the hotend. This reduces the moving weight, allowing faster print speeds but can be less effective with flexible filaments.
Bed Leveling
Proper bed leveling is critical for good first layers and overall print success. There are two main approaches:
- Manual Leveling: Requires you to adjust screws on the bed using a feeler gauge or paper. It’s cheaper but requires patience and frequent checks.
- Auto Bed Leveling: Uses sensors to detect bed height and automatically adjust during printing. More expensive but highly convenient.
Connectivity Options
Modern 3D printers offer multiple connectivity methods:
- USB: Connects directly to your computer.
- SD Card/USB Drive: Print files can be transferred to the printer via removable media.
- Wi-Fi/Ethernet: Allows wireless printing and remote monitoring.
Choose connectivity based on your workflow preferences. Wireless connectivity is handy but can be less reliable on some models.
3. Essential Specs Explained
Beyond features, you need to understand the technical specifications that define a printer’s capabilities. Here's a breakdown of the most important specs to look at when evaluating a 3D printer:
Nozzle Diameter
Most FDM printers ship with a standard 0.4 mm nozzle. Smaller nozzles (e.g. 0.2 mm) allow for finer details but slower prints. Larger nozzles (e.g. 0.6 mm or 0.8 mm) print faster with thicker lines but sacrifice detail. Many printers let you swap nozzles easily for different projects.
Filament Diameter
Most consumer FDM printers use 1.75 mm filament, but some use 2.85 mm. Make sure your chosen printer supports widely available filament types for cost savings and variety.
Layer Height Range
This defines the thinnest layer your printer can reliably produce. Common ranges are 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm. Finer layers yield smoother prints but take longer. Check if the printer’s firmware or slicer limits your layer height options.
Hotend Maximum Temperature
Hotend temps determine which filaments you can print. PLA requires ~200 °C, but ABS, PETG, Nylon, and Polycarbonate need 240–300 °C. Check if the hotend is all-metal, which enables higher temps without degradation.
Bed Temperature Range
Heated beds help with adhesion and reduce warping. Look for beds that reach at least 60 °C for PLA, 80–110 °C for ABS or PETG. Some cheaper models may have unheated beds or limited ranges.
Motion System & Frame
Rigid frames improve precision. Check if the printer uses dual Z screws, linear rails, or belt-driven axes. Sturdy construction minimizes wobble and vibration, improving print quality especially at taller heights.
Supported Materials
Check what materials your printer officially supports. PLA is easy, but ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, Carbon Fiber, and exotic blends require higher temps, enclosures, or hardened nozzles. More versatility often means more investment.
4. Software and Slicing Considerations
3D printing requires slicing software to convert your 3D models into printable instructions (G-code). When choosing a printer, consider:
- Bundled Software: Some printers come with proprietary slicers optimized for the hardware.
- Compatibility: Check if the printer supports popular slicers like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or Simplify3D.
- User Interface: User-friendly interfaces speed up setup, especially for beginners.
- Software Updates: Active software development ensures ongoing improvements and bug fixes.
Good software can dramatically improve print quality and ease of use, so this should factor into your buying decision.
5. Budget Categories
3D printers are available at almost every price point. Understanding what you get at each level helps you choose wisely:
Entry-Level (Under $300)
Great for beginners, schools, and casual makers. These printers typically offer small build volumes, basic features, and slower print speeds but are very accessible. Popular options include:
- Creality Ender 3 series
- Anycubic Kobra Go
- Elegoo Neptune 4 (check affordable models here)
Mid-Range ($300–$800)
Balanced machines for hobbyists and prosumers. Expect larger build volumes, better reliability, and features like auto bed leveling, direct drive extruders, and better touchscreens. Top picks include:
- Creality Ender 3 S1 Pro
- Prusa Mini+
- Anycubic Kobra Max
- Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra (resin)
Prosumer / Professional ($800+)
These models deliver exceptional print quality, advanced materials support, enclosures, and reliability for production-level work:
- Prusa i3 MK4 / XL
- Bambu Lab X1 Carbon
- Raise3D E2 / Pro2
- Formlabs Form 3 (resin) — see pro options here
Higher-end models also often come with superior customer support, software integration, and ecosystem accessories.
6. Brand & Model Recommendations
Still not sure what to choose? Here are our current 2025 recommendations across categories:
Best Budget Pick
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE – Reliable, mod-friendly, and easy to learn. Ideal for first-time buyers. Check latest pricing on Amazon.
Best All-Rounder
Prusa Mini+ – Excellent print quality, support, and community. Easy to use with reliable auto bed leveling.
Best Large Format
Anycubic Kobra Max – Massive build volume for props and cosplay at a reasonable price. See latest deals.
Best Resin Printer
Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra – Superb detail for miniatures, jewelry, and dental work. Great value in the resin space. Check availability.
Best Professional / Prosumer
Bambu Lab X1 Carbon – Blazing speed, automatic filament changing, lidar calibration, and smart features make this a cutting-edge choice for serious makers.
5. Budget Categories
3D printers are available at almost every price point. Understanding what you get at each level helps you choose wisely:
Entry-Level (Under $300)
Great for beginners, schools, and casual makers. These printers typically offer small build volumes, basic features, and slower print speeds but are very accessible. Popular options include:
- Creality Ender 3 series
- Anycubic Kobra Go
- Elegoo Neptune 4 (check affordable models here)
Mid-Range ($300–$800)
Balanced machines for hobbyists and prosumers. Expect larger build volumes, better reliability, and features like auto bed leveling, direct drive extruders, and better touchscreens. Top picks include:
- Creality Ender 3 S1 Pro
- Prusa Mini+
- Anycubic Kobra Max
- Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra (resin)
Prosumer / Professional ($800+)
These models deliver exceptional print quality, advanced materials support, enclosures, and reliability for production-level work:
- Prusa i3 MK4 / XL
- Bambu Lab X1 Carbon
- Raise3D E2 / Pro2
- Formlabs Form 3 (resin) — see pro options here
Higher-end models also often come with superior customer support, software integration, and ecosystem accessories.
6. Brand & Model Recommendations
Still not sure what to choose? Here are our current 2025 recommendations across categories:
Best Budget Pick
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE – Reliable, mod-friendly, and easy to learn. Ideal for first-time buyers. Check latest pricing on Amazon.
Best All-Rounder
Prusa Mini+ – Excellent print quality, support, and community. Easy to use with reliable auto bed leveling.
Best Large Format
Anycubic Kobra Max – Massive build volume for props and cosplay at a reasonable price. See latest deals.
Best Resin Printer
Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra – Superb detail for miniatures, jewelry, and dental work. Great value in the resin space. Check availability.
Best Professional / Prosumer
Bambu Lab X1 Carbon – Blazing speed, automatic filament changing, lidar calibration, and smart features make this a cutting-edge choice for serious makers.
7. Maintenance & Support
Even the best 3D printers require routine maintenance to keep them performing at their best. Consider these key aspects before buying:
Routine Maintenance Tasks
- Cleaning the bed surface regularly to ensure good adhesion.
- Checking belt tension and lubrication of rods or lead screws.
- Inspecting wiring and connectors for wear.
- Clearing nozzle jams or performing cold pulls to maintain extrusion quality.
Parts Availability
Look for brands with widely available spare parts and upgrades. This makes repairs easier and prolongs your investment.
Support & Community
Good manufacturers offer clear documentation, responsive support teams, and vibrant online communities. Brands like Prusa and Bambu Lab are renowned for strong support ecosystems.
8. FAQ
What is the best 3D printer for beginners?
The Creality Ender 3 series and Anycubic Kobra Go are popular, affordable, and easy to learn. See our Best 3D Printers 2025 guide for our latest picks.
Do I need a heated bed?
While not required for PLA, a heated bed significantly improves print adhesion and reduces warping with materials like ABS and PETG.
Is auto bed leveling worth it?
Yes! It saves time, improves first-layer consistency, and reduces print failures. Many modern printers include it as standard or optional upgrades.
Should I buy an enclosed printer?
Enclosures help maintain stable temperatures for high-temp materials, reduce warping, and can improve safety by containing fumes or particles.
What slicer software is best?
Free options like Ultimaker Cura and PrusaSlicer are popular and powerful. Many printers come with optimized, branded versions. Paid options like Simplify3D offer advanced control.