3D printing isn’t just for tech wizards anymore. In 2024, we’re seeing a printer revolution that makes creating something out of nothing easier than ever. Whether you’re someone who’s never touched a 3D printer or a maker who dreams in layers and filament, this year’s machines are about to blow your mind.
This guide cuts through the technical noise and gets straight to what matters: finding the right printer that doesn’t just sit in your workspace, but actually brings your ideas to life. We’ve put these machines through their paces, testing everything from budget-friendly beginners to professional powerhouses. Forget intimidating setups and complicated calibrations – the new generation of 3D printers is all about simplicity meets capability.
Affordable yet feature-rich printers that are perfect for beginners or those seeking a budget-friendly upgrade.
Responsive 3D Printer Card
Great FDM Printer
Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro
★★★★☆4.5 Excellent
Expandable Sections
Pros & Cons❯
Easy assembly
Simple Auto bed leveling
Direct drive
Dual gear extruder
Quiet operation
Difficult to upgrade
Highlights❯
36-point auto-leveling system for easy and accurate calibration.
PEI magnetic platform ensures excellent adhesion and simple model removal.
Dual-gear extruder for precise filament feeding and stable printing.
Quiet operation with a noise level of 50 dB.
4.3-inch removable touchscreen for versatile controls.
Smart resume printing and filament detection to minimize interruptions.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro makes 3D printing approachable for beginners with its straightforward setup and reliable performance. Its advanced leveling system and magnetic platform streamline the printing process, ensuring great results every time. The powerful dual-gear extruder supports diverse materials like PLA, PETG, and TPU, and features like filament detection and resume printing prevent unnecessary waste. The removable touchscreen adds flexibility, while its whisper-quiet operation ensures it integrates seamlessly into any workspace.
Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm (8.6 x 8.6 x 9.8 inches).
Materials Supported: PLA, PETG, TPU (up to 260 degrees).
Direct Drive Extruder: Smooth filament feeding.
Automatic Bed Leveling: CR Touch system.
PC Spring Steel Sheet: Durable heated build platform.
User Interface: 3.2″ color screen with knob.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Creality Ender-3 V3 SE is a standout option for 3D printing enthusiasts, offering an affordable entry point with reliable performance. Its direct drive system ensures consistent filament feeding, while the automatic bed leveling makes calibration effortless. With support for multiple materials and a user-friendly interface, it is designed to meet the needs of hobbyists and beginners alike. Its compact footprint and robust build make it a versatile addition to any workspace.
Full-auto calibration for Z-offset, bed leveling, and vibration resonance.
Optional AMS Lite system for four-color printing.
Silent operation under 48 dB.
Compact design ideal for small spaces.
Plug-and-play setup, perfect for beginners.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Bambu Lab A1 Mini redefines beginner 3D printing with its user-friendly design and innovative features. The full-auto calibration system eliminates manual adjustments, ensuring consistent results. Its optional multi-color printing system makes creative projects more vibrant and engaging, while silent operation and compact size make it ideal for homes and classrooms. With a focus on simplicity and quality, this printer is perfect for anyone new to 3D printing.
Semi-automated leveling system lags behind comparable machines
Highlights❯
Klipper firmware for ultra-fast printing at speeds up to 500mm/s.
121-point auto bed leveling for precision across the print surface.
300°C high-temp nozzle for compatibility with advanced materials like nylon and ABS.
Dual-gear direct extruder for smooth filament feeding.
PEI magnetic platform for excellent adhesion and easy print removal.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus combines speed, precision, and a spacious build volume, making it ideal for ambitious projects. Equipped with Klipper firmware, it delivers industry-leading speeds and advanced features like input shaping and pressure advance for unparalleled quality. Its high-temp nozzle supports a range of filaments, opening doors to more complex applications. Thoughtful features like a magnetic platform and robust cooling system ensure reliable performance with minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists and pros alike.
Specs & Configurations❯
Machine Footprint
20.98 x 20.35 x 25.19 inches (533mm x 517mm x 638mm)
Build Volume
12.6 x 12.6 x 15.16 inches (320mm x 320mm x 385mm)
250 x 250 x 260mm build volume for a wide variety of prints.
Direct Drive extruder for reliable filament feeding.
Inductive auto leveling with Smart Z for hassle-free calibration.
High flow .4mm nozzle for quick and consistent extrusion.
Supports PLA, PETG, and TPU filaments.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Anycubic Kobra 3 impresses with its high-speed performance and advanced features like input shaping and a high flow hotend. Its user-friendly setup with inductive auto leveling and a PEI spring steel build platform ensures consistent print quality, while its ability to support multiple filament types makes it versatile. It is an ideal choice for those looking for speed, quality, and convenience in their 3D printing experience.
Designed for users who demand higher performance and larger build volumes, this category is split into speed and size-focused printers.
▼ Speed
Responsive 3D Printer Card
Best 3D Printer for Serious Makers
Bambu Lab A1
★★★★☆4.5 Excellent
Expandable Sections
Pros & Cons❯
Speed
Intuitive Interface
Quick change nozzle
Inexpensive AMS (optional)
Direct Drive
Auto bed leveling
PEI coated flexible build plate
AMS takes up a lot of space
AMS flings waste
Highlights❯
CoreXY motion system for high-speed and precise printing.
Active flow rate compensation for smooth extrusion.
Full-auto calibration for bed leveling and vibration tuning.
Optional AMS Lite system for multi-color printing.
Silent operation under 48 dB.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Bambu Lab A1 redefines what’s possible in a mid-budget printer, combining speed, precision, and advanced features in a user-friendly package. Its CoreXY motion system ensures seamless operation at high speeds, while the full-auto calibration eliminates setup frustrations. The optional AMS Lite system introduces multi-color functionality, making it a versatile choice for creative users. Its focus on efficiency and quality makes it a favorite for beginners and seasoned makers alike.
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology for high-quality printing.
Build volume of Ø260 x 330 mm for printing larger models.
Bowden feeder system for efficient filament extrusion.
Single nozzle (0.4 mm) for precise printing.
Max hot end temperature of 240°C to handle a wide range of filaments.
Max heated bed temperature of 100°C for improved adhesion and material flexibility.
Automatic bed leveling for easy setup and consistent prints.
Connectivity via USB and SD Card for ease of file transfer.
Compatible with a variety of filaments (PLA, ABS, PETG, Flexibles) using 1.75 mm filament diameter.
Why It Stands Out❯
The FLsun Super Racer SR is designed for those who want speed without compromising on quality. With its FDM technology, large build volume, and auto-leveling feature, it provides exceptional prints. The printer is capable of handling a variety of filaments and boasts impressive speeds without sacrificing precision. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, this printer delivers solid performance with great reliability.
CoreXY enclosed design for superior speed and precision.
Advanced cooling system for better material handling.
Modular AMS system for multi-material capabilities.
Ready-to-use setup with pre-assembled components.
Supports high-temperature filaments like ABS.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Bambu Lab P1S offers premium features typically found in higher-end models. Its enclosed CoreXY design ensures precise prints and efficient handling of advanced materials like ABS. Its modular AMS system gives access to a feature set, and the pre-assembled design allows new users to quickly get to work. If you want an impressive professional machine that’s ready to go to work, the P1S is a workhorse that doesn’t hold back.
Add “back” or “cancel” functions to multiple screens
Add fan speed controls while printing
Smoked glass door hinders printing view. Clear glass would be better
A brighter LED light would be helpful
The display bracket could use some reinforcement
Highlights❯
Delta-style design for smooth motion and high speeds.
Quiet operation with silent stepper drivers.
Advanced auto-leveling for consistent results.
Taller build height for large models.
Compatible with PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, PVA, PET, ASA, PA, PC, and more materials.
Why It Stands Out❯
The FLsun T1 Pro stands out for its excellent balance of speed, precision, and build volume. Its Delta-style design ensures smooth and precise motion, producing sharp details even on tall prints. The quiet operation and advanced auto-leveling system make it an ideal choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike. With a wide range of compatible materials and a robust build, this 3D printer is built for performance and versatility.
Specs & Configurations❯
3D-Printing Technology
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
Materials Supported
PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, PET, ABS, ASA, PA, PC, and more
Number of Extruders
1 (Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder)
Frame Design
Open frame with acrylic glass enclosure
Maximum Build Area (HWD)
Φ260 x 330 mm
Top Print Resolution
0.1 – 0.35 mm
Display
4.3″ Color Touch Screen
Primary Interface(s)
USB
Maximum Printing Speed
1000 mm/s
Maximum Acceleration
30000 mm/s²
Nozzle Max Temp
300℃
Bed Max Temp
110℃
Materials Compatibility
PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, PET, ABS, ASA, PA, PC, and more
Massive build volume of 420 x 420 x 480mm (16.5 x 16.5 x 18.9 inches), ideal for large projects.
Equipped with pre-installed Klipper firmware, enabling speeds of up to 500mm/s.
High-temp nozzle reaching up to 300°C, compatible with PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, and Nylon.
Direct drive extruder for smooth filament feeding and enhanced precision.
Auto bed leveling with manual and inductive features for precise print setup.
PEI textured spring steel sheet for great adhesion and easy print removal.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is a standout in its class with a massive build volume of 420 x 420 x 480mm, making it perfect for large-scale projects like cosplay props and architectural models. With pre-installed Klipper firmware, the printer offers high-speed performance, precision features like pressure advance and input shaping, and compatibility with a wide range of high-temperature filaments. Its robust design and versatile features ensure a reliable and stable printing experience for creators looking to tackle bigger and more complex prints.
Reliable direct extrusion system compatible with PLA, PETG, and TPU.
Dual Z-axis design for improved stability and precise layer alignment.
User-friendly interface with live feedback for easy monitoring.
Compact and sturdy frame with an intuitive setup process.
Auto bed leveling and filament runout detection.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Creality Ender 3 V3 Plus strikes a balance between size, speed, and reliability. Its robust frame and dual Z-axis design ensure excellent print quality, even for larger models. The upgraded firmware and hardware make it user-friendly and efficient, ideal for intermediate users looking to scale up their projects without breaking the bank.
Delta-style design for faster and smoother prints with speeds up to 400mm/s.
Large cylindrical build volume for tall and intricate models.
Quiet operation with advanced motion controls for precise results.
Auto-leveling system simplifies calibration.
Open-frame design allows easy access and maintenance.
Why It Stands Out❯
The FLsun V400 combines speed and size, making it a top choice for users who need fast, high-quality results for large-scale projects. Its Delta-style design supports efficient motion and accurate prints, perfect for professionals tackling tall and complex models.
For professionals and serious enthusiasts, these high-performance printers prioritize speed or size without compromise, offering cutting-edge features for advanced applications.
▼ Speed
Responsive 3D Printer Card
Precision 3D Printer for Professionals
Prusa MK4S
★★★★★
5.0 Outstanding
Expandable Sections
Pros & Cons❯
High flow CHT Nozzle
Perfect first layer
PEI Steel flex plate
Very quiet
Fully assembled or DIY kit
Expensive
Highlights❯
Advanced calibration tools for precise layer alignment.
Modular design allowing easy upgrades.
Supports a wide range of materials including PLA and PETG.
Preassembled or DIY kit options for user flexibility.
Legendary reliability with detailed documentation.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Prusa MK4S is a favorite among professionals for its unparalleled reliability and precision. Its modular design ensures longevity through upgrades, while its advanced calibration tools deliver consistent, high-quality prints. It’s a top choice for users who prioritize dependability and attention to detail over speed.
Rigid steel frame, aluminum shell, and CoreXY motion system
LIDAR-assisted automatic calibration and inspection
High-speed multicolor printing with AMS
Enclosed build volume
PEI Textured Plate not included
Default purging process wastes material
Nozzle replacement is a complicated process
Highlights❯
CoreXY motion system for high-speed and precise printing.
LIDAR-assisted first-layer calibration for accurate results.
Multi-material printing with AMS add-on support.
Enclosed design for stable printing conditions, ideal for engineering-grade filaments.
Advanced features like pressure advance and input shaping.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon is a powerhouse for professionals, offering cutting-edge features and exceptional print quality. Its advanced motion control and material compatibility make it a versatile tool for engineering-grade projects. The AMS system expands its capabilities to multi-material and multi-color printing, setting it apart in the high-end market.
Specs & Configurations❯
Machine Footprint
15.32 x 15.32 x 23.23 inches (389mm x 389mm x 590mm)
Build Volume
10.08 x 10.08 x 10.08 inches (256mm x 256mm x 256mm)
Material
1.75mm PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, PVA, PET
Power Supply
350W
Bed Leveling
LIDAR / Force Gauge Automatic Mesh Leveling
Nozzle
.4mm default – 0.6mm, 0.8mm, and 0.2mm optional
Max. Nozzle Temperature
300°C / 572°F
Max. Bed Temperature
120°C / 248°F
Printing Speed
500mm/s max.
Build Platform
Magnetic Flexible Removable Platform, textured PEI optional
Classic layout with easy navigation for smoother use.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Creality K1 MAX offers professional-grade speed and precision at a competitive price. Its enclosed design ensures consistent print quality, especially with temperature-sensitive materials. This printer is perfect for creators looking to scale up their projects with reliability and ease.
Expansive build volume (350x350x350mm) for large-scale projects.
High-speed printing up to 600mm/s with advanced motion controls.
Dual-gear extrusion for consistent filament feeding.
Auto bed leveling for hassle-free calibration.
Compatible with various filaments including high-temperature materials.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Creality K2 PLUS is a versatile powerhouse for large-format printing. Its advanced features like dual-gear extrusion, auto bed leveling, and the ability to print with multiple colors via CFS make it ideal for professionals and hobbyists who need precision, speed, and flexibility in their 3D prints.
Dual extrusion system for multi-material printing.
Enclosed design for improved temperature stability.
Advanced cooling system to minimize warping.
Precision linear rails for smooth motion and accuracy.
Robust construction for long-term durability.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Qidi Plus 4 is a high-performance machine for users needing precise, functional prototypes. Its dual extrusion and enclosed design allow seamless handling of advanced materials, making it an excellent choice for technical and industrial applications.
Large build volume perfect for tall and intricate models.
Auto-leveling system ensures consistent results.
Open-frame design for easy access and maintenance.
Compatible with a wide range of materials including PLA, PETG, TPU, and ABS.
Why It Stands Out❯
The FLsun S1 combines speed and size in a Delta-style printer. Its large build volume and precise motion controls make it ideal for professionals creating large-format, detailed models. Its open design provides accessibility, appealing to experienced users.
For industrial or highly specialized applications, these printers push the boundaries of what’s possible in 3D printing.
Responsive 3D Printer Card
Overall best Large-Format 3D Printer With CFS
Creality K2 PLUS w/ CFS (Continuous Filament System)
★★★★☆4.5 Excellent
Expandable Sections
Pros & Cons❯
Large build volume
Multi-color printing
High-speed printing capabilities
Enclosed design with heated chamber
Auto-calibration
Large physical size
Higher price point
Longer print times for multi-color objects
Waste management needs improvement
Highlights❯
Continuous Filament System enables uninterrupted printing with multiple spools.
Advanced auto bed leveling for precise calibration.
High-speed printing capabilities with minimal vibration.
Large build volume for extensive projects.
Sturdy frame and reliable motion system for consistent results.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Creality K2 PLUS with CFS redefines large-scale printing by ensuring uninterrupted production with its filament system. Its expansive build area and precise performance make it an excellent option for industrial-grade projects and extended print jobs.
Five independent toolheads for multi-material or multi-color printing.
Modular design for easy upgrades and maintenance.
Large build volume for complex, large-scale models.
Advanced cooling and precision systems for high-quality results.
Ideal for technical parts and intricate designs.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Prusa XL 5-Head pushes the boundaries of 3D printing with its independent toolheads, enabling unparalleled flexibility and precision. It’s perfect for professionals creating multi-part assemblies or intricate prototypes, offering advanced features in a robust, scalable design.
Massive build volume for industrial-scale projects.
High-performance features for precise, large-scale production.
Designed to handle PLA, PETG, and TPU materials (up to 300°C).
Direct drive extruder for seamless filament extrusion.
Why It Stands Out❯
The Elegoo Orange Storm Giga is designed for industrial-level 3D printing, offering an enormous build volume and high-performance components like a custom high-flow nozzle. Whether you’re producing large prototypes or mass manufacturing, it delivers the reliability and precision you need for professional-grade projects.
3D printing in 2024 is less about the journey and more about the end result. Whether you’re looking to print a cute panda figurine or tackle professional-grade prototypes, there’s a machine waiting to make your vision real. Budget options like the Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro and Bambu A1 Mini prove you don’t need to be a tech guru to create something awesome, while powerhouses like the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon and Prusa XL 5-Head are ready for serious makers.
Picking your printer isn’t about finding the most expensive gadget – it’s about finding the right tool that fits your creative goals. This guide has done the hard work of sorting through the options, so you can focus on what really matters: turning those brilliant ideas into tangible objects. The world of 3D printing is waiting – and trust me, it’s never been more accessible.
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro and Bambu Lab A1 Mini are basically the training wheels of 3D printing. I’ve seen plenty of people get intimidated by complex machines, but these are designed for folks who’ve never touched a 3D printer and just want results. With features like auto bed leveling and removable touchscreens, the setup is as straightforward as connecting a traditional printer. At around $159-$199, they’re an affordable entry point that won’t require an engineering degree to operate.
Great news: it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. In 2024, $200-$300 gets you a seriously capable machine. The Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro at $159 and Creality Ender-3 V3 SE at $169 prove you can start creating without financial stress. As you get more comfortable, printers in the $300-$600 range like the Bambu Lab A1 offer more speed, precision, and cool features like multi-color printing. Think of it like leveling up in a video game – each price tier unlocks more capabilities.
PLA is the staple 3D printing material — the vanilla ice cream if you will. Durable, user-friendly, and forgiving of amateur blunders. As you gain confidence, you can explore more advanced materials. PETG offers more durability, TPU provides flexibility, and ABS works for heat-resistant parts. Many printers like the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus support up to 6 different materials, giving you plenty of room to experiment and grow.
Prepare to be impressed. Modern 3D printers are speed demons. Budget printers like the Anycubic Kobra 3 can hit 600mm/s, while mid-range machines like the FLsun Super Racer cruise at 200mm/s. To put that in perspective, you could print a small figurine in just a few hours instead of an entire day. The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon even includes advanced features like pressure advance to ensure these high speeds don’t compromise print quality.
Relax – most modern printers are surprisingly quiet. The Bambu Lab A1 Mini operates under 48 dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation. Printers like the Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro hit around 50 dB, meaning you could easily run it in a home office or shared living space without causing a disturbance. Some models even have “silent mode” settings for those late-night creative bursts when everyone else is asleep.
Nikko Jenkins is a technology journalist based in the US, covering tool reviews and comparisons across North America, Europe and Asia, particularly 3D Printers. His concise, insightful articles on the latest innovations help readers worldwide make informed tech decisions. Jenkins’ expertise and engaging style have made him a respected voice in the global technology landscape.
Feel free to reach out to me at nikkojenkins@360techinsights.com.
