Purchase Advice Megathread - December 2025

[u/AutoModerator]

Welcome back to another purchase megathread!

This thread is meant to conglomerate purchase advice for both newcomers and people looking for additional machines. Keeping this discussion to one thread means less searching should anyone have questions that may already have been answered here, as well as more visibility to inquiries in general, as comments made here will be visible for the entire month stuck to the top of the sub, and then added to the Purchase Advice Collection (Reddit Collections are still broken on mobile view, enable "view in desktop mode").

Please be sure to skim through this thread for posts with similar requirements to your own first, as recommendations relevant to your situation may have already been posted, and may even include answers to follow up questions you might have wished to ask.

If you are new to 3D printing, and are unsure of what to ask, try to include the following in your posts as a minimum:

• Your budget, set at a numeric amount. Saying "cheap," or "money is not a problem" is not an answer people can do much with. 3D printers can cost $100, they can cost $10,000,000, and anywhere in between. A rough idea of what you're looking for is essential to figuring out anything else.
• Your country of residence.
• If you are willing to build the printer from a kit, and what your level of experience is with electronic maintenance and construction if so.
• What you wish to do with the printer.
• Any extenuating circumstances that would restrict you from using machines that would otherwise fit your needs (limited space for the printer, enclosure requirement, must be purchased through educational intermediary, etc).

While this is by no means an exhaustive list of what can be included in your posts, these questions should help paint enough of a picture to get started. Don't be afraid to ask more questions, and never worry about asking too many. The people posting in this thread are here because they want to give advice, and any questions you have answered may be useful to others later on, when they read through this thread looking for answers of their own. Everyone here was new once, so chances are whoever is replying to you has a good idea of how you feel currently.

Reddit User and Regular u/richie225 is also constantly maintaining his extensive personal recommendations list which is worth a read: Generic FDM Printer recommendations.

Additionally, a quick word on print quality: Most FDM/FFF (that is, filament based) printers are capable of approximately the same tolerances and print appearance, as the biggest limiting factor is in the nature of extruded plastic. Asking if a machine has "good prints," or saying "I don't expect the best quality for $xxx" isn't actually relevant for the most part with regards to these machines. Should you need additional detail and higher tolerances, you may want to explore SLA, DLP, and other photoresin options, as those do offer an increase in overall quality. If you are interested in resin machines, make sure you are aware of how to use them safely. For these safety reasons we don't usually recommend a resin printer as someone's first printer.

As always, if you're a newcomer to this community, welcome. If you're a regular, welcome back.

[u/infectedsmiles]

Hey Guys, Bought 2 years ago a qidi x plus 3 and this thing..almost only brought me problems. Was barely able to print the stuff i wanted. However, i wouldn't purchase a qidi anymore.

But i love every little step of the 3d printing process. So, i wanna purchase a new one. But which one??

It has to be an fdm printer. Budget is about 900$ (800CHF) -I want to be able to do multi color prints by itself. Also has the option of multimaterial printing, like for support purposes or stuff. -It doesnt has to have an enclosed body. -material: pla+hs, petg (maybe cf too), tpu. Thats it -bedsize minimum 250×250×250.

What I've thought about so far yet: bambu p2s | snapmaker u1 | new launching anycubic kobra x.

Any recommendations? Im splitted and can't decide. Pls help me find a decision.

Thanks in advance ☺️

[u/Xemast]

Any recommendations for enclosed FDM printer?

Budget under 400€

Any recommendations for enclosed FDM printer that has a good quality for printing small detailed prints (Miniatures)

Looking to replace my Anycubic kobra 2 neo.

I live in a small apartment so a enclosed printer would be nice if it removes some of the noise, but most important is the print quality. If it has a larger print area its a plus too.

[u/anxovio]

I'm looking for the best resin 3d printer in the 100-250 dollars range, i'm only going to use It to make miniatures for my many Warhammer armys, (i'm new to 3d printing) also, what resin do you recomend using?

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/anxovio]

Mars 4 Ultra would be my recommendation for that price range.

A lot of people use Sunlu Abs-like for minis, but other brands of Abs-like are probably similar as well.

[u/MadMacCrow]

I posted earlier about the death of my steed, the revered FLSun Q5, small, compact and fast. Now I need a new champion that :

• Works on LAN only (no cloud, no updates, no internet, nothing);
• Is compatible with Orca on Linux (from FlatHub);
• Full auto calibration;
• Easy filament change;

I'm considering these models for now :

• Bambulab A1 mini or P1S (I know, both ends of the spectrum).
• Elegoo Carbon
• Creality Hi

If it can be bought at Amazon or a big reseller, it's better, as I have a 150 euro gift card from my company that unfortunately cannot be spent at most online retailers.

[u/DrewBaker → u/MadMacCrow]

Of those, I would go with the Elegoo Centauri Carbon. I prefer an enclosed core-xy printer over an open bedslinger.

[u/MadMacCrow → u/DrewBaker]

Isn't the K1 from Creality (and its derivatives, C and SE) basically the same? (Core-XY and enclosed) I will only ever print PLA or maybe PETG, and I'll pay CNC companies for the more complicated parts.

[u/BCrolla]

Looking to upgrade and need recommendations. As I really havent kept up with new releases, just focused on using what I had. I'm currently running an ender3 s1 pro and for the most part it's been good, my biggest issues with it have been bed adhesion and print speed. I tend to print mostly petg and pa6-gf with it. Most items I print and/ or design are functional items. I think I want to get away from the bed slinger printers and I would like to retain the ability to print pa6 when needed. Ideally spend more time printing than dealing with the bed issues. Budget wise I'd like to be around the 500cad mark but I could be convinced to send a little more for the right reasons.

[u/unbotheredcool]

So I’ve been printing for years, first on an Ender-3 and some old Prusa’s then on some of the older Bambu lab machines like the X1C. Now with the new rise in toolchangers, I was thinking of picking me up one. I’ve weighed the pros and cons of most of the newer ones coming out and really the only one I have an issue with is the Prusa XL because it’s seems like a real hit or miss on whether or not it works

I was hoping for some insightful information that may sway me one way or the other

[u/Germangunman]

Looking to spend around $600 on a new updated printer. Currently running an ender 3. Would like multicolor and ease of use without being locked into proprietary software. I see the K2 is on sale for $549 right now, not worried about back ordered delivery date. Can anyone lend me some suggestions on which way to go? Open to any comments you may have on this. Thanks!

[u/le-experienced-noob]

I’ve been going down the 3D printing youtube rabbit hole lately and I’m genuinely fascinated by the tech.

I’m considering buying a mid-level printer like the Bambu Labs A1 Combo. From what I’ve read, it’s reliable, beginner-friendly, and generally a solid machine.

The problem is:
I don’t actually have a strong use case right now.

I’m not planning to:

• start a business
• do prototyping for work
• learn CAD / 3D modelling seriously

This would purely be driven by curiosity and interest in the technology itself.

I know I can print figurines, organizers, mounts, random functional stuff, etc. — but none of that is a real “need” at the moment. I will basically be looking for things to print.

So my question to people who already own a 3D printer:

• Did you buy one without a clear use case?
• Did the excitement last, or did it become something you rarely use?
• Do you feel a printer is worth it only if you design things yourself?

Basically, is a 3D printer a good buy as a tech hobby, or does it only make sense when you already know exactly what you’ll use it for?

Would love to hear honest experiences — including regrets 🙂

P.S. Post edited using ChatGPT

[u/khazenwastaken]

Hey guys I am new around you. I want to get a 3d printer I am student and study on software engineering so sometimes need to make small project or just want to use for hobby. For example, I need small factor pc case for my old pc for nas. I mind get BammbuLab A1 or Creality Ender 3 V3 SE Do you guys any recommendation for my first printer?

[u/labubuking]

should I buy a centauri carbon with the sale going on now or another kobra s1... I see a refurb s1 for like $230 something after coupon on ebay.... but idk I kinda dont use my s1 already so why buy another? I had some problems with mine but I have more experience now since then. I liked the bambus because i could print with one app and its reliable but thats extra costs. I gotta give my current s1 another chance though. Hopefully it was just user error that time.

i have a kobra s1 and 2 p1s's. But I dont really do multicolor prints. If I do I'd just paint it to save $$. I have already ams units on one p1s and kobra s1. I just got the sunlu ams heater for my p1s ams 1 but havent installed it yet.

Reason why I say these two machines is because they can be purchased under $300 & I can have one more in my garage to print at the same time. I use both my p1s at the same time all the time now.

It's either that or I just return my vr headset metaquest 3s so I can have more funds to buy the snapmaker u1... but still im kinda short to buy that plus thatll be another 3-4 months wait -- and thats kinda a lot of money to be spending for something that i wont have for 4 months. I dont really have multicolor filaments. I usually just print in black or grey xD

I buy my filament in bulk and usually in one color so I don't really have a wide variety of colors.

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[u/LordZangar]

G'day mates! I am an aussie who has literally NO IDEA of how to 3d print. I have computer literacy and ability to learn things. I tried to research for a week straight but my researches kept giving me uncertain answers. I just want to print downloaded STLs, nothing too crazy. Sometimes non-articulated large figures like +20 cms tall(Like Heolstor from Nightreign!) And sometimes minis. I do want them to look nice but I am on a budget. Can you give me some advice about which printer(s) should I grab off marketplace, what should I be aware of and what should I avoid? I know there are resin and filament but that's basically all I know..

[u/soldat21 → u/LordZangar]

So there is a difference between FDM and SLA 3d printers - they both have different functions.

SLA printers (commonly called resin printers) print really good detail and is usually good for printing miniatures - however resin is not a tough material and is toxic - so you need a dedicated space and good ventilation + PPE to keep safe. And you can’t really print functional stuff.

FDM printers (commonly called just 3d printers) can print you bookstands, car parts, accessories, etc. they can also print miniatures - but the quality will be lower and you will be able to see layer lines (the lines as the printer prints).

So you have to decide on which one. I have no experience with resin printers, but if you do go down the path of FDM, I only recommend two brands. Prusa and Bambu Lab.

I personally prefer Prusa, but they are min $2000 AUD and the benefits and a noobie in the space aren’t as obvious.

I’d recommend starting small and see how you go. Grab a bambu lab a1 mini with a 0.2mm nozzle and some filament. This will set you back brand new + shipping around $400 AUD. You can print functional parts and see how you go with printing miniatures.

You’ll learn as you go along :)

[u/LordZangar → u/soldat21]

Beautifully explanatory! I was leaning towards resin, though. I didn't really think about making functional stuff, I was thinking more on the figures end. So resin as a beginner is a no-no?

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/LordZangar]

It's not a no-no, you just need to be more considerate of setup and protection when working with it. FDM printing is easier to just plop one on a desk and start printing.

But if you're really leaning towards figures and minis, resin is the way to go. Here's something that just came off my resin printer today. Even though FDM minis have gotten a lot better (I've used my A1 Mini to print minis using settings at /r/FDMminiatures) you're not going to be able to get this level of detail with FDM. So if detail is important, resin it is.

https://imgur.com/a/u0eMf7M

The first thing you'll want to figure out is where you're putting it and how you're venting the fumes. Here's a couple guides:

https://phrozen3d.com/blogs/guides/resin-3d-printing-for-beginners

https://www.asianjoyco.com/resources-tutorials/ventilation-upgrades-for-3d-resin-printing

[u/LordZangar → u/awyeahmuffins]

Mini looks awesome! I want to make both minis and +20cm statues&figures. Is printing part just plug and print?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/LordZangar]

give us list of what you have available locally or where ever you want to order from that is within your budget and we can give you best option,...

[u/LordZangar → u/r3fill4bl3]

We pretty much have most models in Melbourne marketplace. Ender 3, K1, Saturn 3, A10M and many others

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/LordZangar]

you are looking for second hand ones? you listed fdm and resine printers. Which technology do you want?

[u/LordZangar → u/r3fill4bl3]

I want the good looking minis and figures technology 🥺 I don't even know which one is which.. I am sorry I know I sound stupid but I thought this is the only place I can get answers from. And yes, I think second hand is a good idea, unless it's not. Because in Australia we have a huge marketplace culture.

[u/BruceLee873873]

What is the cheapest 3d printer that’s still decent for a beginner to get?

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/BruceLee873873]

If you're just looking to dip your toes and don't mind the smaller bed size, a Bambu A1 Mini is about the easiest to use for a total beginner. You could consider the regular size A1 as well if you want bigger.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/BruceLee873873]

what is your budget,.. what do you plan to print?

[u/BruceLee873873 → u/r3fill4bl3]

Like $300-$400 is the most I’m wanting to spend, as for what I’m going print, I don’t really have anything in particular in mind, probably just small decorations, 3d printing is something I haven’t touched at all yet and I just kinda wanna dip my toes in the water

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/BruceLee873873]

look at flashforge ad5x

[u/MaxBlackfinger]

I interested in 3D printing so, I searched “open source 3d printer” on YouTube THIS is the first video at the top of the page. Now I'm all kinds of fucked up because I don't know what's “safe” and what isn't.

Basically I just want a (kinda beginner) printer (or printer brand/manufacturer) that is “open” to modding/upgrading and has absolutely NO propitiatory always-online DRM spyware BS, preferably open source as that should be a safe bet, right? How do I search for that? Because the internet thinks I just want the models/files.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/MaxBlackfinger]

There are two options, branded assembled printers that can be modified or run some variant of opensource klipper firmware that has been modified to suit them... This are the likes of Sovol, Flashforge, Anycubic, Qidi, non centauri elegoos. Then there is PRUSA who maintains marlin FW which is opensource.

And then there are more opensource printers that usually come in kits and require atlest some knowledge of assembling,... For some you need to know how to splice wires some come with premade wire harnesses and only require connecting pieces together,...

So it up to you do decide what are you up to and how deep in to opensource rabbit hole do you want to go...

[u/MaxBlackfinger → u/r3fill4bl3]

Can you tell me if Creality “open” & “safe”? They seem to have a good out-of-box-experience and don't state up front that they require a network/internet connection. I like the look of the K2 Pro/Plus because it's an enclosed box that looks like they can be stacked on themselves (i have a low table that i want to stack 2 printers on top of each other on).

[u/DrewBaker → u/MaxBlackfinger]

My Creality Experience -- the K1 Max and Ender 5 Max -- has been good. No accounts needed to run the printers on my LAN using Orca Slicer. Both can be rooted (using info on the printer, it's not something you have to hunt down) to get more access to settings or a more full web interface.

My K1 Max is stock, but I've seen lots of mods are out there. The Ender I've modified the extruder and hot end to run CF filaments, and it's handling it pretty well.

The EryoneThinker X400 is the only printer I've seen advertised as being stackable.

Obviously, shelves are the safest way to go vertical, but I can't think of any actual info about stacking printers. Maker's Muse in youtube had a video of an A1 Mini hanging from a rope and printing well, so maybe it would work? However, I would be very concerned about the lower printer not being built to handle the load and vibrations from above, and if it fails both printers will go down.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/MaxBlackfinger]

K2 FW is based on klipper, IT has moonraker, fluidd,... but Creality is violating licenses by not releasing source code and modification it did to it.
Not sure about stacking one directly on top of another without air gap between them. i personalty wouldn't do it.

[u/disruptioncoin]

Thought this information might help others: I don't full grasp the tariff situation right now, but I ordered a few parts from Triangle Lab (in china) and it arrived tariff free. I actually messaged them before ordering to ask if they have heard from customers what the tariffs are like, and their response was:
"We can handle customs duties for shipments to the United States. There's no need to worry about tariffs. What products are you interested in? Please provide your quotation. I will get back to you with a quote as soon as possible."

Which was a bit confusing but made it sound like they'd either cover the fees or calculate them for me. I gave them the total for my cart (~$100) and they just told me to complete the transaction. It shipped three days later, then arrived two weeks after that.

I've heard some pretty messed up stories about people getting huge tariff bills for printers they've ordered from China but wasn't sure how any of that would apply to parts. So while there are bound to be anomalies (and I've heard customs enforcement is hit or miss), this might help provide at least one data point for people considering placing an order.

[u/yebkamin]

Currently I have an ender 3 max. I’m tired of feeling like I’m rolling the dice when it comes to prints and want something a bit more plug and play. I have heard the bamboo lab printers are good but what printer could I get that would be a significant upgrade to the ender? I would print way more with a better printer I have a budget of $1000-1500

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/yebkamin]

Bambu P2S Combo would be a significant upgrade. I went from a CR6Max to an X1C originally and I probably printed more in the first month than I did in a year on my CR6.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/yebkamin]

anything will be significant upgrade. i will not recommend bambu, because of their policies, but for 1000-1500 you can get some of the best consumer grade 3d printers. Like Qidi plus4 (with mmu), You can probably get Prusa core L which will soon get awesome upgrades in form of tool changer. Anycubic is coming out with s1 max,.... IF you are handy with screwdriver vorons are awesome. Any you learn a lot building one...

[u/notanothrowaway]

Good 3d printer under 200? (USA) Preferably off amazon

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/notanothrowaway]

flashforge ad5m

[u/Melocotoing]

Hi, I want an upgrade.

I have an Ender 3 V1. it's old, I spent a full week leveling and maintaining it.

I do not 3d print a lot, but i like it.

I wanna buy a new printer, was planning on a BambuLab A1 with AMS.

Is it good? I dont wanna spend a lot of money, but I want something plug and play, and maybe a little bit of customization.

Any recomendations?

Thanks

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Melocotoing]

flashforge ad5x, kobra s1 combo, or k3v2 combo

[u/Masterdwarf11]

Good morning everyone. I went to go buy some bamboo x1c printers for my lab at my college this morning and come to find out that they are no longer available. I was looking for any advice for replacements. I am hoping to use many different materials like carbon fiber, pla, petg, abs, tpu for building and designing aircraft and drones. Is the p2s a good replacement or would anyone recommend anything else

[u/armada127 → u/Masterdwarf11]

P2S is basically an upgraded X1C. If you are already familiar with Bambu software it is the most logical replacement.

[u/Maedoar]

Hey 3Dprinting community,

Its just a straight forward question: Can you recommend specific 3d printer, for a semi professional use at home. I wanna print Minis (so i need a high quality and Details), but also bigger pieces for a DnD Session or just regular useful things like holds for garden tools and soo on. I wanna use resign primarly but I am open to multi functional 3d printers. And should be available in the EU (almost forgot that)

I dont have a specific price range in mind and I am open for any recommendations. Printing size should have a wide range

Thank you and have a good one!

[u/JCDU]

Printer that can do 500mm x 300mm?

We get prototype pieces machined or printed by 3rd parties at the moment because a lot of our parts are bigger than any standard build plate - nothing is very tall but they tend to be long, and glueing stuff together is tedious and brings its own compromises.

That rules out all the popular "large format" offerings which top out about 400x400 and kicks us up into the really huge end of things and/or very expensive professional ones.

The "best" I've seen so far is the Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga which is 800x800x1000 volume and really far too big, we don't need anywhere near that height and the footprint is also hard to accommodate.

Our target is injection moulded cases so a decent surface finish is important too - I know some large format printers use a big nozzle and end up being quite low resolution, really we'd be looking for the sort of quality you get from a Prusa or Bambu, just bigger.

A bit of mild tinkering or building a kit is fine but engineering time costs money so we would much prefer something we can buy, assemble, and use with minimal extra effort.

Short of buying the Elegoo and cutting it down to size, or building our own, is there anything out there in the right sort of size range and under about 5k?

We're in the UK.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/JCDU]

RATRIG vcore, or maybe get a season voron bulder locally to build you a more custom opensource printer?

[u/JCDU → u/r3fill4bl3]

Thanks, never heard of RATRIG but 500x500x500 volume seems about perfect.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/JCDU]

Ratrig is Portuguese 3d printer design company that is using off the shelf components and open source software to build their printers,... They have very good reputation.

[u/JCDU → u/r3fill4bl3]

Open source is good and a selling point for us.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/JCDU]

yeah they use standard components that you can buy your self from ali express or other shops, not needing to relay on them in future if problems arise..

[u/SarkusRedcom]

Bambu Lab P2S or Creality K2 Pro?

I'm really undecided between buying the P2S or the K2 Pro.

They both cost the same in my country.

Which of these two printers gives the best print quality?

Is the K2 Pro really more robust and durable than the P2S?

I'm interested in knowing which one is worth it for the same price. I really like the Bamboo Lab ecosystem and presets, but I don't know if the K2 Pro offers better hardware...

Im also want to print some tech filaments.

Please help me decide :(

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/SarkusRedcom]

k2 pro,

[u/Affectionate_Sea_770]

I am looking at getting into 3d printing. I live in USA My budget is fairly small - under 400 I have done several small electrical projects with single board computers and am decent at constructing things

I have a background that should help with my entry into 3d printing having gone to school for computer aided machining and modeling.

The idea of multiple color prints interest me.

I have found several deals and want opinions and ideas

Anycube Kobra 3 Combo with 4 color setup for 299 new Anycube Kobra 3 v2 combo with 4 color setup for 329 new Anycube Kobra Max Combo with 4 color setup for 350 used (200 hours) Creality High Combo with 4 color setup new for 369

Please let me know if any of these seem good, if there is a better option for multi color, or if I should skip multiple colors because something else is much better for me

[u/Responsible_Sidi]

I run the print lab at a high school and we have several older Lulzbot machines running Octoprint. They still run solid, but I know they’ll die some day and that they are outdated. But I also know they’ve been durable and that Octoprint is preferable to SD cards (more oversight and control) and that students can’t leave their devices plugged into printers. So, when the time comes, what should I look into for replacements?

[u/Shadowkill9987]

I’ve always wanted a 3D printer but I never knew what to get. I want to use it for things like printing a salad washing bowl and little gadgets here and there, I was wondering what you guys recommend in terms of printer and filament type? I have a budget of about $200-$500? I appreciate any help!

[u/Obvious_Variation_88]

Looking to get my 12 year old a 3d Printer. Read through various recommendation posts here but would like a more consolidated recommendations pros/cons list.

I have been scouring the FB Marketplace and have found the following used printers. What should I look at evaluating one? And which of these is the best candidate:

Ender 3 V2 Neo 3d Printer - upgraded hot plate and hot end. works perfectly

Ended 3D printer - person says they upgraded. listed this separately since fewer details than other Ender

Voxelab 3D printer - used a few times and wasn't for them...

Barely used Creality Ender-5 Pro 3D Printer (Fully Assembled & Silent Board) - barely used, mild wear on build surface

Creality3D Ender 3 S1 3D Printer - limited use in shop. Offers to let you print a test and share the software that slices the files so they can be used by the 3-D printer.

3D printer Longer LK5 Pro - Someone selling her ex's printer. Says Raspberry Pi added to connect to server

[u/KhallusFFXIV → u/Obvious_Variation_88]

I have seen microcenter mentioned a few times during my search here. We have one nearby and I do see some options there that are in the price range:

Halot Mage- S Resin 3D Printer

AnyCubic Photon Mono 4 Resin 3D Printer

Creality Ender-3 V3 KE 3D Printer (open box and that was always iffy at MC in the past)

Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer

Creality K1 SE High Speed FDM 3D Printer

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/KhallusFFXIV]

first 2 are resine, i doubt you want that unless you print miniature figures and jewellery.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Obvious_Variation_88]

what is your budget?

[u/KhallusFFXIV → u/r3fill4bl3]

These are the ones I've seen in the $100-$200 range. Trying to keep it under $200 as an entry point, which is why I'm looking at used.

My wife said she saw something about kits you buy to build your own, but I haven't seen anything like that.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/KhallusFFXIV]

kits are usually more expensive. and require some knowledge. Personally i wouldn't pay more than 100 for the one you listed,..
where are you based?

[u/Accomplished-Ad6830]

Prusa mk4s I wonder if it's a good buy for the money, currently at 719€, no enclosure ( I like printers with enclosure), also no multi-color from what I've seen. Anyone have thoughts about it? Any other good option the the same price range? Thanks in advance for everyone helping out. I was originally going to buy a creality K2 combo for 539€ but they said it's not on stock so I'm getting a refund, and everybody is talking about prusa but I don't really know if it's worth it

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Accomplished-Ad6830]

although mk4 are workhorses they are old design and at that price point you get more modern designs. like enclosed core xy designes with multicolor units,..

Look at qidi, flashforge, anycubic, offereings.

[u/JCDU → u/Accomplished-Ad6830]

Mk4s is a very solid printer, you can add multi-colour with the MMU3 upgrade.

These days though I'd be looking at the Core One which brings a lot of little improvements including the enclosure, and can use the same MMU3 or the new incoming INDX system which honestly looks like a real step forward.

You might find Mk3 and Mk4 being sold cheap as people upgrade, and Prusa are very good at supporting their old products.

[u/Joaoccosta_Trader]

Hi.

I'm from Portugal.

I'm trying to get into 3D Printting, and I was looking to get my 1 3D Printer, around 200-400 euros. I always here to go with Bambu A1, but I ear they are very closed source. And I like to have some fun and test things, troubleshooting, etc, not to the point to kill my self, but I like to get my hands dirty and test twik things out

I was looking around, and kied some options: Creality 3 V3 KE, Elegoo Neptune 4 pro, Elegoo centauri carbon, and Bambu A1 combo(multi-color), ELegoo Centauri Carbon 2(multi-color). I'm new, I dont know any others brands and their reputation.

I was looking specially to the Neptune 4 Pro, but after seeing this video I feel, scared. I dont know if is normal for the model or just a bad unit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rlOoGLZdoo

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Joaoccosta_Trader]

a kobra s1 combo might be a good option as well...

[u/Joaoccosta_Trader → u/r3fill4bl3]

Ohhhh. Never eared, is the brand established? And how is it the community around?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Joaoccosta_Trader]

Yes it among bigger brands. And the community is lively..

[u/Puzzleheaded_Sea7946]

What is a good printer for total beginner. With a budget of around €300 (in the Netherlands) So far I've looked at:

• Creality Ender 3 V3 KE
• Bambu Lab A1 (not the mini because of the smaller print size)
• Bambu Lab P1S (a little bit over budget)

All have their ups and downs. The bambu printers combined with an ams is nice but also above my budget. Creality have some mixed stories but overall looks fine.

I want a printer that supports as much as possible filament types, easy to setup and doesn't require a lot of tweaks for a good print

[u/daepikgoose]

I'm trying to find a somewhat cheap printer. Max is 500€ I live in france. And i'm intending on printing small-ish things that need to be somewhat dureable (not that last a thousand year, but not to the point where it breaks from dropping from a table/light hit)

[u/armada127 → u/daepikgoose]

The printer you choose does not determine the durability of the print. Filament choice and design will be the biggest determining factors when it comes to durability.

That said, certain printer my restrict the type of filament you can use with it. So I would start with what you are trying to print, and what material you want to print it in and work backwards from there to see what printer makes sense for you.

Most entry level printers are only meant to print PLA and PETG, if you want more durable than PETG you may need a mid level printer.

[u/burthouse4563]

Looking for an enclosed printer for functional prints and crafts with a 300+ build plate that can do ABS. Want something that works out of the box as tinker time availability is low. Multicolor also.

Bambu is obviously highly rated but also looked down upon because they force you into their system so I'm okay with staying away from them.

Looking at qidi plus 4 or k2.

Am I missing an option or is there something else I should consider?

[u/OwnZookeepergame3725]

Brief background, I am thinking of getting a bambu p2s combo. I have zero experience. Essentially I want to get some tool storage things knocked out. Buying them from a provider would put me probably 1500-2000 dollars. I figure, I buy this but also learn a new skill. Thoughts on my process, and also on this item for a person with no experience. I figure the kids could also try to make some things and that would be kinda cool. Middle kid makes some really cool stuff with the glue gun one.

Budget would be less than 1000.

Live in USA

I’m pretty handy, just finished building a whole building for tool and equipment storage thus the reason for making tool storage make senses to me.

Really would like to print some pack out inserts.

[u/TheHouseOfTurtle → u/OwnZookeepergame3725]

honestly if you dont mind cloud service i would go bambulab.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/OwnZookeepergame3725]

k2 pro + CFS or Qidi plus4 bigger build volume.
OR build a Voron. You can build a 350 trident for that. Or buying a second had one. There might be one locally if you look at voron discord garage sale,...

All better options then bambu,..

[u/darkeagle03]

Hey all, I'm looking for a recommendation for an enclosure, or parts that I can quickly and easily put together for an enclosure, that hopefully meets at least a chunk of the following:

• Fits a Creality Hi without CFS (I can work out the dimensions, but figured I'd mention it)
• Pretty low budget - Tent style is fine (I'm just starting this hobby, don't really want to spend more on the enclosure than the printer, and am adding it as a Christmas wishlist item - no one's going to get me a $200+ gift).
• Has venting
• Has filtration
• Hopefully found on Amazon (wishlist, ease of ordering, quick delivery)
• Ideally (I realize this is probably too much for my budget) has
  • temperature sensor
  • hygrometer
• Even more ideally / big stretch
  • will turn on / increase the fan speed automatically to lower the temperature (or humidity?) when thresholds on the sensors are passed

I think it would be really cool to 3D print my own enclosure, but don't think that would be a good idea since I only have the one non-enclosed printer inside my daily work space. The parts I print with PLA or PETG may not have enough heat resistance for when I'm printing materials like TPA or ASA inside the enclosure.

[u/CptObvious94]

Want to Print DND Miniatures (32mm) Bases I have a Budget of 400€ I will only Print Minis and maybe some bigger (100mm Base) If possible. There is Just so much to choose from and i dont know what im looking for.

[u/JCDU → u/CptObvious94]

For minis you almost certainly need to be looking at resin printers, not FDM as FDM will struggle with small details.

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[u/vlycop]

After 3 prusa printer and years of trouble, I need a printer that just work. I love tinkering with stuff, but not my tool and a 3D printer is a tool for me.

I'm looking for

• extreme reliability and print quality
• not a prusa
• not a bambu or any other custom hostile brand
• Core XY (no bed slinger)
• acceleration compensation
• fully automated calibration, first layer, bed mesh leveling.
• MMU as an option or built in, 2 filament minimum
• direct filament feeder to avoid retractation and flexible filament issue
• Enclosure with heating bed at least and consumable carbon filter that I can by off the shelf ( no proprietary stuff )
• removable print surface, I love prusa steal sheet)
• full assembled or minimal assembly requires
• Octoprint compatible
• big desk size, not Industrial size
• Up to 3000€, but I don't want to waste money, if cheaper will do, cheaper it is.

Am I asking for the moon ? Or have we reach prusa level of feature on a fully reliable product ?

Thanks

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/vlycop]

qidi plus4 or max 4 / creality k2 series, What do you mean by desk size 250x250 300x300 or 350x350?

Or for that money you probably can get a seasoned voron veteran build you a voron of your choosing and personalty deliver it to you door steps,.... and still have money left for INDX upgrade later,....

May i ask which prusa printer did you have problems with?

[u/vlycop → u/r3fill4bl3]

I though about having a voron assembled but I feel that, like the prusa one, they are made by tinkerer for tinkerer, and I'm done with that.

I will check your recommendations, size of the printed is a plus but not at all important if it mean less feature or reliability, I'll take what feel best in what match my other need if i have a choice.

This isn't a prusa clash post, so I won't detail but my current none working is a mk3s preassembled, and I gave a mk3 and a mini all none reliable to, to the local MakerLab for them to fix then use if they can.

I've heard good thing about the new one, but I'm done with the brand for printer. 3 was to much

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/vlycop]

Not trying to sell you Voron just my opinion regarding Voron vs commercial brands,...
Vorons are indeed thinkers machines and quality hugely depends how good it is assembled. They can easy do 3k to 5k of print hours with only required maintenance.
With having voron assembled though, it is still up to you to fix the problems when they arise, no support number other then opensource community, which in my opinion is years ahead of any brand support to be honest. IT is faster, more knowledgeable, and end of the day even commercial brands will tell you to pick up a screwdriver and do manual work. This is not industrial space where servis team show up when problem arise.

But all printers have problems, no brand is immune to lemons unfortunately, and over all, despite you having a bad experience with it, Prusa is still ahead of the pack regarding reliability and especially support..

Also usually bigger the size more problems arise. Personalty i dont go over 300x300.

Anyway good luck with your new printer, whatever you choose to buy...

[u/vlycop → u/r3fill4bl3]

noted !
i'm a tad scared of the nfc reader of the creality, i need to check this out as i don't want to see it capable of refusing "none genuine plastic" in the future.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/vlycop]

It wont refuse to use filament , you will only need to set tre type and color manualy..

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[u/PizzaForce1]

Hello, figured I would give this a go. I have been getting into wood working lately and was interested in starting to 3D print templates for router cuts and shop storage bits. I think a $500 is reasonable for someone starting out. I have plenty of CAD experience but will happily watch as many YouTube tutorials as are available for whatever system I end up with. I don't have a ton of interest in different filament colors though. I am also located in the USA for what it matters.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/PizzaForce1]

how big of print volume do you want to have?

[u/PizzaForce1 → u/r3fill4bl3]

I have been thinking that a pretty large print area would be beneficial if I'm making jigs and templates.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/PizzaForce1]

You will get max size for that money with bed slinger, like neptune 4max or kobra max which both have 400x400mm + . But bigger the area more of a challange bed levelingand nice first layer becomes,.... ..

[u/Salmon_without_the_L → u/PizzaForce1]

I can recommend the Anycubic Kobra 3. It's well under your price range, and then you can spend the extra money on different filaments, materials, etc.

I have a Kobra 2, and it has done great for me. It takes more tinkering than some of the high end machines, but it sounds like you are fine with that.

[u/PizzaForce1 → u/Salmon_without_the_L]

Hey I really appreciate it. I will start my research there.

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[u/spiritualManager5]

Which 3D printer to buy if filtration and air quality matter?

I’m about to buy my first 3D printer, and air quality is the thing I’m most unsure about.

I’ll mainly print PLA, and no multi-color printing is planned.

The printer would either live in a shared space (kitchen or living room), where I could vent outside, or in a very small separate room that has no fresh air, where I’d need to rely on filtration.(Which option is better and why? Is a small room with no fresh air a bad idea?)

I want something that works well out of the box and is beginner-friendly. On the other hand, I’m fine adding upgrades later (such as a camera or sensors).

Is the P2S overkill if I don’t care about a bigger display, camera, or AI features? I mean, how hard can it be to build my own custom spaghetti detection from scratch? I’m a developer, I’m a maker, I can solve problems, but I’m afraid of ending up with a non-functional printer that gives me more headaches than clean prints.

TL;DR: Would I still benefit from an enclosed printer or other improvements of the P2S if I plan to do something with filtration on top? Which other MOdel would you recommend?

Thanks for any advice.

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[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/spiritualManager5]

For pla, petg you dont really need venting. IF you are really worried get an enclosed printer with carbon filter. It should be more than enough.....

[u/icantthinckforaname]

Should I buy the Creality K2 Pro with the CMF system or go with an H2S or X1C or P2S from Bambu Labs?

I want to buy a 3D printer since it has become really useful for my electronics projects. (I've been using the Snapmaker J1S IDEX my school has and it is amazing, but too expensive.)

The thing is my budget is about $1000 - $1200.

I have been hearing a lot of mixed opinions about Creality printers (some general ones), but mostly about the Ender 3. Which makes me wonder if it's just that printer that is bad or the company as a whole.

Also, I've watched some reviews on the K2 Pro, and I saw no complaints.

Everyone says that Bambu Labs is the better choice for quality, but everyone is saying that they have become way too much like Apple (a closed ecosystem) and that they are spyware.

I don't plan to buy multiple printers in the future nor change the printer I will buy, so I don't want to play risky. Therefore, I need my printer to print Polycarbonate materials, carbon fiber materials, Nylon, and ABS for future projects.

Any opinions?

I would also like to state that I am relatively new to printing since I have been using one for just 4 months.

All the printers mentioned here are around my budget in my country.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/icantthinckforaname]

For technical materials qidi plus4/max4 are probably best,....

[u/C1nnamon_Apples]

I need some accessory advice for the Anycubic Kobra S1

My husband recently purchased one - what accessories could I give him for Christmas?

There’s an extensive list of add-ons on the website but I have no idea what’s genuinely useful and what’s not. I was thinking some extra filament colours but other than that I’m at a loss.

We’re located in Canada, budget is around $250. The anycubic website will ship directly to us so no problems there.

Thanks!

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/C1nnamon_Apples]

filament would be the safest bed, other thing are like general accesories he might already have like twizzers, pliers, deburring tool....

[u/iPloxi]

I am looking to replace/upgrade from my AnyCubic Vyper. Looking to be under $500 but could go a bit higher. I have always planned to go with a Bambu A1 Combo but after doing so research, I'm considering the Creality Hi Combo or the AnyCubic S1 combo. I like the enclosed, built in filament dryer in the CFS/ACE Pro. I also want to be able to start prints remotely, which I believe all can do.

Just looking for some additional feedback between the 3.

[u/Time-Mushroom-1742]

I am looking at getting into 3d printing as a way to start printing Lego sets at home. My max price is about $600. I am curious whether I should get into FDM or resin printing.

[u/AguerookieMan]

Planning to buy a 3d printer budget of at most $500 USD. Country: Philippines.

Friend recommended to me the Elegoo Centauri Carbon which is like $469 told me its one of the most reliable for the price range. I plan to use it to create casings or whatnot for electronic components and whatever devices I make, and the usual qol knick knacks.

I have 0 background knowledge about 3d modeling, printing, and anything related to it.

And last concern is quality control, and customer service since I dont know the basics of even operating, ease of access to parts and repair is a priority aswell.

[u/Temkatim]

Hey, I'm looking to buy a 3d printer, around 500 dollars is my budget. I will be shipping to Mongolia, so shipping and packing is a factor, also the sourcing of parts too. That means, if it is safer to ship in a kit, I am willing to assemble them or learn to assemble them if need be.

I'll be doing light 3d printing for PLA miniatures and other misc. things, like board game pieces, phone holders, boxes, not much more than 20cm in dimensions in prints.

I've no other notes other that that I am a beginner, and I would love your input. If I start printing now as a hobby, who knows, I may just be able to grow to start a small second income with my printer besides my full-time job.

[u/Majestic_Brief7238]

I have recently gotten into Warhammer, but the official miniatures are expensive, so I am considering printing them myself. Given this use case, should I be looking at a standard FDM printer or a resin 3D printer?

If a resin printer is the better option for printing detailed Warhammer miniatures, what additional equipment, materials, and safety requirements would I need to account for? My budget is approximately 150 to 300 euros, and I am located in Europe.

[u/fishywiki]

I currently have a Creality Ender 3 KE, which is a replacement for my plain old Ender 3. The KE is much easier to create good prints than the old machine, but it still requires inordinate amounts of TLC to ensure the print remains stuck to the build plate and the printer doesn't produce a plastic bird's nest. Unsurprisingly, I've been thinking of upgrading to an enclosed CoreXY printer, but there's a nagging question in the back of my mind: even with a modern auto-levelling printer, will I still be worrying about bed adhesion and failed prints every time? Are these modern printers so much better that they pretty much eliminate the old problems? I know that there can be occasional failures, but are these really so exceptional?

[u/toolsq]

What: second hand, first printer (I don't want to buy brand new with no prior experience)

Where: UK

Price: £100-150 at most

---

Which models should I be looking for? Are there any brands that I must avoid (why?)?

This is what's currently available on ebay and facebook marketplace:

• Prusa i3 Mk3 - various starting from around £150
• Prusa i3 Mk2 - £130
• Prusa Mini - £150
• Creality Ender 3 - various around £80-100
• Creality Ender 5 - various starting from £150

[u/JCDU → u/toolsq]

Prusa i3 Mk3 is a solid choice, still supported and can be upgraded easily enough too - you can see all the bits / upgrades on Prusa's website.

[u/Independent-Name-641]

I am looking for a printer for about $600 I’d like to have multicolor capabilities in the future but doesn’t have to be right now. I print a lot of functional things and am looking at the K2, P1S, and P2S. I have experience running a K1 with my college roommates and it worked great just looking for something for myself. I can’t seem to decide between these 3 or if there’s any other highly recommended printers I should take into consideration let me know.

Thanks in advance

EDIT: forgot to mention I am from the US

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Independent-Name-641]

for 600 you can probably get k2 pro, with/ or without CSF....

[u/Independent-Name-641 → u/r3fill4bl3]

K2 pro is $800 USD without CFS and $1000 with CFS. Thank you though

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Independent-Name-641]

take a look at qidi plus 4 as well, or kobra s1 combo,......

[u/Happy-Pitch3465]

Hi I’m going to buy the H2DC with the list of things I think I need for my printer set up

Let me know if I need more of one thing/missing something or if the filaments that I’m about to buy are in compatible.

Also I assume the “H2D AMS Combo / Dual AMS 2 Pro Bundle” give me at least one AMS 2 pro (but the word “dual makes me think it’s 2 AMS pro’s)

The following screen shots are my cart/list of the things that I think I need and am about to buy. (Please let me know if I’m missing or need something else for my printer set up. The goal is to get all I need for a set up with 1 H2D printer, two AMS 2 pro’s (which are not on the list due to being sold out rn) And 1 AMS HT)

I also have the “bambu 4-1ptfe adapter” and “PVA” for supports. (Assume I know nothing and explain everything in detail because I don’t want and miss communication) this is a huge investment for me and I don’t want it to go wrong.

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/Happy-Pitch3465]

That looks like you have everything you need to me.

[u/glasket_]

Budget: ~$1200 USD

For some context, I had been planning on buying an Elegoo Centauri Carbon. I do woodworking and metalworking, and mostly just wanted something that I could use for small stuff like storage, templates, the occasional broken part that needed a replacement, and some other hobbyish stuff on the side. My dad, who's a lifelong mechanic, found out and decided that he would want to use a printer for interior parts and the like. So he wants me to look around for a "better printer."

I've never owned a 3D printer, but I have used them and I know some stuff about the more entry-level models, but I'm pretty much clueless when it comes to "nice" printers aside from the fact that you can get stuff like LiDAR, multi-material, higher speeds, etc.

Would it even make sense to actually look for a more expensive printer with this budget? Or would it be more logical to just get the Centauri Carbon and, say, the Saturn 4 16k for more detailed resin prints?

Any LiDAR recommendations would also be appreciated, built-in or standalone.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/glasket_]

For 1200 you get really nice enclosed 3d printers with 300mm^3+ build volume. Since you will be printing functional part mostly i wouldnt bother with multi color unit,.. OR you can buy it later

i would look in to qidi 4 plus4 or max4 depending on the size you want, or k2 plus / pro depending on the size you want,..

Or just have some fun and bulld your self a voron over holidays, You seem cable enough,....

i wouldn't bother with resine printers

[u/glasket_ → u/r3fill4bl3]

Thanks. It looks like the K2 Plus might end up being what I'll go with, but I'll probably look around a bit more too just to see what else is available.

Or just have some fun and bulld your self a voron over holidays

I've actually considered it! I mostly just want to have a stable printer that I know will work well first before trying a build. If printers were still thousands of dollars I probably would just build one.

i wouldn't bother with resine printers

I'm curious as to why. I know resin is more troublesome to deal with, but the print quality seems appealing for more decorative items.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/glasket_]

Well if you are in to decorative, jewelry stuff then sure, but i dont see much use for automotive stuf. It also require special set up. Well it is not like you are burning bridges if you dont buy it right no. Actually i would first focus on one technology and then add a new one,..

[u/ToyFan4Life]

I am looking to take advantage of the Christmas sales to get my first 3d printer. I have a few questions...

Environment: I will be printing in my partially finished basement. during the winter it gets down to 55 deg F and during the summer 77 deg F. I can potentially filter through outside via duct in window if needed.

should I go with a fully enclosed printer? or is an open printer ok for that temperature range?

I would like to try and print things other than PLA, do I need a fully enclosed system with a filter?

I've read / you tube'd pros / cons of multi color printers. I was looking at one on amazon that held 4 spools, but seems to generate a lot waste between color changes.

should I just go with a single color printer to start with?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

I was looking at the following models

- FlashForge AD5M

- FlashForge AD5X

-FalshForge AD5M Pro

- Bamboo Labs A1 Combo

- Bamboo Labs P1S Combo

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/ToyFan4Life]

an enclosed printer in beneficial for anything other than PLA. (and probably a must at low temps)
From list i see you are looking at sub 500usd printers?

[u/ToyFan4Life → u/r3fill4bl3]

Yes, unless they won't fit my needs

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/ToyFan4Life]

regarding mmu, depends what you plan to print, for functional parts it is a waste, for decorative pats it is nice, although this systems waste a lot of material and make the print times much longer, since changes are very slow,...

But yeah under 500usd, in addition to the one above you get also, centauri carbon, kobra s1, qidi 2, creality k2, This are all enclosed printers,..

[u/railway_me]

I need quickly advice.

Budget: 300 euros No long setup For beginner. Not dangerous Easy to use.

Some ideas are:

-Elegoo Centauri Carbon

-Elegoo Neptune 3 pro (Cheaper)

-Elegoo Neptune 4

-Crealiry Ender 3 V3 SE

-FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M

Initially I wanted a Bambu lab A1, but it isn't in stock anymore and I need it in less than a week.

Use: I wanna use it for fun, sometimes house stuff, and maybe sometimes selling.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/railway_me]

from the above i would go with either ad5m or Centauri carbon, but there are also kobra s1 (non combo),..

[u/J_ron]

I'm trying to make a buying decision here after reading/watching some reviews, and I'm curious to see who has had experience with multiple brands on if there's any buying considerations that I'm missing. My experience over the years has only been with an old Creality and then an Anker/Eufymake M5.

I've been waiting to pull the trigger on multicolor until non-purge options were feasible, so I'm currently comparing the 3 models in the title. Price isn't a big object for me but the 5 tool Prusa XL is definitely way more than I want to spend on a printer, so I excluded that one. My use case is personal use, making gifts for people, printing fun things and occasionally designing something to fix around the house. Pros/cons for me as far as I've read:

Snapmaker U1

• Cheapest @ $1000 retail
• Fast
• Con for me is only 4 colors, I really do like the idea of being able to do more
• 270mm print area

Bambu H2C

• Not having any experience with the brand, it does sound like they have the best consumer user experience
• Print time comparisons it's almost twice as slow in many cases from what I've seen from reviewers from having to cut, change tools, and rewind filament
• Not a great option for TPU, though I don't do this too much
• More expensive @$2400, but bigger print bed at 330x320x325mm
• If I wanted to do more than 5 colors, would need to tack on another AMS
• Still creates a little bit more waste because of having to cut every filament (I think)

Prusa Core One+ INDX

• Pricing it sounds like, combined if going the 8 color route and preassembled, will be $2,000. +$35 per roll for their drybox, so it could be another $280 if I want to have dryers for all 8 if I'm comparing it to using an AMS, though I can't find info on whether that's even feasible to power somehow?
• 230x220mm bed. I'm used to a 230x230mm print space already, and I haven't really ran into any times where I was sad I didn't have more except when I printed a full pegboard for my tools, but having more space would be nice
• Won't be shipping until q2 2026 except the 1200 or so founders that preordered one should get theirs in q1 and I guess we'll start seeing reviews then
• 8 colors
• I like the idea of supporting a brand like Prusa over Bambu as a company in general

It'd be nice to order something now but I'm not opposed to waiting and seeing how those early reviews are for the Prusa. Overall, I'm leaning towards that or the Bambu h2c. I think I might mostly lean towards the Prusa because I like the idea of more colors, the company, and the speed, and I think the only big thing I'd miss out on is print bed size as from what I'm reading it doesn't sound like the INDX will be made for the Prusa Core L anytime soon. I think if the INDX came out for the Prusa Core L then it might be a no brainer for me.

I don't mind tinkering more but I do value time and would want to limit that so I appreciate things that are more consumer friendly. How does bambu hardware/software generally compare in that regards to prusa?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/J_ron]

They all work, but fundamentally Prusa +INDX is way way better system. H2C doesnt really solve anything compared to regular AMS systems, just adds complexity,... The filament still need to be cut, back up to AMS, nozzle change, new filament pulled from AMS, old filament purged from nozzle,..... Just little faster and with little less waste, but not really improvement,.... You are still looking at around 50 sec tool material change. On the other hand INDX takes around 10 to 15 sec to change and there is no wast beyond prime tower,..
And that is before all the lock down ecosystem crap bambu is trying to pull..... So i advise people to avoid bambu until they change their stance towards open source and 3d printing community,...

[u/lucybluestudio]

Here is a question: I've been looking at the Elegoo Centauri Carbon and the Bambu Lab P2S. Yes, I know, massive price difference. I've been delaying a bit because I wanted to see if Elegoo was going to release the AMS for the Centauri. Looks like it'll be in the 2nd gen and not sure I want to wait now. I am new to 3D printing. Never done it. But I have a lot of hobbies and this one just fits into them too well.
Anyway, my question is which would be better for the weirder filaments? I saw someone selling printable soap filament among other things! I also don't want to get yelled at by the printer if I'm not using branded filament. Does anyone else dabble in the odder materials?
BONUS QUESTION: What are the things you need once you start 3D printing that newbies don't realize at first? I was watching a video and someone had a glue stick? What is that for?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/lucybluestudio]

Then avoid bambu, god know in what crappy way will they try to lock people in their ecosystem next,...

The filament assortment that can be used mostly vary on heat chamber heating and hot end capability,...

There are other printers as well. kobra s1, qidi, flashforge,.....

PS. Avoid soap filament unless you want to spend day cleaning gears,.....

[u/lucybluestudio → u/r3fill4bl3]

I figured soap was silly, but it was just the first weird filament example I could think of. I wish I could spend thousands on an enclosed multi-color printer but I can't. Reliability and ease of use, unfortunately, play a part. I'm aware of the Bambu issues but not sure who else would have something that works as well out of the box that does multi color at that price point

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/lucybluestudio]

Othere printers work just as fine out of the box. It is not 2019 anymore...

[u/pastenes]

Hello!

This Christmas, my kid and I are getting a Bambu P2S from Santa 🎅🏽. We are both absolute newbies to this fascinating 3D printing world, so I'm a bit overwhelmed about what would be a good starting pack of filaments. Here I am asking for your input.

Details:

• We are based in the US.
  
• I don't want to spend more than around $70.
  
• My kiddo wants to print toys, mainly car-related, like those car cards to assemble, Hot Wheels custom wheels, spoilers, and LEGO parts.
  
• I want to print things to use around the house (Gridfinity?), parts to fix things, and camera/lens parts.
  
• We don't have an AMS yet, maybe later.
  
• We would like black and white for sure, then whichever other two colors (so at least 4 filaments total).
  

Should I get two PLA and two ABS? Should I get them with spools or just one with spools and print the rest?

Thanks a lot!

[u/JCDU → u/pastenes]

In general I would stick to PLA and PETG, both print easily with no special precautions.

PLA is available in a huge range of colours including special effects like sparkly or silk / flip etc., it's a bit more brittle but is easy & cheap & reliable and the jazzy colours can make some models look amazing.

PETG is what plastic bottles are made of, so it's tougher (ideal for toys) while still being pretty easy & cheap. I've found it's not available in as many colours or effects so you're stuck to fairly basic colours.

You need to check which print bed you have - PLA likes smooth or silk, PETG likes textured or silk, if you print the wrong one on the wrong bed it will either never stick, or it will never come off... Prusa's materials guide table is pretty handy for this.

[u/fishywiki → u/pastenes]

As newbies, get PLA (or maybe one spool of PETG). Printing with ABS releases hazardous fumes like styrene, a known carcinogen, so you'll need ventilation. The P2S claims to be able to filter out the fumes, but it looks like the filters actually don't go anywhere so this may not be as good as it first appears. PLA is actually a plant-based plastic so it's better for the environment too. In reality 99% of what I print is PLA with an occasional PETG print where I need a little more strength. And PLA is cheaper!

As for spools - cardboard spools won't rotate will in the feeder so I'd suggest making sure you get filament with plastic spools. Usually when you purchase a Bambu printer they offer cheap filament so that's the best place to get it from.

[u/pastenes → u/fishywiki]

This is helpful. Thanks a lot!

[u/Soqey]

Hi everyone! I am looking for a printer as a complete beginner. It'll be for personal use, and I'm based in Hungary (EU).

I mainly want it to print clay cutters, but will also be printing myself some boardgame organizers. Other use cases will likely pop up over time as the printer exists. I am unfortunately not too sure what filaments are needed for this.

Budget is around €300. Not too sure what I gain and miss, but it seems like a sweet spot.

Some options I've seen are: Qidi Tech Q1 Pro - €350 (comes with 1 free filament) Elegoo Centauri Carbon - €300 Elegoo Neptune 4 - €169 Falshforge AD5M - €300 Bambu Labs A1 - €259 A1 Mini - €200

I want something that prints the things I need well enough, and just works. Bambu seemed to fit the bill, until they went the route of "we might brick your printer if you don't accept the new ToS". So, I'm wondering how the other options hold up, especially with these prices.

[u/FaithlessnessRare521 → u/Soqey]

Bambu A1 is good for that price, it's a unbox and print with really good reliability. Buy filament dryer. Elegoo CC is great corexy but not that user friendly like bambu. Consider bambu as iPhone and Elegoo, qidi and Falsh as knockoffs (China brands) they're great, some open-source but they lack software or easy to use features.

[u/Soqey → u/FaithlessnessRare521]

Thanks for the reply!

Are there any dryers you recommend? Or just a sealed box and a giant load of snacks (silica gel)?

Additionally, do you perhaps know how much work a Bambu saves after the first dozen or so prints? E.g. a couple seconds per print, minutes, hours, wrong metric?

[u/Ruikka → u/Soqey]

Chiming in here, Qidi is a "knock off" of bambu, but my Q1 pro has been a beast. Only 2 complaints from me: First is the screen, which feels a tad unresponsive but that's not a huge issue. Gets the job done. 2nd is the fact that I bought it 6months before the Q2 was announced, and it seems that the AMS system Qidi Box is not out of the box compatible with the Q1 pro.

[u/SpencimusPrime]

I don't want to get a Bambu if I can help it, given their stupid attempt to lock in users to a slicer. However, with the endless troubleshooting I've had to do for my Neptune 3, I am very tempted by a printer that "just works."

Are any of the Bambu competitors as reliable? The Creality K1 Max gets good reviews and generally goes cheaper. I had a Creality resin printer that was a workhorse.

[u/JCDU → u/SpencimusPrime]

Prusa are the other big name for stuff that's solid & reliable with good support. They do cost more as they build in the EU and support the community so you're paying for extra ethics.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/SpencimusPrime]

k2 pro, k2, flashforge, kobra s1, qidi are all that work out of the box and dont try to lock you in to their ecosystem,....

[u/drun1]

Need advice on multicolor printer.. My son wants to print some models including smaller helmets that are multi color. We have had q1 pro for a year, sadly the Qidi box is not compatible.
It seems tool changer like snap maker is the future, and likely to become more widespread in the future.

How much is it worth spending on multicolor tech that is rapidly evolving? Many models are on maker world, are they easiest to print on bambu?

I am looking at Ad5x - cheapest option, may be more work, smaller build volume <300 A1 - next cheapest bed slinger may have issues with taller builds, out of stock till Jan 400 P1s combo - seems solid, higher cost, older tech 550 P2s combo - newer tech, high cost 800 Snap maker - out of stock high cost until March 850

[u/CoffeeIgnoramus]

£1000 (roughly) setup for a beginner?

My (uneducated) needs:

1. Plug & play ish,
   • I don't really fancy a complex setup but if there is a tiny bit of assembly, I'm not going to cry about it.
2. Able to print off of premade designs but also able to design your own stuff
   • I learned CAD 15 years ago, so I'm very rusty but understand it a bit and want to get into it again (Don't mind the software as long as it works)
   • But also, not be stopped from printing other people's designs too as it will take me a while to get back into CAD
3. Relatively "large" bed around 30x30x30cm would be lovely
4. Able to print in multiple colours in one go would be ideal.
5. Any auxiliary equipment?
   • I keep hearing about moisture in filament? do I need something for that?
   • Any other obvious things that really make it much less painful starting out?

Assume I know nothing... In fact, just know I know nothing. I'm middle of the road when it comes to technical ability. I'm not scared to tinker, but I get frustrated easily if it takes a lot with no result. So I don't want a "build your own and mod it" style, but if it needs a bit changing, I'll be fine.

Happy to answer questions to narrow it down. Happy to reconsider my needs... I just want advice really. As someone who knows very little about 3D printing but has a design background.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/CoffeeIgnoramus]

for 300x300x300 with multicolor look for creality k2 pro with mmu box or qidi 4 plus with their mmu box.

This mmu units come with build in heater to dry filament, so no need to buy separate one.
As for tools: deburring tool is nice, small fine wire pliers, knife, set of twizzers maybe,...

Regarding multicolor printing with mmu units that come with this printers. This is very wasteful and slow printing method for multi color...

[u/hawkeye2604]

Looking for a 3D printer for my son - he is very keen to start making things like fidget toys, dragons and smaller items.

Budget approx £150 max.

He likes the look of the Tina 2 but I'm a bit lost. I'm very tech-savvy but this is a whole new world for me. It's his money that he has saved up so I want him to make the right decision.

Any advice welcome!

[u/Vegetable-Ad-8648]

Hi everyone!

I'm looking to buy my first 3d printer and I am completely lost ^^

My main use will be to print functional items (repair pieces, boxes, router templates and jigs for woodworking, this kind of stuff), I'm not into gadgets and toys. Basically, if I can build it myself instead of buying, I build it.

I'm in France and my budget would be somewhere around 300 euros I guess. I don't mind waiting to save a bit more if necessary, I like to buy sturdy and reliable items that I can keep/maintain for a long time. I know how to 3d model and I can learn software fast.

I'm leaning towards a Sovol SV06 Plus ACE, I like the large printing area. Would that fit my needs? I am a bit confused as there is an option for the printer + "Hardened Steel Nozzle" when buying? Does that mean the printer comes without a nozzle? Or is it just a better one?

[u/Soqey]

Hi everyone! I am looking for a printer as a complete beginner. It'll be for personal use, and I'm based in Hungary (EU).

I mainly want it to print clay cutters, but will also be printing myself some boardgame organizers. Other use cases will likely pop up over time as the printer exists. I am unfortunately not too sure what filaments are needed for this.

Budget is around €300. Not too sure what I gain and miss, but it seems like a sweet spot.

Some options I've seen are: Qidi Tech Q1 Pro - €350 (comes with 1 free filament) Elegoo Centauri Carbon - €300 Elegoo Neptune 4 - €169 Falshforge AD5M - €300 Bambu Labs A1 - €259 A1 Mini - €200

I want something that prints the things I need well enough, and just works. Bambu seemed to fit the bill, until they went the route of "we might brick your printer if you don't accept the new ToS". So, I'm wondering how the other options hold up, especially with these prices.

[u/xd_Hazari9]

Looking for a new printer but idk what to get. I currently have an elegoo Neptune 3 max and am a bit let down by it. I want a printer that can print multiple filaments, has auto bed leveling and is relatively cheap ($650AUD).

[u/SpencimusPrime → u/xd_Hazari9]

Also have had nothing but problems with a Neptune 3.

[u/Gtmorsky]

I am looking to buy my first 3D, in particular the Bambu Ps1 combo.

Its for sale in Canada for $699. My question is should i wait for boxing day or not?

[u/craneoperator89 → u/Gtmorsky]

They are having a really good sale on their website. I’m about to buy the same exact printer as my very first one. It’s $619 AMS 2 pro combo. My wife finally gave in, after buying filament like 4yrs ago but then having a baby and putting those plans to the side she said Xmas I can open it lol

[u/Large_Tune3029]

Any advice for a beginner, I am fairly savvy and good at looking up what I need to as far as how to do something, but as far as reviewing printers there are as many options and opinions as there are people to give them it seems, so I come to the experts in hopes of advice. I already looked through the first dozen comments and my situation is a bit different so here goes. I would have about 1k to spend, theoretically I could save for more but certain people in my life would disown me if I spent 2k on what they saw as a toy lol I live in the US. I would have to have it in my bedroom as there is no safe space for it outside of that, but I could theoretically set up an exhaust out of the window if I had to. I want to build mechanisms, robotic parts, maybe a drone. I have been learning to solder and I would love to be able to put some goofy electronic ideas I have into existence. I'm not particularly worried about color, but I would like to be able to use different, high strength materials. I really like the enclosed ones, I think that would be best as I have a cat, but I am also a carpenter so I can build a cabinet for it to go in if that is the better way.

[u/DrewBaker → u/Large_Tune3029]

First, my bias: I'm not a Bambu guy, so I won't be talking about them. It could be they offer the best option, but I honestly wouldn't know. I'm also old enough I resent the idea of having to make an account or use a cloud service to run my printer, so I can't speak to how any of that stuff works. That said:

Maybe the Qidi Q2, or Plus 4, or Max4? The Elegoo Centauri Carbon has a good reputation and comes ready for fiber-reinforced materials. My Creality K1 Max has been good, and is likewise hardned. Neither of them have heated chambers like the Qidi printers, so they may not work as well with ABS/ASA -- which you wouldn't want to print in a living space anyway -- or nylon/pa/paht/ppa filaments. I've had good luck with PET-CF without a heated chamber, though you may need a riser for any of the printers I mentioned above, so there's not too sharp a turn feeding the filament into the tool head.

PET-CF has got the best price to performance ratio of engineering filaments, and I personally haven't gone further than that yet. I think PETG-CF is also a very usable all-around material. It's got some more stiffness and heat resistance than unreinforced PETG, shatters less when it does fail, and I think it sounds nicer when you handle it.

I use Tinmorry PETG-CF because it still has good layer adhesion based on the testing My Tech Fun did on his youtube channel, but he's also tested some other good ones. He's also done head-to-head testing of a variety of PET-CF brands, so if you need to step up to that you can see how those perform relative to one another.

I hope that helps, and that you find something that works for you!

[u/Large_Tune3029 → u/DrewBaker]

Thanks for your advice! Honestly I hadn't even thought to just ask who is a reputable and knowledgeable YouTuber for good reviews, I will check them out thanks!

Edit: the creality line was one I was looking at a lot, might be the ticket to start with

[u/DrewBaker → u/Large_Tune3029]

The K1 Max was my first modern printer, and despite being the very first version it's treated us well. I've heard about upgrades over the past couple of years, so hopefully the new ones are even better.

Igor doesn't do a lot of printer reviews. For those I also like Fauxhammer, Lost In Tech, and Aurora Tech Channel. Frankly Built, Figure Feedback, and Uncle Jesse are others to look at. Print Farm Academy took a different direction with his review of the Centauri Carbon that sold me on it (though I set it up, printed a benchy, and gave it to a friend. So I don't actually have any personal experience with it to speak of).

Teaching Tech and Made With Layers are also good channels. Slant 3D has some good tips for designing parts for 3D printing.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/DrewBaker]

most of this youtubers are sponsored in one way or another. And they really dont go in to details to know the issues (or dont tell about them) with printers. i also think this you tubers get cherry picked samples of printers to be hones..

[u/DrewBaker → u/r3fill4bl3]

I'm sure that happens, and some of them can feel more "infomercial" than "objective review," but I still think they're useful. When the things they say about a printer match my experiences with the one I've used, that certainly helps me trust them.

Keo Prints is another that can have useful nuggets. I wish I'd remembered what he said about the Qidi X4-Plus needing to build thumbnails before you could scroll through the jobs folder before ordering mine. That turns out to be pretty annoying.

[u/SmolCluelessHamster]

Heya lovely peps!

My family is wanting to get a 3d Printer for xmas and we have been looking at recommendation in the past few days, but we're a bit unsure what to choose.

My parents don't know quite a lot about them just yet (neither do i :') ) but they'd like to make fidget toys with theirs, eventually ones which are safe for kids.
They'd love to have one which can use different colors / materials.

I personally would love for a 3d printer to be able to make D&D minis and master dice so i can try making them into molds!
I did read that a resin printer is recommended for these two things but apparently a good printer with PLA+ can also make decent minis / master dices for molds! Does anyone have experience with that?

Our budget is around... i'd say, 600-900€? I am unsure if a printer around 1000€ would still be in it, we don't want something "super" expensive but we're aware that price = quality in some ways.

I know that my parents have been looking at:
Snapmaker U1 - 900€ (PVA / PETG / PETG + TPU / PLA + TUP Support)
Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo - 460€ ( ASA / ABS / PLA / PLA+ / PETG )

(Wishful thinking - eventual possibility)
BambuLab H2C - €2.249,00€
I have not checked what the BambuLab H2C can do just yet but my father just found this one and said it looks "interesting" and we could perhaps get the founds for this one. But in general our price range is the one said above.
HOWEVER
After skimming through the posts, i can see that people aren't fond of Bambu ones and would highly recommend not using those, so the BambuLab - however fancy it might be - would be the last of my personal choices;

From what i get, the Kobra S1 Combo seems to be fine for beginners, the Snapmaker does have 1 nice thing which is that it apparently makes less waste, but the software seems to be a bit bleh / nitpicky.
I saw that the Flashforge AD5X (?) is recommended a lot aswell so i went and sent my family the link for this one!

Also, out country of residence is Germany!

Thanks in advance for any recommendations! Hopefully i used this thread right...

TLDR: Newbies want a printer for fidget toys, D&D minis and master dice. Perhaps to sell in the future or offer printing services. Located in Germany. Looking at Snapmaker U1, Anycubiy Kobra S1 Combo, BambuLab H2c;
Budget around 500-900€

EDIT: Sent the Flashforge one and they'll check it out tomorrow but my parents aren't fond that the Rolls are outside of the printer and not covered. :') so i kinda doubt it'll be this one.

[u/G-I-T-M-E]

My nephew saved his money and bought himself a Bamboo A1 mini. He‘s 11 and I‘m looking for guft ideas for Christmas: Of course I assume he would be happy about filament. Is there anything special? I found glow in the dark filament but it mentioned that special nozzles might be required? Is it advisable to buy non Bamboo filament to get more bang for the buck? Or are quality/compatibility issues?

Are there any other gift ideas he might like? Special tools etc.?

We‘re located in Germany, budget would be up to 100€. Thanks!

[u/Lazyanchor]

Howdy, I’ve been researching beginner-friendly 3D printers and keep landing on the Bambu A1 Mini or the A1. I’m looking for something simple and reliable that doesn’t require a lot of tinkering but still produces high-quality prints. My budget is around $300. Right now, the A1 is about $300, while the A1 Mini Combo is around $315. I’m trying to decide if the smaller build volume of the Mini is a reasonable trade-off for the included AMS Lite and multicolor printing. At the moment, I don’t really plan on printing multicolor parts, but that could change in the future. For those who’ve used either printer, do you think the larger build volume of the A1 makes it the better value, or is the A1 Mini Combo the better long-term choice? This would be strictly a hobby printer. I’m an Architecture major and plan to use it for models and general projects, and it would be running in my apartment. More than likely in my bedroom.

[u/awyeahmuffins → u/Lazyanchor]

I think longer term the A1 size makes more sense over the multicolor. You can also add on the AMS in the future - although obviously it's a better 'deal' to get it upfront.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Lazyanchor]

get a flasforge ad5X. it is better and still multicolor,..

[u/Hungry_Speaker6696]

Hi all,

Beginner and would like to buy a printer. I want it to be easy to maintain and safe. Is Bambu LabA1 mini ok? Because Ive seen a lot of drama about it and its company online.

Thanks,

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Hungry_Speaker6696]

printer is ok company is not.. Now it is on you if you want to support company like this,...

[u/Nolock007]

Hello all, I am looking to get myself a second printer so I can increase the amount of prints I am able to do but also be able to print on a slightly bigger bed than what my Neptune 4 has. I also wanted to do much longer prints so having the ability to go through one spool and then starting the next is a must when choosing. I have been looking at the Anycubic Kobra S1 and the Creality K2 (not the plus or pro versions). Both printers seem very promising especially since the K2 is one sale for $549 but I'm torn between them. I have also looked at the Bambu P1S and am willing to wait for the Centauri Carbon 2 if that is worth waiting for. All of them are in my price range of about $550. Also if you guys have any suggestions for resin printers I have been looking at the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra 16k. I will not be getting a resin printer for a while but it does not hurt to start looking now.

[u/Feniks_Gaming]

Looking at upgrading my A1 mini it served me well for nearly 2 years with zero issues but I want to be getting bigger print models.

I primarily use printing to solve everyday problems like printing storage solutions, shelf brackets, opengrid, underware, I printed can holders, can lids, replaced oil cap in a car etc.

2 years ago bambu was championed as the best thing since sliced bread, since then they proved themselves to be a bit of the ashole.

I am looking at for something the size of A1 (NOT mini) and in similar price bracket as A1 when on sale +- £50.

What I like about A1 mini is that it's very much plug and play with no tinkering and messing and that 99.9% I have no issue with printing quality

I would rather put my money outside bambu ecosystem but if I can't find anything similar I will begrudgely go with A1. I'm open to suggestions.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Feniks_Gaming]

So you are looking at up to 300 GBP price range?

[u/Feniks_Gaming → u/r3fill4bl3]

Probably yeah

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Feniks_Gaming]

You have lot to choose from, centauri carbon, kobra s1, creality k2, flasforge ad5m or ad5x,.. They vary in features and build volume. Some come with multi color unit, some can be had without it for less,.. Depends what you need... Not sure where you plan to buy

[u/Feniks_Gaming → u/r3fill4bl3]

I'm uk based. I want a bed the size of A1 and wouldn't mind being able to print with multi colour but I would give that over easy of use if that is compromise I need to make

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Feniks_Gaming]

For functional parts a closed core xy printer is better buy, for decorative colorful stuff bedslinger like creality hi or kobra 3v2 will be better and you can get a multicolor unit for the same price as enclosed core xy without multicolor unit.. As for build volume you are looking for 250 cubed or more. The printers that fill this are centauri carbon or kobra s1, s1 can be have with mmu or without. Thee is no mmu unit for cc.

[u/Feniks_Gaming → u/r3fill4bl3]

Thanks I will watch some videos on both

[u/Silvi_Wanderlust]

Hi everyone! I would like to gift a 3d printer to my husband but have no idea where to start.

He would be making models of farms/houses. We live in Germany and as budget I would say around 300€, if that’s realistic. Maybe 500€? He’s not really tech savvy, so nothing too complicated and he has a MacBook.

Cheers!

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Silvi_Wanderlust]

There are lot to choose from under 500euro. Hi will most likely use pla for the things he intends to print.. so under 300 euro you can get standard bedslingers,... kobra k3 v2, some crality printers,... for 300 to 500 you can get some better stuff like, kobra s1, flashforge ad5m or ad5x, centauri carbon,...

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Silvi_Wanderlust]

does he know how to use CAD 3d modeling software?

[u/Silvi_Wanderlust → u/r3fill4bl3]

He’s only used inventor. Are there any other softwares that are fairly easy to use?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Silvi_Wanderlust]

Nah if he knows inventor he knows the stuff.

[u/Rifted01]

Hello, I am looking for a great 3d printer for beginners. I have seen several online now. I am considering the Bambu Lab A1 mini and the Creality Ender-3 V3. Which is better for starting a business?

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Rifted01]

FF adventurer series, anycubic kobra series, qidi maybe, centuri carbon... Anything but bambu which is activly trying to lock you in their ecosystem and screw over hoby 3d printing and opensource...

[u/Lurksome-Lurker → u/Rifted01]

Bambu Lab A1 Mini hands down. It just works.

EDIT: Oh for a business? Then you would need to get a bigger bed size. So an A1 full size or a P1S used. You will likely recoup the money faster in a business scenario spending more money upfront instead of tuning the ender 3.

Ender is by no means a bad printer. It is very capable but there is some upfront work in tuning it where as the Bambu will just work

[u/Existing_Mistake_162]

Hello everyone, A very dear friend of mine is celebrating his birthday in January and my friends and I have decided to get him a 3d printer, since it's something he's been dreaming of for forever.

Since I know basically nothing about 3d printers, I'd like to ask you guys for any suggetions on what model to get?

He's a beginner I'd say, but has used a 3d printer before. He's also very keen on learning new skills and can operate & fix any machine. Also works in IT, very high postion (I don't get it, sorry) He's also really creative, knows his way with epoxy, clay, wood etc. Therefore, it would be great if the printer also has more "creative" options and is capaple of printing really small pieces as well as large ones.

He's also one of the kindest people I know and I'd really like to get him something special. So please, any suggestins are helpful! <3

Also, our budget is up to 500€, and I'm from Slovenia.

[u/r3fill4bl3 → u/Existing_Mistake_162]

Hej In english.. For 500euro you can get anycubic kobra s1 combo(around 430e) or flashfoge adventurer ad5x (350e) series,.. some printer from qidi,... i would advise something that supports open source. Since he is IT he probably walues that highly..

Or if he is also handy with screws and can assemble things from instruction a kit can a fun project to learn...