Where Do I Start? 3D Printer Buying Guide
My Top Picks
I frequently get asked, "What 3D printer would you recommend?". If you’re looking to dive into 3D printing, choosing the right printer can make all the difference.
I know all too well how overwhelming the hobby can be when you're starting off.
I'm only recommending FDM 3D printers here, there are loads of other technologies such as Resin and SLS but these tend to be a lot more expensive (and messy).
I'm not going to fill this guide with loads of jargon but get straight to the point, these are printers I've either used or know others who get on with them great.
Full disclosure, these are affiliate links, if you purchase one of these printers through this post, I will earn some commission out of it.
So here’s my buyers guide for where to start with 3D printers available.
1. Creality K1 Max – Best for Large Format Prints
- Why I Recommend It: The Creality K1 Max is my go-to for its large build volume and powerful Klipper firmware, which offers flexibility for modifications and tweaks. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an advanced machine that’s ready to handle complex and large-scale projects. This is the printer I personally use. I require the large print bed for industrial printing so this might be overkill in terms of size, see below.
- Buy Now: Creality K1 Max on 3D Jake
2. Creality K1C – Perfect for Medium-Sized Projects
- Why I Recommend It: For users who don’t need the large print area of the K1 Max, the K1C offers similar capabilities but in a more compact format. It’s efficient, reliable, and great for day-to-day 3D printing tasks. This has some improvements from the original K1 Series.
- Buy Now: Creality K1C on 3D Jake
3. A1 Mini & A1 – Best for Plug-and-Play Printing
- Why I Recommend It: Bambu Lab have earnt a strong reputation for building printers that "just work", if you're more interested in 3D printing and not 3D printers, I cannot recommend these enough. The A1 Mini and A1 are excellent choices for those who want a 3D printer that works seamlessly out of the box. These printers are available with the AMS system, which makes it easy to work with multiple filament types. If you’re after simplicity and ease of use, either of these models is a strong contender.
4. Sovol SV06 – Ideal for DIY Enthusiasts
- Why I Recommend It: Most beginners look at the Creality Ender series when they are starting out and eventually bin it for something more reliable. The Sovol SV06 is a great choice for makers who want a hands-on experience. This DIY kit offers flexibility for upgrades and adjustments, making it perfect for users who want to experiment and learn as they build.
- Buy Now:
My Recommendation
If I were to start over, I would pick the Bambu Lab A1. It's at a great price point and you'll be printing from day 1. It's what I recommend the most and I rarely hear anything bad about them. I'm actually looking at getting one for a mobile set up so I can demonstrate prints at shows.