How to choose a 3D printer

With so many machines on the market, how to choose a 3D printer becomes less about picking “the best” and more about selecting the right one for your specific needs. From prototyping to production, different technologies, materials, and workflows offer distinct advantages. This section explores how to evaluate your priorities, so you can confidently decide how to select a 3D printer that aligns with your goals, application, and budget. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, understanding the trade-offs is key to making a smart, long-term investment.

Table of content

  1. What to know before buying a 3D printer
  2. What is the highest quality 3D printer?
  3. Factors to consider when buying a 3D printer
  4. 3D printing comparison
  5. SLS vs other 3D printing methods: when to choose it
  6. How to future-proof your 3D printer investment
  7. What to buy with a 3D printer

Other sections

Icon showing a 3D printer symbol with a cursor. Represents a glossary of key 3D printing terms and definitions.

3D printing definitions

Open book icon symbolizing an overview of 3D printing basics and foundational concepts for beginners.

Introduction to 3D printing

Magnifying glass over a 3D cube. Illustrates various types of 3D printing technologies and how they differ.

3D printing technologies

Icon showing material containers. Refers to types of filaments and powders used in additive manufacturing.

Materials for 3D printing

Production line icon. Highlights the industrial and everyday uses of 3D printing across different sectors.

Applications of 3D printing

3D block structure icon. Emphasizes CAD principles and best practices for designing printable objects.

Design for 3D printing

Person at computer icon. Depicts slicing tools, modeling software, and workflow automation in 3D printing.

Software for 3D printing

Gears and conveyor icon. Represents the end-to-end workflow of the 3D printing process from file to part.

3D printing process

Brush and scalpel icon. Refers to post-print finishing techniques like support removal and surface treatment.

Post-processing in 3D printing

ROI and dollar icon. Represents economic considerations, including ROI and maintenance costs of printers.

Costs of a 3D printing

Leaf icon. Points to environmental impact, recyclability, and energy consumption of 3D printing processes.

Sustainability of 3D printing

Globe and magnifier icon. Envisions trends, emerging technologies, and predictions for the future of additive manufacturing.

Future of 3D printing

Light bulb icon. Alternative focus on pricing strategies, cost-saving tips, and investment insights.

FAQ