With Black Friday deals rolling in, it’s the perfect time to invest in a 3D printer—whether you’re a hobbyist, educator, or professional. CNET’s resident 3D printing expert, James Bricknell, has spent years testing dozens of machines, and he’s compiled a list of the best 3D printers worth buying this holiday season.
Best 3D Printers for Beginners and Hobbyists
For those just starting out, Bricknell recommends the Anycubic Kobra 2. This FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer offers a great balance of affordability, ease of use, and print quality. It features automatic bed leveling, a direct drive extruder, and a fast setup process—making it ideal for beginners who want to start printing right out of the box.
Another solid choice is the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE. Known for its reliability and strong community support, the Ender 3 series has long been a favorite among entry-level users. The V3 SE version includes upgrades like a CR Touch auto-leveling sensor and a more stable frame, improving print consistency and reducing the learning curve.
Top Resin 3D Printers for High Detail
If you’re looking for ultra-fine detail, resin printers are the way to go. Bricknell highlights the Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra as a standout in this category. It features a 9K monochrome LCD screen, which allows for incredibly detailed prints with faster curing times. The Mars 4 Ultra also includes a built-in air purifier and a user-friendly interface, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced users.
For those who want a larger build volume and even more precision, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is another excellent option. It offers a 12K resolution screen and a smart sensor system that detects print failures, helping users save time and resin.
Best 3D Printers for Speed and Performance
Speed is becoming a major selling point in the 3D printing world, and the Bambu Lab P1S is leading the charge. This CoreXY printer can reach speeds of up to 500mm/s, significantly reducing print times without sacrificing quality. It also includes features like automatic bed leveling, filament detection, and a fully enclosed build chamber, making it suitable for printing with a wide range of materials.
Another high-speed contender is the Creality K1. With a similar CoreXY design, the K1 offers fast printing and a sleek touchscreen interface. It’s a great option for users who want to print functional parts quickly and efficiently.
What to Look for in a 3D Printer This Black Friday
When shopping for a 3D printer during Black Friday, it’s important to consider more than just the price. Look for features like:
- Automatic bed leveling – Saves time and improves print reliability.
- Direct drive extruder – Better for flexible filaments and consistent extrusion.
- High-resolution screens (for resin printers) – Essential for detailed prints.
- Community support – A strong user base can help troubleshoot issues and share tips.
- Build volume – Choose a size that fits your typical projects.
Also, keep an eye out for bundle deals that include extra filament, resin, or accessories. These can add significant value to your purchase.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to 3D printing or looking to upgrade your current setup, Black Friday is a great opportunity to score a high-quality machine at a lower price. With expert-tested recommendations from CNET’s James Bricknell, you can shop with confidence and find the perfect printer for your needs.
Source: CNET
