.png){kind=logo}
Thinking about diving into the exciting world of 3D printing? You’re not alone! While the possibilities are endless, the learning curve and technical jargon can feel overwhelming for a beginner. Choosing the right first 3D printer—one that's reliable, easy to set up, and won't require constant tinkering—is the single most important step to ensure a fun and successful start, especially when setting it up at home for a new hobby.
The market is flooded with options, and sorting through specs can be confusing. That’s why we’ve simplified the process for you. We’ve filtered out the complicated, high-maintenance machines to bring you the three best 3d printers for beginners. Keep reading to see why these models stand out.
One has to look at several features, such as system reliability, user-friendly features, and automatic calibration. Similarly, ensure that the printer is easy to set up and offers necessary support. Let's also not forget having touchscreen controls, integrated 3D model libraries, and an affordable price range. Together, these features make the best 3D printers for beginners.
Most of you might think that such a balance of features is hard to find, but that's where you might be mistaken. Several printers in the market offer beginner to advanced features, making them all-around options.
One of the 3D printers that really impressed us is the Bambu Lab P1S Combo, an enclosed 3D printer ideal for beginners moving into advanced features. As a 3D printer with an enclosure, it offers a stable chamber temperature for high-performance materials and improves safety with better particle control. It also steps up the game with a CoreXY motion system and acceleration up to 20,000 mm/s².
Specifications
Price: $549.00 (lower during promotions)
Technology: FDM/FFF
Print Volume: 256mm × 256mm × 256mm
Print Speed: up to 500 mm/s, acceleration up to 20,000 mm/s²
Max Print Colors: 16 (with AMS)
Filament Compatibility: PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, ABS, ASA, PA, PC, PET
Touchscreen: NO
Automatic Bed Leveling: Yes
Automatic Calibration: Yes (flow rate, vibration, nozzle Z-offset)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bambu-Bus, Bluetooth
Pros
Enclosed chamber allows safe and high-temp filament printing
AMS system supports up to 16-color printing
CoreXY architecture
Built-in air filtration system for safer indoor use
Automatic calibration and bed leveling
Excellent print quality
Cons
More expensive
No touchscreen interface
Bulkier and heavier
The Bambu Lab A1 Combo is hands-down the best entry-level 3D printer amongst all. The initial setup is easy. This easy-to-use printer comes with an automatic calibration system that allows almost anyone to operate the device with ease. If you haven't operated a 3D printer before, the Bambu Lab A1 Combo is a good choice for you.
Specifications
Price: $379.00 (lower during promotions)
Technology: FDM/FFF
Print Volume: 256mm × 256mm × 256mm
Print Speed: up to 500 mm/s, acceleration up to 10,000 mm/s²
Max Print Colors: 4 (with AMS lite)
Filament Compatibility: PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA
Touchscreen: Yes
Automatic Bed Leveling: Yes
Automatic Calibration: Yes (flow rate, vibration, nozzle Z-offset)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bambu-Bus
Pros
Fast and quality printing
Plug-and-play setup with automatic calibration
AMS Lite enables multi-color and multi-material printing
Cons
No enclosure
AMS Lite requires extra desk space
Limited compatibility with specialty or high-temperature filaments
Another option that fits into the best starter 3D printer category is the Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo. As the name suggests, it's a smaller version and perfect for beginners who don’t need the advanced materials. When it comes to managing your budget, nothing beats A1 Mini. It may be inexpensive, but it doesn't compromise on features. You get the same quality of prints, and that too in less time. If you have less space and funds, the A1 Mini Combo is the way to go.
Specifications
Price: $329.00 (lower during promotions)
Technology: FDM/FFF
Print Volume: 180mm × 180mm × 180mm
Print Speed: up to 500 mm/s, acceleration up to 10,000 mm/s²
Max Print Colors: 4 (with AMS lite)
Filament Compatibility: PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA
Touchscreen: Yes
Automatic Bed Leveling: Yes
Automatic Calibration: Yes (flow rate, vibration, nozzle Z-offset)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bambu-Bus
Pros
Compact size
Fast printing speed
Plug-and-play setup
Automatic calibration
AMS Lite enabled
Excellent print quality
Affordable price range
Cons
Smaller build volume
AMS Lite attachment requires extra space
Not ideal for users working with specialty filaments
The first thing to check is if a printer has FDM/FFF technology. FDM/FFF printers are the most user-friendly printers and are easy to operate. They’re also compatible with a range of filaments like PLA, PETG, and TPU. While there will be other technologies, your safest bet is going with FDM/FFF printers.
Another factor to consider is its ease of setup. Plug-and-play printers get started with printing quickly. If you opt for something without automatic calibration or pre-configured software, you may not progress beyond troubleshooting.
Beginner-friendly printers also have touchscreen interfaces, automatic bed-leveling, and necessary support. These features reduce trial and error, making printing more fun.
For beginners, the best materials to use with 3D printers include PLA, PETG, and TPU. They produce good results and are easy to work with.
For beginners, the best type of printers is FDM/FFF or resin/SLA. They are beginner-friendly and affordable.
The safest way to use your printers is by always avoiding touching the hot nozzle, placing them on flat surfaces, and following the instruction manual.
Some common problems include a clogged or blocked nozzle, poor adhesion, uneven layers due to misalignment, and failed prints.
A computer isn't necessary. Many printers can print directly from SD cards or USB drives. For example, you can print with a Bambu Lab 3D printer using the Bambu Handy phone application.
