3D printer test: How to choose the right model

Choosing the right 3D printer can be a challenging task in a market with hundreds of models and constant new technological advances. Whether you're a beginner, hobbyist or professional, a thorough 3D printer test is essential to ensure your investment matches your needs. In this blog post, we'll go through the most important aspects to evaluate, as well as practical tests you can perform yourself or look for in professional reviews.

Why are 3D printer tests important?

3D printers are complex machines with many variables that affect performance. Even printers in the same price category can have dramatically different results based on their design, components and software. A systematic test helps to:

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1. Compare actual performance rather than just specifications on paper
2. Identify strengths and weaknesses that fit your specific projects
3. Uncover long-term considerations such as maintenance requirements and operational costs
4. Ensure the printer can handle the materials you plan to use

Key areas to evaluate in a 3D printer test

1. print quality and precision

This is often the most important aspect to test. Assess:

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• Dimensional accuracy: Are printed objects within the expected dimensions? A good test is to print a calibration cube (typically 20x20x20mm) and measure with a digital caliper.
• Layer lines and surface treatment: How visible are the layer lines? A visual inspection of inclined surfaces (45° angles) often reveals the printer's ability to handle graduated details.
• Detail reproduction: Can the printer reproduce fine details? Test with models that contain small features like text, holes or thin bars.
• Overhang capability: How does the printer handle overhangs without support structures? An overhang staircase model that starts at 30° and goes up to 70° is ideal for this test.

2. reliability and consistency

• Long-term printing: Can the printer run for 10+ hours without failure? Long prints reveal issues with overheating, filament feeding and engine stability.
• Consistency between prints: Print the same model multiple times. Are the results consistent or are there significant variations?
• Filament sensor reliability: If the printer has a filament runout sensor, test if it responds correctly by letting the filament run out during a print.

3. Ease of use and software

• Setup process: How long does it take from unpacking to the first successful print? This shows how user-friendly the printer is for beginners.
• Bed-leveling: Is the automatic bed-leveling process (if available) accurate and reliable? This can be tested by printing a large flat plate and checking if the first layer is consistent across the entire build platform.
• Software compatibility: Check if the printer works well with popular slicer programs like Cura, PrusaSlicer or Simplify3D, or if you are limited to the manufacturer's own software.
• Connectivity options: Test Wi-Fi connectivity, USB connectivity and SD card reading to see how easy it is to send files to the printer.

4. Noise and operating levels

• Noise measurement: Measure the decibel level during printing. This is especially important if the printer will be used in a home office or residential area.
• Odors and emissions: Some materials may emit odors or ultra-fine particles. Assess whether the printer has adequate ventilation or filtration.
• Vibrations: Heavy vibrations can affect print quality and noise levels. Place a water glass next to the printer - significant ripples indicate excessive vibrations.

5. Advanced features and material compatibility

• Multi-material capability: If the printer has multiple extruders, test with different colors or material types to assess how well they mix or switch.
• Exotic materials: Test your printer's ability to handle challenging filaments such as flexible (TPU), carbon-fiber reinforced or metal-filled filaments.
• Print temperature stability: Monitor temperature fluctuations during longer prints. Constant temperature is essential for consistency between layers.

Practical test models for your 3D printer evaluation

To cover most aspects of 3D printer performance, we recommend these standard test models:

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1. 3DBenchy: This "3D printing boat" has become the industry standard for testing overhangs, bridges, small details and overall print quality.
2. Calibration cube: Perfect for testing dimensional accuracy and rectilinear surfaces.
3. Overhang test: Shows how well the printer can handle different angles without support structures.
4. Temperature test tower: Reveals the optimal print temperature for your filament by printing the same model at different temperature levels.
5. Retraction test: Helps identify stringing issues and optimize retraction settings.
6. Tolerance test: Shows how accurately the printer can produce parts that need to fit together.
7. Support test: Evaluates how well the printer handles support structures and how easily they can be removed.
   
   

Comparison of 3D printer tests from different sources

When reading professional reviews and tests, you should be aware of:

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• Test methodology: Good reviews explain exactly what tests were performed, under what conditions, and with what materials.
• Consistency in comparisons: Look for tests that use the same models and materials across different printers to ensure fair comparisons.
• Long-term tests: The most valuable reviews include experiences after several months of use, revealing durability issues and long-term reliability.
• Relevance to your usage pattern: A printer that is ideal for engineering prototypes may not be the best for high-detail miniatures. Assess whether the tests focus on the aspects that are important for your projects.

Performing your own 3D printer test

If you have the opportunity to test a printer before you buy or want to evaluate your current printer, follow these steps:

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1. Prepare a standard test suite: Download the above test models and use the same slicing settings across different printers.
2. Document the results systematically: take pictures of the test prints from the same angle and under the same lighting conditions.
3. Measure accurately: Use precision tools like a digital caliper to measure dimensions and tolerances.
4. Test different materials: If possible, test with at least PLA, PETG and a flexible filament to assess versatility.
5. Long-term testing: Include at least one print that takes 10+ hours to assess reliability over time.
   
   

Conclusion

A thorough 3D printer test is indispensable when choosing the right machine for your needs. By systematically evaluating print quality, reliability, usability, noise level and material compatibility, you can make an informed decision and avoid costly misinvestments.

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Remember that the "best" printer varies depending on your specific needs - a hobbyist focused on detailed miniatures has different priorities than a product designer who needs functional prototypes or a teacher who needs ease of use and reliability.

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At Lab3D we offer advice based on extensive testing of a wide range of 3D printers. We can help you find the model that best matches your specific needs, budget and skill level. Contact us for personalized guidance in your printer selection process.