Choosing a 3D printer is not an easy job. Things tend to be even more difficult when you have to make your pick from a series of options, all of which seem to be equally good. So how does one filter their choices? How to zero out on the best 3D printer 2018? Well, that is exactly what we’re going to find out in the following section.
Best 3D Printers UK
** Update (Summer 2018): **
See the Top 50 UK best selling 3D Printers
| Manufacturer | Model Name | Printer Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makerbot | Replicator + | 3D | Check Price |
| XYZ Printing | da Vinci mini | 3D | Check Price |
| Ultimaker | Ultimaker 2 Go | 3D | Check Price |
| Formlabs | Form 2 | 3D | Check Price |
| M3D | Micro 3D | 3D | Check Price |
| Flash Forge | Flash Forge 3D Creator Pro | 3D | Check Price |
| Lulzbot | Lulzbot Mini | 3D | Check Price |
| CubePro | CubePro Trio | 3D | Check Price |
| BEEVERYCREATIVE | BEETHEFIRST | 3D | Check Price |
| Lulzbot | Lulzbot Taz 6 | 3D | Check Price |
Makerbot’s Replicator +
The Replicator+ from Makerbot comes with many cooler features than its predecessor, MakerBot Replicator 3D and is definitely one of the best 3D printers in 2018. This new version is backed by visible improvements in almost every section of the replicator. The new model is not only quicker and quieter, but it also comes with some excellent safety and design tweaks. In order to ensure better performance, the Replicator + comes with a stronger construction, around 25% better build volume, enhanced print adhesion and many other equally useful features. Most of these features are simple and much easier to operate than its older counterpart. This new model is also compatible with the brand’s latest Slate Gray Filament bundle which is specifically designed for engineers and designers. Although the price is slightly steep, the product is definitely a great buy for both professionals and hobbyists.
Pros
- Engineered, well-tested and incredibly reliable.
- Teams up the powerful workflow tools for streamlining the process of printing.
- Provides the best in class support.
- 30% faster print time when compared to its previous counterpart.
- Easy to operate.
- Value for money
Cons
- Although the product is incredibly good, currently it is available at a pretty steep price.
Final verdict
So if you’re looking out to print your stuff flawlessly, quickly and without any hassle- this is one product that’ll never disappoint you.
XYZ printing Da Vinci mini
If you’re looking for low-priced 3D printer which is also backed with some of the coolest features- XYZ printing da Vinci Mini is exactly the right product for you. This printer makes 3D printing truly affordable with its super smart features and sleek design. The device is also pretty lightweight and is easy to operate with its simple interface. The printer lets you easily connect with your local network and calibrate in the auto mode. Da Vinci Mini is also made from bio-compostable and non-toxic PLA filament which means it is environmentally safe. So whether you’re a student, a professional or a teacher- you can now introduce 3D printing in your respective domain with this sleek, smart and incredibly well-featured 3D printer.
Pros
- Streamlines your prints with a single button.
- Lets you choose from several LEDs to indicate the right printing condition.
- Sets up easy wireless connection to your home network.
- Being made from non toxic PLA filament it is environmentally safe.
- Lets you pick from several designs with the 3D design software Xyzmaker.
Cons
- The device is not as easy to set up, as it seems.
Final verdict
Get the XYZ printing da Vinci Mini right away, if you’re looking to splurge in a value for money 3D Printer.
Ultimaker 2+
This newest model from Ultimaker comes with many new features, enhanced print quality and a lightweight base, thereby turning out to be one of the best models of 2018. The device is incredibly reliable when you’re looking to roll out 3D models and is therefore a big hit among professionals. It produces accurate and precise prints, that too without using much ink. While it definitely comes with some of the best features, the most remarkable ones are the swappable nozzle extruder that can print images with 20 layer micron resolution, the 12.5 micron XY accuracy, the 5 micron accuracy and its lightweight frame. The price is slightly on the upper side, primarily because this device is designed for professionals.
Pros
- Extremely durable but lightweight frame.
- Comes with swappable nozzle extruder that can print images with 20 layer micron resolution.
- Backed by the 12.5 micron XY accuracy and the 5 micron accuracy.
- Prints accurately and precisely.
- Easy to set up.
- Extremely easy to operate.
Cons
- The product is slightly expensive for people who are just getting started with 3D printing.
Final verdict
So if you’re a professional who’s looking to up their game in 3D printing, this is exactly the right product for you.
Formlabs Form 2
If you’re a professional who doesn’t really mind paying a little more for incredible print quality- the Formlabs Form 2 is one of the best products to bank on. This is one of the best 3D printers and is beautifully designed, backed by some of the coolest features and can be easily connected to your PC via Ethernet, wifi or USB. Although the reliability is not as high as Ultimaker or Makerbot- the print quality of the device makes up for it. So whether you’re looking to come up with really rough engineering prototypes, precise artwork or some complex structures Formlabs Form 2 will definitely do the job.
Pros
- With a build volume which is 40% higher than its predecessor and a laser technology which is 50% better than other brands, this device churns out picture perfect prints.
- The ‘side peel’ mechanism teams up with the heated resin tank to make your printing tad more reliable.
- The level sensing feature ensures that your printer has adequate ink while you’re prints.
- The resin system can automatically dispense materials according to the size of your print.
Cons
- The price is on the higher side.
Final verdict
This printer is a great product for everyone who are not looking to compromise on the print quality because of the budget.
M3D Micro 3D printer
The Micro 3D printer from M3D is probably the first proper consumer 3D printer in the world. Powered by the high-end ‘Micro Motion Technology’ along with a couple of next-gen innovations- this printer creates true precision at an unbelievably affordable cost. The device comes in a sleek and compact design and is also backed by user friendly software and replaceable print beds. The nozzles too can be replaced and if you’re in a real fix deciding the right color, you can always make your pick from the cool color choices offered by the brand. But despite these features what drew my attention the most was the M3D software which is designed for the Windows operating systems. The software comes with an extremely simple interface and can be easily operated through touch screen. So whether you’re a professional or just getting started with 3D printing, this device will definitely make the cut.
Pros
- Simple and easy to operate interface.
- Easy to set up.
- Powered by the high-end ‘Micro Motion Technology’.
- Available in a variety of colors.
- Backed by incredibly colorful and bright ink.
Cons
- Some users have experienced difficulty in printing ABS materials.
Final verdict
We would definitely recommend this product for it’s is a high-end professional printer which is available at a very modest price range.
Flash Forge Creator Pro
If you’re looking for a 3D printer that has the right combination of budget friendly price and out of the box features- the FlashForge Creator Pro definitely makes the cut. This printer is way more inexpensive than the professional printers and yet comes with all the features that you’d expect from a professional model. Although it can be a little noisy to use, the device churns out impeccably precise prints at a very short duration. The device is lightweight, easy to set up and also equally easy to operate. Its aviation level aluminum plate further ensures that the surface does not, at any point, warps up during the process of heating. So whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional- get this printer for quick, smart and incredibly accurate prints.
Pros
- Crafted from a solid metal frame which is durable and long lasting.
- Backed by an aviation level aluminum plate further ensures that the surface does not, at any point, warps up during the process of heating.
- The metal platform will support 10mm rod guide for preventing the deformation of the platform arm.
- The enclosed chamber will insulate and safeguard the ABS prints.
- Comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Can get a little noisy during operation.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking to enjoy professional grade prints at an easy budget, this device is one of the best products from our list.
Lulzbot Mini
If you’re looking for a decent desktop printer which is easy to operate, backed by versatile functions and comes with a long lasting built- the Lulzbot Mini can be your answer. To begin with, this printer comes with a self leveling feature. This means, the printer gets started with nozzle cleaning sequence that you get a perfectly clear first level. You do not need to manually tweak the complex leveling systems because this works automatically. Backed by an incredibly reliable all-metal Hexagon, this device also ensures quick heat-ups at the most stable temperatures. The heat-sinks further ensure that the heat stays exactly where you need it. This device also comes with a solid PEI surface on the heated bed of glass which will keep your prints exactly in place without any additional glue or solvent.
Pros
- Easy to operate.
- Backed by versatile functions and comes with a long lasting built.
- Comes with a self leveling feature.
- Easy to set up.
- Comes with a solid PEI surface on the heated bed of glass which will keep your prints exactly in place without any additional glue or solvent.
- Simple interface.
- Comes with an extremely simple user manual.
Cons
- Some customers feel that assembling the product can be a little time consuming.
Final verdict
Considering the rave reviews and the incredible features of this device, we would definitely recommend this for one and all.
CubePro Trio
If you’re looking for a 3D printer that’ll ace both in terms of looks and functionality- the Cubeopro Trio can be a great pick. This printer not only produces quality prints, but also comes in a sleek and compact design. CubePro Trio makes 3D printing truly affordable with its super smart features and sleek design. The device is also pretty lightweight and is easy to operate with its simple interface. The printer lets you easily connect with your local network and calibrate in the auto mode. It is also made from bio-compostable and non-toxic PLA filament which means it is environmentally safe. So whether you’re a professional or just getting started with 3D printing, this device will definitely make the cut
Pros
- Extremely durable but lightweight frame.
- Comes with swappable nozzle extruder that can print images with 20 layer micron resolution.
- Simple and easy to operate interface.
- Easy to set up.
Cons
- The cartridges might jam on frequent use.
Final verdict
So if you’re looking for a 3D printer that’ll work both in terms of functionality and budget, this device will never disappoint you.
BEEVERYCREATIVE – BEETHEFIRST
BEETHEFIRST is a one of its kind 3D printer that offers you incredible functionality, is available in a beautiful design and ensures that your prints are quick, simple and hassle free. One of the most intriguing aspects of this device is the fact that it can print three different types of materials in one individual session itself. This is even more useful if you’re looking to come up with enclosed mechanism. In that case you can use nylon for your gears, ABS for your surrounding and PLA for the basic support structure. You can then dissolve them in caustic soda and finally get them printed.
Pros
- Durable and long lasting.
- Can three different types of materials in one individual session.
- Available in a variety of colors.
- Backed by incredibly colorful and bright ink.
- Streamlines your prints with a single button.
- Lets you choose from several LEDs to indicate the right printing condition.
Cons
- Might be a little noisy.
Final Verdict
This device is a great option for professionals who are required to come up with 3D prints from time.
Lulzbot Taz 6
If you’re looking for a printer that comes with a solid build of open frame, a huge print base and is extremely simple to operate- the Lulzbot Taz 6 will definitely make the cut. In order to ensure better performance, the Lulzbot comes with a stronger construction; around 25% better build volume, enhanced print adhesion and many other equally useful features. Most of these features are simple and much easier to operate than its older counterpart. This new model is also compatible with the brand’s latest filament bundle which is specifically designed for engineers and designers
Pros
- 30% faster print time when compared to its previous counterpart.
- Easy to operate.
- Value for money
- The metal platform will support 10mm rod guide for preventing the deformation of the platform arm.
- The enclosed chamber will insulate and safeguard the ABS prints.
- Comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Might not be as simple to set up.
Final Verdict
So if you’re looking for a 3D printer that’ll seamlessly integrate design and functionality- this is one device to vouch for.