by The Computing Australia Group | Find the Right
3D Printer for You
3D printing has moved beyond the world of high-tech labs and industrial prototyping to become accessible for small businesses, hobbyists, educators, and professionals. From crafting jewellery and medical implants to rapid prototyping and home DIY projects, the possibilities are nearly limitless.
But with dozens of models and technologies on the market, choosing the right 3D printer can feel overwhelming. Prices range from entry-level machines under $300 to professional-grade printers costing thousands. Features vary widely, as do material options, accuracy levels, and ease of use.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying a 3D printer. You’ll learn about the main types of printers, key considerations when choosing one, and tips to make sure you get the best results once it’s set up.
3D printing (additive manufacturing) builds objects layer by layer, turning digital designs into tangible items. While it’s an exciting technology, not every printer is right for every user.
- Educators may prioritise affordability and safety.
- Engineers might focus on accuracy and material range.
- Hobbyists may want flexibility for fun projects at home.
- Businesses could require speed, volume, and professional reliability.
Types of 3D Printers
There are several types of 3D printers available today. The most common for consumer and professional use are FDM, SLS, and SLA. Each offers unique advantages and trade-offs.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM is the most popular type of 3D printing for beginners and hobbyists.
How it works:
Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, TPU, PCL, and more.
Pros:
- Affordable compared to other methods.
- Wide variety of filament materials available.
- Easier to maintain and repair.
- Suitable for prototypes, educational use, and home projects.
Cons:
- Visible layer lines reduce smoothness.
- Lower precision compared to SLA/SLS.
- Requires bed calibration for consistent results.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
How it works:
Lasers fuse powdered material (plastic, metal, glass, or ceramic) layer by layer to form the object.
Materials: Nylon, thermoplastic powders, metals (industrial grade).
Pros:
- Produces strong, durable parts.
- Handles complex geometries without needing support structures.
- Ideal for functional prototypes and small-batch production.
Cons:
- Expensive (machines can cost thousands).
- Requires post-processing to remove excess powder.
- Industrial-level maintenance and setup needed.
Stereolithography (SLA)
SLA printers are renowned for precision and smooth finishes.
How it works:
A laser cures liquid resin layer by layer using photopolymerisation.
Materials: Photosensitive liquid resins (including tough, flexible, and dental-grade varieties).
Pros:
- Extremely high-resolution prints.
- Smooth surface finish with fine detail.
- Excellent for miniatures, jewellery, medical models.
Cons:
- Resin materials are more expensive.
- Requires careful handling and post-curing.
- SLA machines are pricier and messier than FDM.
Other 3D Printing Methods
While less common for home users, it’s worth knowing these exist:
- Digital Light Processing (DLP) – similar to SLA but uses a digital projector. Faster but can compromise detail.
- Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) – HP’s advanced printing technology, ideal for industrial-strength prototypes.
- Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) – used in aerospace and medical fields for high-strength metal parts.
Considerations When Buying a 3D Printer
1. Budget
- Entry-level FDM printers: $200–$600.
- Mid-range printers: $600–$1,500.
- Professional/industrial machines: $2,000–$10,000+.
2. Build Volume
- Do you want to print small items or large prototypes?
- Larger build volumes allow more flexibility but take up more space.
3. Print Resolution & Quality
- Entry FDM printers: ~100–200 microns.
- SLA printers: ~25–100 microns (much higher detail).
- Consider what level of detail your projects need.
- Faster isn’t always better (quality can suffer).
- Industrial printers balance speed with accuracy.
- Do you need flexible, durable, or specialised materials?
- Check your printer’s supported filaments/resins.
6. Ease of Use
- Beginners should seek printers with auto-bed leveling, touchscreens, and clear instructions.
- Professionals may prefer more advanced controls.
- Most printers come with slicing software.
- Check compatibility with tools like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or proprietary options.
8. Maintenance & Support
- Consider availability of spare parts.
- Look for strong community support or manufacturer warranties.
Tips for Using Your Printer Correctly
Owning a 3D printer is just the first step-using it effectively ensures quality results.
1. Calibrate Regularly
Bed leveling and nozzle calibration are essential for consistent prints.
2. Store Filaments Properly
Moisture can ruin filament quality. Store spools in airtight containers with silica gel.
3. Clean and Maintain
- Keep the nozzle clear of clogs.
- Regularly check belts, rods, and motors.
- Clean resin tanks (for SLA printers).
Experiment with layer heights, speeds, and temperatures for the best balance between quality and efficiency.
5. Use Supports Wisely
Overhangs often need support structures-remove them carefully post-print.
6. Safety First
- Ventilate properly when printing with certain plastics.
- Wear gloves when handling SLA resin.
- Keep devices away from dust or flammable materials.
Conclusion
Buying a 3D printer is an exciting step into the future of design and manufacturing. With so many options available, the key is understanding your needs:
- FDM printers: Affordable, versatile, and beginner-friendly.
- SLS printers: Powerful for industrial-grade, durable, and complex designs.
- SLA printers: High precision, smooth surfaces, and professional-quality detail.
By carefully considering your budget, build volume, material needs, and ease of use, you can find the perfect machine to bring your projects to life. And with proper care and maintenance, your 3D printer will serve you well for years to come.
Thinking about investing in a 3D printer for your business or home projects? Talk to the team at Computing Australia-we’ll help you choose the right technology for your needs.
FAQ
Is a resin printer good for functional parts?
Resin excels at fine detail and smooth surfaces but can be brittle. For strength and heat resistance, FDM (PETG/ABS/ASA/nylon) or SLS nylon is usually better.
Do I need an enclosure for FDM?
For PLA/PETG it’s optional; for ABS/ASA/PC it’s recommended to prevent warping and improve layer bonding. Enclosures also reduce emissions.
Is resin printing safe at home?
Yes, if handled correctly: wear nitrile gloves, ensure ventilation/filtration, avoid skin contact, cure prints fully, and dispose of resin waste per local rules.
Which 3D printer is best for schools?
An enclosed FDM printer with HEPA/activated-carbon filtration, auto bed levelling, and locked material profiles is ideal for safety and ease of use.
How do I choose between FDM and resin (SLA/MSLA)?
Choose FDM if you need stronger, larger, and more durable functional parts with lower running costs (PLA, PETG, ABS/ASA, nylon). Choose resin if you need ultra-fine detail and smooth surfaces (miniatures, dental models, jewellery masters). Consider space, ventilation, post-processing time, and total cost of ownership before deciding.
