I am interested in getting a 3D printer but I have no idea where to even started. Is there such thing as a multi-purpose printer? What’s a good source to read up on printers, software, filament?
I am thinking small replacements items like drawer guides, funnel for espresso machine, essentially little parts and pieces that break around the house and farm. Also maybe some device cases (including outdoor ones) etc.
Ideally I don’t want a closed system. I have a Cricut for 10 years or so and I hate being locked into the app so much. Unless there is a really, really good reason.
Edited to add: Thank you all! What an amazing community!
I had similar requirements, and I was choosing between Prusa and Bambu Lab. In the end I chose a Prusa Core One. Here are my subjective reasons for choosing Prusa:
A few cons of Prusa printers I’m aware of:
Prusa is probably not the best value but as far as I know it is the only really open choice for a high quality printer. Feel free to correct me.
Great points! Thank you. I will have to really think about this. It’s so tempting to go with Bambu as it’s much cheaper but I know what you are saying. I made that mistake with Cricut and I regretted it quickly.
Prusa’s are probably the best value in 3D printing if you intend to be in it for the long haul due to the support Prusa provides. I’m pretty sure I can get support for my 7 year old Mk3s if I were to ever need it.
Bambu fan bois literally complain about wanting to return their new printer they bought a month ago so they can get the latest new model that was just released. I read an entire thread about how they were upset that Bambu didn’t give them a month or two notice about the release of the P2S so they could have waited to buy that instead of the P1S printer they DID buy.
Prusa owners tend to not be in an eternal chase for the shiniest thing.