Hey 3dprinting! I want to buy a 3d printer for my little sister for Christmas. She’s big into cosplay and engineering. I expect her to make props/and little container for things. Nothing crazy. I was looking at the ender 3 models but was unsure if that was the right pick. Just wanted to know if you had any advice. Budget is 2-300.
The e3v3 looks like they at least corrected the major e3 issues, dual screws and abl out of the box. Looks like they’re cheap on Amazon now too, I’d imagine microcenter has them at the same price. I’d avoid any of the “lesser” ender 3 models at this point unless you’re really in a money crunch and absolutely love replacing/ upgrading parts. I do know the Sovol SV06 has a lot of followers and they do come highly recommended in roughly the same price point.
If she’s mainly going to be making cosplay stuff, make sure the build volume is adequate, or she’ll have to learn more advanced techniques for making parts in multiple pieces. I’d also recommend buying ANY Creality printer from someplace you can return/exchange it, their QC is all over the map.
So far I’m going with the e3v3 se. Is there anything in specific I should look out for when it arrives? Or should I set it up and run through the basics. Obviously can’t just leave it in box until Christmas or I won’t be able return it if something is wrong. How specific is filament? I see that there are different widths and materials but as far as brands go there doesn’t seem to be any proprietary stuff to look out for.
Make sure nothing is bent, cracked or otherwise broken. When assembling, make sure the z gantry is square - put the screws in loosely and slowly tighten them evenly, then before making them tight, make sure it’s square. Best bet for a beginner FDM machine is going to be a basic PLA.