This category covers FDM and resin 3D printers, 3D printing pens, and the filament and other consumables that go with them. It suits hobbyists, schools, makers and professional workshops. Leading brands in our range include Flashforge, Creality, Polymaker, eSUN, Elegoo and Anycubic, with over 1,800 products in total.
How to choose a 3D printer
Printing technology. FDM printers melt plastic filament layer by layer and suit functional parts, larger models and easy-to-handle materials. Resin printers cure liquid resin with light and capture much finer detail, which is why they are popular for miniatures and small intricate models, but they need gloves, ventilation, washing and curing afterwards.
Build volume. Check the largest part you expect to print and compare it with the printer's maximum print size. Oversized models can be split and glued, but a larger build area saves time if you print big items regularly. It also means a bigger machine on your desk.
Materials and enclosure. PLA is the easiest material and prints well on almost any open FDM printer. PETG, ABS, ASA and nylon need higher temperatures and often an enclosed chamber, and engineering materials call for printers built for them. Our range includes industrial machines of this kind alongside entry-level models.
Ease of use. Automatic bed levelling, filament run-out detection, a touchscreen and a printer that arrives mostly assembled make a real difference to first-time owners. Kits cost less of your patience in exchange for assembly time, which some people enjoy.
Filament compatibility. Most desktop FDM printers use 1.75 mm filament, but check the printer's specification before buying spools. Also check whether the printer supports the nozzle temperature your chosen material needs. Spools, resins and related accessories are in the Plastics, extras subcategory.
3D printer brands we carry
- Flashforge: known for ready-to-use FDM printers, including enclosed models and the Adventurer and Creator lines.
- Creality: maker of the Ender series, one of the best-known families of affordable FDM printers for home users.
- Polymaker: a filament specialist with a large choice of materials and finishes for FDM printers.
- eSUN: a filament manufacturer known for its PLA+ and other everyday printing materials.
- Elegoo: well known for its Mars and Saturn resin printers, and also makes FDM machines.
- Anycubic: known for the Photon resin range and the Kobra series of FDM printers.
- Intamsys: focuses on industrial printers for high-performance engineering materials.
- Shining 3D: best known for 3D scanners, which help when you want to copy or modify a real object.
- 3Doodler: makes 3D printing pens that let you draw in plastic by hand instead of using a printer.
Also in our range: Spectrum, Renkforce and Verbatim.
3D printer FAQ
What is the difference between FDM and resin 3D printers?
FDM printers build objects from melted plastic filament, while resin printers harden liquid resin with light. FDM is simpler, cleaner and better for larger or functional parts. Resin gives finer detail but involves chemicals, washing and curing.
Which filament should a beginner use?
PLA is the usual starting point because it prints at lower temperatures, warps very little and does not need an enclosure. It suits prototypes, models and decorative items. Move to PETG or ABS later if you need more heat resistance or strength.
Do I need an enclosed 3D printer?
You only need an enclosure for materials that warp easily, such as ABS and ASA, or for engineering plastics. PLA and often PETG print fine on an open printer. An enclosure also reduces draughts and noise, and keeps small children and pets away from moving parts.
What is a 3D printing pen?
A 3D printing pen is a handheld tool that heats plastic and lets you draw three-dimensional shapes freehand. It does not follow a digital design the way a printer does. It suits creative projects, quick repairs and learning, and 3Doodler is one of the brands we stock.
