TL;DR
This guide provides insights into the best 3D pens available, catering to various user needs and budgets. The top picks include Mynt3d Pro for mid-range users, Scribbler V3 for budget-friendly options, and 3Doodler Create++ for premium features.
Top Picks
- Budget: Scribbler V3 3D Pen - User-friendly design and versatility make it ideal for beginners.
- Mid-range: Mynt3d Pro - Offers adjustable temperature and speed, suitable for serious hobbyists. Buy on Amazon
- Premium: 3Doodler Create+ - Highly versatile and easy to use, perfect for both beginners and advanced users. Buy on Amazon
Quick Summary
3D pens have revolutionized the way artists and hobbyists create three-dimensional art. They offer a unique way to bring ideas to life, allowing users to draw in the air and create intricate designs. With various models available, choosing the right 3D pen can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers.
Table of Contents
- TL;DR
- Quick Summary
- Key Buying Factors
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Top Product Reviews
- Price Guide
- Personalized Recommendations
- Community Insights
- Final Verdict
Key Buying Factors
Before making your purchase, consider these essential factors:
Temperature Control
Look for pens with adjustable temperature settings to accommodate different filament types, which enhances versatility.
Ease of Use
User-friendly designs are crucial, especially for beginners. Pens should have intuitive controls and comfortable handling.
Filament Compatibility
Ensure the pen supports a variety of filament materials, including PLA and ABS, for broader creative possibilities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others’ experiences - here are key pitfalls to watch out for:
Ignoring Filament Compatibility
Choosing a pen that only works with proprietary filaments can limit your options and increase costs.
Overlooking Temperature Control
Not considering temperature settings can lead to poor performance with certain materials.
Focusing Solely on Price
While budget is important, prioritizing features and user experience is essential for long-term satisfaction.
Top Product Reviews
Our detailed analysis of the best options available:
Mynt3d Pro
The Mynt3d Pro has garnered a positive reputation among users, primarily due to its ease of use and robust features. Many users recommend it for both beginners and experienced artists, highlighting its intuitive controls and reliable performance. The adjustable temperature and speed settings allow for versatility in different projects, making it a preferred choice for serious hobbyists and professionals alike. Overall, the Mynt3d Pro is considered a reliable workhorse in the 3D pen market, particularly for those who require precision and control in their creative endeavors.
Features
- Adjustable temperature control up to 230°C
- Variable speed control with a slider for precise extrusion control
User Experiences
- Users have praised the Mynt3d Pro for its intuitive controls, stating that it is easy to learn and use, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced users.
- One user reported using the pen daily for about an hour without encountering any issues, highlighting its durability and reliability.
Pros
- Intuitive and user-friendly controls make it accessible for beginners.
- Adjustable temperature and speed settings provide versatility for various filament types and project requirements.
Cons
- Some users have noted that the speed slider can occasionally slow down to the point of not extruding, suggesting a need for more precise control.
Best Use Cases
- Ideal for repairing and joining 3D prints, as well as creating detailed 3D models and artistic designs.
Price-Performance Ratio
The Mynt3d Pro is priced competitively within the mid-range for 3D pens, and given its features and user satisfaction, it offers excellent value for both casual users and serious artists.
Purchase Options
View on Manufacturer’s Website
Scribbler V3 3D Pen
The Scribbler V3 3D Pen has garnered positive feedback across various Reddit discussions, primarily for its user-friendly design and versatility. Users have noted its effectiveness for both beginners and professionals, making it a popular choice for creative projects. The pen is praised for its ease of use, allowing users to create intricate designs without a steep learning curve. Additionally, it is considered a reliable tool for both artistic expression and practical applications, such as repairing or joining 3D prints.
Features
- Adjustable temperature settings for different filament types
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable use
User Experiences
- Many users have reported that the Scribbler V3 is easy to handle, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. One user mentioned using it to create decorative items and noted that their children enjoyed the process, leading to hours of creative fun.
Pros
- Great for both beginners and experienced users
- Versatile for various projects, including repairs and artistic creations
Cons
- Some users mentioned that it can be challenging to achieve precise details compared to traditional 3D printing methods
Best Use Cases
- Ideal for educational purposes, allowing kids to explore creativity while learning about 3D design
Price-Performance Ratio
The Scribbler V3 is competitively priced for its features, making it a solid investment for those interested in exploring 3D art and design.
Purchase Options
View on Manufacturer’s Website
3Doodler Create+
The 3Doodler Create+ has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users across various Reddit discussions. It is celebrated for its versatility, ease of use, and suitability for both beginners and advanced users. Users appreciate its ability to handle a wide range of materials, making it an ideal tool for artists and hobbyists alike. The pen’s performance in post-processing 3D prints and its capability to repair plastic items have also been highlighted, showcasing its multifunctionality in creative projects. However, some users have discussed potential improvements, particularly regarding the durability of components and the need for better temperature control.
Features
- Versatile compatibility with various filament materials including PLA and ABS
- User-friendly design with adjustable speed settings for precise control
User Experiences
- Many users have shared their positive experiences with the 3Doodler Create+, noting how easy it is to create intricate designs and how it complements their 3D printing projects. One user mentioned using it to ‘weld’ multi-part prints together, highlighting its practical applications beyond just artistic endeavors.
Pros
- Highly recommended for its versatility and ease of use
- Ideal for both beginners and advanced users, making it accessible for a wide audience
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the heating element clogging over time, which can affect performance
Best Use Cases
- Creating detailed 3D art and sculptures
- Repairing and enhancing 3D printed models
Price-Performance Ratio
The 3Doodler Create+ is considered a great value for its price, offering a robust set of features and reliable performance that justifies the investment for both casual users and serious artists.
Purchase Options
View on Manufacturer’s Website
3Doodler Start+
The 3Doodler Start+ is widely recognized in online discussions as a user-friendly 3D pen ideal for children. Its safety features and ease of use make it a popular choice among parents seeking creative tools for their kids. The general sentiment from Reddit discussions emphasizes its safety, as it does not reach high temperatures that could cause burns, which is a common concern with other 3D pens. However, some users express mixed feelings about the limitations of the pen’s proprietary filament system, suggesting that while it is accessible for beginners, it may not satisfy more advanced users looking for versatility.
Features
- Safe for kids with low-temperature operation
- Uses proprietary 3mm filaments designed for easy use
User Experiences
- My son has the 3Doodler and it’s ok. It’s supposed to use proprietary refills, they’re larger than 1.75mm but smaller than 3mm so standard sizes won’t work. However, I can print refills easily with my MK3 so anytime he needs some I just do that.
Pros
- Highly recommended for kids due to safety features
- Easy to use with a simple design
Cons
- Limited to proprietary filaments, which may not be as widely available
Best Use Cases
- Great for introducing children to 3D art and design
Price-Performance Ratio
The 3Doodler Start+ offers good value for its target market of children and beginners, providing a safe and straightforward entry into 3D drawing.
Purchase Options
View on Manufacturer’s Website
Scrib3d Advanced
The Scrib3d Advanced 3D pen has received positive feedback from users, particularly for its ergonomic design which enhances comfort during extended use. However, some users have noted that the buttons can be inconvenient and that the extrusion speed is too fast, making it challenging to control the flow of filament. Compared to its peers, such as the Mynt3d Pro, it is seen as a more affordable option but does come with certain limitations, particularly in terms of control features and temperature display.
Features
- Ergonomic design for comfortable handling
- Affordable alternative to higher-end models
User Experiences
- Users have appreciated the pen’s ergonomic design, making it comfortable for long projects, but some have struggled with the speed of extrusion, finding it difficult to manage.
Pros
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- More affordable than other high-end models
Cons
- Buttons can be inconvenient to use
- Extrusion speed is too fast for some users
Best Use Cases
- Ideal for hobbyists and beginners looking to explore 3D drawing without a significant financial investment
Price-Performance Ratio
The Scrib3d Advanced offers good value for its price, making it a suitable choice for those new to 3D pen art, despite some limitations compared to more expensive models.
Purchase Options
View on Manufacturer’s Website
Price Guide
Find the best option for your budget:
Budget ($30 - $60)
Mid range ($60 - $100)
Premium ($100 and above)
Personalized Recommendations
For Beginners
For Enthusiasts
For Professionals
For Budget conscious
Community Insights
Overall Trends
- Users emphasize the importance of temperature control and filament compatibility.
- Many recommend the Mynt3d Pro for its versatility and reliability.
- Safety features are a priority for parents buying for children.
Top Picks from the Crowd
Controversial Opinions
- Some users prefer cheaper models for basic tasks, while others advocate for investing in higher-quality pens.
Final Verdict
In summary, the 3D pen market offers a variety of options catering to different user needs, from beginners to professionals. The Mynt3d Pro stands out for its versatility and control, making it ideal for serious hobbyists and professionals. The Scribbler V3 is a great budget-friendly option for those just starting, while the 3Doodler Create++ provides premium features for artists looking to explore their creativity. As the market evolves, we can expect to see more innovations in 3D pen technology, focusing on user-friendly designs and enhanced functionality.
Sources
Based on Reddit community discussions:
- Is 3D Printing Pen allowed here? If so here’s my first attempt from r/3Dprinting - Score: 1057, Comments: 173
- Improvements to 3D pens from r/3Dpen - Score: 23, Comments: 42
- 3D pen recommendations from r/3Dpen - Score: 23, Comments: 22
- Weekly chat and well-being post: October 22, 2021 from r/TeachingUK - Score: 9, Comments: 33
- Review and Comparison of Scrib3d Advanced, 3Doodler Flow, and Mynt3d Pro from r/3Dpen - Score: 31, Comments: 6
- 3D Pen to complement my 3D printer from r/prusa3d - Score: 7, Comments: 21
- Which pen is the best from r/3Dpen - Score: 8, Comments: 11
- What 3D pen would you recommend? from r/3Dprinting - Score: 4, Comments: 14
- Pen for 1.75mm recommendations? from r/3Dpen - Score: 4, Comments: 13
- Which pen is best from r/3Dpen - Score: 6, Comments: 7
Note: Product information and prices are subject to change. Please verify details before making a purchase.