One of the hottest products in today’s markets are three-dimensional (3D) printers. Even though they have been around for several decades, they are finally making this printer affordable for use at home, schools or even your place of work. There are even some of these machines that are perfect for children because they’re beginner models. Beginner models are simple to understand and operate. A three-dimensional printer is known as an additive manufacturing and desktop fabrications; however, they mean the same thing. 3D printers create three-dimensional objects from a computer. When using one of these printers, you need to think of an object that you’ll want to print and then get a 3D model of an image as a two-dimensional file to print from. It’s that simple. Once you do that, then you can start printing your object. Most printers have 2D files that are free from the manufacturer’s website or you can use a downloadable app. There are hundreds of various objects that children can experiment with and enjoy for hours.
If you’re not sure how these printers work, we’ll break it down for you. If you’re going to print a flat image in 3D, a special kind of material will be needed, not just regular toner or ink. With the first printing, the material lifts the image higher than the file surface. The additional layer is printed on top of the other one, but it’s raised. After doing this nearly hundreds of times, the 2D images becomes a 3D object. These objects can be held in your hand. It makes your objects feel like they are coming to life by doing this.
We feature what is the hottest of 10 products in today’s three-dimensional printer market. Most of the models that we chose are easy for children to assemble and use, except for two. Those two are DIY-–do it yourself kits–that must be assembled when you receive them. But these DIY kits provide an additional enjoyable mental activity for kids. Below you will find our top choices for the best 3D printers reviewed for children in 2019.
Our Picks of The Best 3D Printers for Kids Rated & Reviewed
1
ADIMLab 3D Printer Assembled 24V Prusa I3 3D Printing
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Save: $70.00 (-1,252.71% OFF)
The ADIM Lab printer provides its tools for assembling, easy install instructions, and a glass printing bed. It only takes about twenty minutes to assemble. This model offers different level displays, a SD Card, and a heated printing bed. It comes with a larger size at 310 x 410mm.
BENEFITS
This three-dimensional printer takes no time to assemble with it’s easy to follow instructions.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Heating print bed
- Filament holder
- Perfect for beginners
Cons
- Might not be compatible with certain software
- Some leveling might have issues
We like this product because it doesn’t take hours to install and it is perfect for beginners. It comes with everything that you need including easy to follow instructions.
2
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Save: $0.01 (-263.98% OFF)
The Select Mini 3D Printer comes in a choice of black or white and has an open frame design. It works well with many types of filament including advanced and basic ones. This printer will fit on almost any desk because of the compact design. It comes fully assembled and calibrated, plus the printer features a MicroSDTM card for printing when it arrives. This 3D printer is compatible with software such as Cura and Repetier with a power consumption maximum of 120 Watts. It has a cooling fan on the main board and another one for the nozzle. This 3D printer comes with an all-metal nozzle, accessory kit, microSD card, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity. Included are a filament holder, AC cord, AC adapter, Micro cable, MicroSD card, hex wrench, bad scraper, and PLA filament. It prints at the speed of 55mm per second and has a resolution of 100 microns. Printable materials consist of PLA, ABS, XT, PET, Copolyester, TPU, FPE, TPC, HIPS, PVA, Foam, Jelly, and Felty.
BENEFITS
This 3D printer has a compact size and will fit nicely on almost any size desk or table. The open frame design also makes it very easy to use and watch the making of the objects.
Pros
- Comes in a choice of black or white
- Works well with many types of filament
- Comes fully assembled and calibrated
- Features a MicroSDTM card for printing right away
- Is compatible with software such as Cura and Repetier
Cons
- The filament may jam easily
- Some said the bed stopped warming up
Plenty of materials can be used for printing with this 3D printer to make many different objects. However, the most used are PLA, ABS, PVA, and FPE. Of course, your creations will vary greatly with each of these materials.
3
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Save: $50.00 (-993.51% OFF)
FlashForge is a well-known brand in the 3D printer industry, as they make outstanding products of superior quality. This 3D printer of theirs requires no assembly and does not require a computer to work its magic. The calibration system can detect when it is level as you adjust the bed, and it includes a touch screen in full color with easy to use controls. This printer shows previews of model files to ensure the object you want to print is correct. It gives real-time printing status of your work and features stable file transmission wirelessly. The FlashForge is compatible in many languages other than English, such as German, Dutch, French, Korean, Polski, and Japanese. You can transfer files by USB stick, Wi-Fi, or flash drive successfully. This printer does not use a USB cable, so there are no interruptions when the computer is on standby. It has a slide-in plate where the object is built. This allows the item to be taken out easily and minimize the damage to the build plate. The plastic construction of alloy is sturdy and ensures the prints are stable. This printer’s build plate is non-heated and safe.
BENEFITS
One of the best things about this printer is that it does not have to be hooked up to a computer to use it. just transfer the files with one of the three listed devices and you are ready to print your desired object.
Pros
- Not required to hook up a computer
- Shows previews of model files
- Gives real-time printing status of your work
- Has a slide-in plate where the object is built
- Plastic construction of alloy is sturdy
Cons
- Some buyers said it stopped working after a few months
- A few had issues with the filament feed
Even those that do not speak English can use this 3D printer equally as well. It accommodates six other languages other than English, so the printer may be used globally.
4
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Save: $N/A (-758.94% OFF)
The Monoprice Maker Select is a very different 3D printer than some of the others we feature on this page. It comes with a build plate that is heated, PLA filament sample, and 2GB SD card. The software that is compatible with this model is Repeater, Cure, and Simplify 3D, and programs that it works well with it are Mac OS X, Linux, and Windows. It has generous horizontal and vertical spacing for objects being printed. Larger, more complex objects can be printed easily with this product. Materials that are slow to cool can be used for printing with the Maker Select because of the build plate being heated. It has a micro Sd card where the sliced code files are stored, so you can just put the card in the slot for printing without the use of a PC. Printable materials consist of PLA, ABS, XT Copolyester, TPU, PET, TPC, PVA, FPE, HIPS, Foam, Jelly, and Felty. The maximum temperature for the extruder is 500 degrees, plus everything is included to start printing the first object in minutes. It is easy to assemble because you only have to tighten six screws and the printer is ready to start. This is the least expensive and easiest way to join in the 3D printing craze.
BENEFITS
The larger frame and bed of this printer allow larger models to be constructed. Other printers do not have such a large capacity for bigger printable projects.
Pros
- Is compatible with Mac OS X, Linux, and Windows
- Has a micro SD card where files are stored
- The maximum temperature is 500 degrees
- This model is ready to print in ten minutes
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Comments that only the PLA filament can be used in the beginning
- A few did not like the quality
Because it has a built-in plate that is heated, this 3D printer can use materials that are slower to cool than some others. Two of these substances are the ABS and PLA types that are slow to harden when the object is finished.
5
XYZprinting da Vinci Mini
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Save: $N/A (-199.85% OFF)
The da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer is a productive model that is quite compact when compared with other printers. It has a large aluminum bed for finer and bigger prints, plus this printer can connect to home networks wirelessly. The filaments used are PLA plastics made from cornstarch. This product has a single-button design for operation and includes various colored LEDs to show conditions of printing jobs. The 3D printer comes with a free version of design software that can be downloaded for beginners. This model will only use XYZprinting filaments, so this eliminates material setting adjustments. Slicing and CAD software are included, and this model has a user-friendly design. The resolution is 1000 to 400 microns, and the printing speed maximum is 120 mm per second. It includes auto-leveling calibration, plus the user has access to more than 4,500 model designs to download from the manufacturer.
BENEFITS
The only filament this 3D printer uses is the PLA type. It is made of cornstarch and other natural ingredients, so it is nontoxic and environmentally safe.
Pros
- Is productive and compact
- Has a large aluminum bed for finer and bigger prints
- Can connect to a home network
- Has a single-button design for operation
- Has a user-friendly design
Cons
- May overheat easily
- Only uses one type of filament
The manufacturer, XYZprinting, has an online gallery where users can download more than 4,500 model designs to print. They have many categories of printable objects including toys, art pieces, games, and educational items.
6
iNSTONE Easier iNSTONE Slice
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Save: $242.00 (-232.00% OFF)
This model from the XYZprinting manufacturer comes in your choice of four great colors and is a printer, scanner, and engraver combined. It is ready to print straight from the box because it is fully assembled. You do not even have to tighten any screws as with some of the other models. The scanner has a 360-degree rotation to seize the object completely in just five minutes. It will also engrave on many material types such as paper, wood, leather, and plastic. You can send files from several devices like laptops, computers, or tablets to the 3D printer. It uses only PLA, tough PLA, and PETG filaments derived from natural materials to make the objects. This printer comes with slicing and CAD software, plus the calibration is auto-leveling. It has a resolution of 100 to 400 microns, and the printing speed is up to 100mm per second.
BENEFITS
The only filaments that this scanner uses are the natural based ones known as PLA filaments. These are made mostly of cornstarch and are safe for the environment and much safer for your kids to handle.
Pros
- Comes in four colors
- The scanner has a 360-degree rotation
- Will also engrave on many material types
- Uses PLA, tough PLA, and PETG filament
- Calibration is auto-leveling
Cons
- Extruder jammed for some buyers
- A few reviewers claim it had poor performance
This is not only a 3D printer, but it will also scan and engrave on various materials. This can really be useful for a huge number of projects that could involve printing and engraving on the same project.
7
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With the Sindoh 3D printer, easy instructions are provided for perfect leveling on the printer LCD screen. It will guide you until the machine is perfectly level. This printer has LED lighting and a camera to monitor the printer process, plus the filament cartridges are easy to load. The manufacturer promises 3D printing with this model as easy as printing on paper. It is perfect for beginners and has several features that can adjust the printer and the object. The 3D printer uses only PLA and ABS filaments, and the platform is an aluminum bed that is heated. This connects with USB, USB flash drive, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. Compatible software includes 3DWOX Desktop, CURA or Solidworks.
BENEFITS
Problems of putting in the filament is not an issue with this wonderful 3D printer. Just insert the filament cartridge and it is loaded just like that. The manufacturer made this step simple and easy.
Pros
- Has LED lighting and a camera
- Promises 3D printing as easy as printing on paper
- Perfect for beginners
- Uses PLA and ABS filaments
- Connects with USB, USB flash drive, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi
Cons
- Uses the more expensive brand of filament
- A few had filament jamming problems
You can watch your creations as they are made and not be there with the printer. The downloadable App allows you to watch elsewhere on your phone or tablet easily.
8
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Save: $3.13 (-505.01% OFF)
As a do-it-yourself 3D printer, this one is one of the best models on the market. It includes everything you need to construct your own 3D printer including all the wires, connectors, and hardware. This printer has a professional, trimmed look and injected plastic molded parts to give precise fittings. It is perfect for those that want to start 3D printing economically as a hobby or business. There is no need for drilling, altering, cutting, or soldering to put it together and two color choices are available. It can operate on 110Vor 220V, and the 110V US cord is included. The heated build section is topped with a piece of genuine borosilicate glass, and the print resolution is 100 microns. It has a hanging reel that operates freely because of the customized spool holder. The LCD card reader with SD allows printing from an SD card without a computer connection. This 3D printer is compatible with Mac, Linux, and PC, plus it will work with materials of PLA.
BENEFITS
Some 3D printers will only allow certain filament materials to be used in the processes. This one will work with many substances which allow more projects to be created from the 2D images.
Pros
- 110V US cord included
- Two colors are available
- The heating area has a borosilicate glass
- The print resolution is 100 microns
- Is compatible with MAC, Linux, and PC
Cons
- Soldering on heat bed gave some buyers problems
- A few claim the heat bed does not work properly
Teachers of science classes will appreciate this 3D printer because it can professionally introduce the concepts of 3D printing to their students. Not only will they be able to print with it, but the task of putting it together would also be a wonderful learning experience.
9
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Save: $N/A (-1,815.41% OFF)
From the HICTOP Company, we highlight this marvelous 3D printer that has a high accuracy and large printing volume abilities. It is not very noisy, but it is a stable machine. This is a do-it-yourself kit, but there are only three parts to assemble. In just ten minutes, you will be ready to start printing objects. All wires are already attached, and the maximum printing speed is 200mm per second. This printer uses PLA filament and needs a power supply of 110V to 240V. it will print large models and can be upgraded to create even larger objects. The two printing methods are off-line with a TF card or online with a PC connection. It includes a 4mm alloy aluminum platform and is compatible with software types of Solid-works, PROE, 3D Max, Rhino 3D design software, and UG. The 3D printer works with operating systems of Windows, Linux, and OSX. It comes with wrench kits and hardware, user manual, assembly instructions, TF card, and PLA filament.
BENEFITS
While this printer model makes objects larger than some of its competitor models, it can be upgraded to make even bigger projects. No other 3D we feature makes this fabulous claim.
Pros
- Is not very noisy and is stable
- Takes only ten minutes to put together
- Maximum printing speed is 200mm per second
- Uses PLA filament
- Works with operating systems of Windows, Linux, and OSX
Cons
- The flatbed was warped for a few buyers
- Some did not receive the instructions or user manual
For a do-it-yourself printer kit, this one seems really easy to put together and use. The company states it only takes ten minutes to put the three assembled parts together easily.
10
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Save: $N/A (-599.95% OFF)
Several models of the da Vinci brand are on our list because they are some of the best 3D printers available. This one allows third-party PLA filaments of PLA tough, PLA, and PETG, plus it has a fully-enclosed design. The printer includes adjustable settings for temperature control of the extruder nozzle and features auto leveling calibration. The printing speed maximum is 120mm per second, and the printer permits printing from resolutions of 20 to 400 microns. Free slicing and CAD software are included with this 3D printer that has adjustable settings for extruder temperature control. This model gives a smoother surface for its printed objects, plus it can change the speed, bed temperature, retraction settings, and print support. The printer is compatible with third-party codes of Slic3r and Cura.
BENEFITS
With a 50-micron resolution, this 3D printer from XYZprinting gives your printed objects a much smoother surface than some of the other models on the market.
Pros
- Allows third-party PLA filaments of PLA tough, PLA, and PETG
- Has a fully-enclosed design
- Permits printing from resolutions of 20 to 400 micron
- Features auto leveling calibration
- Printing speed maximum is 120mm per second
Cons
- Troubles with the sensors
- A few had filament jams
This 3D model adjusts itself automatically for whatever issues appear. It can change the temperature of the extruder nozzle and the distance between the print bed and the extruder with perfect precision.
Criteria Used In Evaluation of the Best 3D Printers for Kids
Easy for kids to operate, understand, and put together
We looked at printers that were universal for everyone. What’s great about the ones that we selected is that these printers are easy for children to operate and put together. Of course, for the DIY (do it yourself) printers, these include user guides that can make it a bit more complicated than the rest and your child might need your assistance. Just watching one of these printers create that three-dimensional object from a computer image is remarkable and mind-boggling. Your child will love it!
Works well, is durable, and creates 3D objects
Many overwhelmingly positive reviews have noted that these printers work well, are durable and long lasting. They create superb 3D objects. Most stated that they would purchase the product again or even upgrade their printer because they are completely satisfied with their purchase. Customers have even said that they would have printed hundreds of three-dimensional objects that are available through the manufacturer’s websites with their printers and are happy.
From reputable companies that are professional 3D makers
Very well-known manufacturers of three-dimensional printers have been in business for decades are makers of these 3D printers. Companies like Monoprice, FlashForge, and XYZprinting are some of the best-known manufacturers. These companies put their top-notch expertise into these designs to offer you and your children fun and enjoyment. These 3D printers come with guarantees or warranties backing up the item for your satisfaction.
The best-rated and most-purchased 3D printers online
Each product on this list is the best 3D printer according to buyers online. They are also the most-frequently bought 3D printers as well. The reviews and ratings overwhelmingly choose these items as the ones that have pleased consumers the most. We choose our item list based on these facts from customers just like you who want the best product for their money. We diligently sort through all of the product descriptions and feedback from reviewers to come up with this list of the best 3D printers for your review.
Helpful hints on 3D printing and downloadable programs:
The focus of three-dimensional (3D) printing is to make something that you can’t get anywhere else. It can be used to replace parts and items you lose or want that can’t be found, such as the back plate of the remote control. Missing parts or pieces to games and toys can be replaced in seconds by printing them with a 3D printer. For instance, if you lose several pieces of your favorite Monopoly or chess game, then you can easily replace them with a duplicate piece you have printed. Possibilities of these creations are endless and give us an idea of how 3D printers can and will help us in the future. Before you print anything with your new printer, you must find a 2D image from computer software or software programs. When using your computer and these programs, you will find thousands of objects. One of the best programs out there is Tinkercad. It is very user-friendly and perfect for beginners to 3D printing. A few other free programs where you can find models of objects to print would be Google Sketch Up, 3DTin, and Autodesk 123D. It’s also possible to download files from the internet for your objects. Whatever the case, some of the files are free or have a small fee to download the file.
Information on 3D materials:
For beginner 3D printing, two filament materials will be used mostly in your objects. These are ABS and PLA. These are known as thermoplastics because once they are heated and reach a particular temperature, they become bendable and soft. Once these substances cool down after you have made your object, they will turn into hard material again. It is at this point that you can hold the object you created with your printer. Both of these filament materials are obtainable in bags of 2.2 pounds. This amount can make plenty of objects.
ABS filament material is a plastic that is petroleum-based. It is more suitable for interlocking parts/objects or complex pieces because it is more flexible and stronger than PLA. It is good to replace such building parts like LEGO bricks. It does take longer for this substance to cool down than PLA, so it could result in objects that may warp in the cooling process. Because it is petroleum-based, it does give off a nasty odor when it is being used.
On the contrary, PLA material is made from the natural ingredient of cornstarch. It cools down quickly, so it is good for beginners to use, plus warping issues are minimized. The finished object will warp, however, if this substance is heated too much. Unlike, ABS filament, PLA is not good for objects like LEGOs that have pieces that connect, or lock together.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will one spool of filament last (1kg)?
A: A reviewer answered this question stating it would make up to 2.2 pounds of items.
Q: Are these printers noisy?
A: Yes, they are. Customers say they got used to the noise quickly though.
Q: Can you put two colors in at one time to make objects with two colors?
A: No, only one color can be loaded at a time, so products will be all one color, whatever you make.
Q: Can hollow pieces or products be printed?
A: Yes, most printers can print hollow pieces. However, the proper settings must be correct for the filament type you use, plus there may be supports that are removable to use. They come with the printed item.
Q: What do you do to add more filament if it runs out in the middle of a project?
A: CURA lets you know how much to use for a given project before you begin, so just make sure you have enough before you start.
Q: What is the ideal way to remove the item from the printing bed? Do you let it cool off first? How do you remove extra filament stuck in the pipe if you want to print with other colors?
A: You could use a flexible putty knife. You must heat the extruder, then guide the extruder backward to remove the filament from the extruder.
Q: Just to get an idea of how much filament is needed for certain items, how much filament would be needed for an average-sized chess piece?
A: With one kg, you could print an entire chess set and lots more.
Q: Do these printers come with the design software?
A: No, you must download the 3D design software from Autodesk.
