7 Best 3D Printer Kits to Get in 2023

3D printer kits are perfect for handy 3D printing users who love DIY projects. Setting them up helps you to learn how a 3D printer works. However, with many models available in the market. To help you pick the right one, I’ve compiled a list of the seven best 3D printer kits to get.

Some of the best 3D printer kits available on the market that you should consider include the Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo, Voron Trident, Prusa i3 MK3S+, BIQU B1, Prusa MK4, Creality Ender 3 Pro and Creality Ender 3 V2.

These kits differ in features, capabilities, ease of assembly, and performance. In this guide, I will detail each of them and their unique selling points to help you make an informed purchasing decision. So, let’s dive in.

7 Best 3D Printer Kits to Get

Below is a list of some of the best 3D printer kits to get:

1. Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo
2. Voron Trident
3. Prusa i3 MK3S+
4. BIQU B1
5. Prusa MK4
6. Creality Ender 3 Pro
7. Creality Ender 3 V2

1. Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo

The first 3D printer kit on the list is the Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo. This printer is an upgraded version of the popular Ender 3 V2 3D printer, which offers a user-friendly 3D printing experience with advanced features. Here are some of them:

Features

• Stable integrated design
• PC spring steel magnetic build plate
• CR Touch auto-leveling
• Full-metal Bowden extruder
• Newly upgraded User Interface with a preview function
• Silent mainboard

Specifications

• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Printing Speed: Maximum 120mm/s
• Printing Precision: ±0.1mm
• Layer Height: 0.1 – 0.35mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (standard)
• Nozzle Temperature: up to 260°C
• Heat Bed Temperature: up to 100°C
• Rated Voltage: 100-120V~, 200-240V~, 50/60Hz
• Rated Power: 350W
• Slicing Software: Creality Slicer/Cura/Simplify3D
• 3D File Format: STL/OBJ/AMF
• Supported Filament: PLA/PETG/ABS

The Ender 3 V2 Neo has an integrated structure entirely made of metal to enhance its stability and rigidity, ensuring accurate prints. Its gantry has an uncomplicated design that makes the printer more appealing.

Removing prints from this 3D printer is a walk in the park, thanks to the PC spring steel magnetic build plate. This build plate offers excellent adhesion for prints, making removing them easier by bending the plate slightly.

If you 3D print regularly, you know how frustrating it can be to have to replace worn-out extruders. That is why Ender 3 V2 Neo incorporated an all-metal extruder, which efficiently feeds filament to the hot end and is very durable.

Thanks to its silent mainboard, the Ender 3 V2 Neo is designed for reduced noise levels while you’re operating it. This quieter performance can be beneficial in shared or quieter spaces.

User Experience

One user said that the Ender 3 V2 Neo was his first 3D printer, and he had waited ages to improve his cosplay outfits. He was pleased since it was easy to set up and had great print quality.

He only had it for a few days but had no problems with it. The only modification he did was change the Bowden that came with the printer.

Another user who said this was his first 3D printer loved how easy it was to set it up – it only took him 30 minutes. However, he warned that leveling the bed was confusing using the included firmware.

Fortunately, he didn’t have to level before every print as he relied on the CR Touch to a large extent.

Pros

• Affordable
• Easy print removal thanks to the magnetic build plate
• Silent mainboard makes it suitable for quiet environments
• Conveniently go back to your print using the resume printing function
• Upgraded UI makes it easier to use
• Accurate and solid prints thanks to the stable integrated design

Cons

• No filament runout detection
• Manual bed leveling may still be required, which can be time-consuming
• Limited build volume compared to other 3D printers
• Can only handle basic filaments

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced 3D printing user, you’ll love the Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo. It’s a fairly priced printer that is very easy to set up and use.

You can find the Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo on Amazon if you want to purchase it.

Check out this video on how you can assemble the Ender 3 V2.

2. Voron Trident

The Voron Trident kit from LDO Motors is an impressive large-volume 3D printer with advanced features focused on producing precise PLA and ABS prints. Designed with 3D printing lovers in mind, this kit offers a level of control and print quality that is hard to match.

Features

• Stainless steel linear rails
• Core XY motion system
• Precut and prewired
• Touch Screen Display
• LED lighting
• Input shaper tool
• Nevermore filter
• 2mm drill bit

Specifications

• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 300mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Supported Formats: STL, OBJ
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 110°C

The Voron Trident comes with stainless steel linear rails as part of its rigid build. These rails and the core XY motion system help guide the printer’s moving parts, ensuring smooth and precise movement of the print head.

To minimize the effort, you would use to assemble, the kit’s components are precut and prewired. This simplified assembly process means those new to 3D printing can conveniently use this kit.

Another integral feature is the LED lighting in the Voron Trident kit to light up the printing area. This ensures that you get better visibility during the printing process, making it easier to inspect the progress of your prints.

User Experience

One user said that the Voron Trident was a pretty damn impressive kit.

He added that he chose it over the competitors due to its price and the inclusion of a BTT Octopus board (which offers support features like faster printing speeds, smoother movement control, and enhanced precision for quality prints).

Another user said that if you want to build your own printer, you should go for the Voron Trident. This is because it is sold as kits from LDO with good quality. Additionally, it is easier to build and maintain than its counterpart, the Voron V2.4.

A user noted that although the Voron assembly guide is very professional, it is not as detailed as Prusa’s guide. He recommends that you wait until you know your way around 3D printers.

Pros

• The Voron Trident kit is designed for high-precision
• High-quality components for durability, like the stainless steel rails
• Large build volume
• Has an active community support
• Core XY motion system for more precise movement, resulting in cleaner prints

Cons

• A bit challenging to assemble
• Relatively expensive than other 3D printer kit options
• May need regular maintenance to function properly.

The Voron Trident kit may not be the easiest 3D printer kit to work around, but it will give you quality prints for the long term once you put it together.

You can check out the Voron Trident Kit by LDO on Fabreeko.

Here is a video by 3dp blog that shows you how to assemble the Voron Trident 3D Printer kit.

3. Prusa i3 MK3S+

The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is well-known for being a beginner-friendly and reliable DIY 3D printer kit. What differentiates it from its predecessor, the MK3S, is the addition of a SuperPINDA probe that improves the first layer’s calibration.

Features

• SuperPinda probe
• Removable print sheets
• Filament sensor
• Power loss recovery
• Mesh bed leveling
• Quality bearings

Specifications

• Build Volume: 250 x 210 x 210mm
• Layer Height: 0.05 – 0.35mm
• Nozzle: 0.4mm default, but others supported
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Maximum Travel Speed: 200+mm/s
• Maximum Nozzle Temperature: 300°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 120°C

One of the standout features of the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the SuperPINDA probe used for automatic bed leveling. This sensor helps the printer to accurately determine the distance between the nozzle and print bed so the prints can stick better.

Removing completed prints has been made easier thanks to the removable sheets that come with the Prusa i3 MK3S+. These sheets are made of PEI, which offers excellent adhesion when hot and provides an easy release when cooled.

Another feature worth noting is the mesh bed leveling that the Prusa MK3S+ uses to measure multiple points on the print bed’s surface and adjust the print head’s movement accordingly. This ensures the first layer sticks uniformly to the bed.

User Experience

One user said he chose this product over numerous competing options due to the company’s reliability. Every single component fit seamlessly, and he appreciated the organized packaging, reminiscent of Lego sets, which made it difficult to misplace any part.

He added that Prusa invested significant effort into providing clear instructions, incorporating user feedback for improvements, and constantly updating their offerings.

Another user said his Prusa MK3S kit came with individual parts, fasteners, electronics, wires, and all the tools needed to assemble it, with extremely comprehensive and detailed instructions. He added that it was the most well-put-together kit he had ever seen.

A user commended the MK3S+ for its detailed and easy-to-understand assembly instructions. He added that you needed minimal experience to create perfectly printed parts without making big changes to the slicer since the slicer was very advanced.

His one complaint was that the bearings weren’t quality as Prusa had advertised. The display was also a bit low quality compared to other 3D printers.

Pros

• Produces outstanding print quality
• User-friendly due to features such as removable PEI sheets, filament sensor, and SuperPINDA probe.
• High-quality parts, including Bondtech gears and V6 hotend.
• Easy to maintain
• Supports several materials, including PETG, ASA, Polycarbonate, and Polypropylene.
• Prusa adopts open-source hardware and firmware, which allows users to modify and upgrade their printers.

 Cons

• The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is not budget-friendly, especially if you’re new to 3D printing.
• Long assembly time
• Low-quality bearings

For someone new to 3D printing, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is something you should consider owning. Its reliability and well-organized manual make it the perfect starter kit.

You can check out the Prusa i3 MK3S+ 3D Printer DIY Kit on Amazon.

This video clearly explains how you can assemble the Prusa i3 MK3S kit.

4. BIQU B1

Next up on the list is the BIQU B1 3D printer kit designed for enthusiasts and professionals seeking high-quality 3D printing capabilities. With a generous build volume, it can accommodate a variety of print projects. Here are some of its standout features:

Features

• BigTreeTech branded SKR V1.4 32bit Motherboard.
• Silent TMC driver for quieter operation.
• Branded magnetic BIQU SSS (spring steel sheet).
• Dual operation system (Supports BigTreeTech TFT35 V3.0, marlin & touch work modes).
• Resume printing function
• Filament runout detection
• Type C Connector
• New Integrated Adapter Board
• TFT Touch Screen

 Specifications

• Building Volume: 235 x 235 x 270mm
• Printing Accuracy: +/- 0.1mm
• Maximum Printing Speed: 100mm/s
• Power Supply: Output Voltage: 24V
• Filament: PLA, PETG, ABS
• Slicing Format: STL / OBJ / AMF

 One thing that makes the BIQU B1 stand out from its competitors is that it comes with a BigTreeTech Branded SKR V1.4 32-bit motherboard. This advanced board supports many features and customization options for faster and more precise 3D printing.

Like many other 3D printer kits on this list, the BIQU B1 comes with a branded magnetic spring steel sheet build surface. This surface enables the prints to stick to the bed better while making removing them easier once you’re done.

You can easily switch between different interfaces for controlling the printer with just a click since this printer supports two operating modes: BIQU-B1 and Marlin.

There is a filament runout detection sensor to alert you when the filament spool has run out, preventing incomplete prints due to insufficient filament. In addition, this printer comes with a touchscreen interface that provides a user-friendly control panel for operating the machine.

User Experience

One user said the BIQU B1 was an excellent 3D printer for a newbie like him. It was easy to assemble, had a friendly menu, many features, and multiple upgrade possibilities. Generally, it was a superb-quality printer for him, and he didn’t need to call for tech support.

Another user with an Ender 3 and Craftbot Plus bought the BIQU B1. After a couple of months of printing at least 50g of PLA daily, he said it was a trooper. Even after printing it around 60mm/s, he rarely had a failed print.

He also said that the touchscreen made the interface so much easier to use, and the print quality was phenomenal for the price point, adding that it, basically, was an Ender 3 with all the upgrades.

The only con he got was that he still couldn’t find any 0.2, 0.3, 0.6, or 0.8mm nozzles, so he was confined to the 0.4mm.

Pros

• Advanced motherboard improves performance
• Silent printing
• Excellent adhesion
• Large build area
• Easy print removal
• Stable and fast connection due to type c connector
• TFT provides a user-friendly interface for controlling the printer

Cons

• Assembly may be a bit challenging for newbies
• Limited nozzle sizes
• Leveling the bed can be hectic

These features make the BIQU B1 3D printer kit versatile and efficient for any 3D printing lover.

Check out the BIQU B1 DIY FDM 3D Printer on Amazon.

5. Prusa MK4

As the successor of the Original Prusa MK3, the MK4 3D printer kit lives up to its expectations. Prusa added advanced features that give it an edge over its competitors. Some of them, include:

Features

• 32-bit Mainboard
• Nextruder
• Input shaper and pressure advance tech
• Color LCD and Simple UI
• Filament sensor and power panic
• Quick-swap nozzles
• Ethernet and Wi-Fi connection

Specifications

• Build Volume: 250 x 210 x 220mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Layer Height: 0.05 – 0.30mm
• Stepper Drivers: XY stepper motors
• Maximum Nozzle Temperature: 290°C
• Maximum Heatbed Temperature: 120°C
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Supported Materials: PLA / ABS / PETG / ASA / PVA / PVB / HIPS
• Power Consumption: 240W

The Prusa MK4 kit is equipped with a 32-bit mainboard, a significant improvement over the 8-bit boards commonly found in older 3D printers. The 32-bit architecture enables faster and more efficient processing of commands for a smoother 3D printing experience.

Replacing a component in the extruder can be hectic, so Prusa designed the Nextruder. This upgrade has all the elements, such as heaters and fans, connected to a breakout board, so you won’t struggle if you need to change anything.

To ensure that you get a perfect first layer without tweaking anything, the MK4 comes with a precise Loadcell sensor that accurately determines the offsets at different locations of the print bed.

For a better user experience, this 3D printer kit also has a color LCD screen, a USB-A port for standard USB drives, quick-swap nozzles, and exceptional Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity.

User Experience

One user said that this was his first 3D printer and was super impressed. The kit was easy to assemble, and the instructions were well done. He added that it worked perfectly every time so far.

Another user said he assembled the MK4 kit in 3 evening sessions at about 12 hours total. The instructions were very good. For a better build experience, his tip was to ensure you have an Allen key with a comfortable handle since you will be doing a lot of screwing.

Next, since there are about 22 different-sized bolts, nuts, and washers, you should place the eight regular-sized M3 bolts, the M3n, and the M3mS nuts in clearly marked separate containers.

Although he hadn’t fully reviewed the print quality, he did not doubt that the 3D printer would perform excellently. Additionally, the first layer was flawless from the start

Pros

• Reliable user support
• Easy-to-follow assembly instructions
• Easy to maintain
• Upgradable (you won’t need to purchase a new model regularly)
• Built-in safety features make it safe to operate

Cons

• Very costly compared to other 3D printer kits
• Not suitable for huge prints
• Assembly can take a lot of time

Although the Prusa MK4 3D printer kit is expensive, you will get every bang for your buck. With a Nextruder and a 32-bit mainboard, you can ensure consistently good prints.

You can get the Original Prusa MK4 3D Printer Kit from Prusa’s original site.

Here is how to assemble the Prusa MK4 Kit.

6. Creality Ender 3 Pro

Creality Ender 3 Pro’s reliability and ease of assembly make it a great entry point for beginners or 3D printing users who like to tinker around. It is also one of the cheapest printer kits on this list. Here are some of its features:

Features

• Magnetic build surface
• Semi assembly
• New Y-axis design
• Branded power supply
• Upgraded extruder design
• Resume printing function

Specifications

• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Printing Speed: </= 180mm/s, normal 30 – 60 mm/s
• Filament Type: PLA / TPU / ABS / Wood / Carbon Fiber
• Nozzle Diameter: Default is 0.4mm, can accommodate 0.2, 0.3mm
• Bed Temperature: </= 100°C
• File Format Supported: STL, OBJ, AMF
• Power Supply: Input: AC 100 – 120V / 200 – 240V Output: DC 24V

The Creality Ender 3 Pro comes with a magnetic build surface designed to protect your heated bed, making it simple to remove your prints without damaging your models.

It also features a newly designed Y-Axis that improves the stability and accuracy of the build plate as it moves back and forth during printing. This leads to better print quality and reduces the chances of your layers misaligning.

You won’t have to worry about a clogged nozzle or poor extrusion because the Ender 3 Pro kit has an upgraded extruder design.

Another feature that caught my attention is the branded power supply that consistently provides power to your printer for faster heating times. This will allow you to start your prints quicker.

User Experience

One user said the Ender 3 was an awesome machine with great potential. He advised users to watch assembly videos multiple times before putting this 3D printer kit together.

He added that you should take your time to lay out the parts packets and only open them as needed while assembling, or you will end up confused. Correctly assembling this machine took him two hours.

Another user gave the Ender 3 Pro five stars for the quality of packaging, build, fit, finish of parts, and customer support. He added that the instructions and high-quality drawings showing the 12 assembly steps were excellent. Additionally, there are many YouTube videos to help.

His only complaint was that the Bowden extruder that came with the machine was made out of plastic. After getting the device, he had to purchase a metal extruder assembly to upgrade it.

Many users noted that the Ender 3 Pro was a great machine, although you needed to purchase hardware upgrades to make it great and reliable.

Pros

• Great build
• Easy to assemble
• Very affordable
• Beginner-friendly
• Excellent packaging
• Produces quality prints
• Reasonably quiet

Cons

•  Low-quality parts
• The bed is usually not flat for several users
• Bed leveling issues

Overall, the Creality Ender 3 Pro is a great product that comes at a very pocket-friendly price compared to other 3D printer kits in its range. If you’re a newbie, it is one of the best ways to sharpen your 3D printing craft.

You can check out the Creality Ender 3 Pro FDM 3D Printer Kit on Amazon.

Here is a great video that explains how to assemble the Ender 3 Pro DIY Kit.

7. Creality Ender 3 V2

Another popular 3D printer kit in the Ender 3 series from Creality is the Ender 3 V2. It is an upgraded version of the famous Ender 3 that offers an attractive balance between affordability and performance.

Features

• Resume printing function
• Full metal Bowden extruder
• Silent Motherboard
• Carborundum glass platform
• V-guide rail
• XY- axis tensioner
• New intuitive user interface

Specifications

• Print Size:  220 x 220 x 250mm
• Layer Thickness: 0.1 – 0.4mm
• Filament: PLA / PETG / TPU
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Hotbed Temperature: </= 100°C
• Slicer: Cura / Simplify3D
• Print Precision: +/- 0.1mm

Ender 3 V2 has a glass build platform coated with Carborundum, a material known for its good adhesive properties. This helps prints to stick better to the bed and reduces the risk of warping.

Another unique feature of the Ender 3 V2 is the V-guide rail pulley that stabilizes the movement of the printhead, making the printer more precise while reducing noise.

The silent motherboard that the Ender 3 V2 comes with also contributes to the quieter 3D printing experience.

This 3D printer kit also comes with an XY-axis tensioner that enables you to increase or decrease the belt tension easily and quickly.

Operating this 3D printer is very easy, thanks to the new intuitive User Interface that  Creality included.

User Experience

One user wanted to know which cheap DIY 3D printer he could build at home. Someone recommended the Ender 3 v2 because it has a relatively reasonable price tag of $200 – $300. Additionally, it would give a good experience.

Another user who bought the Ender 3 V2 as his first 3D printer said it was very forgiving for a novice 3D printing enthusiast.

This is because, after watching assembly videos, he accidentally broke the tension arm for the extruder due to applying too much tension and his enclosure getting too warm. However, he got an aluminum replacement for just ten bucks.

Pros

• Quieter operation due to silent motherboard
• Less time and material wastage due to resume printing function
• Affordable
• Reliable print quality

Cons

• Only has basic features compared to those found in higher-end models
• It might be challenging to assemble for beginners
• The manual bed leveling can be time-consuming

The Creality Ender 3 V2 is a cost-effective 3D printer kit with notable advantages, especially its smart sensor resume function and silent motherboard. However, it does have some limitations, like the manual bed leveling.

The Ender 3 V2 3D Printer Kit is available on the 3D Printers Online Store.

Ruiraptor explains how you can assemble the Ender 3 V2 in this YouTube video.