7 Best 3D Printers for Software Applications – Blender, Fusion 360

One of the advantages of new 3D printers is that they have decentralized manufacturing. Before them, you couldn’t create your custom models easily.

After designing your 3D files on your software application, you had to take them to a custom machine shop to fabricate them.

Now, as commercial 3D printers become more commonplace, all that is a thing of the past. Professionals in all fields like animation, architecture can make 3D prints directly from their software applications without needing a machine shop.

For example, architects can use Revit, animators can use Blender, and even engineers can use Fusion 360 to create designs. In a matter of hours, these models can be brought to life by a 3D printer.

It’s all very exciting stuff, and it’s revolutionizing the way 3D software works. But, before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s remember the most important part of this process, the 3D printer.

So, what are the best 3D printers for software applications?

To help you answer that question, I have prepared a list of some of the best 3D printers for software applications. So, let’s dive into this list and see how we can transform your virtual models into a physical ones.

1. Creality Ender 3 V2

The Creality Ender 3 V2 should be at the top of every newbie’s list. The Ender 3 offers premium features and superb print quality at a budget price.

Also, with its modular nature and open-source firmware, you are sure to have a wonderful time modifying it to suit both your software and hardware needs.

Features of the Ender 3 V2

• Open Build Space
• Carborundum Glass Platform
• High-Quality Meanwell Power Supply
• 3-Inch LCD Color Screen
• XY-Axis Tensioners
• Built-In Storage Compartment
• New Silent Motherboard
• Fully Upgraded Hotend & Fan Duct
• Smart Filament Run Out Detection
• Effortless Filament Feeding
• Print Resume Capabilities
• Quick-Heating Hot Bed

Specifications of the Ender 3 V2

• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Maximum Printing Speed: 180mm/s
• Layer Height/Print Resolution: 0.1mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 255°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: MicroSD Card, USB.
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Open
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA, TPU, PETG

The Ender 3 V2’s design makes it a compact yet elegant addition to any workbench. The whole frame is built out of high-strength aluminum extrusions while the power supply is neatly tucked into the base.

Also, on the base, we have a storage compartment built into the structure. The storage compartment can come in handy for storing odds and ends like nozzles, scrapers, etc.

For operating the printer, Creality includes a 3-inch full-color LCD screen with a scroll wheel for navigation.  The stock firmware that comes with the printer offers some basic functionality. If you feel you need more quality, you can always upgrade it.

Still, on connectivity, Creality includes both a MicroSD card port and a USB A port for transferring prints. The USB port is helpful because you can connect your PC directly to your PC.

Also, you can use the USB port to extend the printer’s functionality with software applications like OctoPrint.

Going to the printer’s heart where the main action happens, we have a carborundum glass platform for printing.

A top-notch power supply heats this glass platform for easy print removal and anti-warping. As a result, you can print filaments like TPU and PETG with this printer.

Going over to the extruder-hotend assembly, the V2 steps things up a bit over its previous generations.

Although the printer still comes with its standard Bowden tube extruder, an improved hotend and fan duct design means it cools 30% more efficiently.

The improved cooling is a huge deal. It means when you are printing complex models from software applications like Blender with PLA, there will be no layer shifting.

The top-notch print quality its previous generations are known for only improves.

User Experience of the Ender 3 V2

• The Ender 3 V2 comes disassembled in the box, so you’ll have to spend quite a bit of time on assembly.
• It does not come with automatic bed leveling, so you’ll have to level the bed manually.
• The Ender 3 V2 comes with stock firmware.
• It is also compatible with a wide variety of software applications for creating and slicing prints. However, we recommend using the Cura slice for the best results.
• The USB port works well with software like OctoPrint and even PCs with Linux software. It extends the printer’s functionality.
• The heated print bed and the extruder produce decent quality prints. However, to get better print quality, you can always upgrade the extruder and the hotend.

Pros of the Ender 3 V2

• Easy to use for beginners, giving out high performance and much enjoyment
• Relatively cheap and great value for money
• Great support community.
• Design and structure look very aesthetically pleasing
• High precision printing
• 5 minutes to heat up
• The all-metal body gives stability and durability
• Easy to assemble and maintain
• The power supply is integrated underneath the build-plate, unlike the Ender 3
• It is modular and easy to customize

Cons of the Ender 3 V2

• A bit difficult to assemble
• Open build space is not ideal for minors
• Only one motor on the Z-axis
• Glass beds do tend to be heavier, so it may lead to ringing in prints
• No touchscreen interface like some other modern printers

Final Thoughts

With its open-source firmware, multiple connection options, and modular build, the Ender 3 V2 is a great printer for software applications.

It is ideal for both learners trying to master the ropes and experts who need more freedom.

Get your very own Ender 3 V2 from Amazon at a great price today.

2. Anycubic Mono Photon SE

The Anycubic Mono Photon SE is a top-of-the-line resin printer aimed at professionals looking for high-quality 3D models.

The Photon SE boasts many features for its price tag, including greater model detail and faster curing times.

Features of the Anycubic Photon Mono SE

• 6” 2K Monochrome LCD
• New Matrix Parallel Light Source
• Fast Printing Speed
• Wi-Fi Supported App Remote Control
• UV Cooling System
• Easy Bed Leveling System
• Own Anycubic Slicing Software
• High-Performance Z-Axis
• High-Quality Power Supply
• Attractive Design
• Brushed Aluminum Platform
• Air Filter System

Specifications of the Anycubic Photon Mono SE

• Build Volume: 130mm x 78mm x 160mm
• Display Screen: 6.08-Inch Touch Screen
• Technology: LCD-Based SLA (Stereolithography)
• Printer Type: Resin 3D Printer
• Operating System: Windows, Mac OS X
• Layer Height: 10+ Microns
• Max Printing Speed: 80mm/h
• Compatible Materials: 405nm UV Resin
• Z-Axis Positioning Accuracy: 0.01mm
• XY Resolution: 0.051mm (2560 x 1620 Pixels)
• File Types: STL
• Power: 55W
• Assembly: Fully Assembled
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
• Printer Dimensions: 220mm x 200mm x 400mm
• Third-Party Materials: Yes
• Slicer Software: Anycubic Photon Workshop
• Weight: 8.2 KG (18.07 Pounds)

The Anycubic Photon SE has a compact yet beautiful design. It fits a 130mm x 78mm x 160mm build volume into a sturdy metal frame enclosed by a stunning yellow acrylic screen.

At the printer’s base, there is a resin vat capable of holding up to 100ml of 405nm UV resin.

We also have a large 6.08-inch full-color touchscreen for interacting with the printer. The screen is oriented at an ergonomic angle to make operation easier.

Unfortunately, for tinkerers out there, the Mono SE’s firmware is not open source. However, with the features and capabilities of the stock firmware, this shouldn’t be an issue.

The Mono SE comes with two main connection options; USB A and Wi-Fi. You can use the USB A connection with a USB stick or transfer prints directly from your slicer software application to the printer.

However, the Wi-fi connection cannot transfer print files. It can only monitor and control printing remotely.

For preparing and slicing 3D models for printing, Anycubic includes its proprietary Photon workshop software. However, there is increasing support for other third-party slicers that offer more capabilities.

Opening the printer, we have an Aluminum build plate mounted on dual linear rails. The build plate’s setup gives it additional stability and precision.

The addition of an anti-backlash nut also makes sure the z-axis moves smoothly during printing.

For printing and curing layers, the Mono SE has a high-quality 2K monochrome screen. The screen gives the 3D prints an impressive XY resolution of 51 microns.

The monochrome light source also reduces layer curing times to less than 2 seconds resulting in shorter printing times.

As a result, the Mono SE produces 3D prints well above the quality of hobbyist 3D printers. It is ideal for small businesses like jewelers and dentists. It gives them a quick, reliable way to print out their designs from their software applications.

User Experience of the Anycubic Photon Mono SE

• The assembly of the Mono SE is as easy as it gets. It comes partially assembled. You only have to do a little work to get it printing.
• It has automatic one-key bed leveling to make things easier. All you have to do is press the touchscreen and tighten the build plate’s screws, and you’re good to go.
• The printer’s USB port and Wi-fi both provide great connectivity. You can connect the printer to your devices and monitor and modify your prints on the go.
• The print quality on the Mono SE is good. Prints come out looking very detailed without any visible layering.
• Its air filter makes its operation very quiet and safe.

Pros of the Anycubic Photon Mono SE

• Provides a high precision with a minimum layer height of 10 microns (2K resolution)
• The platform can be easily calibrated using a single nut
• The system includes high-performance air filters
• Its high printing speed is about 3-4 times faster than an RGB screen
• The printer has a reduced exposure time to 1 second
• Easy to use interface
• Allow you to remotely adjust the print settings, control the print operations, and monitor the progress.
• System packing includes other necessary accessories such as handles, scrappers, masks, gloves, funnels, etc.
• This 3D printer does include a Wi-Fi Module or Antenna
• Includes a high-quality metal resin vat

Cons of the Anycubic Photon Mono SE

• A drawback is its non-removable lid, though some people enjoy this concept since it takes up less space.
• Its build volume is relatively low as compared to other resin 3D printers.
• The proprietary file type is limited to certain slicers and may mean extra steps to get your desired model.

Final Thoughts

The Anycubic Mono SE delivers on its price tag. It produces commercial-grade print quality. Also, its stunning design would be a great addition to a modern workbench.

So, get an Anycubic Photon Mono SE today and enjoy that superior print quality.

3. Qidi Tech X-Max

The Qidi Tech X-Max is Qidi’s supersize flagship. It is an enormous desktop printer that comes packed with all the latest bells and whistles.

The X-max doesn’t come cheap and isn’t for the average hobbyist, but its quality and professional features are appreciated by several current customers.

Features of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Solid Structure and Wide Touchscreen
• Different Types of Printing for You
• Double Z-axis
• Newly Developed Extruder
• Two Different Ways for Placing the Filament
• QIDI Print Slicer
• QIDI TECH One-to-one Service & Free Warranty
• Wi-Fi Connectivity
• Ventilated & Enclosed 3D Printer System
• Large Build Size
• Removable Metal Plate

Specifications of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Build Volume: 300 x 250 x 300mm
• Filament Compatibility: PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG, Nylon, PC, Carbon Fiber, etc
• Platform Support: Double Z-axis
• Build Plate: Heated, removable plate
• Support: 1-Year with infinite customer support
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Printing Extruder: Single extruder
• Layer Resolution: 0.05mm – 0.4mm
• Extruder Configuration: 1 set of a specialized extruder for PLA, ABS, TPU & 1 set of a high-performance extruder for printing PC, Nylon, Carbon Fiber

The Qidi Tech X-Max is a solidly built 3D printer with a cube shape. The exterior of the printer is made out of high-quality plastic with acrylic windows for monitoring prints.

The X-Max’s build volume is closed. This means you can print materials like ABS and Nylon with no problem.

Another unique design feature of the X-max is its dual spool holders. One is located inside to protect temperature-sensitive hygroscopic materials, while the other is outside.

The X-Max sports a full-color, 5-inch touchscreen for operating the printer. It comes loaded with closed-source stock firmware from Qidi. So, you can’t modify the firmware.

For prepping and slicing the print, Qidi has its software, the Qidi print. It is a capable piece of software. However, you can still use the popular Cura slicer if you want to.

Moving to connectivity, the X-max has a variety of options. You can use either Wi-fi, USB A, or ethernet to connect to the printer and transfer files. You can even connect a PC to multiple printers at once with the right software application.

At the printer’s heart, we have a heated build plate. This build plate is removable, flexible, and magnetic. So, you can bend it and pop the print right off.

The extruder also comes with an interesting design. It comes with two extruders right out of the box. You can swap them out depending on the material you are printing.

For example, high-temperature materials like nylon and carbon fiber have their extruder while regular materials like ABS and PLA have theirs. With this, your can create higher quality models with different materials.

User Experience of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• The Qidi Tech X-max is a plug-and-play printer. It comes pre-assembled in the box, so all you need to do is plug it in and load the filament.
• The X-max comes with one-key fast bed leveling. You press one button, and the bed automatically levels, and you screw it in place.
• The print quality and resolution on the X-max are very good. It can print at resolutions of 100 microns which is very good for an FDM printer.
• The operation of the printer is also quiet.

Pros of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Amazing and consistent 3D print quality that will impress many
• Durable parts can be created with ease
• Pause and resume function so you can change over the filament anytime
• This printer is set up with high-quality thermostats with more stability and potentiality
• Excellent UI interface that makes your printing operation easier
• Quiet printing
• Great customer service and helpful community

Cons of the Qidi Tech X-Max

• Doesn’t have filament runout detection
• The instructional manual isn’t too clear, but you can get good video tutorials to follow.
• The internal light can’t be turned off
• Touchscreen interface can take a little getting used to

Final Thoughts

At its price point, this printer is not for everybody. But for those that can afford it, it provides a seamless, worry-free, high-quality printing experience.

Get yourself the Qidi Tech X-Max from Amazon for a high-quality machine.

4. Flashforge Adventurer 3

The Flashforge Adventurer is a compact, easy-to-use 3D printer aimed at beginners and educators. Its minimalist design prioritizes simplicity and ease of use.

But still, this little printer has some premium tricks up its sleeve.

Features of the Flashforge Adventurer 3

• Compact and Stylish Design
• Upgraded Nozzle for Stable Filament Loading
• Turbofan and Air Guide
• Easy Nozzle Replacement
• Fast Heating
• No Leveling Mechanism
• Removable Heated Bed
• Integrated Wi-Fi Connection
• 2 MB HD Camera
• 45 Decibels, Quite Operating
• Filament Detection
• Auto Filament Feeding
• Work with 3D Cloud

Specifications of the Flashforge Adventurer 3

• Technology: FFF/FDM
• Brand/Manufacturer: Flash Forge
• Body Frame Dimensions: 480 x 420 x 510mm
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS X, Linux
• Display: 2.8 Inch LCD Color Touch Screen
• Mechanical Arrangements: Cartesian
• Extruder Type: Single
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Size: 0.4mm
• Layer Resolution: 0.1-0.4mm
• Maximum Build Volume: 150 x 150 x 150mm
• Print Bed: Heated
• Maximum Build Plate Temperature: 100°C
• Maximum Printing Speed: 100mm/s
• Bed Balancing: Manual
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet Cable, Cloud Printing
• Supported File Type: STL, OBJ
• Best Suitable Slicers: Flash Print
• Compatible Printing Material: PLA, ABS
• Third-Party Filament Support: Yes
• Weight: 9 KG (19.84 Pounds)

The Flashforge Adventurer 3’s compact build makes it an ideal tool for workbenches and tabletops. Its 150 x 150 x 150mm build volume is carefully enclosed in plastic molded parts. There are also transparent acrylic windows by the side to give a view into the closed build volume.

On the Adventurer’s front panel, there is a highly interactive 2.8-inch LCD screen for navigating through the printer’s menu. The touchscreen’s UI is backed up by a pretty robust firmware from Flashforge. However, the firmware is not open source.

On the hardware side of things, there are quite a few premium features on the Adventurer 3. Quality features like the filament detection sensor and the auto filament feeding make using this printer a breeze.

There are also lots of top-notch features on the connection side. On the Adventurer 3, users can choose between using USB, Wi-fi, Ethernet, or cloud printing to transfer their models.

Even better, there’s a 2MP HD camera for capturing video and monitoring prints remotely!

Going down to the print bed, we have a heated build plate capable of reaching temperatures of up to 100°C.

The build plate is made out of “Memory shape” materials which makes it flexible. It can be easily bent to pop the prints off.

For printing, Flashforge introduces a new type of modular nozzle. The nozzle is lightweight and very easy to change. It also performs at a very high level being able to reach temperatures in 50 seconds.

The extruder assembly also has an improved fan array for better print quality. You can observe the benefits of this in the final product because the Adventurer 3 produces good quality smooth prints with a wide variety of materials.

User Experience of the Flashforge Adventurer 3

• The Adventurer 3 is a pretty easy printer to install and get running. It is already put together. All you need to do is to load the filaments and level the print bed.
• The filament loading works well with auto infeed cartridge. Also, the automatic one-time bed leveling saves users a lot of time.
• The USB connection for loading the prints onto the printer works well, although there are some hiccups with the slicer.
• The cloud function also works well for slicing and loading prints from software applications like TinkerCAD.

Pros of the Flashforge Adventurer 3

• Easy to use
• Support third party filaments
• Filament runout detection sensor
• Resume printing
• Multiple connectivity options available
• Flexible and removable build plate
• Quite printing
• High resolution and precision

Cons of the Flashforge Adventurer 3

• Large filament rolls may not fit in a filament holder
• Sometimes emits a knocking sound while printing third party filaments
• The instruction manual is a bit messy and difficult to understand
• Wi-Fi connectivity may cause issues in terms of updating software

Final Thoughts

At this price point, the Flashforge Adventurer crams a lot of top-notch features into a small package. It might be a bit restrictive for experienced users, but for newcomers, it’s worth every penny.

Begin your 3D printing journey today with the Flashforge Adventurer 3 from Amazon.

5. Creality CR-10 V3

The Creality CR-10 V3 is a large format 3D printer that can fulfill all your large printing needs. It combines a brand-new Titan extruder with a large volume to provide supersize, high-quality prints.

Features of the Creality CR-10 V3

• Direct Titan Drive
• Dual Port Cooling Fan
• TMC2208 Ultra-Silent Motherboard
• Filament Breakage Sensor
• Resume Printing Sensor
• 350W Branded Power Supply
• BL-Touch Supported
• UI Navigation

Specifications of the Creality CR-10 V3

• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
• Feeder System: Direct Drive
• Extruder Type:  Single Nozzle
• Nozzle Size: 0.4mm
• Hot End Temperature: 260°C
• Heated Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Print Bed Material: Carborundum glass platform
• Frame: Metal
• Bed Leveling: Automatic optional
• Connectivity: SD card
• Print Recovery: Yes
• Filament Sensor: Yes

The CR-10 V3 is designed like most other Creality printers. It has a spare open metal frame made out of aluminum extrusions. The CR-10 sports additional cross braces to give the printer stability on the Z-axis.

The printer comes with a rather disappointing LCD screen and a scroll wheel for navigating the menu. However, they are placed on an all-new control box with a powerful 350W Meanwell power supply for heating the print bed.

The CR-10 V3 has several new firmware features for a better printing experience. These features include print resume function, filament runout sensor, and support for an automatic bed leveling sensor.

For connection options, the printer comes with an SD card connection. The printer doesn’t have a USB A connection so, its connection options are a bit limited.

For slicing prints, there is support for the popular Cura slicer. You can also use a host of other third-party slicers like Simplify3D.

Going down to the printing area, we have a large heated glass bed. The bed dissipates heat evenly, and prints come off it smoothly.

It is also large enough to handle large models from software applications like Revit without any issues.

For printing, we also have a top-notch Titan direct drive extruder. With a Titan extruder, so many printing opportunities open up for the user. High-quality 3D models can be created rapidly from a wide range of materials like ABS, TPU, etc.

User Experience of the Creality CR-10 V3

• The CR-10 V3 is fairly easy to assemble. Most of the parts are already pre-assembled, so all you have to do is bolt the frame together.
• There is no automatic bed leveling available out of the box. You have to use the manual method. However, Creality did leave space for an upgraded sensor.
• The poor LCD and its scroll wheel take a bit of getting used to, but they do their job.
• The printer provides great print quality consistently, and there is little noise during its operation.

Pros of the Creality CR-10 V3

• Easy to assembly and operate
• Quick heating for faster printing
• Parts pop of the print bed after cooling
• Great customer service with Comgrow
• Amazing value compared to other 3D printers out there

Cons of the Creality CR-10 V3

• Not any significant cons!

Final Thoughts

The Creality CR-10 might not have some of the flashy features popping up in new printers nowadays, but that doesn’t diminish its value one bit. When it comes to quality and work rate, no other printer delivers more value than the Creality CR-10.

You can find the Creality CR-10 V3 from Amazon.

6. Dremel Digilab 3D20

The Dremel Digilab is a charming little entry-level 3D printer for newcomers to 3D printing. The Digilab was built with two things in mind; simplicity and safety.

The resulting product scores high marks in both categories, making it the premier choice for STEM educators all over.

Features of the Digilab 3D20

• Enclosed Build Volume
• Good Print Resolution
• Simple & Easy to Maintain Extruder
• 4-Inch Full-Color LCD Touch Screen
• Great Online Support
• Premium Durable Build
• Established Brand With 85 Years of Reliable Quality
• Simple to Use Interface

Specifications of the Digilab 3D20

• Build Volume: 230 x 150 x 140mm
• Printing Speed: 120mm/s
• Layer Height/Print Resolution: 0.01mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 230°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: N/A
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: USB A, MicroSD card
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Closed
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA

The Dremel Digilab is a minute printer that doesn’t take up much desktop space. Its small build volume is covered by a metal frame with a clear acrylic viewport offering a glimpse into the build space.

The Digilab 3D20 takes safety quite seriously.

The entire build volume is safely enclosed and cannot be opened during printing. It also has air filters installed to guard against harmful fumes from materials like ABS.

For interacting with the printer, there’s a 4-inch full-color LCD touchscreen placed on the printer’s front panel. The touchscreen is backed up by an incredibly intuitive and beginner-friendly UI filled with lots of useful features.

For connecting to the printer and transferring prints, the Digilab comes with both a USB A port and an SD card slot.

With these ports, you can transfer 3D models from software applications like TinkerCAD to Dremel software, then from Dremel software to the printer for printing.

The build plate of the Dremel 3D 20 is non-heated and non-removable for safety reasons. As a result, the printer can only print PLA filaments. However, the prints come off nicely without much stress.

For the extruder, the Digilab 3D20 features nothing special. Its extruder produces decent print quality and gets the job done fairly quickly which is all we can ask for at this price point.

User Experience of the Digilab 3D20

• The Dremel Digilab 3D20 is easy to set up. It comes pre-assembled in the box, so all you have to do is load the filament and level the print bed.
• There is no automatic bed leveling. You have to do that manually.
• The Digilab’s firmware is not open source, so you cannot modify it.
• The operation of the Digilab is quiet due to its closed build. You can even leave it on for overnight printing without worrying about accidents.

Pros of the Digilab 3D20

• Enclosed build space means better filament compatibility
• Premium and durable build
• Easy to use – bed leveling, operation
• Has its own Dremel Slicer software
• Durable and long-lasting 3D printer
• Great community support

Cons of the Digilab 3D20

• Relatively expensive
• Can be hard to remove prints from the build plate
• Limited software support
• Only supports SD card connection
• Restricted filament options – listed as just PLA

Final Thoughts

Although the Digilab 3D20 might not have the mind-blowing features of other printers, it still does a pretty good job. For beginners looking for a simple, gentle introduction to 3D printing, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Get the Dremel Digilab 3D20 on Amazon for a great price today.

7. Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

The Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 is an impressive mid-ranger stocked with a few high-end features. It offers a beautiful design, impressive print quality, and a large build volume at a budget price.

Features of the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

• Rapid Heating Ceramic Glass Print Bed
• Direct Drive Extruder System
• Large Build Volume
• Print Resume Capability After a Power Outage
• Ultra-Quiet Stepper Motor
• Filament Detector Sensor
• LCD-Color Touch Screen
• Safe and Secure, Quality Packaging
• Synchronized Dual Z-Axis System

Specifications of the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
• Printing Speed: 150mm/s
• Layer Height/Print Resolution: 0.1mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 265°C
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 130°C
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Extruder: Single
• Control Board – MKS Gen L
• Nozzle Type – Volcano
• Connectivity: USB A, MicroSD card
• Bed Levelling: Manual
• Build Area: Open
• Compatible Printing Materials: PLA / ABS / TPU / Flexible materials

As we said earlier, the Sidewinder X1 V4 has a very beautiful design. It houses its power supply in a sleek black base made out of metal. The whole printer from the base unit to the gantries is made of sturdy, high-quality metal.

The Sidewinder has a colorful 3.5-inch LCD on the front of the printer for operating it. The UI on the touchscreen is very intuitive and provides a lot of features for the user.

For connectivity, the Artillery Sidewinder has both USB A and SD cards. The USB A port extends the printer’s functionality. It can be connected to a PC or you can use a software application like OctoPrint with it to unlock more features.

Going to the heart of the printer, we have a heated large build plate. The ceramic glass plate can comfortably take large-sized models without any hassle.

To further enhance the quality of the first layer, a powerful AC heater heats the glass bed. So, prints come off with a shiny, smooth bottom finish.

Up top, we have the extruder assembly sporting a direct drive style extruder. This assembly is mounted on dual lead screws to ensure the Z-axis is always stable and in sync.

As a result, the print quality from software applications like Heroforge is always great.

The extruder itself is a Titan aero-style model. It can provide great quality prints with a wide variety of filaments while maintaining a high flow rate for rapid printing.

User Experience of the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

• The Sidewinder comes with all its parts disassembled in the box. However, it is relatively easy to put it all together.
• There is no bed leveling on the Sidewinder X1 V4. You have to level the bed manually.
• The stock firmware is great and bug-free.
• There is some Z-axis wobble when printing near the top of the printer.
• Also, the print bed does not heat up evenly. Places farther from the center usually have lower temperatures
• Overall, the Sidewinder X1 V4 provides great print quality consistently with different materials.

Pros of the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

• Heated glass build plate
• It supported both USB and microSD cards for more choice
• Well-organized bunch of ribbon cables for better organization
• Large build volume
• Quiet printing operation
• Has large leveling knobs for easier leveling
• A smooth and firmly placed print bed gives the bottom of your prints a shiny finish.
• Fast heating of the heated bed
• Very quiet operation in the steppers
• Easy to assemble
• A helpful community that will guide you through any issues that come up
• Prints reliable, consistently, and at a high quality
• Amazing build volume for the price

Cons of the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

• Uneven heat distribution on the print bed
• Delicate wiring on the heat pad and extruder
• The spool holder is pretty tricky and hard to adjust
• EEPROM save is not supported by the unit

Final Thoughts

The Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 is one of the best printers in the mid-range division. It might have a few design bugs, but overall, it’s still a pretty solid printer.

Get a premium printing experience at a budget price. Get the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 today! 

So, there you have it, these are some of the best 3D printers on the market for software applications. We hope our list helps you make the best purchase decision possible.