3D printing Where to start

[highlandcattle]

I've become increasingly interested in 3D printing.
Mainly handy parts for my computers and replacement of broken parts but also things like action figure heads and stuff.

Where do I start? I've read up several articles but I would like to know from some people who actually used 3D printers for this kind of stuff.

Thanks in advance

 

[HomeLate]

I use one for my business. I first started with an Ender 3 V2. Once configured and the bed is levelled correctly, it's a great printer. I upgraded the printer with a direct drive extruder and dual Z-axis.
I sold the printer and made a major upgrade: Bambu Labs X1 Carbon with AMS. This is one fantastic printer. It's too much to explain here but in general: load your stl-file and press print. That's it, all is done automatically and the results are fantastic.

Also one to consider is a Prusa. These are great durable printers and have great results. Prusa have a lot of experience and expertise in developing 3d printers in house.

 

[Watson]

The Bambu Labs X1 Carbon with AMS is great but, that's an hefty price if all you're using it for is casual 3d printing. Just my 2 cents.

 

[4MlGA]

I've been using a Prusa MK3+ printer which I bought in 2022, and it works well with retro mods. It's not the fastest printer out there compared to newer models, but it's still a good deal for the price. With the MK4 now available, you can find MK3+ printers at reasonable prices. I'm still new to 3D printing, so I'm learning as I go.

 

[Aeberbach]

Used Prusa MK3S (in good condition and stock) is a great place to start. It's only once you start changing hotends or tweaking that you need to really know what makes a printer go (or otherwise) so it's an ideal learning machine. If you have the cash buy the MK4 with enclosure, hardened nozzle, filtration, lights etc - amazing setup.

 

[Amiga Forever]

I did love to owned 3D printer like make own 3D Carts, own Amiga or Retro computer case

3D Printer price come long way as I remember when first come out as it too expensive and now seem good time to buy them but to have somethings for 3D printer to print 3D Models doesnt come cheap thought.

 

[HomeLate]

The Bambu Labs X1 Carbon with AMS is great but, that's an hefty price if all you're using it for is casual 3d printing. Just my 2 cents.

Yep, correct. The P1P, P1S or A1 or more viable options in that use case. The Prusa MK4 is also expensive.

It's a difficult choice to make. The Bambu Labs printers are also a closed platform, meaning that you have to buy spare parts van Bambu Labs themselves. This is not the case with Creality or Prusa.

 

[Aeberbach]

I did love to owned 3D printer like make own 3D Carts, own Amiga or Retro computer case

3D Printer price come long way as I remember when first come out as it too expensive and now seem good time to buy them but to have somethings for 3D printer to print 3D Models doesnt come cheap thought.

Eh? Models are usually free. Printables, Thingiverse, Bambu, Thangs, Grabcad and may more sites, and if you get tired of other people's you can make your own for free.