Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing Function DIY Printers Build Volulme 8.66x8.66x9.84 inch
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AI Verdict
This 15.43-pound, 8.66x8.66x9.84 inch build volume 3D printer is for beginners ready to assemble and tinker.
This printer is a strong fit for those who want to dive deep into the mechanics of 3D printing, given its DIY assembly and open-source nature. However, its reported issues with warped beds and the need for firmware upgrades for safety mean it's not for users seeking a trouble-free experience.
If you want a more refined experience out of the box, look for printers with a 32-bit mainboard and pre-installed thermal runaway protection.
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Pros
- Open-source design allows for extensive modification and community-driven improvements
- Resume printing function prevents print failures from power outages
- Build volume of 8.66x8.66x9.84 inches (220x220x250mm) provides ample space for projects
- V-shape POM wheels contribute to smoother and quieter movement during printing
- Advanced extruder technology aims to reduce plugging and extrusion issues
- Hot bed reaches 100 degrees Celsius in 5 minutes, aiding adhesion
Cons
- Requires approximately 2 hours for assembly, not a plug-and-play device
- Prints only via SD card or computer connection, lacking phone connectivity
- Some users report warped print beds, affecting print adhesion and quality
- Older firmware versions may lack thermal runaway protection, posing a safety concern
- The mainboard is often cited as low quality, potentially requiring upgrades for better performance and safety
Dimension Scores
While capable of good prints, common user reports of warped beds and the need for upgrades to the extruder and mainboard mean out-of-the-box precision can be inconsistent.
The 2-hour assembly time and frequent need for troubleshooting and calibration, as reported by users, make it less 'easy' than fully assembled alternatives.
Its fully open-source nature and large, active community provide extensive opportunities for modifications, upgrades, and custom firmware, making it highly adaptable.
Constructed with an aluminum frame, it feels sturdy, but specific components like the mainboard and Bowden tube are frequently cited by users as needing replacement or upgrade for long-term reliability.
Best For
- Beginners eager to learn 3D printer mechanics through hands-on assembly
- Users who enjoy tinkering and upgrading hardware and firmware
- Educational settings where understanding printer construction is beneficial
- Hobbyists needing a 220x220x250mm print area for various projects
Not Recommended For
- Individuals expecting a fully assembled, out-of-the-box printing experience
- Users unwilling to troubleshoot or perform potential hardware upgrades
- Anyone prioritizing immediate, high-quality prints without calibration or modification
Watch Out For
- Some users received printers with warped print beds, making it difficult to achieve level first layers
- Older mainboards often lack a bootloader, requiring an Arduino Uno and additional wiring to update firmware and enable critical safety features like thermal runaway protection
- The stock Bowden tube setup can loosen, leading to extrusion issues and failed prints
- The original firmware might not include thermal runaway protection, which is a safety feature to prevent overheating of the hot end or bed
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B07BR3F9N6 |
| Brand | Comgrow |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Item Weight | 15.43 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Creality 3D |
| Item model number | Ender 3 |
| Product Dimensions | 16.14 x 16.54 x 18.31 inches |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users highlight the Ender 3's strong community support and the wealth of online resources as a major plus for learning 3D printing. However, a recurring complaint centers on the quality of the stock mainboard and the absence of thermal runaway protection in older firmware, which some users found alarming. The assembly process, while educational, can be a hurdle, and some buyers reported receiving printers with warped print beds, leading to early print failures. The need for immediate upgrades to components like the Bowden tube or mainboard is a common theme among long-term owners.
“Man, this thing is a project, not just a printer. Had to spend another 50 bucks and a whole weekend just to get the bed flat and flash new firmware so it wouldn't burn my house down. But hey, it prints now, and I learned a ton!”
Common Praise
- The open-source design allows for extensive customization and community support
- Resume printing function is effective in saving long prints from power interruptions
- The 8.66x8.66x9.84 inch build volume is sufficient for many projects
- The V-shape POM wheels contribute to quieter operation
- Provides a hands-on learning experience for understanding 3D printer mechanics
Common Complaints
- Some units ship with warped print beds, making bed leveling difficult
- Older firmware versions lack thermal runaway protection, a significant safety concern
- The stock mainboard is often considered low quality and may require upgrading
- The Bowden tube and connectors can be prone to failure, causing extrusion issues
- Assembly instructions could be improved for clarity
Ownership Tips
- Many users quickly replace the stock Bowden tube with a Capricorn tube for more consistent extrusion.
- Upgrading the mainboard to a 32-bit version with silent stepper drivers is a frequent early modification for quieter operation and more features.
- Adding a BLTouch or similar auto-bed leveling sensor is a common upgrade to compensate for potentially warped beds.
- Regular maintenance of the V-slot wheels and belts is necessary to maintain print quality and reduce noise.
- Learning to compile and flash custom Marlin firmware is almost a rite of passage for Ender 3 owners to unlock advanced features and safety protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to assemble the Ender 3?
The Ender 3 comes with several pre-assembled parts, and you'll need about 2 hours to complete the full assembly.
Can I print directly from my phone?
No, the Ender 3 only supports printing via an SD card or by connecting directly to a computer.
What happens if the power goes out during a print?
The Ender 3 features a resume printing function, allowing it to continue the print from where it left off after a power outage.
Is the Ender 3 open source?
Yes, the Ender 3 is fully open source, meaning its hardware CAD files, board schematics, and firmware files are available for modification and community development.
Does it have safety features like thermal runaway protection?
Some older versions of the Ender 3's mainboard and firmware did not include thermal runaway protection, which is a critical safety feature. Users often need to upgrade the firmware or mainboard to ensure this protection is present.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a 3D printer like this, you're not just buying a tool; you're buying into a hobby that often involves learning, tinkering, and troubleshooting. You'll spend time assembling it, calibrating it, and potentially upgrading parts to get the best results. Don't expect perfect prints right out of the box without some effort on your part.
Build Volume (8.66x8.66x9.84 inch)
This is the maximum size of an object you can print. Think of it like the size of your oven; a bigger oven lets you bake a bigger cake. For this printer, 8.66x8.66x9.84 inches (220x220x250mm) is a common size for hobbyist projects, letting you print most small to medium-sized items.
Open Source
This means the design files and software code are publicly available. It's like having the blueprints and recipe for a dish; you can modify it, improve it, and share your changes. This fosters a huge community that creates upgrades and solutions, but it also means you might need to rely on that community for support rather than just the manufacturer.
Resume Printing Function
Imagine you're printing something that takes 10 hours, and your power flickers for a second. Without this, your print is ruined. With resume printing, the printer remembers where it stopped and can pick up right after the power comes back on, saving you filament and frustration.
Alternatives
If this printer doesn't fit, look for models with a 32-bit mainboard, pre-installed auto-bed leveling, and direct drive extruders for a more consistent and user-friendly experience.
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