Buying Guide

Choosing the Right 3D Printer

When selecting a 3D printer, consider the following key factors:

  1. Type of 3D Printer:

    • Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): Ideal for beginners and hobbyists. Uses thermoplastic filaments to create objects layer by layer. Affordable and easy to use.
    • Stereolithography (SLA): Uses a laser to cure liquid resin into hardened plastic. Offers high precision and is great for detailed prints.
    • Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Uses a laser to fuse powdered material. Suitable for industrial applications due to its ability to print complex geometries.

  2. Build Volume:

    • Consider the maximum size of the objects you plan to print. Larger build volumes allow for bigger prints but also require more space.

  3. Print Resolution:

    • Higher resolution (measured in microns) means more detailed prints. Look for printers with adjustable layer height settings.

  4. Materials:

    • Check the compatibility with different types of filament such as PLA, ABS, PETG, and specialty materials. Some printers support multiple materials, offering more versatility.

  5. Ease of Use:

    • Features like touchscreen interfaces, Wi-Fi connectivity, and automatic bed leveling can enhance user experience, especially for beginners.

  6. Price:

    • Balance your budget with your needs. Entry-level printers are affordable but may lack some advanced features. Professional-grade printers offer superior quality and functionality at a higher cost.

Top Picks from Total 3D Systems:

  • For Beginners: [Product Name] - An affordable and user-friendly FDM printer perfect for newcomers.
  • For Professionals: [Product Name] - A high-resolution SLA printer designed for detailed and precise prints.
  • For Industrial Use: [Product Name] - A robust SLS printer capable of handling complex and large-scale projects.

3D Scanners

Choosing the Right 3D Scanner

When selecting a 3D scanner, consider the following key factors:

  1. Scanner Type:

    • Laser Scanners: Use laser beams to capture the shape of objects. Known for high accuracy and detail.
    • Structured Light Scanners: Project light patterns onto the object and capture its shape through camera sensors. Faster and often used for larger objects.
    • Photogrammetry: Uses multiple photographs from different angles to create a 3D model. Accessible and great for capturing detailed textures.

  2. Accuracy and Resolution:

    • Look for high accuracy (measured in microns) and resolution to ensure precise scans. This is especially important for applications requiring fine detail.

  3. Scan Volume:

    • Ensure the scanner can accommodate the size of the objects you plan to scan. Some scanners are optimized for small objects, while others can handle larger items.

  4. Portability:

    • Consider handheld scanners for greater flexibility and ease of use. Desktop scanners are typically more stable but less portable.

  5. Software Compatibility:

    • Ensure the scanner is compatible with your preferred 3D modeling software. Look for features like automatic mesh generation and editing tools.

  6. Price:

    • Scanners vary widely in price. Entry-level models are more affordable but may lack advanced features. Professional scanners provide superior accuracy and capabilities at a higher cost.

Top Picks from Total 3D Systems:

  • For Hobbyists: [Product Name] - An affordable structured light scanner that’s easy to use and great for medium-sized objects.
  • For Professionals: [Product Name] - A high-accuracy laser scanner designed for detailed and precise scans.
  • For Versatility: [Product Name] - A portable and flexible photogrammetry scanner perfect for capturing detailed textures.

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect 3D printer or scanner to suit your needs. If you have any questions or need further assistance, our team at Total 3D Systems is here to help. Happy printing and scanning!