12 of the best 3D pens and 3D printing pens

Feb 5, 2018 | By Tess

From mini Eiffel Towers drawn in 3D, to architectural models, to intricate and unique fashion pieces, 3D printing pens have been an integral part of the 3D printing industry, especially on its creative side. Of course, the process of using 3D pens varies quite a lot from standard 3D printing processes in that they do not require any 3D or digital modeling beforehand, a feature that has made them somewhat more accessible than other additive manufacturing technologies.

Here at 3Ders, we have seen countless projects that have been realized with the help of 3D printing pens, most of which have left us completely in awe. What has become obvious through these various projects is what a versatile tool a 3D printing pen can be, used as an artistic medium, a prototyping tool, and even just for fun.

Besides being an amazing creative tool, the 3D pen, which typically uses plastic filament that it melts, extrudes, and cools, can be a good way to introduce additive manufacturing technologies to both children and 3D printing beginners. For all of these reasons, and to help consumers decide which 3D printing pen could be best for them, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite 3D printing pens that have gained a positive reputation throughout the 3D printing industry and maker communities.

Best 3D pen #1: 3Doodler Create

Price: $99

WobbleWorks, maker of the world’s very first 3D printing pen, 3Doodler, could not be ignored on our list of 3D pens, as the company has become easily one of the most recognized brands in the business. With several years under its belt making 3D printing pens, 3Doodler has undeniably come out with some great and exciting products, not least of which is the 3Doodler Create. The 3Doodler Create is the latest generation of its flagship product, the 3Doodler.

The 3Doodler Create 3D printing pen is a versatile but still easy-to-use tool that offers a number of useful features such as an ergonomic aluminum structure and intuitive controls. In an upgrade from its predecessor, the 3Doodler Create also integrates a new drive system, which has resulted in even smoother extrusion and 3D drawing. Notably, the 3Doodler Create features dual speed and dual temperature settings, which means it can be used with a wide range of materials (3Doodler offers a range of materials in 65 colors, as well as matte, glossy, clear, glow, flexy, and sparkle filaments).

The 3Doodler Create can also be amped up with a range of accessories and products, such as the DoodleStand, DoodlePad, Pedal, JetPack, and a Nozzle Set.

Best 3D pen #2: CreoPop cordless 3D pen

Price: $129

The CreoPop 3D pen is another well-regarded 3D pen, which has been especially popular for young makers, largely because of its “cool ink” technology. Unlike the 3Doodler and many other 3D printing pens on the market, the CreoPop does not use thermoplastics and thus does not necessitate a hot tip to melt the plastic. Instead, the CreoPop uses light-sensitive inks, also known as photopolymers, which are solidified using LED diodes. This makes CreoPop 3D printing pens exceptionally safe for young users.

The CreoPop 3D pen is also cordless, so you won’t be encumbered by wires while you create. To charge the 3D printing pen, you simply have to plug it in via USB cable to your computer or power source.

In terms of materials, CreoPop has released a wide range of proprietary photopolymers, including standard inks in an assortment of colors, and specialized inks such as glow-in-the-dark, glittering, temperature-sensitive, and aromatic inks. Users can also expect to see new inks, such as elastic, body paint, and magnetic ink released soon. Each ink cartridge (they are sold in packs of 3 for $19.99) can print up to 14 meters (46 feet) with 1 mm diameter.

The CreoPop 3D printing pen is sold through a number of retailers including Best Buy, Walmart, Staples, Barnes & Noble, and more.

Best 3D pen #3: Scribbler 3D Pen (V3)

Price: $99

The Scribbler 3D Pen has been on the market for some time, but has become especially notable since the release of its third generation 3D printing pen: the Scribbler 3D Pen V3. The Scribbler 3D Pen V3 features an ergonomic structure, specially designed to fit comfortably in the user’s hand, and is made entirely from plastic and ceramics (no metal). The 3D pen is also very light, weighing in at only 50 grams, which makes it easy to use.

In terms of settings, the Scribbler 3D Pen V3 lets users choose between six different speed settings, as well as the type of plastic (PLA or ABS) and temperature. One of the best things about the Scribbler 3D printing pen is that it also features a OLED-display, which lets users easily visualize their settings in a concise and clear way.

The Scribbler 3D Pen V3 is also available in eight different colors, including red, blue, green, yellow, white, metallic purple, metallic blue, and silver.

Best 3D pen #4: 7TECH 3D printing pen

Price: $39

The 7TECH 3D printing pen is another affordable option for those looking for an FDM-style (hot nozzle) 3D pen. Priced at just $39 (down from $80), the 7TECH 3D pen has not only been recognized for its ease of use, but also for its extremely quiet nature when operating.

The 3D printing pen integrates a number of standard features as well, including compatibility with both PLA and ABS filaments, adjustable nozzle temperature and extrusion speed (the latter can be adjusted with an easy-to-use slider mechanism), and an LCD display screen. Amongst its most notable features are an unclogging mechanism as well as a filament jamming detection system which works to prevent the filament sticks from becoming clogged in the 3D pen.

As mentioned, the 7TECH 3D printing pen is especially notable for the little amount of noise it generates while printing. Don’t worry though, if it’s too quiet for you to hear if it’s been left on, it also has an automatic standby mode for when it has been inactive for five minutes.

The 7TECH 3D printing pen measures 7.3 x 1.1 x 1.6 inches (18.5 x 2.8 x 4 cm), and weighs about 2.2 ounces (62 grams).

Best 3D pen #5: LIX 3D pen

Price: $139

The LIX 3D smart pen, which was originally funded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2014, has become known as the smallest circular 3D printing pen on the market. Despite some initial difficulties getting its backer orders filled, the LIX Smart Pen has come through as a promising option for 3D printing pen users.

The LIX 3D pen is compatible with both PLA and ABS filaments, which can be fed into the top of the 3D printing pen’s body, melted, and subsequently cooled. To use the pen, users will only have to wait about a minute for the pen to heat up before using it. As PLA and ABS have different melting points, the LIX 3D pen features two different heat settings, one for each of the materials.

Most notable about the LIX 3D pen is its size. With a diameter of 0.55 inches and a length of 6.45 inches, the 3D printing pen is by far the smallest, most portable on the market. So, if you are looking for a discreet 3D printing pen, the LIX might just be it.

Best 3D pen #6: Lay3r 3D drawing pen

Price: $99

While the Lay3r 3D Drawing Pen might look a bit rudimentary, it is nonetheless a contender on our list, as it is actually a great option for newbie makers and kids. The affordable 3D printing pen offers all the standard requisites for a 3D pen, including compatibility with 1.75 mm ABS filaments, an auto shut-off safety feature, and different speed settings.

The Lay3r 3D drawing pen is recommended for ages 12 and up, and is remarkably user-friendly. While some 3D printing pens warn against over-heating and can be hot to the touch, the Lay3r 3D pen integrates a built-in cooling fan so that issue does not occur. The Lay3r 3D pen is powered by a standard outlet cord, and an LED light on the pen will indicate if it is on or off.

Lay3r offers a one-year warranty on its 3D printing pen.

Best 3D pen #7: GENESIS 3D printing pen

Price: $99

Developed by Lasso Labs, the GENESIS 3D pen is an easy-to-use FDM 3D printing pen that has been geared towards artists. With an ergonomic design and a light weight, the GENESIS is both comfortable and easy to use. While the 3D pen is not recommended for children, because of its hot tip, its many features make it a solid option for artists.

Among these features are speed and temperature control options, a small LCD screen to visualize these, an unload button to facilitate the removal and recharging of filament into the 3D pen, and an innovative airflow design at the 3D pen’s tip that speeds up the cooling process.

The GENESIS 3D printing pen is compatible with both PLA and ABS filaments, and offers its clients a lifetime warranty.

Best 3D pen #8: Polyes Q1 3D printing pen

Price: $79

In 2014, the Polyes Q1 launched through a successful Kickstarter campaign and gained much attention for its LED and light sensitive resin technology. Similar to the CreoPop 3D pen, the Polyes Q1 pen markets itself as being much safer than FDM 3D printing pens because it does not use hot parts to melt plastic.

The LED 3D pen is also notable for being cordless and can be charged by USB. In addition to being safe for kids because of its lack of heat, the Polyes Q1 3D printing pen also features an additional safety tool which automatically turns the LED light off when the 3D pen is facing upwards, protecting the user’s eyes.

Similar to the CreoPop 3D pen, the Polyes Q1 is also compatible with various types of ink including special ones like glow-in-the-dark, temperature changing, and even aromatic inks. A set of ink refills can be ordered online for about $35 (the pack includes 5 colors).

Developed by FutureMake, the Polyes Q1 3D pen is available for purchase through Amazon. A potential downside to the 3D pen is its size, which is quite bulky compared to many other 3D printing pens on the list.

Best 3D pen #9: MYNT 3D printing pen

Price: $69

The MYNT 3D pen, recognizable for its somewhat slimmer structure, is a solid choice for those looking for a sub-$100 3D printing pen. The 3D printing pen includes such features as adjustable extrusion speed and flow, adjustable temperature to the degree (within a range of 130 to 240 degrees Celsius), and an OLED display so users can easily visualize their chosen settings.

The MYNT 3D pen, which can be plugged in to a power source, has a power output of 10 watts and an input of 5 volts/DC 2A. Additionally, rather than keep your finger on the extrusion button the whole time, users can simply double click the button for continuous flow. The 3D pen is reportedly also relatively quiet, which for many is a requisite.

The MYNT 3D printing pen is compatible with 1.75 mm ABS filaments.

Best 3D pen #10: 3Doodler Start

Price: $49

The 3Doodler Start is WobbleWorks, Inc.’s child-friendly 3D pen product, which is marketed for kids aged eight to 13. What makes the 3Doodler Start 3D pen good for kids? Well, first and foremost, the size is significantly smaller than the original 3Doodler 3D printing pen, allowing it to fit more easily into small hands. In order to comply with toy safety standards in the U.S. and Europe, the 3Doodler Start has also removed all exposed hot parts, so kids won’t even risk getting burnt by the 3D pen.

Additionally, unlike the more advanced 3Doodler Create, the 3Doodler Start is designed to use specially developed non-toxic bio-plastics. According to a 3Doodler rep, the filament can even be put into compost and will begin to decompose after just 45 days.

Another bonus of the 3Doodler Start is that the 3D pen can operate wirelessly. From a full charge, the pen should work for 45 minutes to an hour. Admittedly, the 3Doodler Start is quite limited in terms of its functions (it is single-temperature and single-speed), but it still features LED indicator lights, and takes only about 40 to 60 seconds to warm up.

So, while the 3Doodler Start is not geared towards artists or more professional users, it is a great and affordable option for younger generations who want to practice their 3D drawing.

Best 3D pen #11: 3Doodler Pro

Price: $249

The 3Doodler Pro is 3Doodler’s latest release. As the name suggests, it is geared towards professional users, such as designers, architects, and engineers. What is most notable about the popular 3D pen manufacturer’s newest product is probably the wide variety of materials that it is compatible with. That is, in addition to the standard 3Doodler materials (ABS, PLA, FLEXY plastics), the 3Doodler Pro can also 3D draw using bronze, copper, wood, nylon, and polycarbonate-based filaments.

Encased in a sleek and lightweight black carbon fiber shell, the 3Doodler Pro features some new tools as well, including adjustable dials for more accurate control of speed and temperature, and a built in high-speed variable fan that allows users a greater control over the cooling process. A small LCD display built into the 3D pen allows users to keep an eye on the 3D pen’s settings.

The professional-grade 3D printing pen, which launched in September 2016, is retailing for $249, making it the most expensive 3D pen on our list. But despite the cost, the 3Doodler Pro might just be worth it for its impressive range of materials and professional quality.

Best 3D pen #12: SUNLU 3D pen SL-400

Price: $40

The last 3D pen on our list, the SUNLU Intelligent 3D pen, is certainly not the least, being a lightweight (49 grams) and slim 3D pen that's a solid option for arts, crafts, and more. The SUNLU 3D printing pen, developed by Chinese 3D company Zhuhai Sunlu Industrial Co.,Ltd, has already gone through four generations (the most current model is the SL-400), and features an ergonomic design and a simple “one-button” operation system, which allows users to control both continuous extrusion and retreat.

The 3D pen also features a ceramic nozzle, whose patented design includes smart temperature sensing which will automatically lower the 3D pen’s temperature to prevent over-heating. This feature also helps to increase the SUNLU 3D pen’s longevity, allowing users to 3D draw for longer. The top of the 3D printing pen also functions well for heat protection and anti-scalding, keeping users’ hands safe.

The SUNLU 3D pen SL-400 is compatible with PLA filaments and comes in four different colors: black, white, pink, and crystal (which is partially transparent). Notably, the SL-400 3D pen features an upgraded USB interface data cable and a 5V 2A external power bank.

** Prices listed reflect current sales at the time of writing

Posted in 3D Printing Technology

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RepRapper wrote at 2/7/2018 7:56:31 PM:

The Sunlu SL-400 available for less than €20,- at: https://reprapworld.com/listing/printers_printing/3d_pens/

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