What to Buy - 3D Printer and Filament Buying Guide

The 3D printer market has grown very quickly, and today it's difficult to choose a machine without guidance. There are machines that cost €200 and machines that cost €20,000, and the difference isn't always obvious just by looking at the specifications.

This page helps you understand where to start, depending on what you really want to do.

First step: what do you want to print?

Do you want to experiment and learn? — Start with an entry-level FDM printer (Bambu Lab A1 Mini, Prusa MK4, Creality Ender 3 V3). Spend between €200 and €600, you won't waste money on features you don't use yet, and you'll really understand how 3D printing works before investing more.

Do you want to print in the office without too much hassle? — Bambu Lab X1C or P1S. These are enclosed, fast machines with auto-calibration. They don't require continuous tuning. For those who want parts, not tinkering.

Do you need technical materials for professional applications? — Raise3D Pro3, Prusa XL, BCN3D. They reliably print ABS, ASA, Nylon, PC, and fiber composites. They cost more but last for years and maintain consistent quality.

Do you want extremely high detail for jewelry, dental, or miniatures? — You need a resin printer (SLA or MSLA). Elegoo Saturn, Anycubic Photon, Formlabs Form if you're going professional. Be aware: resin requires post-curing and ventilation, it's not suitable for all environments.

What about filaments?

If you're starting out: PLA. It's easy to print, doesn't require high temperatures, and works well on almost all machines. A 1kg spool from a decent brand (Polymaker, Sakata3D, Bambu Lab) costs between €15 and €25 and will teach you a lot before moving on to more demanding materials.

If you already have experience and want specific materials for your application, the filament collections page is divided by material type. Or write to us directly: we'll tell you what makes sense to use for what you need to do.

Still not sure?

Write to us or visit our showroom in Monza by appointment. Tell us about your project, and we'll tell you what makes sense to buy — and what doesn't.

📞 393 53 48 510 · ✉️ info@strato3d.it