Best Budget 3D Printers

Are you looking for the best budget 3D printer? 3D printing is becoming increasingly popular in classrooms and educational settings. It’s a great way to engage students with hands-on learning while teaching them valuable problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

However, finding the right 3D printer can be tricky – especially if you’re on a tight budget. That’s why we’ve researched for you! We have compiled a list of the best budget 3D printers perfect for any classroom setting.

From entry-level models to more advanced options, there is something here for everyone. Keep reading to discover what is the best budget 3D printer – and start introducing your students to the exciting world of 3D printing!

IMAGIN3D JUNIOR- 3D Printer Package

The IMAGIN3D JUNIOR 3D Printer Package is a fantastic option for schools looking to introduce 3D printing into their classrooms. The hardware comes with STEM 3D software, which is included and helps you jump into 3D printing without extensive prep time.

This package comes with everything you need to get started, including:

  • The 3D supply kit contains two rolls of PLA filament (and a full rainbow of further color options are available when you need them).
  • 3D printer maintenance kit to keep the printer running smoothly
  • The product is covered by a warranty for two years, during which time it will either be repaired or replaced if necessary.
  • Professional development and training resources that will assist you in maximizing the benefits of your 3D printer.

This 3D printer is perfect for classrooms. It’s easy to use, and the software simplifies integrating 3D printing into your curriculum. The IMAGIN3D JUNIOR 3D Printer Package is a great option for educators looking to introduce their students to the exciting world of 3D printing.

IMAGIN3D – 3D Printer Package

Imagin3D Mini

Another excellent product from AGC Education is the IMAGIN3D 3D Printer Package. This package offers a powerful, professional-grade 3D printer with integrated software that educators can use. The software has been designed for easy use and has advanced features that will help you create intricate prints.

The following are the features of this printer package:

  • The 3D software for STEM comes with editable template libraries specific to education.
  • The maintenance kit for 3D printers also includes a supply kit consisting of 2 rolls of PLA filament.
  • The printer comes with a 2-year warranty that covers either repairs or replacement, as needed.
  • The printer has a maximum printing area of 12 inches by 12 inches and can print objects up to 18 inches tall.

Just like with the IMAGIN3D JUNIOR, we offer ongoing support and access to professional development and training materials. This is perfect, as it will allow teachers to maximize their use of the 3D printer. If you’re looking for a powerful, professional-grade 3D printer that is easy to use, the IMAGIN3D 3D Printer Package is an excellent choice.

XYZPrinting Da Vinci Mini

This 3D printer is an excellent option for beginners. It’s easy to use and understand, so even younger students can use it with minimal guidance. The XYZPrinting Da Vinci Mini is a reasonably-priced 3D printer that is simple to install and operate.

The da Vinci Mini is a printer that has black trim and is colored a bright pumpkin orange. It measures 14.2 by 15.4 by 13.2 inches and weighs 24.3 pounds. The extruder nozzle is located behind the assembly and is difficult to access. This location protects against accidental burns, despite the open frame design.

Here are the other features of the da Vinci Mini:

  • Before each print, the print bed is automatically leveled.
  • It uses “smart cartridges” that detect when the filament is running low and requires replacement.
  • To download the software, you must create an account protected by a password on the XYZprinting website.
  • This device can produce prints either through a USB or Wi-Fi connection

Toybox 3D Printer

The Toybox 3D Printer is an affordable and easy-to-use device designed for children, making it an attractive choice in elementary education. This printer lets you easily print basic items from your iOS or Android device or a web browser with one touch. The software offers over 2,000 printable objects or projects to choose from and allows you to import 3D files created outside of the program.

The following are the features of the Toybox 3D Printer:

  • The type of 3D printing technology used is called Fused Filament Fabrication
  • The maximum build area is 3.5 inches in length, 3.1 inches in width, and 2.8 inches in height
  • The weight of the 3D printer is 6.6 pounds
  • The warranty for both parts and labor is valid for one year

The build area of this 3D printer is small, and it may not be suitable for importing 3D files that were created on another platform. If you’re looking for a 3D printer with a larger build area and more features, this may not be the right choice for your classroom.

Anycubic Vyper

The Anycubic Vyper is a budget-friendly 3D printer designed for beginners. It features an open-frame design with the print bed located at the front. This makes it easy to access and provides a clear view of the prints as they are being created. The printer can create bigger prints and has automatic bed leveling support.

The Anycubic Vyper has the following features:

  • It uses Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing technology
  • The dimensions of the printer are 20.3 inches in height, 20 inches in width, and 18 inches in depth.
  • You can use the Cura software to create prints, which can then be transferred either via an SD card or printed directly through a USB connection.
  • Anycubic offers a range of filament materials such as PLA, ABS, TPU, and PETG, all of which are compatible with the Vyper.

The printer comes with a small starter filament coil. To use Cura software with the Vyper, you need to make a few changes to the settings. It is important to be aware of this before purchasing.

Monoprice Mini Delta V2 3D Printer

The Monoprice Mini Delta V2 3D Printer is a great budget option for classrooms. It’s an easy-to-use printer that prints detailed models in a wide variety of materials. The printer is equipped with an adaptive touch screen and advanced auto-leveling feature. Additionally, it operates quietly so that it won’t disrupt the learning environment.

The Monoprice Mini Delta V2 includes the following features:

  • This printer can print in one color and has one extruder
  • The device has an LCD screen and primary interfaces, including a microSD card, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi.
  • The V2 printer is colored matte-black and has a strong steel and anodized aluminum frame.
  • It is 17.5 inches in height, 11.8 inches in width, and 11 inches in depth.
  • The printer can print objects with dimensions up to 4.7 inches in height, 4.3 inches in width, and 4.3 inches in depth.
  • The package contains a small polylactic acid (PLA) filament starter coil along with the V2

The printer has a one-year warranty and offers fast almost error-free printing. It is great for beginners, making it easy to assemble and use.

Find the Right 3D Printer for Your School

No matter your budget or 3D printing needs, AGC Education has the perfect solution for you. Whether it’s our IMAGIN3D JUNIOR- 3D Printer Package with its STEM software; or the more powerful, professional grade IMAGIN3D- 3D Printer Package that prints objects up to 18 inches tall, we have something for everyone!

All of these products come with great warranties and access to ongoing support, making them ideal solutions for educators looking to introduce their students to the world of 3D printing. With all these options available, what are you waiting for? Let us help you find the best option today! Contact us today, and we’ll be sure to help you find the perfect 3D printer package for your needs!

How to Learn 3D Printing – Ultimate Guide

Are you looking to add 3D printing skills to your repertoire? 3D printing is a rapidly growing technology that has made waves in the manufacturing industry.

It creates opportunities from prototyping to production and allows creative minds to explore new concepts and products. With its rise in popularity, more people are beginning to ask, “How hard is it to learn 3D printing?”

Fortunately, learning how to master 3D printing doesn’t have to be intimidating! We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about coming up to speed with this versatile technology.

Understand the Basics of 3D Printing Technology

3D printing technology has revolutionized the way parts and products are created. Using special software and hardware, it makes three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file. A 3D printer can produce complex shapes accurately and consistently, which was only possible after this technology became available.

3D printers use various materials such as plastics, metal, ceramics, or composites to build components layer by layer in a method known as additive manufacturing.

This allows for much greater control over the shape and integrity of the parts than traditional methods like machining or injection molding. The ability to rapidly prototype an object quickly and cost-effectively makes 3D printing ideal for prototyping applications and low-volume production runs.

How to Learn 3D Printing For Education Purposes

3D printing is a valuable tool for educational purposes. It can be used to create models, prototypes, and even furniture. With its unique capabilities, it can help students learn about different subjects engagingly.

Here are some tips on how to learn 3D printing for education purposes:

  • Know the Basics of 3D Printing: Before you start learning 3D printing, it’s important to understand the basics of the process and what it involves. Start by familiarizing yourself with the types of materials that can be used in 3D printing and the machinery involved with creating objects from those materials. Also, look into the software needed to design your object before printing.
  • Get Access to a 3D Printer: Once you understand the basics of 3D printing and know what kind of printer you need, it’s time to access one. You can purchase your own or borrow one from a library or community center.
  • Start with Simple Projects: To get comfortable with 3D printing, it’s best to start with simple projects. This will allow you to practice using the technology and understand it without worrying about complex designs.
  • Utilize Resources: Take advantage of online resources such as tutorials, forums, and videos that can help you learn more about 3D printing and any issues you might have with the process. You can also look into attending workshops or classes on 3D printing, where you can get in-depth instruction from experienced professionals.

How To Learn 3D Printing Design for Student Learning

3D printing provides an exciting opportunity for educators to help their students explore new learning opportunities. With 3D printing, educators can create custom objects and models to engage students in learning. Furthermore, 3D printing allows educators to quickly produce prototypes and other items to test students’ ideas.

Here are some ways that educators can learn 3D printing design for student learning:

Become familiar with the software tools available

Educators should familiarize themselves with 3D modeling and CAD (computer-aided design) software programs available for creating 3D prints. These programs allow users to develop complex plans printed with multiple materials. The more knowledgeable an educator is about the software, the better they can help their students create attractive 3D prints.

Read up on the basics of 3D printing

Educators should also take some time to learn about the basics of 3D printing and how it works. Knowing the fundamentals will help them understand 3D printing capabilities, material options, and other considerations when helping their students create designs for 3D printing.

Research online resources

Many great online resources are available that provide tutorials, tips, advice, and support for educators wanting to learn about 3D printing design for student learning. Reading blogs from experienced professionals in the field can be a great way to get started with creating exceptional designs for their students to explore. 

Participate in 3D printing courses

A variety of courses are available online and at universities that focus on teaching the fundamentals of 3D printing and design. Participating in these classes is an excellent way for educators to learn the basics and understand how to use them to help students develop their designs.

Benefits of Educators Exploring 3D Printing Designs

3D printing designs can open up a world of possibilities for educators. Through 3D printing, educators can introduce their students to exciting new concepts and foster creativity in the classroom.

Here are some of the key benefits of exploring 3D printing designs with your students:

  • Improved Creativity: By introducing 3D printing into the classroom, educators can help students become more creative and explore new ideas. With easy-to-use tools like Tinkercad or Sketchup, students can design their 3D models from scratch and print them out in just a few hours. This encourages creative expression through hands-on learning and helps develop problem-solving skills. 
  • Relevant Learning Experiences: Exploring 3D printing designs can provide students with real-world experiences they may not get in a traditional classroom setting. By creating their models, students understand how the physical world works and can interact with technology from an early age.
  • Accessible Learning: With access to 3D printing designs, educators can make learning more accessible for everyone. Students who might struggle to understand certain concepts or comprehend complex diagrams can now easily create visual representations of their ideas with 3D-printed models. This makes learning easier for all types of students and helps level the playing field for everyone involved.

Types of 3D Printing Designs Educators Can Use

3D printing designs can enhance a wide range of educational activities. From STEM curriculum to art classes, 3D printing can bring creativity and excitement into the classroom.

Here are some of the most popular types of 3D printing designs that educators can leverage for their teaching:

  • Educational Models: 3D printed models make it easier for students to visualize complex concepts such as anatomical structures, mathematical equations, or chemical reactions. Educators can also use these models to teach architecture or engineering principles interactively.
  • Prototypes: By using 3D-printed prototypes, educators can create real-life versions of virtual objects and show students how prototyping works in the development process. Students will be able to observe how changes in the design affect the prototype’s performance or shape.
  • Customized Tools: 3D printing can also create tools specific to a student’s need, like customized accessibility aids, prosthetics, and therapeutic devices. Educators can use this technology to teach students about problem-solving and customization.
  • Art Projects: 3D printing designs can provide an innovative way for educators to explore creative projects with their students. With this technology, educators can bring ideas to life in ways never before possible and allow their students to see their work displayed in museums or galleries.

Upgrade your classroom tech experience with 3D Printing

Learning 3D printing can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the help of AGC Education, you can jump into learning 3D printing with confidence. AGC Education is dedicated to providing innovative professional technology solutions for educational institutions needing 3D printers.

With hands-on experience from our experts, you have access to the necessary materials and resources to become a pro in no time. We know there is so much potential in 3D printing, and we are determined to help you reach your goals.

In addition, we also offer exceptional technical support for any issues you may encounter along the way. If you are ready to take on the challenge of learning 3D printing, do not hesitate! Contact us today for access to the best educational tools and technology!

Best Beginner 3D Printers

Are you intrigued by 3D printing but need help figuring out where to start? Whether you’re just getting into 3D printing or want to upgrade your current setup, choosing the right printer for you can take time and effort.

Finding the best beginner 3D printer isn’t always easy – there are so many models out there with various features and capabilities that can make it challenging to decide which one is the right fit.

That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide: below. We will discuss some of our favorite beginner 3D printers, helping you find a machine that fits your needs and expectations!

Top Rated 3D Printers for Beginners

When it comes to 3D printing, the right printer can make all the difference. As a beginner, you’ll want to find one that is both affordable and easy to use. To help get you started, here are some of the top-rated 3D printers for beginners.

Anycubic Kobra

The Anycubic Kobra is a 3D printer with excellent features at an incredibly competitive price. It includes automatic bed leveling, meaning the machine will level itself for you every time you start a print — no manual adjustments necessary.

Additionally, it has a direct extruder — so filament won’t jam and slow down your printing process — and a PEI-coated removable bed, making it easy to remove prints when finished. To top it all off, the Kobra has sensorless homing capabilities for precise movement during printing.

With this range of features at such an accessible cost point, the Anycubic Kobra is an ideal choice for anyone looking to try 3D printing for the first time. Its high-end features and low price make it an excellent option for newbies and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts. The Anycubic Kobra is a brilliant choice if you’re looking for unbeatable value for money.

Voxelab Aquila X2

The Aquila X2 has been designed with usability, featuring quick assembly and easy maintenance. It comes almost entirely preassembled, so it’s ready to print right out of the box. The printer also has an adjustable extrusion system that helps ensure a consistent filament flow for better print quality.

Moreover, the machine includes a heated build plate — great if you plan on printing materials like ABS or PETG — and a semi-enclosed design to help keep drafts away from your prints. It also features an onboard LCD control panel, allowing you to access all the various settings and functions without needing to connect to a computer.

Overall, the Voxelab Aquila X2 is an excellent value 3D printer, offering features and build quality usually reserved for more expensive machines. Its semi-enclosed design makes it a good choice for novice makers, while its adjustable extrusion system ensures it can handle more challenging materials. If you’re looking for your first 3D printer and don’t want to break the bank, the Voxelab Aquila X2 should be at the top of your list.

AGC Education IMAGIN3D – 3D Printer Package

The IMAGIN3D 3D Printer Package is a powerful tool for classrooms and educators. With its 12”x12”18”  printing platform, it can be used to create:

  • Topographical maps
  • Chemistry models
  • Miniature versions of famous structures

It also features a volcano extruder, allowing you to use a wide range of filaments such as PETG PLA, ABS, Flex, and Nylon.

But there’s more! After purchasing the IMAGIN3D printer package, you get STEM 3D – a resource kit for teachers designed to help make classroom learning easier. STEM 3D includes ready-made lesson plans and step-by-step guides on using the printer with your students, regardless of grade or subject.

If you’re looking for a professional-grade 3D printer that’s great for classrooms, look no further than AGC Education IMAGIN3D! With its large printing platform and STEM 3D resource kit, it’s an ideal tool to help bring learning to life in your classroom.

AGC Education IMAGIN3D JUNIOR- 3D Printer Package

The IMAGIN3D Printer Junior package also comes with easy-to-understand instructions and safety manuals, providing all the information you need to get started. Use this 3D printer for educational activities like engineering challenges and creative projects. With adjustable printing speed and layer thickness, the printer can be adjusted to match your classroom’s requirements.

IMAGIN3D also provides optional support packages to help ensure a smooth printing experience – from one-on-one assistance to repair services – as well as frequent software updates that offer improvements and new features.

Take advantage of the IMAGIN3D Printer Junior package today! Let your students explore their creativity while learning valuable STEM skills practically and engagingly. With the IMAGIN3D Printer Junior, you can help your students take their ideas from concept to reality in your classroom.

Bambu Lab P1P

The Bambu Lab P1P is an impressive 3D printer. Its large build volume of 256 x 256 x 256 mm and its direct dual-gear extruder can easily handle complex 3D printing jobs. Its magnetic textured PEI spring steel sheet bed lets you easily remove finished prints, while the purge chute allows for easy disposal of purge material from the back of the machine.

With the optional Automatic Material System (AMS) add-on, it’s possible to use up to four materials in one print job – making this an excellent choice for multi-material projects.

Tips When Shopping For A Beginner 3D Printer for Educators

When shopping for a beginner 3D printer for educators, it is important to consider the following tips:

  1. Cost and Budget: It is always best to know what you are willing to spend on a 3D printer before you start your search. Be sure to factor in the cost of any additional supplies or software that may be needed to purchase your machine.
  1. Print Quality: Your print quality will depend heavily on the type of 3D printer you choose, so make sure it can handle whatever type of projects or applications you intend to use. This includes materials such as plastic, metal, glass, and more.
  1. Ease-of-use: 3D printers can be complicated to use, especially for beginners. Look for a user-friendly machine with plenty of tutorials or online resources to help you learn how to operate it correctly.
  1. Warranty: Make sure the 3D printer you select comes with some sort of warranty, as this will ensure that any issues you experience will be taken care of promptly without any extra costs.
  1. Space Requirements: Be sure to measure the space available in your classroom or office before purchasing, as some 3D printers are rather large and may not fit where you want them to go.

Bring your educational goals into reality one step at a time

If you want to keep up with the rapidly evolving educational environment, 3D printing is the way to go. The technology can be cost-effective and highly efficient when incorporated into an academic setting. For simple 3D printing solutions that are perfect for beginners, AGC Education offers a wide range of high-performance 3D printers at competitive prices.

We can help you take advantage of an engaging learning experience for students – no matter the scale – our team has ready-to-go solutions that can make the most out of any available resources.

Don’t hesitate — contact us today, and we’ll provide you with the highest quality selection of beginner 3D printers available anywhere in the world. We can bring your educational goals into reality one step at a time.

Is Laser Engraving Hard to Learn?

Incorporating unique technologies can be a great way to capture students’ attention when finding new ways to engage them in the classroom. Laser engraving, while still relatively unknown compared to traditional methods of crafting and designing, is becoming increasingly popular daily. 

But what’s stopping educators from taking advantage of this versatile technology? Is laser engraving hard to learn? By understanding what laser engraving is all about and the steps you need to follow to start the process, you can easily find a way to enhance your future lessons by incorporating it into your school activities. 

In addition, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of what’s involved in setting up laser engravers in a classroom environment. You’ll also get some tips for managing different projects so everyone involved can reap maximum results, such as learning while having fun!

laser engraver

What is Laser Engraving?

Laser engraving is a printing method used to engrave permanent and deep marks. The process involves vaporizing the materials into fumes using a focused light beam. The localized area is hit with massive energy levels to create heat to vaporize the material’s surface.

Many people also know laser engraving as deep etching or relief printing. Even though it’s relatively new, many began to prefer it over other printing methods because it’s permanent and durable. Therefore, it can resist various harsh environments and fading or weathering.

Another advantage of laser engraving is that it can be used to make intricate designs with ease. Some examples are logos, patterns, designs, and texts. You can print them on different kinds of materials as well.

Here are the materials you can use for laser engraving:

  • Wood
  • Metal
  • Plastic
  • Fabric
  • Rubber

With this in mind, you might still wonder if is it hard to learn how to use a laser engraving machine. It’s simple to follow the step-by-step process while understanding how laser engraving works, which will be discussed below.

How Does Laser Engraving Work?

Laser engraving has the same process as sublimation regarding how the mark is made. Here, the material turns into a gas-vaporized state from the solid state without passing the liquid form. Generally, a solid turns into a liquid when the temperature reaches its melting point. Then from liquid to gas when the temperature reaches its boiling point.

With sublimation and laser engraving, the process is shortened through heating. And to engrave or leave a mark using laser engravers, a laser beam gives the energy needed to vaporize the material’s surface. And a laser engraving machine is equipped with these laser beam modules.

These laser modules can be engraved on different materials. And it works when the laser beam moves on the material’s surface. The beam raises the material’s temperature enough to reach its vaporization point. Thus, causing the material to convert into vapors while leaving a mark on the material.

Don’t worry about the fumes, which are collected through the machine’s extraction system. So this leaves you with a permanent and long-lasting result, which you can use for your school’s merchandise or various classroom projects.

The Step-by-Step Laser Engraving Process

There are some things you need to remember before you can start with your laser engraving project. And it’s best to teach your students at the same time so that they can get hands-on experience.

Here are the steps needed to start with laser engraving:

  1. Prepare: The first step is to prepare the material by cleaning it up. Ensure no oils, dirt, or debris are on the surface so the laser beam can engrave on the material properly.
  2. Design: Choose your design and upload it to the laser engraving software. You can use CAD or computer-aided design to create it.
  3. Calibrate: The calibration involves choosing the right settings for the material. You can start by adjusting the laser beam speed, focus, and power.
  4. Engrave: The engraving process begins once you upload your design and calibrate the machine. It’s when the laser beam emitted from the module is directed to the material. After that, there’s a shallow indentation, which the laser beam has left to create your desired design.

As you can see, operating the machine isn’t hard. It’s simple, and you can teach it to your students for a more engaging class. Thus, you can start with your projects by following these steps and understanding how laser engraving works.

Some Projects You Can Undertake in a Classroom Setting

So is laser engraving hard to learn? It will depend on several factors, such as the machine you plan on using and the materials you plan on using. But once you understand the basics and have a little bit of practice, laser engraving is easy to learn.

Once you’re ready to incorporate it into your classroom, you can begin by introducing some fun projects. Some examples are as follows:

Puzzles

Laser engraving is the perfect method for creating puzzles. You can have your students create a puzzle design or get their favorite piece of artwork, which they can engrave on a piece of plywood. After that, just cut the pieces using laser cutters.

Cutting Boards

For your arts and crafts class, you can introduce personalized cutting boards. Students must tape off the non-engraved area to prevent over-burn marks or ash dust. It’s best to choose lighter or unstreaked wood to develop a dark and fully-visible mark that’s visually appealing.

Customized Playing Cards

Your students can also create wonderful playing cards, which you can use for your games. Using cardstock or plastic, your students can design their playing cards with laser engraving.

Jewelry

Custom jewelry is an exciting project that students will love, especially little girls. You can help your students create custom wooden pendants, acrylic earrings, or metal bracelets. These can also be sold during school events or given to teachers as remembrance during Teacher’s Day.

School Decorations

You can invite your students to help create magnificent decorations during graduations, proms, or ceremonies. It’s a great way to provide a customized experience that’s unique and truly memorable. Plus, you can use laser engraving to create mementos for your students that signify their time in school.

Bookmarks

Bookmarks can be made in different materials, but choosing a sturdy material, such as a thin piece of plywood or bamboo, is best. Your students can use these practical objects to keep track of their progress in their reading activities.

These are just some of the projects you can introduce to your students. With laser engraving, there’s no limit to creativity. Plus, you can use these in different school curriculums, which means there are no limitations in terms of activities and projects. And with all these projects, students can enjoy the laser engraving process while they learn.

Apply Laser Engraving in You Classroom for More Fun

As an educator, you want your students to learn in different ways to prevent them from getting bored. And one way is to keep them engaged using different types of technologies, such as a laser engraver.

If you’re looking for a laser engraver that is easy to use, AGC Education has the Laser Lab, which will help you tackle your various classroom activities. Contact us if you have more questions about our laser engraving supplies; we’re happy to help you.