3D pens are often seen as a gadget or toy reserved for kids who want to get started with 3D printing. However, it is clear that these 3D pens are becoming more popular and sophisticated, with more features and compatible materials. They make it possible to create all kinds of pieces and allow users to express their imagination and creativity at a relatively affordable price. Based on fused deposition modeling technology, the 3D pen is a good alternative to desktop 3D printers for certain applications. It’s more convenient and less bulky, and doesn’t require 3D modeling skills or the use of a cutter: the part is created directly from the 3D pen. However, let us remember that it has its limits and that it will not be suitable for the design of ultra-complex parts. We have made a selection of the 15 best 3D pens for all kinds of 3D printing enthusiasts, dividing the options into three sections: those designed for children, fans and artists.
3D Printing Pens: Children
Portrait IDO3D
With IDO3D Vertical, IDO3D has launched a 3D pen that creates a lot of room for creativity. It is particularly suitable for children because they can simply press the attached color tube when drawing. They also have a tip that can be expanded with an included LED accessory. Also included is a slide on which the artwork can be erected and a book that explains how to use the pen. A set with a single 3D pen costs just under $12 and varies depending on the number of colors. In terms of color selection, tubes with special effects such as glitter are also available.
COINS 3D Junior 2
As its name suggests, the MYNT 3D Junior 2 was designed with kids in mind. It has an ergonomic design, and a low temperature nozzle to prevent children from burning their hands. Not compatible with PLA and ABS, the 3D pen works with standard 1.75mm PCL filament. This 3D pen is battery operated and has a USB port for charging. Available from $40 on the MYNT 3D website, the 3D pen comes with instructions, a USB cable, and 3 rolls of filament.
3DoodlerStart
The 3DoodlerStart is as its name suggests, ideal for anyone just getting started with 3D printing, in our case with 3D pens. Its particularity is the filament used, called “Ego Plastic”. It is biodegradable and requires a much lower extrusion temperature than traditional filaments like PLA or ABS, meaning the filament can be safely touched by children. The pen is available with additional accessories. It has a rechargeable battery and is available without a kit for $49.99.
Nulaxy 3D Pen
The Nulaxy 3D pen is the first 3D pen with voice prompts on the market, which can help children learn to use it faster. It is controlled with two buttons and the advance is automatic to avoid hand fatigue. This 3D pen can work with ABS and PLA filament. The manufacturer explains that children from the age of 5 can use this pen, as it was made to fit in their hands. The pen is sold in a pack containing 6 colors of PLA filament (10ft each) to get you started right away!
3DSimo Basic
The 3DSIMO BASIC 3D Pen is kid-friendly and, like the MYNT 3D Junior, also uses 1.75mm PCL filament. Among other things, the filament contained in the set does not have to be cut, making it easy for a child to use. The weight of this 3D pen is 73 grams. With the dimensions of 150mm x 28mm x 22mm, it also fits in small hands. For just under $90 you get the pen, a battery, and the above 48 filaments.
Wedding ring
Designed for beginners, artists, and 3D printing enthusiasts, the Fede 3D Pen can also be used by children thanks to the standby mode and two finger guards provided with the 3D Pen. Compatible with ABS and PLA filaments, the Fede 3D Pen features an LCD screen to control speed and temperature during printing. The pen is recharged with a USB cable and has a tip diameter of 0.6mm. Finally, the pen comes with an instruction manual and 3D drawing templates to make original prints.
3D printing pen: Hobbyists
Scrib3D Advanced
With an LCD screen and buttons for precise heat adjustment, Scrib3D Advanced offers full temperature control to its users. Compatible with ABS and PLA filaments, Scrib3D Advanced has eight speeds. Finally, according to the manufacturer, the 3D pen fits well in users’ hands and is ideal for beginners and 3D printing enthusiasts. Available starting at $50, the Scrib3D Advanced comes with a guide, 3 PLA filaments, and an AC adapter.
SkyWriter 3D Pen
SkyWriter V3 is a very light 3D pen, only 55 grams, which was developed with an ergonomic design to fit perfectly in your hand. Additionally, this 3D pen has been upgraded to include a soft-touch finish, smart control, and easy operation. Its anti-clogging nozzle regulates the temperature automatically when extruding the filament. The manufacturer has also allowed the user to control the extrusion speed with up to 8 speeds. Finally, you can use ABS and PLA filaments with this 3D pen. The starting price is $179.
Called 07A
This entry-level 3D pen from Chinese brand Dikale has a slim, lightweight plastic body that fits well in the user’s hand. You can use ABS or PLA filament with the Dikale 07A. It allows you to choose the filament mode first, then your speed. There are three settings for extrusion speed and temperatures. Each of these options is controlled by a separate button: one for filament section, speed selection, extrusion and filament unload. Therefore, it is not as easy to use as other pens on the market. You will probably need some practice to operate it correctly.
3Dsimo MultiPro
For those looking to take it to the next level, you can take a closer look at a multifunctional tool. 3Dsimo has developed many 3D pens and one of them is the MultiPro tool. It is a 3D pen that can be transformed to have multiple purposes. It not only works as a 3D pen, but also can weld, burn and cut foam. However, the newer model has even more accessories available, such as drills, electric screwdrivers, heat guns, and saws. The device includes an OLED screen that can display basic tutorials for each of the available attachments. Each tutorial provides a short guide on how to use the tools correctly so you can get the most out of your MultiPro.
3Doodler Create+
The manufacturer Wooble Works, origin of the first 3D printing pen, has developed the Create+ especially for all fans of 3D printing. Its light weight of 50g facilitates its maneuverability and its two modes of extrusion simplicity. It is compatible with PLA, ABS and Flexy and has a new control system that is faster, smoother and stronger. For a base price of $100, and you can add accessories like a drawing pad or power bank.
polaroid 3d
Compatible with PLA and filaments offered by Polaroid, Polaroid 3D Play is intended for 3D pen enthusiasts. During use, some parts of the 3D pen become hot, which could cause injury to a child. Available from $55, the 3D pen comes with four PLA filaments, a USB cable, a screen protector, and also a “Quick Start” guide. The manufacturer not only offers the Polaroid 3D Play. Polaroid recently introduced Candy Play, a 3D pen that allows users to create candies from filaments.
3D Printing Pen: Artists
Tecboss M1
The Chinese company Tecboss has a wide range of electronic devices, such as 3D pens, among others. One of the best known 3D pens is the M1, which was updated in 2019 to incorporate a smart chip that would control the temperature and speed of the pen. Unlike other brands whose pencils allow multiple filaments, the M1 only supports PLA. Although this is a disadvantage, the truth is that the company only wanted to handle odorless and non-toxic materials, making its products cleaner and safer. Another of the models it offers is the SL-300, which differs from the previous one due to its great lightness. When it comes to long and expensive projects, the SL-100’s ergonomic design allows for a firm, solid feel for the best result. Priced at $59, it integrates eight speeds and an extrusion temperature capable of reaching 210 degrees Celsius, an ideal solution for both beginners and experienced users.
3D COIN pen
This 3D printing pen belongs to the Californian company of the same name. MYNT allows you to adjust the thickness and flow of the extruded material by having a variable speed control and an OLED screen, as well as allowing you to adjust temperatures from 130º to 230º. It also manages to change the temperature degree by degree, which gives greater precision to the material that comes out. When buying the MYNT the kit includes: the 3D pen, 3 colors of ABS filaments and a 100-240V AC 50/60Hz adapter. Currently they are priced at $70 (Approximately €60).
3DoodlerPro+
We have already introduced you to the manufacturer 3Doodler. It also makes more professional 3D pens, namely the 3Doodler Pro+. This pen can print with PLA, ABS, nylon, soft materials but also with copper, bronze and wood. It has an LCD screen to adjust the temperature and extrusion speed in real time and 6 interchangeable extruders. The manufacturer specifies that, due to its ergonomics and its features, the 3Doodler Pro+ is intended for architecture and design professionals. It’s available on the 3Doodler website for $200 or more.
Do you know of any other 3D pens that should be added to the list? Let us know in a comment below or on our Facebook and Twitter pages! And remember to sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest 3D printing news delivered straight to your inbox!
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