If you’re in a hurry and just want to know what the best dual extruder 3d printer is, then we recommend the BIBO 3D Printer & Laser Engraver as the best one.
Top dual extrusion printers with 3D capabilities
3D printers give us access to a whole new world of projects and ideas. From high heels to teddy bear decorations, plastic gears, and phone holders, the possibilities are fun and creative. When shopping for the best dual extruder 3D printer available, there are several options to tempt you into hitting the purchase button. We will discuss our top five 3D printers with dual nozzles in more detail below.
In this article we will review the following dual extruder 3D printers:
Buyer’s Guide – Selecting the right Dual Extruder 3D printer
When you choose to spend a chunk of money on a printer, you want it to perform optimally. Each model has perks and downfalls making it difficult to select which printer is the best for your needs and use. In this section, we will discuss some of the most important information consumers should know whether this 3D printer pick is for a first or tenth printer purchase.
What is a Dual Extruder 3D Printer
Dual extrusion means using two filament types or colors to print an object. The nozzles do not put out material simultaneously. The double head design allows for users to put two colors or materials in a 3D printer at the same time. The printer will use both nozzles in succession to build up the model until the item is complete.
Single vs Dual Extruder: What’s best?
With one extruder, a project is monotone and uses only one material like carbon fiber or PLA to create a solid object. Dual extrusion gives users the capability of combining colors and developing items with a multifaceted style. For example, printing a replica of a school mascot with a two-tone shirt is possible with a dual nozzle 3D printer. A single extruder printer could only do a shirt with one color.
Is a dual extrusion 3D printer faster than a single extrusion system
While the word dual signifies something more, it does not typically mean speed. Double print heads or nozzles means you can load the printer with more than one material or color. However, using two extruders does not make the process faster. Some printers on our list may take a little longer to print because of the constant switching between the extruders. While the dual-head design is functional for keeping two colors warm and ready to print, it does take time to go between the two nozzles making some projects longer to print.
Advantages of Printing with Dual Extruders
Overall cost savings draw many consumers to these printers. Many users are happy to save a little longer to get a more efficient option for creating 3D objects. These printers are safe for use because they do not require as many filament changes while the machine is hot or in the process using full electricity.
Having a spare extruder in the instance one breaks down will give you time to send off for repairs or create other items using a monotone design. The second nozzle gives you the capability to continue with another project to stay on track. Using a variety of materials opens the field of design giving users exponentially more options.
With the capability to keep both nozzles warm, the color quality is much better with a dual extrusion 3D printer. Plus, the overall experience is more satisfying when using more than one color. They develop these printers with high-quality items in mind meaning users will find objects are durable, marketable, and desirable.
Precautions for first-time owners using 3D printers
All manufacturers suggest reading the set-up instructions and material choice guidelines before attempting to print an object. Some equipment can use a myriad of materials like the QIDI Tech X-Max printer where others such as the FlashForge Creator Pro work best when using a PLA or ABS material. Not every printer has wireless capabilities meaning it is not possible to download a design without using an SD card or USB device.
Some print items may require the use of downloadable software. The manufacturer will designate the use of these programs in the instruction manual. Others may accept third-party or non-proprietary programming giving users more options and additional templates. These packages will cost additional money for access to print libraries and support personnel.
Another consideration is what material types will you use to create your projects. If you want a plastic frame with rubber feet, then your choice should be a printer with the capabilities for building both of these materials. Making seams at specific places in the design can increase product flexibility and allow the object to flex and bend. All these considerations are things individuals should take into account before picking a dual extruder 3D printer.
QIDI Tech X-Max
When long hours of printing are necessary to complete an important project, the last thing a person wants is for the print bed to sag or warp from the heat. The X-Max version uses the metal upgrade versus the plastic tray and footers in previous models. The bed construction with aircraft quality metal ensures users will not have this issue.
Because the printing bed is in an encasement, the temperature always stays constant. The item meets MET and DOC compliance regulations ensuring consumers get a safe and effective product. The printer comes with software for creating unique designs and projects. This dual extrusion printer is a high-end option in our Top Five pick.
Pros
- Turbo fan for keeping the printer cool during use
- Touchscreen display – Five inch screen
- Removable bed for easier access to printed objects
- Prints larger sizes with an 11.8-inch long by 9.8-inch wide and 11.8-inch high capacity
- New design for printing larger items than most 3D printers
- Two third-generation extruders to accept a wide variety of filaments to create items with PLA, Carbon fiber, PC, and more
- Interior and exterior material feeds
- Double z-axis rods for stability during larger print jobs
- Works well for intricate designs with removable supports letting builders create items on a triangle mesh
Cons
- May require customer support help for set-up and the first operation
- Printing at a top speed typically lowers the quality of the object
- Must use ventilation when printing with PLA
BIBO 3D Printer & Laser Engraver
The BIBO dual nozzle printer is more than a machine to create three-dimensional objects. This tool is an engraver using a laser to create ornate designs and exact patterns like logos and custom drawings. When you need a printer that can handle power surges and brown-outs, this model might become a favorite choice.
With wireless access, designers can create a vast library of objects or make several copies of the same thing. If speed is an important factor, then this model may be a great option. The dual nozzles with this model cut production time in half, unlike many other 3D versions. It creates two copies at the same time.
Pros
- Laser engraver – powerful enough to cut through thin plastic pieces
- Will engrave paper and wood
- Auto pause feature allowing the user to replace an empty filament spool
- Handles large jobs easily
- Touchscreen controls with a full-color display panel
- Glass bed is removable to give the user more access to print objects
- Works with HIPS, ABS, PLA, and TPU
- Removable cover
Cons
- Similar print bed size to the QIDI Tech
- Does not handle excessive cut jobs
- Will not etch metal
Flashforge Creator Pro
This mid-range 3D printer works with many filament types including wood-filled, PLA, ABS – including Elastic, Flex filaments, and metal filaments. With a new metal frame and acrylic cover, users can safely enclose ABS print objects without worrying about temperature fluctuations. The print area is easy to see with an LED light to illuminate the printing bed.
This model features a solid cover and larger adjustment screws. Additionally, a better routing system for the wiring prevents accidental melting or fraying. The door on the unit also has a new design to make accessing objects easier for users.
Pros
- Metal frame construction versus wood in previous versions
- 6.3-millimeter bed thickness
- More convenient SD card slot
- Teflon tubes are durable
- Comes with several spare parts and a turbo fan duct to keep the unit cool
- Offers USB printing
- Front display LCD screen with backlighting and directional buttons
- Comes with a 16 GB SD card preloaded with the owner’s manual and ReplicatorG and FlashPrint software
- Compatible with MAC and Windows – also works with Linux
- Open-source
- LED light for easy print viewing
- Solid cover design
- Thicker z-axis rod for a more level surface when printing
Cons
- The bed is heat and warp-resistant only
- Kit only includes plastic bed liners
- Eight-bit processing unit with no error detection for connecting via USB
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The Dreamer is another mid-range printer option giving users a broad range of print capabilities. Wireless connectivity lets users send scanned items and templates to the printer over the Internet. This model does not use a tall cover, instead, a flush top makes it more compact for tight areas.
Since adjustments are a part of using a 3D printer, the manufacturer includes a miniature tool kit. The encasement is thick allowing for controlling temperatures for printing with ABS filament. The large front door makes accessing the prints better and gives a clearer view while the machine is operating.
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Pros
- Slimmer design than the Creator versions
- 4G memory for a vast library of item storage
- Easy access SD slot and it comes with a USB cable
- Works with Skein forge and Slic3r slicing
- FlashPrint software included with this model
- Durable plastic alloy frame
- 3.5-inch HD screen
Cons
- Only works with PLA, ABS, and PVA filaments
- Does not work with Linux
- Not open-source
- Flexible filament may jam while feeding
- Could be a tad loud when the fans are working
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With two nozzles that move independently of each other, the No products found. printer can create delicate and intricate works. The auto feed feature is one of our favorite components of this unit. It is a simple plug and play feature that speeds up printing time and means fewer filament jams.
With a quiet operating level, users can print objects in quiet zones without the need to shut the unit in a room by itself. This model cleans the air as it prints reducing smelly odors from some filament types. The printer also talks to the user letting users know when the job is complete or the spool needs replacing.
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Pros
- HEPA filter
- Operates at a low decibel range for optimal quiet
- Automatic filament feeding
- Self-leveling and heated print bed
- Meets ITSA 6 standards
- Touchscreen input panel with intuitive buttons
- Works with Alexa Skill
Cons
- Lengthy speed for printing
- Nozzles may jam
- SD card has a tendency to pop out of the slot via shipping
- Menu is not as easy to navigate as comparable printers
- May need Firmware update to use the open-source option
- Most expensive model on the list
Verdict
Our top pick for the best dual extruder 3D printer is the BIBO 3D Printer & Laser Engraver printer because it is an engraver and printer in one. The affordable price is one of the biggest reasons for choosing this model. Since this printer uses a large variety of filaments, it can create numerous designs and objects. The ability to print two copies of the same thing is one feature we find appealing. We like this dual nozzle option because it has a thick frame that stays flat and you can take the cover off to access the print without using a door. Without the dome-like the FlashForge Creator Pro, this model will fit in a smaller area. We think this choice has the most benefits and bang for your buck.
Last update on 2024-12-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
