If you have a bit of experience in the 3D printing world and are ready to move up to a model that has better performance and greater capabilities, the Tiertime UP Mini 2 3D printer is an affordable choice. It has a sleek, compact design, but you might be wondering how it performs, considering its lower price range. Let’s explore its performance and features.
Tiertime UP Mini 2 Technical Specifications
- Max Print Size: 4.7” x 4.7” x 4.7” (120 x 120 x 120 mm)
- File Format: .obj, .up3, .ply, .ups, .stl, .gcode, .3mf, .3ds, .off
- Supported Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PLA Composites, Nylon, Bronze, PET, Conductive, Wood, ASA, Flexible, Polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber, and others.
- Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
- Printer Speed: up to 200 mm/s
- Extruders: One
- Extruder Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Printing Plate: Heated
Design and Features
The Tiertime UP Mini 2 3D Printer is a moderately priced 3D printer that is quickly becoming a popular model for those who want a little more than an entry-level machine can provide. It is designed for the home user, schools, or engineers who need to do an occasional one-time prototype. It is not a professional-grade machine, but it has some impressive capabilities.
This model is easy to use, but it does have the ability to adjust a few more settings than a basic, entry-level 3D printer model. This one also accepts a wide range of print file formats and filament types, which expands the capabilities of what you can create with it. It is compatible with most major newer operating systems but does require proprietary software. It is not compatible with open-source software. It is also not compatible with Linux systems or with older Windows or Mac OS systems.
Another thing that we like about this model is that you can purchase add-ons, like different extruder heads and upgraded build plates. The Tiertime UP Mini 2 has several different extruder heads available in different diameter sizes and materials, including brass and steel. These features expand what you can print with this model, and they allow you to do more professional models. However, even though you can use a wide range of materials, the build chamber is rather small. This is one of the main drawbacks that we found about this model. Even though you can print with a number of materials, you are limited in size.
This model has several features that other lower-priced models do not. For instance, the Mini 2 has an internal HEPA filter to reduce fumes. This is an excellent feature, considering that some of the filaments that it takes can emit toxic fumes. This is also a concern among many parents who want to introduce their children to 3D printing.
It also has an automatic nozzle detection to make the adjustment easier. Another useful feature is its resume function. This means that you do not have to start over if there is a power outage, such as when someone accidentally disconnects that power cord. It will also stop printing if the door is opened, which is another nice safety feature.
Tiertime UP Mini 2 has a customizable bed and temperature settings so that you can fine-tune your models. It has a touchscreen display that is easy to operate and intuitive. These features are excellent for those with a bit more experience in 3D printing, but they may be a bit too much for a beginner. The software does offer both assisted and automatic calibration options. This model has a thoughtful design and many features that you do not expect on a model designed for more advanced beginners.Printing
When it comes to print quality, this is where the Mini 2 excels. You can do quick prints of up to 200 mm/s, but you can also slow it down to create models with a high level of detail. The range of materials that you can use means that the printer can go beyond printing children’s toys and can be used for prototyping applications.
The UP Mini 2 can produce professional-quality models, but there are also quite a few adjustments. There are optional extruder nozzles and extruder heaters available. You will need to be familiar enough with the type of filament that you are using to get all of these factors adjusted correctly. This could be frustrating for the beginner, but perfect for the more experienced user.
The UP 3D printer can do professional-quality prints, but there is also considerable room for error if you are not familiar with the proper setup. This print quality is consistent from piece to piece, but it is not meant for production work. It was designed for one-time prints.
One of the best features of this printer its proprietary software. Even though the UP 3D printer only works with UP software, the program has quite a few perks and features. For instance, it uses 3D model error detection and correction, which means perfect prints every time. It also has the ability to convert 2D images to 3D images. It is compatible with Windows 7 SP1 or later and Mac OS X. It also uses smart support technology that will help you troubleshoot the unit and solve many common problems. This software suite is a key reason why we like this model.
Packing and Assembly
The Mini 2 is a desktop model that weighs about 20 pounds and has a sturdy carrying handle. It comes packed in double packaging to protect the unit. It is packed with secure Styrofoam, with additional foam to protect vital parts. It comes with a spool of Tiertime brand ABS filament to get you started.
The unit comes fully assembled, but you will need to attach components like the print head, extruder nozzle, and build plate. Assembly of these basic parts is easy, but the initial calibration and set up can be tricky if you are not experienced with this level of 3D printer.
This mini 3D printer also comes with a Quick Start Guide, that is well illustrated and easy to understand. However, the guide provided is basic and they send you to their website and YouTube channel for more information. These resources were more helpful than the Quick Start Guide.
What’s in the Box?
- Mini 2unit
- All hardware necessary for assembly
- Power Supply 90W
- Quick Start Guide
- 1-0.4 mm nozzle
- 1 filament cutter
- 1-500 g spool white Tiertime ABS filament
- Scraper
- The closed filament spool holder
- Filament guide tube
- Pliers
- 1 Pair heat-resistant gloves
- Basic toolset
- 1 USB cable
- 2 UP Flex boards
- 2 UP Perf boards
- Calibration card
Support
One of the best parts about the Tiertime UP Mini 2 3D printeris their customer support. Even though this is a more advanced printer, they offer excellent customer support to back up their product. The customer support team is based in the United States and are knowledgeable about the product. They offer several ways to contact them:
USA Support Hotline 888-288-6124
USA Service Center 888-402-6337
Facebook Page: Facebook/tiertime
Facebook Group: Facebook/groups/205337203341609/
Dedicated international support team: support@tiertime.Software
They also have an excellent YouTube channel and an extensive knowledge base on their website. Even if you are a beginner, you can easily get the help that you need quickly.
Tiertime UP Mini 2 Pros and Cons
Tiertime UP Mini 2 Pros
- Expandable capabilities
- Power outage resume
- Air filtration
- Easy operation
- Prints many filament types
- High-quality, consistent prints
- Add-on extruder nozzles and beds available
Tiertime UP Mini 2 Cons
- Wi-Fi connectivity finicky
- Only basic slicing software
- No SD card slot
- Small build volume
Verdict
In the final verdict, the Tiertime UP Mini 2 is a highly recommended upper-range beginner model. The reason why we say this is that it is affordably priced, but it has many capabilities that models on the lower end of the entry-level category do not. It is a solid machine and is well built. It has safety features and a resume function that demonstrate that the designers thought about the end-user experience.
This mini 3D printer model is capable of creating models using a wide range of filaments. You can also purchase extra components that allow it to do even more. This model might not be the best model for a stark beginner, but it is an excellent model for someone who wants something a little beyond the basics, and that can grow with them, but who is not ready for a professional model. This model could easily do prototyping work without going over the budget.
Last update on 2024-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
