In the world of custom toy creation, 3D printing has become a game-changer. From professional toy makers to enthusiastic hobbyists, everyone now has the ability to design 3D figures for printing that are personalized and unique.
Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, selecting the right 3D printer for toy making can make a huge difference in the quality and detail of your creations. This guide will walk you through the best 3D printer for small figures, comparing various models to help you find the perfect balance of detail, affordability, and ease of use for crafting stunning, custom toy figures.
The Rise of Custom Toy Making with 3D Printing
3D printing has revolutionized the toy-making industry. No longer do creators need to rely solely on mass production methods or expensive molds to bring their toy ideas to life. With a 3D printer for toy making, designers and hobbyists alike can create detailed and complex small figures that reflect their own creativity, without the need for costly industrial machinery. The ability to produce 3D figures for printing has democratized the toy industry, giving people the tools to create one-of-a-kind collectibles, miniatures, and figures for games, displays, or personal use.
Whether you’re looking to create miniature characters, action figures, or even whimsical figurines, the possibilities are endless with 3D printing. In the next sections, we’ll dive deeper into the best 3D printer for small figures currently available on the market, comparing them based on key features such as detail, speed, price, and ease of use.
Understanding the Requirements for Printing Small Figures
Before choosing the best 3D printer for small figures, it’s important to understand the specific needs for printing detailed toys. When it comes to creating 3D figures for printing, precision is paramount. Small figures require high-resolution printers that can capture intricate details like facial features, hair textures, and clothing patterns. Additionally, the size of the print job matters. While some models are better suited for larger prints, smaller figures require more delicate, precise handling, which is why a 3D printer for toy making designed for these tasks is essential.
In terms of materials, resin printers are often the preferred choice for small, highly detailed figures, as they provide finer details and smoother finishes compared to traditional filament-based FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers. However, FDM printers are often more affordable and easier to use, making them a great option for hobbyists. Understanding your needs—whether you prioritize resolution, ease of use, or cost—will help you narrow down your choices.
The Best 3D Printers for Small Figures: A Comparison
Here are some of the best 3D printers for small figures that offer great detail, ease of use, and affordability. We’ll compare both resin and FDM printers to give you a comprehensive view of your options.
1. Anycubic Photon Mono X (Resin Printer)
The Anycubic Photon Mono X is one of the best 3D printers for small figures on the market today. Known for its high resolution and accuracy, it is ideal for printing intricate, small figures such as action figures or collectibles. With a print resolution of 3840 x 2400, the Photon Mono X delivers ultra-fine details, making it a top choice for creating 3D figures for printing that require precision.
Key Features:
- High resolution (up to 50 microns)
- Large build volume (192 x 120 x 245 mm)
- Fast printing speed
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
Why It’s Great for Toy Making: The Photon Mono X delivers exceptional detail and precision, which is crucial for small toy figures. Whether you’re printing a custom action figure or a small-scale collectible, this printer ensures high-quality results every time. The ease of use and setup make it a great choice for both beginners and professionals.
2. Elegoo Mars 2 Pro (Resin Printer)
The Elegoo Mars 2 Pro is another excellent option for toy makers looking to print 3D figures for printing with high detail. As one of the most affordable resin printers, it delivers outstanding resolution and precision for small figures. With a monochrome LCD screen, the Mars 2 Pro offers faster curing times and longer lifespan compared to traditional color screens.
Key Features:
- 2K monochrome LCD screen
- Print resolution of 2560 x 1620 pixels
- Fast curing time (supports up to 6-second layer exposure)
- Easy to assemble and maintain
Why It’s Great for Toy Making: The Mars 2 Pro excels in producing detailed miniatures and figures, especially for those looking to create custom toy figures on a budget. It strikes the right balance between affordability and performance, making it a great choice for hobbyists who want high-quality prints without breaking the bank.
3. Prusa i3 MK3S+ (FDM Printer)
For those who prefer FDM printing, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is one of the best 3D printers for small figures. While resin printers are often preferred for their superior detail, FDM printers like the Prusa i3 MK3S+ offer versatility in terms of materials and ease of use. This printer is well-regarded for its robust design, high reliability, and excellent print quality.
Key Features:
- Print resolution up to 50 microns
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Wide compatibility with various filament types (PLA, PETG, ABS, etc.)
- Open-source hardware and software
Why It’s Great for Toy Making: The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike. While it may not offer the same level of detail as resin printers, its versatility and consistency make it a top choice for creating 3D figures for printing. You can easily experiment with different filament types to create unique textures and finishes for your toy figures.
4. Creality Ender 3 V2 (FDM Printer)
The Creality Ender 3 V2 is an affordable and popular option for those just starting in 3D printing. Known for its excellent value for money, this printer is capable of producing high-quality 3D figures for printing, including small-scale toy figures, as long as you’re mindful of its limitations.
Key Features:
- Print resolution up to 100 microns
- Large build volume (220 x 220 x 250 mm)
- Silent operation and upgraded features
- Open-source firmware
Why It’s Great for Toy Making: For hobbyists or beginners, the Ender 3 V2 provides a solid, reliable option for creating custom toy figures. Although it may not match the precision of a resin printer, it can still produce good-quality prints with the right settings and filament. It’s an excellent entry-level option for those looking to experiment with 3D toy making.
5. Anycubic Photon Mono SE (Resin Printer)
Another excellent resin printer from Anycubic, the Photon Mono SE is a smaller version of the Mono X but still offers exceptional detail and resolution for smaller prints. It’s a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly, high-performance printer that can handle detailed 3D figures for printing.
Key Features:
- 2K resolution (2560 x 1620 pixels)
- Print speed up to 60mm per hour
- Compact design with a build volume of 130 x 78 x 160 mm
- User-friendly interface
Why It’s Great for Toy Making: The Photon Mono SE is perfect for hobbyists and makers who want to print small, intricate toys and action figures. It delivers excellent precision and surface quality, making it one of the best 3D printers for small figures in its price range. If you’re creating detailed custom toy figures, this is a reliable and cost-effective option.
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
When it comes to selecting the best 3D printer for small figures, there are several factors to consider:
- Detail and resolution: If you’re focusing on highly detailed toys, resin printers are your best option.
- Ease of use: Consider how comfortable you are with setting up and maintaining the printer. Some printers, like the Prusa i3 MK3S+, offer more versatility but may require a bit more expertise.
- Price: Resin printers generally cost more than FDM printers, but they offer much higher resolution for detailed figures. If you’re on a budget, FDM printers like the Ender 3 V2 provide a solid entry point.
- Material compatibility: If you plan to experiment with various materials, an FDM printer may give you more options. Resin printers are generally more limited in material choice but offer superior detail.
Conclusion
With the right 3D printer for toy making, creating personalized, high-quality 3D figures for printing has never been easier. Whether you’re a professional toy maker or a hobbyist looking to create custom figures, selecting the best 3D printer for small figures is key to achieving the desired detail, accuracy, and affordability.
From resin printers like the Anycubic Photon Mono X and Elegoo Mars 2 Pro to versatile FDM options like the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Creality Ender 3 V2, there are options for every need and budget. Choose wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to crafting stunning, one-of-a-kind toy figures that reflect your creativity and passion for 3D printing.
