In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, 3D printing has become an essential tool for fostering creativity and innovation in students. Schools, libraries, and makerspaces are increasingly adopting this technology to provide hands-on, STEM-focused learning experiences. To help you navigate the options, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 3D printers that are currently popular in educational settings. Whether you’re in K-12 or higher education, these printers offer the features and reliability needed to enhance your curriculum and inspire the next generation of makers.

1. Bambu Lab X1E

The Bambu Lab X1E is an excellent choice for educators - both k-12 and higher education establishments can take advantage of evertthing that the X1W has to offer. Designed for high-temperature materials, it's a reliable quality, cost-effective solution for diverse engineering courses. 

Why Educators Like the X1E: 

  • High Precision and Speed: The X1E offers exceptional print quality with high precision, making it ideal for detailed student projects and prototypes. It can achieve print speeds of up to 500mm/s, ensuring quick turnaround times.
  • User-Friendly Interface & Network Security: Its intuitive touchscreen interface and easy-to-use software make it accessible for both beginners and experienced users. The printer also supports WPA2-Enterprise Wi-Fi Authentication and LAN communication, providing secure and flexible network capabilities.
  • Robust Safety Features: Designed with safety in mind, the X1E includes an active heated chamber, vibration and extrusion compensation, and AI failure detection. It also features heavy-duty air filtration with G3 pre-filter, H12 HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter, ensuring a safer environment for students.

Explore the Bambu Lab X1E Here.

2. Formlabs Form 4

If your school or university is focused on research, the Formlabs Form 4 is a great choice. The entire Formlabs ecosystem will integrate easily into and lab or research facility on campus. 

Why Educators, Lab Techs, and Research Facilities like the Form 4: 

  • Exceptional Print Quality: The Form 4 delivers high-resolution prints with smooth surfaces, perfect for creating intricate models and educational tools.
  • Wide Range of Materials: With a variety of resin options thanks to Formlabs Open Material Mode, educators can experiment with different materials to suit various projects and learning objectives.
  • Streamlined Workflow: The Formlabs ecosystem, including pre-form software and post-processing tools, simplifies the 3D printing process from start to finish, making it easy to get up and running in any education setting. 

Explore the Formlabs Form 4 Here.

3. MakerBot SKETCH Large

The MakerBot SKETCH Large is designed to enable students to think and print bigger, and its easy-to-use platform makes collaborating a breeze.

Why Educators Like the MakerBot SKETCH Large: 

  • Educational Certifications: The SKETCH Large comes with comprehensive teacher and student certifications, encouraging design-forward thinking and developing STEM proficiency. These certifications are ISTE-certified and help validate 3D printing expertise, making educators and students stand out as STEM leaders.
  • Cloud-Based Collaboration: MakerBot CloudPrint makes it easy for students to collaborate, share, and prepare their 3D printed parts. The platform offers hundreds of modifiable parameters for all user experience levels and allows for centralized management of multiple printers, making it perfect for makerspaces and labs.
  • Large Build Volume: With a build volume of 220 x 200 x 250mm, the SKETCH Large allows students to create bigger parts and components for projects, expanding their creativity and enabling more comprehensive designs.

Explore the MakerBot SKETCH Large from UltiMaker Here. 

4. Bambu Lab A1 Combo EDU Bundle - the Works

The Bambu Lab A1 Combo is a powerful 3D printer designed for user-friendly, multi-color 3D printing. The best part - we've curated some EDU-focused bundles for you to succeed right away.

Why Schools Like the Bambu Lab A1 Combo: 

  • Multi-Color Printing: The A1 Combo includes the AMS Lite system, which supports up to 4-color printing, allowing students to create vibrant and complex projects without the need for technical tinkering.
  • Fast and Efficient: With print speeds of up to 500mm/s and features like auto-calibration and one-click nozzle swaps, the A1 Combo ensures a smooth and efficient 3D printing experience from start to finish.
  • User-Friendly and Quiet: Designed with ease of use in mind, the A1 Combo features an intuitive interface, automated Z-offset, and quiet operation with active motor noise canceling, making it ideal for classroom environments.

Explore the Bambu Lab A1 Combo EDU Bundle Here. 

5. Voron 2.4 3D Printer Kit

The Voron 2.4 Kit is an exceptional educational tool, offering students a comprehensive learning experience by building the printer from start to finish.

Why Tech Teachers like the Voron 2.4:

  • Hands-On Learning: Assembling the Voron 2.4 from a kit provides students with invaluable hands-on experience in engineering and electronics. This process helps them understand the intricacies of 3D printer mechanics and the integration of various components.
  • Educational Depth: The kit includes a wide range of parts, from structural components to electrical wiring, giving students insight into the design and functionality of 3D printers. This deep dive into assembly fosters problem-solving skills and technical knowledge.
  • Community and Resources: With a strong online community and extensive resources, educators and students can access support, troubleshooting tips, and enhancement ideas, making the learning process collaborative and engaging.

Explore the Voron 2.4 3D printer kit here. 

By incorporating these top 5 3D printers into your educational programs, you can provide students with valuable hands-on experience and foster a deeper understanding of STEM concepts. Join the growing number of schools that are revolutionizing education with 3D printing technology!

Of course, MatterHackers is here to help you with every step of the way. We offer training for schools, as well as maintenance packages to ensure that your machines stay in top condition. Email education@matterhackers.com to learn more.