Written by: Emily Joswiak • February 3, 2025• Business

Choosing the Right 3D Printer for Your Business Needs

Wondering what 3D printing can do for your business? Learn how to choose the right 3D printer for your needs by assessing functions, materials, and scalability.

A young woman stands behind a 3D printer, adjusting an orange-colored plastic part manufactured by the machine.

There’s a lot of buzz about 3D printers, but what’s just hype, and what’s actually useful to you and your business? Whether you’re building prototypes, crafting products, or experimenting with new designs and means of production, a 3D printer may change the way you do things. But with countless options on the market, how do you find the best one for your company? We’ve compiled a guide on choosing the right 3D printer for your business needs.

Evaluate Your Business Needs

First, let’s identify your needs and how a 3D printer can meet them. What will you create with it? Think about the types of objects you want to print—prototypes, models, or production-ready parts? You have plenty of options.

Next, what materials will you use? Many materials are available. Along with thermoplastics like PLA and ABS, some 3D printers can use resin, carbon fiber-infused polymers, metals—some even make edible prints!

Lastly, how often will you use it, and should you buy or rent? If you plan to print regularly, investing in a reliable, high-performance printer makes sense. For occasional projects, there are more affordable entry-level, rental, or outsourcing options.

Other Features To Consider

So many 3D printers are on the market, and there’s no “one size fits all” model. Consider the following functions when making your decision.

Precision vs. Durability

FDM printers are ideal for building strong, functional parts, while resin (SLA or DLP) printers excel at creating intricate designs with high precision.

Size and Build Volume

Need to print larger items? Look into printers with bigger build volume. Naturally, larger sizes come at higher costs. Also, keep in mind where you’ll store and run it.

Ease of Use

Unlike photocopiers, some 3D printers have steeper learning curves, requiring hands-on tuning and maintenance. Others are more user-friendly and designed for beginners. Bring this up with the manufacturer or retailer selling the machine; they’ll find the one that best matches your skill level.

Consider how you will ultimately use your 3D printer. An inventor may invest in a 3D printer for different reasons than a parts manufacturer, fashion designer, or chef!

Align With Your Budget

Pricing varies. Entry-level 3D printers start at around 200 dollars, while industrial-grade machines can run thousands of dollars. Mid-range options (500 to 1,000 dollars) are ideal for small businesses, offering a balance of functionality and affordability. Factor in additional costs like filament, resin, and CAD software as these can significantly affect your budget. Lastly, consider maintenance and regular servicing to ensure your machine continues to produce prints for a long time.

That’s our quick guide to choosing the right 3D printer for your business needs. While the investment may seem daunting, 3D printers pay for themselves with their power to create prototypes and manufacture custom products that set your business apart. Make an investment that pays dividends in creativity, efficiency, and profits!

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