The LulzBot Mini is an excellent choice for a 3D printer. The printer has a build volume of 6in x 6in x 6.2in, which isn’t so bad given its size. The printer also uses Cura software to prepare for printing, as it doesn’t bear a control panel for direct operation. It also delivers excellent print quality, and supports a wide range of filaments for use. Go on with this review to find out why we think the LulzBot Mini is just about the best 3D printer you can get your hands on.
Why We Like It – LulzBo Mini 3D Printer
The LulzBot Mini is a great option to consider especially if you’re very new to the 3D printing world. The printer uses Fused Deposition Modeling as its printing technology, has an open frame, and is an open source unit that allows you to make improvements as you see fit. And while we’re on 3D tech, take a look at the innovative LIX Pen UV, a 3D printing pen that lets you write in the air.
- Easy Plug and Play Setup
- Autocalibration/Autocleaning nozzle
- Capable of high resolutions
- Needs PC Tethering
- Small build volume
Performance
The LulzBot Mini is another addition to the LulzBot range from Aleph Objects, and has a printing resolution that varies between 500 & 50 microns. The LulzBot Mini also has a straightforward printing process, where after connecting the printer to your computer through a USB cord, starting up the software and removing the used filament through heating (cleaning up the hot end), you’ll be ready to do your first print. The printer is not as tall as the XYZPrinting Nobel 3D, but it does have a print bed that moves from front to back, and a print head that is moved both up and down & left to right. This movement allows for high speed printing of up to 10.8 inches per second, which is faster than what you’ll get with most models.
Design
The LulzBot Mini weighs about 19 pounds, making it lightweight compared to the likes of the Da Vinci 1.0 3D printer that’s almost 60 pounds heavy, or the Zortrax M200 3D printer which weighs about 30 pounds. The 3D printer also comes fully assembled, and measures 15.2 by 17.1 by 13.4 inches. The printer’s build area might also be significantly small compared to other 3D printers, but this so as to allow for desktop use and make it easier to move around.
Value
The Printer LulzBot doesn’t solely rely on the Cura Software to be operated. It allows for other open source control programs to be used, which offers a lot of flexibility. The 3D printer also boasts of a heated print which helps keep the print quality high by keeping the extruded plastic warm enough to prevent warping. The LulzBot also doesn’t have an interior that’s as well lit as that of the Ultimaker 2, but you’ll still be able to see what’s going on inside without much strain.
LulzBo Mini 3D Printer Wrap Up
The LulzBot Mini 3D is an efficient tool that prints fast, and does a pretty good job at it as well. It’s a great 3D printer for a hobbyist, though if you’re going to need a lot of work done, you might want to look for a more industrial option. Otherwise, the LulzBot Mini remains a great option to get started with 3D printing.
