In this guide we’ll take a look at the best 3D printers for cosplay armour & props.
We’ve compared printing quality, ease-of-use, design and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
What is the Best 3D Printers for Cosplay?
More Detailed 3D Printer for Cosplay Reviews
QIDI Tech Large Size Industrial Grade 3D Printer
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QIDI Tech Large Size Industrial Grade 3D Printer Review
The Qidi Tech 3D Printer is the best 3D printer for cosplay props. This highly advanced printer is made from quality materials, with the updated double Z axis great for large size prints.
This printer comes with both an A and B extruder. The A extruder can be used for printing all the materials you may need for cosplay armour, including PLA, ABS and TPU. The B extruder is perfect for advanced materials like nylon, carbon fiber and PC.
This printer comes with a 5.0” touchscreen that makes it both easy to use and intuitive. The slicer software version 5.0 is convenient to operate and keeps the process smooth and speedy without sacrificing on quality. The Qidi tech team are on hand to answer any questions post purchase.
Specifications:
Build Volume: 300 x 250 x 400mm
No. of Extruders: 2
Touchscreen?: Yes
Software Included?: Yes
Weight: 61.7lbs
LulzBot TAZ 6 3D Printer
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LulzBot TAZ 6 3D Printer Review
The LulzbBot Taz 6 3D Printer is fantastic printer, self-leveling, self-cleaning and with an integrated power supply to make 3D printing easy for everyone. Never worry about an unlevel bed, this printer will have everything organised and levelled for you before you begin.
This is perfect for large prints including cosplay armour thanks to the 280mm x 280mm x 280mm build volume. It can also make many small props at once, saving you ample time. The heated PEI print surface ensures your parts stay in place and are easy to remove once cool.
Suitable for a range of materials including PLA, ABS, nylon, wood and metal composites and polycarbonate, the sky’s the limit when it comes to this printer.
Specifications:
Build Volume: 280 x 280 x 250mm
No. of Extruders: 1
Touchscreen?: No
Software Included?: Yes
Weight: 43lbs
Dremel Digilab 3D45 Award Winning 3D Printer
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Dremel Digilab 3D45 Award Winning 3D Printer Review
The Dremel Digilab 3D45 3D Printer is a reliable, user friendly printer that can be used to print a range of different materials. It boasts advanced proprietary sensor technology so it can resist clogging, plus it has a robust exterior and heated plate for printing advanced materials.
The semi automated levelling means levelling the print bed before starting is a breeze. The touch screen shows you in real time how to precisely level the plate, so you’ll have no wonky prints! Plus, it’s wifi enabled for cloud printing, and has an HD camera that can be used for capturing an awesome time lapse video.
Finally, this printer is super smart, automatically updating the g-code for optimal extruder and build plate temperatures. Less for you to think about!
Specifications:
Build Volume: 6.7 x 10 x 6 inches
No. of Extruders: 1
Touchscreen?: Yes
Software Included?: Yes
Weight: 42.8lbs
Sindoh 3DWOX DP200 3D Printer
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Sindoh 3DWOX DP200 3D Printer Review
The Sindoh 3DWOX 3D Printer is another strong contender for the best 3D printer for cosplay. This is easy and quick to use, with fully automated loading so changing filaments is easy. All you need to do is insert the cartridge and it’s ready to go.
With assisted bed levelling, you’ll have no wonky prints with this 3D printer. Bed levelling is very simple, with clear instructions displayed to help you set the perfect level. It also has remote monitoring capabilities thanks to the integrated camera and LED lighting. You can see exactly what’s going on night or day through the 3DWOX app on your phone.
Finally, this printer comes with exceptional customer service so any problems can be easily resolved. It’s very durable and the ease of use means you can have cosplay and props ready even on the tightest of schedules.
Specifications:
Build Volume: 200 x 200 x 185mm
No. of Extruders: 1
Touchscreen?: No
Software Included?: Yes
Weight: 44.8lbs
Creality 3D Printer CR-10S
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Creality 3D Printer CR-10S Review
The Creality 3D Printer is a unique printer designed for large objects, up to 300mm x 300mm x 400mm for a single print. It’s easy to use, with a resume printing feature in case you have to pause at any point. There’s also a filament detector for reducing accidents and avoiding interruptions.
This printer needs to be assembled but takes just 10 minutes, with 20 screws. It’s portable and easy to manoeuvre, while the metal plate included is solid and durable.
Finally, this has a high quality nozzle for safe printing. Avoid scalding injury and scratches with this safe and easy to use machine.
Specifications:
Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
No. of Extruders: 1
Touchscreen?: No
Software Included?: Yes
Weight: 30.6lbs
Cosplay 3D Printer Buyer’s Guide
Buying a 3D printer is a big decision, even more so if you’re buying one for a specific purpose. 3D printers are raising the bar when it comes to cosplay, but the perfect 3D printer for the job will be different from someone who is just printing for a hobby.
Cosplay generally requires a large build volume, so a printer that can accommodate large prints is a must. But there’s a whole lot more than just build volume to consider when it comes to finding the perfect printer.
Resolution
The slower the printing process, the higher quality the print at the end. Look for a printer that has speed settings which will allow you to choose lower resolution prints when you’re in a rush (by increasing the print speed). If you have time and need higher quality props, you can set your printer to a lower speed.
Type of Filament
Printing cosplay will require different filament colors and types, so you’ll need a versatile printer, possibly with more than 1 extruder. Look for a printer that has the capacity for ceramics, metal, wood and other more common materials like PLA and ABS.
Reliability
Most 3D printers are designed to be reliable and durable, but look for one with good customer service from the manufacturer to ensure you don’t get stuck if something goes wrong. Metal frames are generally the most sturdy, but ensure you check out the reviews before you buy.
Ease of Use
3D printers can seem complicated, but as you get more experienced they’ll become easy to operate. Spend a few days getting to know your 3D printer, and if you’re a total beginner go for one that comes assembled. Use the default settings on the printer while starting out, and look for clear instructions and beginner-friendly additional features.
Additional Features
Additional features include a self leveling bed which can save you ample time and make the printing process much easier and more accurate. Others might have an LCD touch screen which can make the 3D printing simpler.
A heated bed will ensure the foundation of your prints is stable and well formed, and print resume functions will allow you to resume where you left off.
Safety Features
Safety features are essential for beginners. Look for automatic nozzle cooling, an automatic shut off of the heated bed and a retracting nozzle that will save your prints from damage by excess filament.
Printing Speed
The general rule is that the faster the print speed, the lower quality of the print, but some 3D print machines are specifically designed for speed and quality. If you have a lot of props to make, print speed will be a big consideration.
Print Volume
All printers have a limit on the size of items they can produce. Cosplay armour and props will need to be printed on a 3D printer with a large print volume. This is usually measured in millimeters and refers to the size of the bed. This is the maximum size of 3D print the printer can produce.
Conclusion
A 3D printer is a fantastic way to make high quality cosplay armour and props, but finding the best one from the job is no easy feat. For the large print volume, reliable post-purchase advice and capability to print a range of filaments, the Qidi Tech 3D Printer is top of the list.