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Printing with filament that has absorbed moisture can result in poor quality printed objects with decreased durability. This is why today, I will show you how to find the best filament dryer system to avoid creating poor-quality prints.
A filament dryer is a fairly basic machine that helps to remove moisture and dry out different filament types. There are so many models on the market, so hopefully, my guide to the top 6 will help narrow down your options.
I’ll also run through things you should look for in a filament drying system and answer some frequently asked questions.
If you’re in a rush, here’s a snapshot of my top picks.
Table of Contents
At a Glance: 6 Best Filament Dryer Systems
Filament Dryer System | Best for | Filament sizes | Check the latest price |
SUNLU Filament Dryer | Best overall filament dryer system | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm | Check the latest price |
Polymaker Polybox Filament Storage Box and Dryer | Best Desiccant filament dryer system | 1.75mm, 2.85mm | Check the latest price |
EIBOS Filament Dryer Box | Best versatile filament dryer system | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm | Check the latest price |
eSUN eBOX 3D Printing Filament Storage Box | Best filament dryer system with a weight scale | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm | Check the latest price |
JAYO 3D Printer Filament Dryer Box | Best low-noise filament dryer system | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm | Check the latest price |
3D Printer Filament Storage Bag | Best manual filament dryer system | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm | Check the latest price |
SUNLU dry box is specifically made for the purpose of drying 3d printer filament, intended to remove moisture from a spool of filament. It can keep 3D filament dried during a print job and can be used to dry filament for storage.
What is a Filament Dryer?
A filament dryer is an essential tool, particularly if you are working with an FDM 3D printer.
The reason is that filament absorbs moisture if you leave it out in the open, damaging the plastic. Not only will this result in poorer quality prints, but the overall durability of your objects will be decreased, and 3D printing becomes a lot harder.
This is where a filament dryer system comes in useful.
A filament dryer system has one particular purpose – to dry filament for use in your 3D printer, which will allow you to create high-quality and durable printed objects. The dryer achieves this by distributing heat onto your filament and using airflow to evaporate moisture.
What to Look for in a Filament Dryer?
Filament driers are relatively simple pieces of kit; however, there are some features that you should consider that can make them much more effective.
Rotating Spool Mounts
A rotating spool mount on a filament dryer will allow a much more even heat distribution.
Rather than simply tossing the filament into a dryer and leaving it static, which can result in uneven heat distribution, a rotating spool mount will help ensure all filament parts dry out properly.
This feature lets you mount your filament, which will then turn and rotate when the dryer is in operation. A rotating spool mount is an essential feature if you want the filament to dry out evenly.
Blower
A blower is a very simple addition to a filament dryer system, but it can significantly impact how well the filament dries.
There are basic filament dryer systems you can buy (as well as some DIY options), but if you want to dry out filament to a professional standard, it is better to purchase one made for this purpose.
A blower will circulate the air around the dryer, which will help ensure that your filament dries quicker and more evenly.
Capacity
Another thing to consider when buying a filament dryer system is its capacity.
The capacity means how much filament you can fit into the dryer at one time while still ensuring that the drying process is effective. If you are purchasing a filament drying system with a rotating spool holder, you’ll also need to consider the size of the filament.
The spool holder could be made for 1.75mm or 2.85 mm (and less commonly 3 mm), so knowing this in advance is vital to allow you to buy a dryer that will fit the filament for your 3D printer.
Temperature
Different filament types need specific temperatures to dry out properly.
For example, nylon filament requires a temperature of around 158°F (70 degrees celsius) to dry out properly, but PLA filament shouldn’t exceed 104°F (40 degrees celsius).
So, it is essential to note the temperature range on the dryer system and the temperatures required for the filament you are using.
Cost
Filament dryers aren’t terribly expensive (compared to the price ranges of 3D printers), but it is still important to consider the cost.
If you are starting out with 3D printing, you will likely want to keep the cost down as much as you can. Make a budget and ensure you stick to it as much as possible, and if you are buying a 3D printer, you should set some money aside for various accessories such as a filament dryer.
Selection Criteria
If you are looking for a filament dryer system by yourself, you may find the amount of choice overwhelming. I have broken the list down to the top six, but I had to use some strict criteria to ensure the best models were included. The criteria I used were:
- Temperature range – Different filaments required certain temperatures to dry correctly, so I included dryer systems to suit many filament types.
- Electric and desiccant – My list has both electric heat source filament dryers and those that use a desiccant system if you prefer one type over the other.
- Cost – Even though filament dryers aren’t usually expensive, I included several cheaper options, ensuring one for every budget.
- Capacity – Being able to dry a lot of filament at once is essential, so you don’t need to redo the process over and over again. All the filament dryers on my list can hold up to 3KG of filament.
6 Best Filament Dryer Systems in 2021
Filament dryers might seem quite basic tools, but there are so many available on the market. I have whittled them down to the top six that you can buy for your 3D printing ventures.
SUNLU Filament Dryer – Best Overall Filament Dryer System
My number one choice for an effective all-around filament drying system is the SUNLU Filament Dryer.
This filament dryer is large enough to accommodate all filaments sizes, including 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm, and it can hold a lot of filament at once.
It has a temperature setting of between 95-131°F (35-55 degrees Celcius), which is fine for the majority of filament types; however, some filament such as nylon requires a higher temperature. That being said, many people have found that this does dry out nylon quite well, and if you mainly work with other filaments, there shouldn’t be an issue.
Some other features that I like about this model include the rotating spool holder that ensures your filament is dried evenly, and you can adjust the run-time if you want. Also, this is a very user-friendly filament dryer system that shouldn’t pose a problem for anyone when using it.
Aside from the temperature limitations, there isn’t much wrong with this model, and this is why it comes in as my number one choice.
SUNLU dry box is specifically made for the purpose of drying 3d printer filament, intended to remove moisture from a spool of filament. It can keep 3D filament dried during a print job and can be used to dry filament for storage.
Pros
- Very easy to use filament dryer system
- Works with all filament sizes
- Has preset controls, and you can adjust the run time
- Features a rotating spool holder
Cons
- The maximum temperature might be too low for certain filaments
Polymaker Polybox Filament Storage Box and Dryer – Best Desiccant Filament Dryer System
Next up on my list is the Polymaker Polybox Filament Storage Box and Dryer.
This filament dryer system works by utilizing a built-in thermo-hygrometer so that you can monitor the humidity levels and temperature of your filament inside the box.
This is an excellent choice if you want to use a desiccant system, as the box holds to large desiccant boxes underneath, which helps to take out the moisture in your filament.
Also, if you want an energy-saving model, this is definitely the one to go for as there is no electricity involved in the process. You can fit different filament types into the box on the spool, and it can house up to 3KG of filament at once.
One drawback is that this filament dryer costs around the same as a model that works off electricity, and it can be seen as a bit overpriced. However, if you want to go down the route of using a desiccant system, the Polymaker Polybox is an ideal choice.
PolyBox is a filament storage box designed to provide the optimum environment for 3D printing filaments. The PolyBox is compatible with all 3D printers and can house two 1kg spools or one 3kg spool.
Pros
- Energy-saving option for drying filament
- Can house up to 3KG of filament
- Has a digital thermo-hygrometer
Cons
- This filament dryer is a bit expensive for what it is
- Build volume is the smallest on my list
EIBOS Filament Dryer Box – Best Versatile Filament Dryer System
One thing I also like is versatility, and this is why the EIBOS Filament Dryer Box has made my list.
This filament dryer can dry out all kinds of filament, including PLA, TPU, PLEG, and nylon. The dryer can reach temperatures of 158°F (70 degrees Celcius) which is ideal for drying out every type of filament. You can also house up to 3KG of filament on a spool inside the box, while the built-in fan and spool rotation ensures a consistent and even heat distribution.
The price is perhaps the main downside to this device as it is quite expensive; however, if you plan on working with different filaments, it is hard to go wrong with this model.
The dryer box is specifically made for the purpose of drying 3D printer filament, intended to remove the moisture from a spool of filament caused by ambient exposing. Filament can be used while in the box, the dryer function as both storage box and filament holder.
Pros
- Compatible with all types of filament
- Can hold up to 3KG
- It has a built-in fan and spool rotator
Cons
- This filament dryer is quite expensive
eSUN eBOX 3D Printing Filament Storage Box – Best Filament Dryer System with a Weight Scale
The eSUN eBOX 3D Printing Filament Storage Box is an excellent option if you want a filament dryer with a weight scale. This feature allows you to accurately determine how long your filament will need to dry for, resulting in much better results.
I like the eSUN model because the digital display allows you to monitor the temperature, and the unit is completely sealed to protect against dust. Also, you can add in desiccant packs if you wish to help accelerate and make the drying process more effective.
You may find it difficult to dry out some filaments such as nylon completely, but the maximum temperature is still pretty decent. There is often a clicking noise when this dryer is in operation. It isn’t deafening, but it can be quite noticeable, so you might want to use this filament dryer in a place that won’t disturb anyone.
Pros
- Features a handy weight scale for accurate drying
- You can add desiccant packs
- It is a digital display
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons
- You might find it hard to dry out nylon filament
- There is a clicking noise when in operation
JAYO 3D Printer Filament Dryer Box – Best Low Noise Filament Drying System
Most filament drying systems aren’t that noisy (aside from the eSun model above), but the JAYO 3D Printer Filament Dryer Box is almost entirely silent.
This makes it ideal for use in an office environment or even just at home if you don’t want to disturb anyone when drying out your filament. The model won’t surpass 10dB, and the low noise isn’t the only outstanding feature of this drying system.
The JAYO filament dryer box has a rotating spool that ensures even heat distribution, a user-friendly 2-inch LCD screen, and can reach up to 55°C. Again, this model might struggle with some filaments that require a higher temperature, but it works for most types of plastic, including PLA, SILK, PETG, ABS.
You can’t check the humidity inside the box; however, aside from that, this is a great filament drying system available at a very reasonable cost.
Pros
- Very low noise
- Can dry out many different filament types
- Available at a low cost
- It has a rotating spool shaft
Cons
- You can’t check the humidity inside the box
- Will struggle with some filaments
3D Printer Filament Storage Bag – Best Manual Filament Dryer System
For anyone that really wants to save money on a filament dryer system and doesn’t mind some manual work, I recommend the 3D Printer Filament Storage Bag.
This is an elementary drying method on all filament types, although it does work. The product is an air-tight vacuum-sealed bag that comes from a hand pump that you use to remove excess air. One of the biggest advantages of this model is that it is a lot cheaper than any other filament drying system on my list.
The downside is that it will take longer to dry filament, and it might not do it as well as an electric or desiccant model. However, the bag is reusable, but you do need to be careful using this system as it is easy to damage the bag.
Made of PE/PA which is food grade plastic, durable and can be reusable and resealable for several times. Not only can be used to store 3D printer filaments, and they also can be applied to store candy, coffee beans, dried flowers, baking, dried fruit, cookie, tea, nuts and so on.
Pros
- Allows you to dry filament on a budget
- Works with all filament types
- The bag is reusable, and you get 10 bags with your purchase
Cons
- It will take longer to dry out filament
- This system involves some manual work
Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: The filament is the material that is fed into a 3D printer to make different models and objects. There are many kinds of filament, including plastic, nylon, wood, wax, and resin.
Answer: Yes. If you use filament that has absorbed a lot of moisture, this can result in poor quality printed objects that have reduced durability. While many people don’t dry out their filament first, I think it is an essential step in the 3D printing process.
Answer: Potentially. If you can create an accurate and consistent temperature with your oven, it is possible to use this to dry filament. However, it is better to use a tailor-made device for this job to get best results.
Answer: It depends on the filament that you are using. DIfferent filaments require different temperatures. For example, nylon filament requires a temperature of around 158 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas PLA filament only requires 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Answer: Not really. Compared to the price of a 3D printer, a filament dryer is relatively inexpensive. Although, if you are setting yourself a budget for a new 3D printer, you should put aside some money for the cost of buying a filament dryer too.
Which is the Best Filament Dryer System?
If you want to purchase an easy-to-use but effective filament dryer system, go for the SUNLU Filament Dryer.
There is very little not to like about this model. Okay, the max temperature can pose some limitations, especially when drying nylon filament; however, it works great for everything else.
There is a rotating spool holder which ensures an even heat distribution, and it is also compatible with all types of filament such as 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm.
Overall, this is an incredibly simple filament dryer that isn’t going to take away a lot of money from your budget if you are just getting into the world of 3D printing.
SUNLU dry box is specifically made for the purpose of drying 3d printer filament, intended to remove moisture from a spool of filament. It can keep 3D filament dried during a print job and can be used to dry filament for storage.