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If you’re familiar with our site, then you’re well aware of the new and exciting ways that 3D printers are impacting our society. But even if you just want to get one to print some interesting and creative objects, you can do that too.
When it comes to 3D printing, the only limitation is you. You can create any object you want. Collectibles to put on the shelf objects that you can use around the house, and utensils for eating are just a few of the things you can make with your 3D printer.
In addition to printing 3D objects, 3D printers themselves are becoming more versatile. Snapmaker, for example, brings its 3-in-1 3D printer to the table by offering a device that will not only print but will also work as a CNC carver (CNC mill) and a laser engraver.
The Snapmaker is designed with beginners in mind, offering a printer that is affordable, easy to use, and comes with plenty of features to experiment with!
Table of Contents
Snapmaker 3D Printer
This unique and interesting device started out as a Kickstarter campaign where it raised over $2 million in funding. The Snapmaker is designed with beginners in mind, offering a printer that is affordable, easy to use, and comes with plenty of features.
While the Snapmaker does have a limited amount of printing space, it packs plenty of potential for anyone looking to get started with 3D printing. But before we get too far into what the Snapmarker 3-in-1 has to offer, let’s talk about considerations before buying a 3D printer.
See how Snapmaker compares to Glowforge.
What to Consider
If you’re in the market to purchase a 3D printer and you’re thinking about pulling the trigger on the Snapmaker 3-in-1, here are a few things to consider before you make a final buying decision.
Cost
One of the primary items to consider when buying a 3D printer is the cost. Is it affordable? Will it get the job done for you or your business without breaking your budget? If so, then maybe this is the 3D printer you need.
Practical Use
How practical is the printing you’re considering? Will it do what you want it to do? How will it benefit your small business? There are plenty of learning opportunities available when it comes to 3D printing, so be sure to take a moment and consider what makes sense for you.
Capability
Is the printer capable of working different materials and programs? It’s nice to have a device that is versatile and has the ability for utilization across various applications.
Speed
While it’s nice to be able to print objects quickly, some fast 3D printers are willing to sacrifice on quality. That means the object you’re printing may not be as durable as one that took a little longer to print.
Quality
Are the printed objects free of stringing and warping? Does the printer create quality, durable products? You’ll want a 3D printer that prevents these types of problems.
Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D Printer
Design
The Snapmaker is designed with beginners in mind, offering a printer that is affordable, easy to use, and comes with plenty of features to experiment with!
Snapmaker’s printer is one of the more unique designs on the market as it offers its users a device that supports three 3d printing technology applications simultaneously. The intention of the machine is to make it useful, friendly, and easy to use.
With a sturdy body and beautiful look, this Snapmaker 3D printer boasts both trust and reliability among its users. Its modular design and solid frame leave many users impressed with this 3D printer.
This all-metal machine is designed and built with care, providing a stable and precise experience. The Snapmaker is durable as well, which means you’ll be able to use it over the long haul without experiencing a lot of problems along the way.
Additionally, the Snapmaker has a very clean and tidy design in regards to loose wires. Printer wires are hidden out of sight behind the metal frame. The few wires that are visible can be easily adjusted so your printer always looks nice and neat.
Frame
This 3D printer has an entirely open frame, which means it’s easy to work on and maintain if needed. Even though it’s open, the printer looks professional and sleek. It’s easy to see that Snapmaker went to great lengths to provide a 3D printer that looks great and performs well.
Features
There are plenty of features available with the Snapmaker 3-in-1 printer that are sure to make things easier for you as you print your favorite objects. Here are just a few that we picked out that you’re sure to appreciate.
LCD Touchscreen
Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 printer comes with an LCD color touchscreen. At 3.5 inches, it’s big enough for you to easily make changes and adjustments through the interface. It also makes selecting a file on a USB drive much easier than it is on other 3D printers.
Supports Multiple Filament Types
There are some 3D printers that can only use one type of filament, but the Snapmaker 3-in-1 is not one of them. If you’re just starting out sticking with one filament type might be best, but as you progress, it’s nice to have options.
Snapmaker supports ABS, PLA, and several other filament types, which means you have the freedom to print objects with different textures and properties.
Heated Bed
A heated bed can make a significant difference when it comes to 3D printing. Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 printer has a heated bed that can reach up to 80 degrees Celsius. As a result, you’ll have an easier time printing with materials that are known for warping or being difficult to manage.
Changeable Modules
We’ve already mentioned that the Snapmaker 3-in-1 printer has three different modules. Each one serves its own purpose, making this a great option for anyone getting into 3D printing. However, Snapmaker goes the extra mile by making these modules easy to change.
You can easily insert the module you need so you can print exactly what you want. It’s so easy, that even those new to the world of 3D printing should have no trouble figuring it out.
Laser Engraving
Another great feature of the Snapmaker 3-in-1 that we’ve mentioned is its laser engraving laser module. With this 3D printer, you can use its workspace to create laser engraving projects. The Snapmaker has a decent laser, offering 405nm wavelength and 200mW of power.
Just like the 3D printer piece of the Snapmaker, you can engrave on a variety of materials. These include wood, plastic, leather, paper, fabric, and leather. However, there are materials that you shouldn’t use, like laser cutter applications for glass, metal, and others.
CNC Carving [CNC Module]
When it comes to CNC carving (CNC milling), your area is restricted a little more, but you should still have enough room to do some basic carving. With a 19,000 RPM spindle speed and a shank diameter of 3.175mm, you’ll be able to perform simple carvings anytime you want.
You can work with a variety of materials such as wood, PCB, carbon fiber, acrylic, and many others. This functionality also allows you to use different file types, including DWG, IGS, DXF, STEP, IGES, SVG, along with third-party software like Autodesk Fusion.
What’s Included
Upon opening the box that the Snapmaker comes in, you’ll quickly realize that this is a company that is serious about its products. While the device does not come pre-assembled, it does come in neat and professional packaging.
Parts are snugly shipped in cut foam to ensure they don’t move during shipment, and any tools or additional accessories are stored in separate boxes so they are easily accessible during assembly.
Along with the parts needed for the printer, you’ll also get a spool of PLA filament, plus the filament holder. Also included is the material you can use for laser engraving, safety goggles, and a power pack.
Setting Up
Even though putting together a desktop 3D printer sounds intimidating, it’s actually very easy with the Snapmaker 3-in-1. Just follow the provided instructions and before you know it, you’ll be ready to print your favorite objects.
Every module of the printer includes the motors, rails, bearing, and wiring necessary for operation. This helps to make assembly quick and simple, so you don’t have to waste a lot of time trying to figure out what goes where.
Once you have your Snapmaker put together, you’re ready to calibrate it. Fortunately, Snapmaker makes this process just as easy as the printer assembly process. If you have experience with calibrating a printer, you’ll find the Snapmaker process quick and painless.
But even if you’re a newcomer, calibrating your new printer isn’t too complicated. You’ll have to make some manual adjustments to the printer, along with some refining of the settings through the touch-screen, but Snapmaker does a great job of walking you through the process.
Overall, Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 printer is easy to setup. Whether you’re an amateur in the world of 3D printing or someone with lots of experience, unboxing, assembling, and calibrating this printer is quick, simple, and hassle-free.
Filament Type
While the Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer supports a wide variety of filaments, the printer comes with FDM. This helps with cost, as you don’t have to buy a spool of filament right out of the gate. You can just set up your printer and start printing.
However, keep in mind that if you decide to use a filament type that isn’t recommended by the printer, you may see poor results in print quality.
Quality
Speaking of quality, how well does the Snapmaker 3-in-1 stack up with other printers? To put it bluntly, it performs very well. When you print with this 3D printer, you won’t run into problems like stringing or issues with adhesion that you might find with other printers in the same market.
The Snapmaker 3-in-1 was designed to give its users the best prints possible, which it does quite well. However, one area where this 3D printer could improve is noisiness. You might be alarmed by how much noise the Snapmaker makes while it’s printing an object.
It is a far cry from some of its competitors that offer noiseless options. Any time you’re printing something with the Snapmaker, you’re aware of it. Some users are put off by this, however, there are those that say if everything else prints off the way it should and there are no problems, what’s a little noise?
The other modules with the printer work great. You can easily switch between the CNC carver, the laser engraver, and the 3D printer at any time. All you have to do is loosen a few screws, remove one module, and put the other in its place.
Snapmaker stands out in this area, as there are many multi-functional printers on the market that require disassembling the entire machine and then putting it back together to switch from one function to another.
Software
Included with the Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer is the company’s Snapmakerjs software. This software works with all three modules included with the device, so no matter what you’re doing, you’ll have the aid of the software if you need it.
Along with the software are great features and tools users have access to through the touch interface on the printer itself. When you change the module on the application, you can change the type of work the machine is capable of doing.
The Snapmakerjs software is interactive, allowing users to perform tasks and create objects while tapping into their inner creativity. Additionally, this device supports a wide range of third-party software, so you’re not limited to only using the application that comes with the Snapmaker 3-in-1.
3D Printer Specs
The Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer offers its users a build space of 125mm x 125mm x 125mm. It supports a variety of printing material types, including ABS, PLA, and many others. The recommended filament diameter for this 3D printer is 1.75mm.
However, if you do decide to choose a filament that’s not recommended by Snapmaker, be sure you aren’t using one that isn’t supported. These include graphite, Alumide, and others, which could do significant damage to the printer.
The nozzle is 0.4mm in diameter and can travel at speeds of up to 100mm/second. The printer can reach a temperature of up to 250-degrees Celcius.
New Version: The Snapmaker 2.0
If you’re impressed by this Snapmaker machine, then you should check out the Snapmaker 2.0 review. This time around, the device comes in three sizes.
The smallest of these is the A150, which gives you a bigger work area at 11.8 by 12.4 by 15.4 inches (300 by 316 by 390 millimeters) for 3D printing and laser engraving. You get a work area of 6.3 by 6.3 by 3.5 inches (160 by 160 by 90 millimeters) for your CNC carving work.
Because of its modular nature, you can easily snap out a tool head and do your thing. You can expect more tool heads that will allow you to do more with your Snapmaker 2.0.
As a 3D printer, you can enjoy automatic bed leveling, filament runout sensor, removable print sheet, and a cooling system that has been improved from the original Snapmaker.
The laser engraving and cutting has a built-in camera and works really fast. Meanwhile, the CNC carving tool head has a bigger work area and more stable speed than the first Snapmaker.
This 3-in-1 machine works with a variety of materials, including:
3D printing
- ABS
- PETG
- PLA
- TPU
Laser engraving and cutting
- A4 white paper
- Corrugated fiberboard
- Cotton fabric
- MDF
- Non-transparent acrylic
- Vegetable-tanned leather
- White cardstock
- Wood
CNC carving
- Acrylic sheet
- Carbon fiber sheet
- PCB
- POM
| Printer | A350 | A250 | A150 |
| Dimensions (millimeters) | 495 by 506 by 580 | 405 by 424 by 490 | 300 by 316 by 390 |
| 3D printing | |||
| Work area (millimeters) | 320 by 350 by 330 | 230 by 250 by 235 | 160 by 160 by 145 |
| Max. temperature for heated bed (c) | 80 | 100 | 110 |
| Laser engraving | |||
| Work area (millimeters) | 320 by 250 by 275 | 230 by 250 by 235 | 160 by 160 by 145 |
| CNC carving | |||
| Work area (millimeters) | 320 by 350 by 275 | 230 by 250 by 235 | 160 by 160 by 90 |
Other specifications you should know:
3D Printing – our Snapmaker 2.0 review
- Layer Resolution: 0.0019685 to 0.011811 inches (50 to 300 microns)
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.015748 inches (0.4 millimeters)
- Max Nozzle Temperature: 527 degrees Fahrenheit (275 degrees Celsius)
Laser Engraving and Cutting
- Built-in Camera: Yes
- Laser Power: 1600 mW
- Wavelength: 450 nM
- Safety Class: Class 4
CNC Carving
- Shank Diameter: 0.2 to 0.25 inches (0.5 to 6.35 millimeters)
- Spindle Speed: 6,000 to 12,000 revolutions per minute
Pros
- Value for money
- Has a bigger touchscreen than the Original Snapmaker
- Comes in three sizes so you can choose what you need
- Great for beginners
Cons
- It can be very noisy
- Close double the price of the original Snapmaker
Snapmaker 3-in-1 Alternatives
If you don’t think the Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer is the right one for you, here are a few alternatives you can consider.
Creality CP-01
Multi-function 3-in-1 3D Printer: With 3D printing, laser engraving, CNC cutting, three effects to give you a new operating experience. 3D printing model is fine, the layer is nearly absent, the CNC cutting model is smooth, and the surface is flat.
The Creality CP-01 allows you to switch out three print heads:
- 3D printing
- Laser engraving
- CNC engraving
With the Creality CP-01’s modular build, you can easily change out the print heads. The manufacturer claims that you can do this in just 30 seconds. You get 3D prints without any visible layers, CNC cuttings that are smooth, and great results on your laser engraved products.
3D Printer
As a 3D printer, you can work with different filaments, including ABS, PLA, and TPU. The hotbed can get as hot as 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius), while the nozzle delivers maximum temperatures of 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius).
Even with its affordable pricing, you have a print area of 7.8 by 7.8 by 7.8 inches (200 by 200 by 200 millimeters). Printing accuracy is at 0.1 millimeters, with a layer thickness of 0.1 to 0.4 millimeters. What’s more, this is quite a speedy printer, printing about 0.39 to 3.15 inches (10 to 80 millimeters) per second.
CNC Engraving
For CNC engraving and cutting, you can get products measuring 7.8 by 7.8 inches (200 by 200 millimeters). You can work with plastic, PCB, paper, wood, and other materials.
With spindle speed reaching 4,800 revolutions per minute, you can rely on the HRC55 tungsten still cutter to do the job really fast.
Laser Engraving
You can engrave objects up to 3.9 by 7.5 inches (100 by 190 millimeters) and use different materials such as leather, plastic, paper, or wood. The laser is rated to use less than 0.5 watts of power.
Pros
- Huge build volume and working area
- Affordable
- Nice-looking printer with wiring neatly hidden away.
Cons
- Some retailers don’t ship to the United States
- Input and output are placed at the back of the machine.
ZMorph Fab
The ZMorph Fab gives you the chance to work with a single and dual extrusion 3D printer, laser cutting, and CNC machine.
3D Printer
The ZMorph Fab gives you a fused filament fabrication 3D printer that delivers a sizable build volume of 9.2 by 9.8 by 6.5 inches (235 by 250 by 165 millimeters). You can also enjoy automatic or manual bed leveling and use third party materials such as:
- ABS
- ASA
- HIPS
- Nylon
- PC
- PC/ABS
- PET
- PLA
- PMMA
- PP
- PVA
- TOP
Other stuff you should know about this single/dual extrusion printer:
- Layer resolution: 0.05 to 0.4 millimeters
- Maximum extruder temperature: 482 degrees Fahrenheit (250 degrees Celsius)
- Connectivity: USB, SD card, Ethernet
CNC Milling
You can switch out the printer heads with a CNC spindle, which delivers maximum power of 300 watts. This machine is fast, with a top speed rated at 20 millimeters per second.
You have a work area of 9.3 by 9.8 by 3.3 inches = (235 by 250 by 85 millimeters), and you have the flexibility to use different materials from plastic to wood and even metals.
Laser Engraving and Cutting
The ZMorph Fab also comes with a laser tool head that delivers spot sizes of either 0.1 by 0.1 millimeters or 0.1 by 0.18 millimeters.
The 450-nm class 4 laser works fast at 0.6 inches per second (15 millimeters per second). You will be able to engrave on a wide range of materials, such as wood, leather, cardboard, felt, laminate, foils, and foam, among others.
Zmorph Fab is the most versatile and the most practical multitool 3D printer that you can put on a desk. Zmorph Fab is designed to be your workhorse, versatile object-making machine, and problem solver.
Pros
- It’s easy to change out the tool heads
- HEPA and carbon filters are used
Cons
- Uses a proprietary slicer
- Expensive
Stepcraft M-Series
The Stepcraft M-Series sounds like a Swiss knife. If you want an all-in-one machine, this one will be perfect for you.
Just look at the long list of things it can do:
- 3D printing
- CNC milling
- Hotwire cutter
- Laser engraving
- Oscillating tangential knife
- Plotter
- Rotary 4th axis
- Tool changing spindle
- Touch probe
- Wood burning pen
This is primary a CNC milling machine, and it’s built like a benchtop CNC machine. You can choose from three sizes, with the biggest measuring 39.4 inches (1000 millimeters). You can do other stuff by changing the tool heads.
The CNC milling machine features a 1,000-watt spindle. The modular Stepcraft M-Series comes in different configurations, so you can pick what features and dimensions you need.
Aside from the CNC milling, you can use the 3D print head to create some plastic models. The CNC laser allows you to engrave different materials with this DL445 laser engraving head.
The Specs You Should Know
- Z-axis clearance:2 and 8.1 inches (135 and 205 millimeters)
- Accuracy: +/- 0.0009 inches (0.025 millimeters)
- Resolution:0002 inches (0.00625 millimeters)
- Travel speed: 284 inches per minute (120 millimeters per second)
- Lead screw: igus® dry spin 12 by 5.0 millimeters
- Linear guide: Bosch Rexroth ball bearing guide
- Stepper motors: Sanyo-Denki NEMA 23
- Tool holder: 7 inches (43 millimeters) clamping diameter
Dimensions
M500
- Overall dimensions: 23 by 28.6 by 25.4 inches (584 by 726 by 645 millimeters)
- Workspace: 13.7 by 21.4 by 7.6 (348 by 544 by 193 millimeters)
- Clamping surface: 20.3 by 25.6 inches (516 by 650 millimeters)
M700
- Overall dimensions: 28 by 36.5 by 25.4 inches (711 by 927 by 645 millimeters)
- Workspace: 18.9 by 29.3 by 7.6 (480 by 744 by 193 millimeters)
- Clamping surface: 25.3 by 33.5 inches (643 by 851 millimeters)
M1000
- Overall dimensions: 36 by 48.3 by 25.4 inches (914 by 1,227 by 645 millimeters)
- Workspace: 26.8 by 41.1 by 7.6 (681 by 1043.94 by 193 millimeters)
- Clamping surface: 33.2 by 45.3 inches (843 by 1151 millimeters)
Pros
- You have a wide variety of tools.
- Modular, so you don’t need to pay for features and capabilities you don’t need
- Has kit versions that you need to assemble but can save you a lot of money
Cons
- Pricing starts at $1,900
Anycubic Photon
Dead simple to set-up, comes pre-assembled, intuitive touch-screen and exceptional level of detail. This machine empowers CREATORS, without expecting you to be a mechanic. The small - but precise - print bed is perfect for miniatures.
Consider the Anycubic Photon if you are doing high precision detail oriented projects like 3D printing miniatures, representational models, or other finely crafted objects.
Further Read: Full Anycubic Photon Review.
Stepcraft 2 – Best for Functions Other than 3D Printing
Like Snapmaker, Stepcraft had a successful Kickstarter campaign that got the brand headed in the right direction. While the Stepcraft 2 is primarily designed for cutting, it does include basic packages that allow for 3D printing.
It also allows for milling, plotting, engraving, wood burning, and vinyl cutting, if you are interested in those types of tasks. These versatile machines come in a wide range of sizes, so you should have no trouble finding one that will fit in your workspace.
Atom 2.5 EX – Most Stylish
One of the sleekest looking multi-functional 3D printers on the market is the Atom 2.5 EX. This amazing device is a 3D printer first but can perform many other tasks. With a multi-color nozzle and the ability to print with various materials, the Atom 2.5 EX is a great alternative to the Snapmaker 3-in-1.
As a result of its sliding arms and magnetic ball joints, this 3D printer can quickly and easily switch between tasks. Just swap out the printer head for the laser engraving module and before you know it, you’re experimenting with engraving for your friends and family.
In addition to using filament for 3D printing, you can also use leather, cardboard, paper, and other materials when you want to switch over to laser engraving.
FLUX Delta+ – Best for Those Who Like to Experiment
The Flux Delta+ 3D Printer is a powerful tool that is easy enough for beginners and versatile enough for experienced 3D printing enthusiasts. Get started with minimal setup and bring your ideas to life with 3D printing, laser cutting and engraving, drawing, and 3D scanning.
If you’re looking for a multi-purpose 3D printer that will let you explore the edges of what it can do, look no further than the FLUX Delta+. This device provides an open SDK for its users, which means they can play around with its capabilities and really discover what it can do.
This all-in-one can do more than 3D print. It can scan, draw, laser engrave, and cut as well. With a motion system and bevy of tool heads, you know you’re going to get accurate and quick results no matter what you’re doing.
The drawing functionality is especially interesting, as you can connect pens, pencils, brushes, and various other tools to it for precision drawings from your computer software program.
Aether 1 – Best for BioPrinting
Most of the 3D printers on this list provide a variety of capabilities like engraving, milling, and even carving. However, the Aether 1 might be the only device that is designed specifically for Bioprinting.
This cool feature uses syringes filled with bio-inks, liquids, and pastes to print off parts that imitate the naturally occurring mechanics that make up our bodies. Most bioprinting revolves around repairing damaged joints and ligaments or drug and cell research.
Aside from bioprinting, the Aether 1 can also use a mounted laser to perform precise and accurate cutting if needed. While this printer is mostly relegated to the medical field, it’s still a cool alternative to the Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer.
BoXZY – Best for Cutting Steel
The BoXZY multi-functional 3D printer is another all-in-one option that started out as a Kickstarter project. Once it was successfully funded, it became a mainstay in the world of all-in-one 3D printers.
BoXZY makes the cut because it is one of the few all-in-one 3D printers on the market that can cut through steel. The CNC laser engraver and mill uses a tool head that goes through steel like a hot knife through butter.
Its all-metal design makes BoXZY one of the heavier 3D printers on the market, so if weight is a concern, you may need to go in a different direction. However, due to its weight, there’s little chance this 3D printer is going to slide or skip around while it’s in the middle of printing an object.
FAQs
Here are a few of the more commonly asked questions about 3D printers and the Snapmaker 3-in-1 device.
Where is Snapmaker headquartered?
Snapmaker is a small tech startup headquartered in Walnut, California, and Shenzen, China. The team consists of designers and engineers who are excited about what they do and how they are impacting the world around them.
These professionals have experience in a range of fields, including 3D printing, robotics, and even aviation.
What does CNC carving mean?
CNC stands for computer numerical control, which means you’re using a machine to cut the material as opposed to operating a manual, hand-held router. You can use CNC carving to cut hard material like aluminum, steel, foam, wood, and plastics.
What does it cost to design and build a 3D printer?
The answer to this question really depends on how you’ll be using your 3D printer. Some printers can be built for as little as a few hundred dollars, while others can wind up costing thousands of dollars to build.
Final Thoughts on the Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D Printer
The Snapmaker is designed with beginners in mind, offering a printer that is affordable, easy to use, and comes with plenty of features to experiment with!
If you’re on the fence about whether or not you want to get started in the world of 3D printers, Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 3D printer is an excellent option. Using this printer can open the doors to a whole new world of excitement, education, and practicality.
Outside of being a little on the noisy side, there isn’t much this 3D printer can’t do. It’s easy to set up and calibrate, which means it won’t take long to start printing anything you want. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you can engrave and carve with it as well.
The Snapmaker is a great 3D printer that’s designed for those new to the 3D printing game or those with a lot of experience under their belts. Either way, it’s tough to go wrong if you decide to use the Snapmaker 3-in-1 printer for your 3D printing needs.