I’m an active 3D printer user. I have been for the last 9 years. I started with Anet A8. Boy oh boy, printers back in the day were problematic. I’ve probably tinkered a second printer out of it.  Then I moved on to using Ender and Prusa MK3. I also used a few resin printers. I had a hog of a printer. It was the Creality CR3040, a breakthrough with its closed chassis. It featured cool engineering materials. Then next breakthrough BambuX1C – damn, iPhone of 3D printers. Then, I’ve added MMU (multi-material Unit with the possibility to print with multiple materials in the same print). However, Bambu AMS is something completely different. Whole X1C experience is just Plug and Play. But still, printing very different materials like TPU and ASA, didn’t work that well. You’re using the same nozzle. Then I’ve acquired Prusa XL with 5 Toolheads, that’s something different. It’s huge with a build volume of 36x36x36cm. It has 5 completely separate extruders. You can print a model with PLA or ASA, make supports from PETG, and imprint rubber gaskets to it. Those are things that you can’t easily do without 3D printing. But if you’re stepping into the world of 3D printing in 2025, the landscape offers many options. These options cater to various needs. They also fit different budgets.  Whether you’re a hobbyist, a maker, or someone looking to integrate 3D printing into professional workflows like prototyping. I’ll try to mention few options that you can choose from now 🙂

🧰 Entry-Level Champions (€400–€600)

Anycubic Kobra 3 Combo – Approx. €468

For those seeking an alternative, the Anycubic Kobra 3 Combo provides a versatile printing experience with multi-filament capabilities.  Its ease of use and reliability make it suitable for beginners and hobbyists alike.

Bambu Lab A1 Combo – Approx. €515

The Bambu Lab A1 Combo is a standout for beginners.  Priced around €515, it offers high-speed printing with an acceleration of 10,000 mm/s², ensuring quick and precise prints.  Its user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for those new to 3D printing. For a quite small amount, you can have what Bambu brings to the table. You can print straight from the app, etc.

🔧 Mid-Range Workhorses (€850–€2,000)

Bambu Lab P1S – Approx. €825

For those seeking a bit more, the Bambu Lab P1S, priced at approximately €825, offers enhanced features. It includes a fully enclosed build chamber, making it suitable for a wider range of materials.  Its compatibility with the Automatic Material System (AMS) allows for multi-color printing, adding versatility to your projects.

Prusa CORE One – From €1049

The Prusa CORE One is a robust CoreXY printer that starts at €1,049 for the kit version.  It features a fully enclosed design with active chamber temperature control, ensuring consistent print quality across various materials.  Its modularity and upgradability make it a favorite among enthusiasts.

Bambu Lab X1 Carbon – From €1,446 (with AMS)

At around €1,446, the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon offers advanced features like AI-assisted first-layer inspection and LIDAR-based bed leveling.  Its high-speed CoreXY system and multi-material capabilities make it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals seeking precision and efficiency. Completely Plug and Play, ready to print in 10 minutes after you unpack it from the box.

🏗️ (almost) Professional-Grade Machines (€2,000–€3,600)

Bambu Lab H2D – From €1962 – €3616

The Bambu Lab H2D is a multi-functional powerhouse, starting at €1962.  It combines 3D printing with laser cutting and pen plotting capabilities.  Its dual-nozzle system allows for complex, multi-material prints, and the modular tool head design offers versatility for various creative applications.

Prusa XL – From €2099

Priced at €2099 for the fully assembled version, the Prusa XL boasts a massive build volume. You can knock off 500 by choosing the partially assembled option. This choice is instead of the fully assembled version (the assembled one is 2599EUR). It also features a tool changer system that supports up to five different tool heads. Its precision and reliability make it ideal for large-scale projects and professional prototyping. But, normally it doesn’t have an enclosure, it’s in the form of an addition (don’t get me wrong, it looks awesome!)

🧠 Making the Right Choice

Beginners & Hobbyists: The Bambu Lab A1 Combo offers an excellent balance of affordability. It also provides significant performance. It’s a great starting point. I’ve recommended it to my friend. It’s perfect for him and his little daughter – bull’s eye! Bambu Lab Handy mobile app provides you a way to print directly from the App.

Enthusiasts & Semi-Professionals: The Prusa CORE One and Bambu Lab X1 Carbon provide advanced features. They offer reliability for more complex projects. You need to think carefully about your requirements. Decide if you want the ability to easily modify or fix your printer by yourself. On this segment, from my perspective, Bambu X1C is an indisputable winner.

Professionals & Makerspaces: The Bambu Lab H2D and Prusa XL are excellent for those requiring versatility. They also accommodate large build volumes. These models stand out as top-tier options. I haven’t tested H2D yet. However, I have a Prusa XL of my own. It’s a complete workhorse. Every time I share with people about prints where I combine 2 colors, they are stunned. I use PETG supports and include imprinted rubber gaskets. How reliable it works is stunning – 5 tools provide best way to work with multiple filaments, and multiple materials.

When choosing a 3D printer, consider the types of materials you plan to use. Think about the complexity of your projects. Assess your budget. Each printer boasts unique features. They are tailored to different needs. This variety ensures you can find the perfect fit for your 3D printing journey.

Stay Curious!