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Hello and welcome to Top 3D Blog, a place where 3D printing enthusiasts and makers can sate their hunger for quality additive manufacturing knowledge. In this addition, we are going to talk about the Creality Ender 3 Max — a powerful yet cheap 3D printer kit that offers reliable performance, extra-large build volume, state-of-the-art heated bed, and a plethora of other quality of life features for smooth and hassle-free 3D printing experience. Throughout the article, we will be highlighting the features, pros, and cons of the Ender 3 Max, as well as showing you some of the models printed with it. Let's dive right in.
About Creality
Creality is a Shenzhen-based additive manufacturing company that was founded in June of 2014 and is currently regarded as one of the largest and most popular international Chinese 3D printer manufacturers in the world. The company's main goal is to make 3D printing affordable for everyone and make some technical innovations along the way, hence the budget-friendly prices for their quality machines. The lineup they offer is a diversified one to say the least, which, topped up by consistent performance and affordable price tags, pretty much explains why it's so demandable in more than 80 countries worldwide.
Click here to read a full-fledged review about Creality and its lineup.
Creality Ender 3 Max Overview
Drag the cura icon onto the applications folder and cura should appear on the toolbar. If you tap Cura from the toolbar this should pop up (fifth image) Click the other tab and search for Creality Ender-3 it should be all the way at the bottom of the current window view.
The Creality Ender 3 Max is a desktop FDM 3D printer kit designed for makers that want to print big without investing too much. To say the least, the machine offers an impressive build volume of 300 x 300 x 340 mm (11.8 x 11.8 x 13.4 in) that allows you to print just about anything. For instance, you could print a single large model or make several smaller ones in one go. Besides, the device boasts its sturdy all-metal frame with a modular design that guarantees stability during printing as well as effortless and intuitive assembly. The Ender 3 Max is a classic Cartesian-style 3D printer kit with a precise linear pulley motion system that comes with a pre-assembled gantry and has to be leveled manually, which will provide entry-level makers with the essential knowledge of how FDM 3D printers operate. This is a highly upgradable machine that can be equipped with a BLTouch probe for automatic bed leveling, LED lights, and other noteworthy upgrades to take your 3D printing experience to a whole new level.
- 3D printer software price: Free! Download here; Developed by Dutch 3D printer manufacturer Ultimaker, Cura is the most popular 3D slicing software out there. This 3D slicer is a free open source software, and is designed to be able to integrate with 3D CAD software tools like SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor for easier cross platform workflow.
- Article Source:Creality3D StoreCreality3D Ender-3 was released in March 2018. It has formed a large user base at home and abroad in just a few months. The global search for Google 3D printers quickly climbed to the top of the list (60,000 searches in November), becoming the CR-10.
Its open-frame structure provides quick and easy access to print jobs, allowing you to always stay on top of the printing process. It can print at a minimum layer thickness of 100 microns, which is typical for an FDM 3D printer and is more than enough for prototyping and household use. Compared with its predecessors, namely the Ender 3 and its upgraded V2 iteration, the Ender 3 Max offers a larger build volume and a handful of improved components, such as dual heating fans for top-notch heat dissipation, an all-metal extruder with a heat-resistant copper nozzle for smooth filament extrusion, and a reliable 350W power supply. It is a mid-sized 3D printer with dimensions of 513 x 563 x 590 mm (20 x 22 x 23 in) and a weight of 9.5kg (21 lb), making it a perfect fit for almost any desk.
The machine is equipped with Creality's magnetic Carborundum glass heat bed renowned for being one of the best FDM printing platforms due to its efficiency. It is fast to heat up, offers great thermal conductivity and first layer adhesion, prevents warping, facilitates print removal, and provides you with outstandingly smooth first layers. Featuring an all-metal extruder and such a powerful heated bed, the Ender 3 Max is compatible with a plethora of printable materials, including PLA, TPU, ABS, and other plastics. However, we recommend equipping it with an enclosure in case of printing with ABS-type materials to guarantee optimal heat distribution and keep noxious fumes at bay.
For more quality of life features, the Ender 3 Max offers the resume printing function that always goes hand in hand with large-format 3D printing. It ensures that your current print job progress won't be lost even if a sudden blackout occurs, allowing the machine to carry on printing precisely from where it left off. Imagine losing a 48 hours print due to a power outage. As frustrating as it sounds, it won't be the issue with the Ender 3 Max.
The Ender 3 Max can be controlled via a rotary knob for effortless standalone operation. The logic behind menu options is crystal clear and is highly unlikely to cause any trouble. In our opinion, a touchscreen would've been a neater analog to its current control system, but this unique rotary knob design is pretty easy to get used to. Apart from SD card connectivity, the device can be controlled via a PC using a tethered USB cable.
Specifications
- Technology: FDM
- Assembly: DIY (semi-assembled)
- Bed leveling: Manual
- Manufacturer: Creality
- Manufacturer country: China
- Outer dimensions: 513 x 563 x 590 mm (20 x 22 x 23 in)
- Build volume: 300 x 300 x 340 mm (11.8 x 11.8 x 13.4 in)
- Weight: 9.5kg (21 lb)
- Compatible with 3rd party filaments?: Yes, an open material system
- Print precision: ±0.2mm
- Print speed: 30-60mm/s (recommended), ≤180mm/s
- Layer thickness from: 100 microns
- Connectivity: USB, SD card
- Motherboard: 32bit motherboard
- Software: Creality Slicer/Cura/Repetier-Host/Simplify3D
- Compatible file formats: STL/OBJ/AMF
- Operating systems: WindowXP/7/8/10/MAC/Linux
- Nominal voltage: 100V-240V AC50/60HZ DC24V
- Nominal power: 350W
- Leveling method: BL-Touch(Optional)
- Printable materials: PLA/TPU/PETG/ABS/Wood
- Built-in camera for monitoring: No
- Price: $344.99
What's in the box
- Creality Ender-3 Max 3D Printer main units
- Filament runout sensor
- Power supply
- USB cable
- Spool holder
- SD card
- Toolbox
- Scraper
- Pliers
- Spare parts
- Test filament
- User manual
For some items, package content may change. In case of any questions, please get in touch.
Setting Up the Printer
The Creality Ender 3 Max comes in a semi-assembled state, meaning it has to be assembled and leveled manually. The self-assembly process provides a steep but enjoyable learning curve that will prove to be particularly useful in case of later troubleshooting, making the device a particularly good choice for inexperienced makers and hobbyists that want to understand how FDM 3D printers really work.
The printer is supplied with a user manual that goes over the above-mentioned procedures in-depth, so it won't be hard to assemble the device. There is also an official step-by-step video guide if you prefer these.
To give you a brief overview of what to expect, we've reviewed some of the main steps. Easy cad software.
First of all, you'll have to install the pre-assembled gantry frame and a power supply.
Then, install the control screen and spool holder.
Connect the Z-axis limit switch and X- and Y-axes control ports to the corresponding sockets.
Then, you'll have to connect the screen and power supply cables, plug the device in and turn it on. Select 'Prepare'—'Auto Home' to initiate the calibration process.
Proceed with the calibration by placing a piece of A4 paper between the platform and the nozzle, and level the bed by using the rotary knobs located beneath the platform.
After completing the calibration, run a couple of test prints to see how it goes and re-calibrate if necessary. Happy printing!
Slicing Software
The Creality Ender 3 Max is compatible with Ultimaker Cura, Creality Slicer, Repetier-Host, and Simplify3D. These slicing software solutions are easy to use, regularly updated, and have a constantly growing community of users. Besides, they offer an effective workflow with CAD plugin integration and a plethora of compatible file types.
Source: youtube.com
Along with some of the essential features such as creating, reshaping, and editing your models and supports for them, you can tinker with more than 400 advanced options. As a rule, the latter is not needed in case you are a beginner.
Use Cases
One maker employed the Creality Ender 3 Max to create this neatly-looking heart-shaped box. As you can see, both the surface finish and level of details are quite on point.
Source: instagram.com
Here's another one from the same maker. This time, he decided to 3D print this beautiful vase. Look how splendid it looks.
Source: instagram.com
All in all, the Creality Ender 3 Max is perfect for the production of uniquely designed household items, prototypes, tabletop models, props, and more. It can be successfully used in some professional applications as well. For instance, it would be good in continuous batch production of rare-to-find items like mount drill templates for airplanes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large build volume
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- State-of-the-art heated bed
Cons
- No enclosure
- No touchscreen
Bottom Line
The Creality Ender 3 Max is an FDM 3D printer kit that offers impressive build volume, resume printing function, sturdy design, powerful heated bed, and an all-metal extruder for wider material compatibility. Aside from not having an enclosure and a touchscreen, it is a perfect 3D printer that will definitely come in handy in case you'd like to create uniquely-designed household items, props, accessories, prototypes, and other items. The machine is suitable for both entry-level and more experienced makers and can also be employed in batch production and other professional applications.
You can purchase the Creality Ender 3 Max from Top 3D Shop. This outstanding large-format 3D printer comes with the manufacturer's warranty. Our team will make sure to provide the best service possible, just like we always do.
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Disclosure: Links marked with * are Affiliate Links. I earn from qualifying purchases if you decide to make a purchase through these links – at no additional cost for you!
The Ender 3* is one of the best-known hobby printers available on the market today and is particularly popular with users due to its affordable price, ease of use and high-quality prints.
To turn a digital design into an actual print object, Ender 3 needs a slicer.
If you want to print an object in 3D, your printer needs a certain file type with commands and coordinates, which it uses to create a correct print model. A slicer creates such a file and calculates the paths and instructions to print a 3D object.
Ender 3, like most other 3D printers, uses a machine language called G-Code, which provides the printer with a list of relevant printing instructions. In a slicer, you can adjust the print settings to determine certain functions such as layer height, fill density, and fill geometry.
The Ender 3 is a so-called open-source printer, which means it has no preferred slicer. Each slicer option has its individual strengths and weaknesses when used on the Ender 3.
The three best slicers for the Ender 3 are:
But which criteria are decisive when choosing a slicer and what makes a good slicer? Which of the above-mentioned slicers should you use for your Ender 3 and are there more? Answers to these questions can be found in the following article.
Contents
- 6 Other Slicers
- 7 Related Questions
Criteria of a Suitable Slicer
When choosing your future slicer, you should keep in mind that you will use it very often in the future. This is especially true if your 3D printer has problems with the default configuration and settings. When searching for the right slicer for your Ender 3, you should consider the following points:
- Price: How much does the slicer cost you?
- Quality: Does the slicer achieve the desired results?
- Advantages and disadvantages: Get an exact overview of the pros and cons of the slicer.
- User experience: How easy is the Slicer to use?
- Community: How many people can you ask for support if you need help with your slicer?
Below you will find a list of the three best and best-known slicers for Ender 3, giving you an overview of the respective advantages and disadvantages as well as an explanation of the previously mentioned features.
Cura
The slicer software Cura was developed by the company Ultimaker. This is a well-known 3D printing company that is constantly developing the software in cooperation with an extensive community.
Ultimaker has created the software Cura as open-source so that you can download the program free of charge on your Windows PC, Mac or Linux. Since Cura can also handle OBJ, 3MF and STL file formats, this software is ideal for various types of projects and can also be used to repair files if necessary.
Cura represents an optimal choice for all user levels, the adaptability of the program plays an important role. You have the option to display only the settings that you actually need. Once you have acquired some knowledge, you can use more than 200 available settings. In addition, there are numerous add-ons that you can find in the community and on the market that provide even more personalization. The Cura software includes a large number of preset cutting profiles for different materials, such as PLA*, ABS*, PETG* and TPU*.
Cura is so well suited for Ender 3 because it provides a standard template specifically for this 3D printer that allows you to easily achieve the optimal settings. In addition, there are numerous pre-configured slicer settings to suit different combinations of nozzle size, media and printer.
This fact is especially useful when you start updating your device. To optimize the settings of your 3D printer, you can first make a few test prints and then adjust your settings accordingly.
A disadvantage of Cura is that it has limited support for OctoPrint and other remote printing programs. However, the numerous other features outweigh this somewhat irritating point.
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Ender 3 + Octoprint: Profile, Settings & Installation
Cura's many users are particularly impressed with the settings and variations in printing that allow them to tailor the 3D printing experience to their individual needs. They also appreciate the ease with which geometric shapes and fill densities can be changed. Other major benefits are the continuous updates and bugfix patches provided by Ultimaker.
Related Post:
Best Cura Settings for Ender 3 – Guide & List
Simplify3D
Simplify3D is an optimal slicer especially for users with a lot of experience or who are doing 3D printing on a professional level. Like most slicer programs, Simplify3D uses STL, OBJ or 3MF files and processes them in a very short time.
This software offers a variety of different settings, such as printer control, support for multiple extruders and also meets almost all the requirements you can have for a good slicer program. Despite the large number of functions that open up to you, the user interface is not too complicated and easy to understand once you get used to the basics.
Since Simplify3D requires a license fee, the program is usually used more professionally, which is also reflected in the software itself. For example, you can customize the settings and workflow exactly to your individual needs. In the end, you will achieve high-quality prints with Simplify3D, which you will always be satisfied with.
A disadvantage of Simplify3D is the low Linux support. This means that most Linux users have to switch to Windows first to use the software. In addition, there have been some user reports in which they talked about problems with blobs.
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Simplify3D has a small but very helpful community. If you encounter certain problems, it might be more difficult to find a solution in the short term. In general, Simplify3D is very popular among its users, but you should keep in mind that it can be difficult to get used to the user interface if you are new to 3D printing.
Slic3r
Slic3r is also an open-source software, which has experimental features that distinguish this slicer from others. In general, the software is considered to be a test environment on which a large number of popular slicer settings and functions have been created. However, Slic3r is more suitable for experienced users, as all setting options are visible at all times.
Slic3r's most notable features include support for multiple extruders, the ability to print sequentially and the use of modifiers or custom G-code to change print settings. Slic3r offers new filling techniques that maximize print strength and have ensured that many previous users have returned to the platform. This program is able to read STL, AMF and OBJ files and has a very fast G-code generation.
Probably the biggest advantage of Slic3r is that it is completely free of charge and the setup process is very simple, so you can start working right away. In addition, the software is compatible with most 3D printers and works on all computer platforms. Because it is open-source, it works seamlessly with OctoPrint, and new features and upgrades are constantly being added.
A disadvantage of Slic3r is that the user base is smaller than, for example, Cura, so there is a chance that you will encounter problems when searching for solutions online. In addition, it does not currently offer print time or material forecasts.
Even if Slic3r does not have all the advantages of a slicer program, its unique functions are still convincing. However, you should only use this software if you already have some experience in the field of 3D printing.
Related Post:
Simplify3D vs. Slic3r vs. Cura – Which Slicer Is Better?
Cura Download
Our Recommendation
Now you know the three best options for a slicer program for your Ender 3. If you are relatively new to 3D printing and don't want to go straight into professional printing, Cura is recommended for you. It has a great user interface and is easy to learn. If you want to try something new, but don't want to spend a lot of money, Slic3r is the right choice.
Once you get used to the program, you can benefit from a variety of options and outstanding features. For professional 3D printing, and if you're ready to invest a little more in a slicer program, you should choose Simplify3D and get a professional package.
But no matter which slicer you finally decide on: In most cases, you will need a few trials to achieve convincing results. Therefore, it is recommended to make some test prints for experimentation at the beginning. These will allow you to improve the quality of your print over time. If you encounter problems, you will most likely find like-minded people online who can provide you with a solution in many cases.
Other Slicers
Besides the three most popular slicer programs Cura, Simplify3D and Slic3r there are some programs that are less popular.
This includes:
3DPrinterOS
3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based platform that includes both a slicing app and other features critical to 3D printing. These include a repair app. The platform provides an easy way to manage file machines and users across the enterprise. 3DPrinterOS includes the Cloud Slicer, Slicer 2 and a special 'Makerbot Slicer' slicing app. Another advantage is that the platform is compatible with a wide range of printers.
IdeaMaker
IdeaMaker is also a slicer software and was developed by the 3D printer manufacturer Raise3D. This makes it ideal for Raise3D 3D printers and is a completely free option. A major advantage of IdeaMaker is its ease of use. With just four clicks, you can prepare your STL, OBJ or 3MF files for printing.
If you want more advanced features, the software also offers almost unlimited customization options. IdeaMaker is compatible with the majority of FDM printers on the market and can also be used as a 3D printer management platform.
For example, you can track multiple print profiles, seamlessly switch between different print settings, and remotely control a running print job.
KISSlicer
The name 'KISSlicer' is derived from 'KISS', which in this case means 'Keep It Simple Slicer'. This is a cross-platform app, which can be very sophisticated, depending on the version you choose.
As a beginner, you have the possibility to start with a free version and later switch to the Pro version, which allows you to print with multiple heads. In addition, KISSSlicer offers numerous advanced slicing functions for a relatively small price.
Repetier-Host
Repetier-Host is especially popular in the RepRap community as slicer and control software. The program is open source and is available free of charge. Repetier-Host is an all-in-one solution that can support up to 16 extruders, for example. You can use it to process different filaments and colors at the same time and thus have the possibility to visualize the future object even before the printing process starts.
Repetier-Host already contains four different slicers, including Slic3r, Slic3r Prusa Edition, Cura-Engine and Skeinforge. However, you can add more slicers as needed, which means that Repeater Host will work with virtually any FDM 3D printer. Plus, you can load or duplicate as many models as will fit on your building board and print them all at once.
OctoPrint
OctoPrint is not only a slicer, but also a web interface for your 3D printer. It is completely free and open source. With OctoPrint, you can control and monitor all activities through your web browser and mobile devices. OctoPrint also has an integrated slicer. This is based on the trustworthy CuraEngine and allows you to cut your files directly in OctoPrint.
AstroPrint
AstroPrint describes a cloud-based platform based on the same concept as 3DPrinterOS or OctoPrint, for example. It includes a slicer, but you can also monitor and control your 3D printer from any device that has Internet access.
AstroPrint is used by more than 85,000 people in over 130 countries. The slicer itself is very easy to use because you only have two modes available. In easy mode, you have the option to select the material and quality you want before sending it to the 3D printer.
The advanced mode allows you to make various adjustments for better results. Free music editing software like garageband.
IceSL
IceSL-forge is a slicer software, but it also includes a 3D modeling tool. This is created by scripting in a Lua-based language. This is the same technology that enables both slicing and 3D printer instruction generation to be done efficiently via G-code. This eliminates the expensive step of creating a mesh.
You also have the possibility to download the IceSL-Slicer. This one concentrates exclusively on slicing. The company SliceCrafter has also released an online version of IceSL-Slicer, which has proven to be less powerful.
It also offers a variety of functions, which are explained in detail on the corresponding website.
Related Questions
What complementary software for Ender 3 is of particular interest to 3D printing professionals?
For Ender 3 there are numerous extensions in the form of software available to users. Experienced users in the field of 3D printing can familiarize themselves with IMG2GCO software.
This is a laser engraving setup support software for Ender 3, which is an excellent addition to the 3D printer. However, care should be taken when setting up the Ender 3 as it is not primarily a laser engraver and therefore does not have a safety enclosure.
IMG2GCO is a script generator without integrated security measures. The laser is moved with the help of a tool head, which in turn is attached in a pattern. The tool head has no way to check if a usable etch is produced or if the material has caught fire. For this reason, the technology should first be thoroughly investigated.
Why is a 3D slicer software so important?
Cura Software For Ender 3d Printer
Gaussian 16 software, free download. When high-quality 3D slicer software is used in 3D printing, even a mediocre machine will produce better prints. If the slicer software is poor, the probability of print errors or problems during the printing process is much higher.
What are the differences between good 3D slicer software and bad software?
The decisive factor for a good 3D slicer software is first of all the STL import speed. If complicated data are processed on a slow computer, this can lead to very long waiting times.
In addition, the viewer functions play an important role. If no CAD software is available, the printable file is displayed for the first time when it is opened in the 3D Slicer software. However, good software should be able to rotate and zoom each individual point of the print model without errors and at high speed.
Additionally, attention should be paid to STL repair. In the best case, the software carries out a repair itself if the 3D model contains errors. User-friendliness is still an important aspect of good slicer software. The use of the software should not be too complicated and in the best case should have special settings for beginners.
Cura Software For Ender 3.2
Important functions are for example a change history as well as the possibility to undo a step or to recover deleted data.
Cura Software For Ender 3.6
High-quality slicer software provides information on the estimated printing time and the foreseeable amount of material used. The cost aspect must also be taken into account. Many slicer software is available free of charge or already for a small fee.
Ender 3 V2 Cura Setup
The last point to mention is that behind a high-quality software there is usually a large community to which the user can turn with his questions, so that even beginners can solve problems quickly.
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