A 3D printer can be an extremely useful tool, whether for creating replacement parts, developing personal projects or even for a hobby. However, buying one today is a bit more complex. In addition to choosing a model whose price, maximum speed, and size match your needs, it is also important to keep an eye out for additional features that each printer should have.
This is especially important for anyone looking for a first printer. Beyond the basics, some functions are not present in all models but remain important. This way, you avoid relying on subsequent upgrades to resolve issues that may appear over time.
So, features like auto-leveling, an exhausted filament sensor, and power outage recovery are some of the functions that make all the difference in a printer. For this reason, we have separated these models into categories that you should prioritize when purchasing one, with an emphasis on ease of use and making the experience as convenient as possible.
Automatic bed leveling is essential for reliable prints
An essential feature to consider when purchasing a printer is automatic bed leveling. In addition to reducing manual adjustments before printing, this feature is also useful because an uneven first layer can compromise part adhesion and cause the entire project to fail. With this system, the 3D printer measures small surface variations and compensates for them.
In practice, automatic bed leveling uses sensors to measure different points on the bed and create a map of the surface before printing. More advanced models can also automatically adjust the Z offset, which controls the distance between the nozzle and the bed. All this reduces the need for manual calibration, which is especially useful for beginners.
For this reason, look for a printer that includes this feature and is easy to set up. Improper leveling is one of the most common 3D printing mistakes, especially when learning how to set up the machine. So, skipping this step increases the risk of problems.
End of filament sensor can record long 3D prints
Another feature that users should consider when purchasing a 3D printer is an end of filament sensor. While this isn’t a problem for small prints, where you can check how much material is left on the spool, it doesn’t apply to larger projects which can take hours. In these cases, it is not always possible to track the amount of filament remaining, so the sensor can detect when it is running out and pause the job.
So, if your printer has this feature, you don’t need to monitor the machine all the time, especially on larger projects. Although you can add some features later with cheap 3D printer upgrades, purchasing a model with a built-in filament sensor makes everything simpler from the start.
Without this feature, the printer may not notice that it has no filament and may continue to move normally once it runs out, leaving the project without material. Depending on when this happens, you may lose work hours. So even though it’s a relatively simple feature, it still serves as a layer of security. It’s also useful if you plan to print larger projects.
Power failure recovery can prevent wasted prints
Depending on where you live, your area may experience frequent power outages or fluctuations, which can be a problem for larger prints. In any of these cases, you may lose a project that has been on your 3D printer for hours, and for this reason, power outage recovery is an important feature to have on one of these machines. This type of feature has become relatively common among some of the best printers available today, especially those that prioritize automation. So, once power is restored, work resumes where it left off.
Without this feature, even a brief power outage can force you to restart the entire project you’ve already completed, wasting time and filament. In larger projects, where the same part may sit on the printer all day, this can involve a significant investment. Unfortunately, recovery does not guarantee that every part will look perfect after interruption, as cooling of the bed or material can still affect the result, but it greatly increases the chance of salvaging the job.
A flexible build plate makes removing the print much easier
A flexible, removable bed may seem like a simple detail, but it makes a big difference in everyday 3D printing. While this is one of the most useful accessories for anyone new to 3D printing, it works for any type of user. With one of these you can remove the finished pieces with less effort, since you only need to remove the plate and bend it slightly to release the object once cooled.
This also avoids using spatulas or other tools directly below the surface, reducing the risk of damaging both the part and the build plate itself. PEI surfaces are common today because they provide good adhesion when the bed is heated but make removal easier when it cools. Additionally, magnetic plates allow the surface to be removed and replaced much faster.
Still, it’s worth checking the type of build plate included before purchasing a printer, as different materials may work better with certain filaments. But whatever your choice, a removable and flexible system also facilitates maintenance and daily use.
Wi-Fi and remote monitoring make print management easier
Another useful feature that should be essential in any 3D printer is Wi-Fi and monitoring. Instead of using an SD card and manually transferring files, you can send everything over the network when connected. Some models also come with cameras, allowing you to monitor the entire process from another room and even check how things are going outside the house.
This type of remote access is useful for larger projects because you don’t need to stay attentive and next to the machine all the time. If printing starts to fail, you can monitor everything through the app and use it to stop the job before wasting more material. However, this type of connectivity varies greatly between 3D printers, so it’s important to see how the one you’re interested in works.
