I am interested in getting a 3D printer but I have no idea where to even started. Is there such thing as a multi-purpose printer? What’s a good source to read up on printers, software, filament?

I am thinking small replacements items like drawer guides, funnel for espresso machine, essentially little parts and pieces that break around the house and farm. Also maybe some device cases (including outdoor ones) etc.

Ideally I don’t want a closed system. I have a Cricut for 10 years or so and I hate being locked into the app so much. Unless there is a really, really good reason.

Edited to add: Thank you all! What an amazing community!

  • inzen@lemmy.worldEnglish
    2·
    17 hours ago

    I had similar requirements, and I was choosing between Prusa and Bambu Lab. In the end I chose a Prusa Core One. Here are my subjective reasons for choosing Prusa:

    • It’s open (mostly) and hackable
    • It’s proven and reliable, they use their own printers for production
    • they make the slicer which bambu studio and others are based on
    • it’s European
    • Great support
    • Upgrade kits for printers

    A few cons of Prusa printers I’m aware of:

    • expensive
    • slower to innovate
    • upgrade kit may cost close to the price of a new printer

    Prusa is probably not the best value but as far as I know it is the only really open choice for a high quality printer. Feel free to correct me.