Robert S. Maher Blog: The Top 3 3D Pens for 2016

Friday, October 7, 2016

The Top 3 3D Pens for 2016

We are living in the future. So, pens and 3D printers no longer need to be separate items. You can create 3D images on the go, using a 3D pen. All you need to do is place the pen on a surface and draw a line into the air. Then you can start adding details to this anchor line.

These pens were launched in 2013, with a $2 million Kickstarter campaign. 3Doodler was the first pen. Now there are several models. We tested the three most popular 3D pens.

3Doodler Start

The 3Doodler is available in two models: the 3Doodler 2.0 which is the flagship model. The 3Doodler start is perfect for novices. This pen is “user-friendly”. This model has a chunky body which makes it easy to grip and a single button. Insert the plastic filament into the top of the pen and press the button. You need to wait for the pen to warm up, which takes approximately 60 seconds. Then start drawing. A $99 kit includes the 3Doodler pen and stencils which can help you get over the learning curve.

Lix Pen

This pen weighs in at 1.6 ounces, making the Lix the lightest, slimmest design. This makes it feel like a real pen. There is also a pen-like clip at the end. The pen has four green indicator lights that show when the filament is ready to use. The pen’s overall effect is marred by the fact that the Lix must stay plugged into a power source. Still, you should know that this pen is the classiest 3D tools.

7Tech Pen

The 7Tech is the only one of the pens tested that allows the user to control the temperature and speed of the filament. These figures can be read on a small screen. You can adjust the two sets with arrow-shaped buttons. While the 3D offers more control, the unit is cumbersome. The pen needs to be plugged in while in use. And has a filament that is shaped in a circular curved shape that sticks out of the device. The filament can get in the way of an inspired artist.