Why buy anything when you can 3D print it? 3D printing d&d miniatures can take your tabletop games to the next level. When it comes to tabletop games, you can start getting creative. All you need is a 3D printer, and your favorite characters will come to life. But which is the best 3D printer for d&d miniatures?
There is a wide variety of models that are available in the market today. They come in different designs, build volumes, price points, and so on- it would be best if you bought the right one for your needs and will meet your preferences. Here are some of your best options.
List of The Best 3D Printers for D&D Miniatures
1. Anycubic Photon S - Best Resin 3D Printer For Miniatures 2021
You can never go wrong with the Anycubic Photon S printer. It is the best overall resin 3d printer and suited explicitly for 28-30mm miniatures with better quality. You can count on this printer to print your replicas with impressive accuracy and precision. Thanks to this precision, you can make smaller miniatures without losing the fine details, which is impossible with other printers. Moreover, this machine has a reasonable price and is well worth the money. Unlike other printers, it makes use of the SLA technology, which makes it superior. It comes ready for use straight out of the box without any assembly required.
On top of that, this printer was designed with ease-of-use in mind, giving you a comfortable time operating it. Also, leveling the bed is an easy task, so you save on time, setting it up. This machine adopts the matrix UV lighting and a high-resolution screen that contributes to the uniform distribution of energy and enhances the prototype precision. The dual linear rail design maximally improves the Z-axis’s stability and ensures its smooth surface and detailed reconstruction. Furthermore, this machine is equipped with an air filtration system that includes dual fans for excellent ventilation. It also applies carbon air filtration, which effectively reduces the divergence of the odor.
Features
- 115x65x155 build volume
- Z-Axis dual liner rail design
- Easy-to-read touchscreen
- Upgraded UV module
- Air filtration system
Pros
- It comes completely assembled.
- It produces a print with incredible detail.
- It has an impressive touchscreen that is easy to read.
- This printer is easy to use, maintain, set up, and keep running.
- The machine is very sturdy, with a well-designed robust frame that has a great look as well.
Cons
- The build volume is on the small side.
2. Elegoo Mars Printer - Best 3D Printer For Small Details
Elegoo Mars printer creates high-quality 3D prints that meet professional and daily life needs. It is one of the best resin printers that are available in the market today. The price is incredibly low without compromising the quality and accuracy of the prints. This printer is easy to use, set up, and well suited for beginners and intermediates alike. It features a great industrial design and a user-friendly system. Also, this machine employs UV procuring technology. This printer comes with two rooks that you can easily slice with the newly released CHITUBOX slicing software. The package contains all that you will need to start a perfect printing. It is one of the best 3d printers for small details.
On top of that, this printer comes with an LCD and a UV integrated light source. Moreover, you can preview the model on the SD card with a real-time display printing process. The unique steel ball design only requires you to return the Z-axis to zero and then lock the leveling screw and start printing. The upgraded slicing software will deliver an extraordinary experience with its incredibly high speed. Furthermore, this software allows you to hollow out the model before slicing, and this saves your resin during the procuring process. This machine enables off-line printing thanks to the integrated computer board so you can directly print from the USB. You can count on this printer for accurate printing. It has a sturdy structure of an all-aluminum fuselage and an acrylic cover, elegant and durable.
Features
- Sturdy structure
- CHITUBOX slicing software
- Integrated computer board
- Unique industrial design
- Large screen
Pros
- It is the best budget resin printer for miniatures.
- The machine is straightforward without bells and whistles.
- The setup takes very little time, and you can run a few problems while using it.
- The quality is superior, and the level of detail of the machine prints is awe-inspiring.
- It has an integrated computer board so you can print directly from a USB
Cons
- It comes semi-assembled, so you cannot use it right out of the box.
3. LulzBot Mini 2 - Best 3D Printer for d&d Terrain
Features
- Easy on/off switch
- Belt-driven Z-axis
- Whisper-quiet operation
- GLCD Controller
- Reversible PEI/Glass heated print bed
- Self-cleaning technology
Pros
- It delivers impressive print quality.
- It offers plug and plays functionality.
- This machine has self-cleaning and self-leveling technology.
- This printer has a whisper-quiet operation making it a remarkable addition to quiet libraries and offices.
- The genuine E3D Titan Aero extruder enables printing both rigid and flexible materials with precision and ease.
Cons
- The unit is wide open- dirt, debris, and a gust of air could disturb your print depending on its setup.
4. Flashforge Creator Pro - Best 3D Printer For d&d Minis
Flashforge Creator Pro is an amazingly good quality printer and a super value. This super reliable printer is one of the strongest performers available in the market. It comes with lots of accessories such as a backup spool, wrenches, screws, guide tubes, nuts, and more, so you have all you need to start printing. Furthermore, this printer is fully enclosed, has an illuminated build chamber, and has dual extruders. Moreover, this printer has a sturdy metal frame that is durable and substantially more stable than other wooden models. Also, it has a warp-resistant 6.33mm aluminum build platform that is well designed to remain perfectly level under the stress of high heat.
This machine has a new high heat resistant metal platform that supports replace plastic supports. Moreover, the new heavy-duty z-axis guide rod works to ensure a precise and steady movement. This printer is fitted with an acrylic cover that encloses the chamber to protect and insulate the ABS prints. A new LED light illuminates the printing area, and the new integrated LCD screen and button board functions are error-free. The SD slot has been repositioned on this machine for more convenient access. This machine has a user-friendly design with the front door pre-installed for easier access to the prints. The injected PC top cover comes in one solid piece, making it stronger and more effective at temperature regulation.
Features
- LED light
- New acrylic cover
- Sturdy metal frame
- Integrated LCD screen
- Button board functions
- High heat resistant metal platform
Pros
- It comes with a ton of accessories.
- It comes with a filament, so it is print-ready
- It comes with dual extruders, which are necessary for 3D printing.
- This printer is fully enclosed, acts as an insulation, and better holds the chamber’s temperature.
- It has an illuminated build chamber so you can quickly peek in and check on the print at night.
- The new larger platform adjusting screws have been re-engineered for more comfortable use.
Cons
- The building envelope is a little smaller than other units at its price.
5. Creality Ender 5 - Best 3D Printer For Action Figures
Creality Ender 5 will exceed your expectations. This printer is available at an affordable price and delivers high-quality results at all times. The unit comes assembled for you so you can start printing right away. Also, it has an enormous build volume, a handy print bed, and a decent nozzle temperature. You can therefore use this printer for other 3D items other than miniatures. The upgraded ultra-mute motherboard produces less noise. Also, it uses the reality 3D 4-layer PCB with a reliable filter and capacitor to ensure a more stable performance and better ESD protection.
Additionally, this printer employs a metal extruding unit stable in feeding in filaments, wear-resistant, delivers longer-lasting heat, and will not clog. Thanks to this extruder, you are assured of better printing quality. The imported Blue Teflon tube is high temperature resistant, has good flexibility, chemical resistance, and abrasion-resistant to improve the printer’s performance. This printer has a double y-axis control system with asynchronous operation and stable output, which avoids vibrations that result from long-time printing.
Features
- Giant build volume
- Metal extruding unit
- High standard V-slot profile
- Ultra-mute motherboard
- Double Y-axis design
- Removable platform
Pros
- The high standard V-slot profile ensures a stable and smooth operation.
- It can print nearly any material with a high nozzle temperature.
- The metal extruding unit assures better printing quality.
- The upgraded motherboard produces less noise.
Cons
- The print bed has some problems with adhesion- the first layer of the flexible plate has trouble adhering.
FAQs
How to Make Miniatures with a 3D Printer
Many people prefer to make their miniatures for tabletop games such as dungeons, dragons, and Warhammer. The resin printers are the best for printing models with intricate details. In contrast, fused deposition modeling printers are best suited for the more significant and bulkier models, such as terrain features. Here’s how you can make miniatures and bring outstanding results to every creation.
Layers
The ultimate print’s vertical structure is achieved through the build-up of layers. However, not all layers are equally created. Always start with a 0.01-mm layer height and try increasing the layer heights for a faster print time. Also, you can experiment with adaptive layers while considering the top layers.
Print speed
The speed is one of the trickiest considerations to get right. You are therefore advised to slow down the initial layer and optimize your travel speed. Remember that too much speed is dangerous, and always tweak your retraction speed.
Supports
Supports are the slicer program structures, which keep the parts that overhang the build plate. Use supports only on extreme overhangs and enables tree supports. Also, use a plug-in so you can only place supports where you think they are necessary.
Cooling
Generally, the printers use cooling fans, but there are ways to control the temperature changes and achieve better results. Ensure that the cooling is activated by selecting enable print cooling on the menu. Remember that cooling is filament independent, and you can print your fan upgrade.
How much does it Cost to 3D Print Miniatures?
This is where 3D printers are an excellent choice. The price is merely matchless for one-off or custom pieces. They do not use any fuel supply, just house power in and the filament; your cost will, therefore, be for the filament and electricity. Thankfully, these units use minimal energy, so you will not notice a significant change in your electricity bill.
A 1kg of economy PLA filament can cost you less than $25. This works out to 2.5 cents per gram. And since 3D printing is an additive process, the miniature’s total weight will be about the total amount of filament you use. So, for a 20g miniature, it will cost you 50 cents. The rule of thumb is that a two by two by 2 cm cube of PLA weighs 10 grams.
Final Verdict on Choosing The Best 3D Printer for D&D Miniatures
There is a lot that goes into a 3D printer. You need one that will perfectly meet all your needs. These units are very functional, produce high-quality prints, all at affordable prices. There is a wide selection to choose from with different technologies, designs, and sizes. Ensure you find the ideal one for you to achieve the best 3d printed miniatures.