Ten things I wish I knew before buying a 3D Printer

[@cosmo7816]

This has got to be one of the best "things I wish I knew about 3d printing" videos, and about the hundredth one I've watched.👍

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!! That means a TON to me...I watched quite a few before I did this video, and realized that there was a knowledge gap that wasn't being addressed. It's what inspired me to make it! When it's useful to others that makes me feel like I'm doing something positive for the community, which is my goal :) Really appreciate the comment!

[@KalaniHausman]

I wrote the book “3D printing for Dummies” with my co- author Richard Horne in England! We were the first book out there and I am glad you took time to tell all about 3D Printing!

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou so much!!! I'm flattered to have someone that's written such a book take the time to comment, that's super cool! I'm doing what I can to help the community out..without it's help I couldn't have gotten as far as I have, so I'm glad to give back. I'm going to have to order your book now though...I've already told 3 people I know that you commented cause I'm like techie startruck :D Thankyou!

[@KalaniHausman]

GeekToolkit You need yo get started somewhere then add what you can do others can follow too! It is all fun!

[@seanbrogan8667]

There are a lot of videos on this topic but this comes across as one of the most honest. Ive been printing a few years now and you've pretty much mentioned everything I would. And a lot of these are things I dont see other people mention

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! That was my goal actually...I'd watched other videos and got into the hobby and just felt like there was a gap between 'total newbie' and 'mid level/pro' that people weren't adressing. I wanted to make something to help out there. And yeah...I really wish stuff like the 'time' aspect was mentioned more. That was a big dissapointment when I started. I'm now at 3 printers and better at slicing/nozzle sizes and that stuff so it's less of an issue, but my first prints taking so long made me sad

[@qozia1370]

So freaking professional, easy to follow and informative! As someone who wants to buy a 3d printer I'm glad I watched this video. Subscribed

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!!! You made my day :)

[@Mrcurlywhirly]

I'm just getting into 3D printing, and found this overview of gotchas very informative - power to the nerds!

[@Ronymon]

I've spent 4 hrs searching up videos about 3D printers and this has been the most helpful and informative of them all. Thank you for your service. I liked and subscribed!

[@geektoolkit]

Excellent!! I’m glad it helped. That was my experience starting out as well. I got frustrated and made this video. Since this I’ve done a wide variety of things, hope you find some interesting! Some are 3D printing and I’ll always make those, but I’m trying to do unique stuff

[@edgarbyaruhanga6513]

This should be number 1 recommended video for 3D printing for beginners on the internet. How do you not have like at least 1 million views! Although it did take a whole day of watching these kind of videos, before yours showed up - so I guess that's why. Thank you so much!

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou so much! This was my first video for this channel and so I probably wasn’t big enough to get the momentum. But comments and interactions help the algorithm know it’s valued! I really appreciate the support and kind comment.

[@wesboyd7747]

I usually just lurk but I wanted to take a minute after watching your video and say how incredibly helpful and insightful it was. Thank you for taking the time to make such a detailed video to give people some direction when getting into 3D printing. Cheers

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!!! I really appreciate that, made my day! When I started my channel and tried to come up with a topic I realized I just want to make something helpful, and fill in gaps. I make the 'what did I wish existed when I first got into this awesome hobby" videos, so this comment means a ton to me..it means I'm successfully helping others. Thanks a ton, be safe and have a great one!

[@link8893]

This is by far the best video I have ever seen regarding advice to 3D Printers. Thank you so much!

[@geektoolkit]

Thank you!!! I’m going to 3D print you next!!

[@eurekapoultry7215]

Very good video! I'd add a note for people just starting out like myself.... Patience. getting a printer dialed in and printing perfect takes time. It's also somewhat of a constant battle. Different filament types and different manufacturers of the same filament type can require different settings. I'm still learning how to "read" the print to figure out what settings to tweak for various things. It's definitely a big learning curve.

[@geektoolkit]

Yes! Very well said, especially the “reading” a print part!

[@jonathanarthur7767]

Amazing video. I've learnt most of these things the hard way. I've enjoyed the learning process, but this video is the best summary I've ever seen. I feel like watching this video almost takes you straight to intermediate skill level even if you've never used a 3d printer :D

[@martinbankjorgensen]

This is by FAR the best beginners guide I have seen here on KZbin... like SERIOUSLY! Thank you SO much for taking it down to a beginner level 👏🏻

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped!! I couldn’t find a video that explained this entire “ramping up” aspect of what was needed, so through today make one. Never imagined it’d be this popular!

[@pensychan]

Thank you for this video, I was absolutely to impulse buy a printer, but now I think I will take my time to choose the best for my projects :)

[@geektoolkit]

Great choice..the time is worth it and will save you frustration and heartache later (or money...my solution when I wanted a bigger printer was to buy yet another one after waiting and saving a bit...I could've saved that money if I bought the right one the first time!)

[@zendog8888]

Idk how your video showed up in my feed. But I'm glad I found it. Even for the "beginner" printer, I bought it. They didn't tell me ANYTHING. They told me to download slicing software. And I'm like wtf is that and why am I downloading it? I thought I would just take my little SD card. Get a printer code. Put it in my printer. And print cool stuff all day. I'm on day 6. I should have walked away by day 2. But I didn't want to let a printer defeat me. Your video gives me hope I can win this battle.

[@geektoolkit]

You ABSOLUTELY can win the battle, and know that the start of the climb is a bit steep, but the rewards should come soon. It is, I'd say, one of those hobbies where you can obsess and really spend an eternity tuning and tweaking and learning, but the path from 'i don't know a slider from gcode' to 'I can make most things off thingiverse in one or two goes' isn't too bad and is worth it. Give yourself a month, but know that you should see constant progress, and every failure is a lesson that'll help you. Good luck, it can be an amazing hobby!

[@chiisaiakuma9930]

Even though this video is almost 1,5 years old it's been the most informative one about this subject I've come across thanks alot.💪

[@geektoolkit]

Chiisai Akuma you’re welcome! I tried to make it generic at the time and I tried to make it not model specific. I had no idea how it’d do as far as longevity of relevance but it’s still pretty on point thankfully. My follow up has a bit more stuff for when you first get a printer but it’s more about the lingo so that people can get help more efficiently

[@TheAkashicTraveller]

Yeah, this has made me realise that my "ender 3 of theseus" should have an enclosure in the upgrade path somewhere.

[@Schroefdoppie]

Great video! 👍 I'm still on the fence if a 3D printer is even worth the time and money. I'm mostly interested in practical solutions. Custom brackets, clips, small mechanical repairs etc. So accuracy, strength and durability of the prints would be my biggest concerns. Going to watch the follow up now. 🤜🤛

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!! Yeah they are an investment in time like any tool and skill, but I do find them incredibly useful, versatile and fun!

[@drewsmalley769]

agree

[@CrazyWillTechShow]

I’m using a resin printer. I wish I knew about the cleanup and venting harmful smells.

[@geektoolkit]

I haven't gotten a resin printer yet, I look forward to getting one someday! Well maybe not after hearing about the venting..I'll have to get my ventilation dialed in in my garage maybe and then get one :)

[@sharank]

You ded?

[@Hanzi2u]

This is very informative. One of the best videos to actually explain what's essential to actually start in the 3d print world. Thank you

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! I appreciate that :)

[@MFimian]

Great orientation Joe! Thanks!

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped! Cheers

[@ZubairKhan-vs8fe]

Brilliant video. I learnt so much in straight simple language without jargon

[@geektoolkit]

Percect! That was my entire goal. I didn't see much out there helping people that hadn't 3d printed ever, so was hoping to provide something for them!

[@faroffstudios4112]

@@geektoolkit wow 2 years ago still responding to comments truly a legend

[@geektoolkit]

My viewers are my community!! I’m thankful for them and honored to have them. Least I can do is help them out or try :)

[@minuteman4394]

Wow! so glad I found your video as I am looking at getting my first printer and with your knowledge and help I will not be falling into any traps. Subscribed

[@geektoolkit]

Excellent! I'm so glad it was helpful. When you get your printer I have a followup video about 10 things for beginners that I think may be helpful as well. It goes over lingo and some of the things such as calibration and what esteps are. It's a great hobby!

[@minuteman4394]

@@geektoolkit Brilliant! thank you so much for your info. My confidence is growing all the time and will be placing an order the next month. Cheers

[@robainscough]

Excellent video, keeping the printer in a temperature/humidity controlled room is something I hadn't thought about. Since I don't want the toxic fumes inside my home, I'll have to re-think my plans for using 3D printers. Much appreciated!

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped, and hopefully saved you from some failed prints. I'm having filmaent issues just because I started opening the window to the room where the printer is in to cool things down, so I'm working on a 'drying bin'. I may do a quick video on that, but that'd help with humidity possibly

[@LivingTech]

Great job, thank you very much for such a comprehensive overview of 3D printing.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou for the open comment! Glad it helped!

[@Weeble_Warbles]

I'm so glad you made this video and I'm so glad I found it before buying a printer. Thank you!

[@geektoolkit]

Cool glad it helped!

[@slickstretch6391]

I'll be buying one later this month, so I'm shopping around. This video came up in a convenient time. This was great info. Thanks.

[@geektoolkit]

Great to hear!

[@jazzdad52]

Very well done video. I will be getting into 3D printing soon, but have 11 years experience working with their Cousins, my CNC router, I’ve built 3. One suggestion I would like to make involves the computer work. CNC subtractive designing is mostly the same as 3D printing, until you get the design ready for the machine. The next step for printers, “slicing” is called making a “tool path” for CNC. The 3rd step is making the g-code. For CNC we call that “post processing” meaning writing g-code for specific machines, and the software they use to run the machine. My suggestion is that you might want to use a different name for your finishing work that you called “post processing” as this might confuse CNC users starting out with printing, and 3D print users learning about CNC operations. I’m also interested in how you made a CNC with printed parts, so I’ll watch your video on that. One concern I have about that, I learned the hard way how important extreme rigidity is on a CNC router, as cutting wood, metal, etc. with a mill or router creates a lot of torque, and you will not get clean cuts if any part of the machine is not very solid. Maybe you solved that, but just saying any printed parts need to be designed for strength. Thanks for a great video!

[@MegaEpstein]

Thank you! This video is one of the most useful and helpful about this topic

[@geektoolkit]

Glad you liked it!!! Thankyou for the kind comment

[@rocketkid3787]

Really helpful as I am just starting to look into what my first printer will be. Thanks!

[@geektoolkit]

Cool!! Hoping you have a blast! It’s a great hobby

[@cloefulk5481]

Thank you so much for making this video. It was so helpful. But I was wondering if you have made any videos that go over all the main types of filaments.

[@geektoolkit]

I'm glad this was helpful! I have a mention of filaments in this one for the most popular types, but for all of the various ones, I'm haven't. I haven't worked with many of them myself, so not sure I could do something that would be accurate for my viewers.

[@alexmcfarlane7127]

I currently have my 3D printer next to my chair, window and PC. Even though im wearing a mask, I've health concerns about the fumes and miniparticles. I spend most of my time on the computer, but I also need to supervise the print of any failures. I don't know what to do about the placement. I use a Easythreed X1 with PLA.

[@geektoolkit]

If you need visual on the printer you can try octoprint or even a Wyze camera to monitor it remotely. Also putting it in an enclosure may help.

[@hanif-pl5hd]

thank you, this is very comprehensive and easy to understand

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it's helpful!

[@thepawneeful]

Extremely helpful video and I really like that you're literally the biggest nerd I have ever seen in my life. Thanks much.

[@geektoolkit]

thepawneeful I’m only 5’10” though!! Lol

[@ShardFalcorsGaming]

Excellent video, Joe! Great advice. Can't wait to see more of your projects.

[@sprescav]

Thanks for sharing your experience, i'm looking for one.

[@geektoolkit]

I thought about recommending some in the video, but really every 6 months I think that recommendation would change with the landscape. Instead I tried to focus on things that I felt were more timeless, since there are a ton of review videos out there. If I had to buy today I'd likely look at the Creality CR10 for a large printer, or their entry level one for inexpensive ($200). The Cetus I use is about $400 and dated, however the tech has been reliable, and it's got a great bed plate technology. But there's tons of options and more every week it seems, so hope you find a great one!

[@cgonzt5636]

Well said, thanks! Any instances that this thing will burn?

[@geektoolkit]

Great question! I would jump into Reddit or a Facebook group and ask about the particular model you want. The reason I say that is most have safety things to prevent catching fire but there are some that have had issues and caught fire. For insurance cheap power supplies or shorts in wiring can cause fires. Also thermal runaway can be dangerous. But they have added things to newer firmware and power supplies to mitigate that so just have to check for your model

[@tonyrichengod9280]

Is it possible to recycle plastic bags into filament for 3D printing? I've read that on their own such filament would be weak because of the low melting point , but what if shredded plastic bag material were to be combined with a stronger material such as abs or nylon? Would it yield a workable filament then?

[@geektoolkit]

I am not a chemist, so please take my answer as mostly a guess from what I've observed. Whenever you have a filament, consistency is everything. Consistent temperatures required to smoothly extrude it and not clog the nozzle seems to be a science to get right (and even manufacturers seem to struggle from time to time). I've heard of things like bits of one plastic being used as filler for another, but I believe it's a very low percentage. That being said, plastic bags are very recyclable in other ways if you're trying to limit those. I've seen them even made into pavers by being melted and used as a bonding agent for sand. One thing to note is mixing plastics can actually wreck the ability to recycle what gets created as well. So not sure if melting plastics and mixing them is the best way forward. That's a non-scientists take though from a hobbyist who did some research on the internet, so I welcome others that are much more versed to reply so we can all learn :)

[@zaid-je5es]

Thanks for the good information i have problem with my under3pro printer the form not stick i print 5 times and its keep doin that thank you

[@geektoolkit]

Make sure your z offset is correct and it’s leveled. Search for z offset videos and dial it in while it’s printing the skirt. Or try a raft to get things working

[@zaid-je5es]

@@geektoolkit appreciate your helpful response

[@geektoolkit]

LAITH one other thing to try is a glue stick or painters tape on the bed. But honestly you’re better off making sure your z offset and leveling are correct first. I adjust it during the print and that’s proven to be super successful

[@zaid-je5es]

@@geektoolkit 🙏🙏

[@EyMahomiiie]

Thank you for taking the time to write and record this informative piece. Highly, highly appreciated

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! Makes it worth the time when it helps others :)

[@gb7215]

Excellent intro - THANK you! You do understand the idea of introducing it to a beginner correctly - the best i have seen so far. Most " geeks" here talk weird abbreviations and concepts they don't care introducing! But yours is correctly NOT assuming that a viewer knows about the topic already.

[@geektoolkit]

I worked hard on that because I often hit that exact issue where learning feels impossible because I felt like I had to know what I was talking about before I could even ask a question!

[@gb7215]

@@geektoolkit As a former teacher, I greatly appreciate this. Good job! Hope to see more of your videos and will follow you :) To achieve results that look easy hard work is ALWAYS required :)

[@Yatukih_001]

Thanks for the video and happy summer!

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! To you as well :)

[@dlou3264]

Good video! I’m looking into it, and I really appreciate the pros and cons you presented!

[@theswime945]

Super-helpful facts really well and simply presented. Perfect for me. Thank you so much.

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped! Thankyou for the kind comment

[@TiredAndWearyTraveler]

hey man, thanks for the info and btw, i love what you did with the digital art in the background, good stuff🤘

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! Check out the 'dynaframe' videos to know more about those, you can build your own using dynaframe 2, or get the pro version and really make it shine :)

[@timothymusson5040]

Excellent video! I sent it to a friend that’s just starting out. I, like you, had to learn all of this stuff the hard way :)

[@geektoolkit]

The hard way is so hard!!! Thanks that was one of my goals is that if someone that knew this stuff found it, it’d be a good resource to help another get up to speed. I have two 3D printing videos for beginners at this point...one for before one for after buying. I may do a third for “how to dial a printer in” because wow that took me some time to learn as well!

[@lfcbpro]

Every person thinking about buying a 3D printer should watch this vid, fantastic, gave me so much to think about and so many tips, Brilliant job sir :D

[@ronfran1492]

So true, I’m glad I watched it! I’ve even liked and subscribed 👍🏼😄

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou both so much for the support and the kind words! I really appeciate it!

[@billdodson207]

This is an incredibly useful video. Thank you for writing and making it.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! I'm glad it's helping others :) I just wish it existed before I bought mine!

[@AJ-Tivol]

This was so awesome! The information is very helpful.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!! Happy printing!

[@papajohns3726]

Thanks, great before you buy vid. had good information and was very easy to understand👍🏻

[@geektoolkit]

Yay glad it helped!

[@mrnobody1499]

Besides a 3-D printer in the film what else would I need to get into this

[@geektoolkit]

You probably could start with just that if it comes with the starter 'stuff'. A microsd card, and a holder/adapter for whatever you're using to download th efiles. A spactula or paint scraper to remove prints. Hex wrenches to tighten/loosen/assemble. Noramlly all of that comes with the printer, so you can get started from there..

[@keatonmills4800]

This was a much more helpful guide, thank you! What are some beginners models that you’d recommend, I’d like to be able to use abs and all filament types if possible and a larger size bed my goal was to stay under $500 for the printer

[@geektoolkit]

Honestly it’s a balance of how much you want to learn vs money. ABS is tough to use, you’ll want a heated bed and an enclosure ideally. I’d probably say an ender Max but be ready to spend time learning it. Or get an ender 3 pro, learn it, then upgrade. A larger printer is going to be tougher just by default. You wouldn’t learn to drive a car with a Lambo:)

[@treyfairlane855]

This video is amazing man, so helpful I am just getting into 3D printing and you have given so many tips and tricks

[@geektoolkit]

Yay glad it helped!!! I made a follow up about things like Esteps and such that may also be useful. I just found the hobby to have a steep curve to get started and wanted to help

[@jasongalotera8864]

Planning to buy a 3d printer. This video is very informative. Thank you!

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it was helpful!

[@shailsh3965]

Thank you very much for sharing experience. Perfect professional content.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!!!

[@drosky310]

this is about the best info . you can get , i hope you do make some more videos .

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!! I’m definitely working on another series. They come in batches as I have to set aside time for planning, filming and such. I had to take a short break but I expect to be back in about a week. I likely will make smaller videos so I can release more often, but will work to keep the info quality high

[@drosky310]

@@geektoolkit ok cool . im a mexican . and im about to win a major lawsuite . I have been studing 3d printers on youtube for about 5 years . i want to make stuff and sell it . the electricity is free in mexico .

[@drosky310]

@@geektoolkit if i buy a roll of filament and price it buy the foot. mark it and see how much it utilizes .and go from there and price the item to get my profit . ps dont tell anybody in mexico . im trying to reach my rich life destiny . so many buisness ownd and failed .

[@jacktoddy9783]

A very comprehensive video - really useful to me - thank you.

[@geektoolkit]

Cool! I have a second followup one once you get a printer that may help as well, it goes through the lingo/terms in hope sof helping when people start out

[@ASHAH925]

im just getting into 3-d printing it might be the most difficult and cumbersome thing or hobby I've ever gotten into. its a lot more difficult than what you think. every topic in 3-d printing is a like taking a course!

[@geektoolkit]

Absolutely, which is why I made this video (and others make some great ones!!). It’s worth it though, there are few hobbies that can do so many varied things. Hang in there I think you’ll see results fast once you get going!

[@RubenVdV]

Subbed! Very interesting, honest and to the point video. Thank you.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!!! Glad it was useful!

[@nikgrid]

Invaluable! I'm thinking about buying one...thanks my friend!

[@geektoolkit]

Yay! I'm hoping others get into the hobby, it's incredibly fun and rewarding, though at times infuriating. like any good hobby :)

[@ronfran1492]

Thanks for posting this video! The information is very helpful. I am looking to get into this hobby and this has helped me towards making a very informed decision on which 3D printer to start with. 👍🏼🙏🏼

[@geektoolkit]

Glad to hear that! It's a super fun hobby, and it pairs well with alot of others. If you're into RC anything, there's a ton of things you can print. Woodworking...same thing. Painting miniatures, etc. Also I find myself jumping into hobbies I didn't expect...like painting..thanks to this.

[@humansbeingbros12]

Thank you for sharing. Very insightful.

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped! I have a part 2 that talks a bit more about the terminology. I may do a followup if there's interest

[@Rdeveramd]

I just got my ENDER 3 v2 and I need to watch this. Thanks!

[@geektoolkit]

There is another video I made (similar thumbnail) that has more info if you just bought one. I have to find the link but it’ll help you with esteps and lingo

[@Rdeveramd]

@@geektoolkit Thanks! I'm so glad to know that the 3D printing world has a helpful community. 💪💪💪

[@geektoolkit]

It has to! Otherwise I think it would’ve died. The support from manufacturers on lower priced printers hasn’t been...amazing in my experience.

[@francescosilvetti9659]

Really informative! A friend kinda got me into 3d printing and I'm deciding on wether to get a 3d printer or not. I'm concerned that it's gonna be just a fun and expensive toy that I'll use occasionally. But hey, I guess that when you know you need one it's already too late...

[@williwonti]

The way I see it, if you have people in your life that don't really need anything, printing out little personalized gifts for them can pay for the cheaper printers in no time and give you something productive to do. Lithophanes alone seem worth it.

[@geektoolkit]

Will's comment rally nailed it. Lithophanes alone are one of the most personalized and cool things you can make for someone, and work for all sorts of occasions. I didn't think I'd use a 3D printer, but for me it's something i"ve definitely loved having. But also I'm in a mindset of 'can I 3d print a solution' and also I browse sites for ideas. I know people with printers and they gather dust. I think that's true of any tool/gadget. One persons required tool is anothers purchase regret.

[@g00se99]

Great video. As a noob I really appreciated the information.

[@geektoolkit]

Thanks for the feedback! I really felt like there was a knowledge gap so glad it helped!

[@kalkinpowale]

Watching this video in 2020, still very informative.

[@Ishan.patel91]

Thank you for the comprehensive overview!

[@geektoolkit]

You're welcome! I added a followup video also because after all of the stuff in this one, I realized when you first get a printer, there is a whole new set of terms and lingo to learn! 3D printing really does feel like something that will have to have classes someday almost like shop class or sewing. Or maybe the tech will get so good we won't need to know things on that level. It'll be interesting to see!

[@alexmcfarlane7127]

Suggestion: Place a bit of glue on the bed surface. It has happened to me that the base of the prints go loose with the nozzle.

[@geektoolkit]

Glue, blue tape, PEI sheets...I didn't know about all that when I made this! But all good for helping with adhesion if things aren't sticking ;)

[@kenjitidany184]

Love your videos

[@Jinger_Ale_Gaming]

super helpful, looking at buying my first printer soon

[@geektoolkit]

They’re amazing tools, and I still find new uses every week or so for them. My latest is RC hobbies, people are building drones and RC cars. There’s also some DIY telescopes using some 3D printed parts. Just...so many ideas and thing, I hope you have a blast!

[@Jinger_Ale_Gaming]

That's insane, do you have an ideal 3d printer people should start with. I'd love to print and paint mini figures

[@geektoolkit]

@@Jinger_Ale_Gaming For minifigs I'd look at either an SLA printer, or something that you can get a .2mm nozzle for. I started with a Cetus3D which is very user friendly. My second pritner is an Ender3 pro which is a bit more versatile (heated bed, bigger surface) but also MUCH more complicated (The cetus spoiled me). The Cetus has a .2mm nozzle that it comes with and a .6mm, so that'd work for minatures with some post processing, but give you flexability to expand. Any of those are likely good options, though expect some learning and tinkering to start!

[@vertigev]

This video is awesome. I've been watching so many 3d printing videos but you understand what a noob needs to know and ask himself haha, thanks!

[@geektoolkit]

Excellent! I'm glad it was helpful. I basically asked myself 'what video did I wish I'd watched' and then realized...'ok now I need to go make that video!' :)

[@vertigev]

@@geektoolkit 👍😎

[@TwoMagadan]

thank you - i would have not known any of that. i'll be much better equipped now

[@1Wanoooo]

Your video is very informative, thanks a lot.

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped, thankyou!

[@amandalynn9237]

This was beyond helpful, thank you!

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped!

[@clayorrnot]

Great video! Need more like this in this community!

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou!! I appreciate that..the community helped me get into this hobby, so glad to give back

[@alanmassie1585]

Liked the info thinking on getting one but I want to make money out of it do you think that's easy or no point

[@geektoolkit]

I wouldn’t say it’s easy. There are people who have tons of printers and experience doing that. They have years of tuning for speed and reliability. And they’re making models so that it’s their IP. If you know how to 3D model then you may have a start but you could just sell your models on cgtrader. I wouldn’t say making money with 3D printing is easy, no.

[@audiodiwhy2195]

Excellent vid. Very helpful.

[@FashionTransformationwithEva]

A brilliant video packed with information. Thank you!

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou for the kind comment! Glad it helped others

[@akira3871]

One of the better videos I've seen, no unneeded info. Good stuff! Would you mind telling me what the digital picture is called? I really like it! I may buy one after I man up and buy a printer lol

[@geektoolkit]

Akira 38 Thankyou! As for the digital picture, I actually built that! Please search my channel for “dynaframe”. It’ll show you how to build it and has a link to the raspberry pi image. It’s pretty simple :)

[@skins4thewin]

How strong are PLA prints by the way? Can they be strong and sturdy enough to use for cases for electronics and such or even say a cooling stand for a PS4? Would want something that can create strong sturdy print pieces that will hold up over time. I don't plan to be rough with them or anything, but something sturdy that will last would be good.

[@geektoolkit]

I mostly print in PLA and find it pretty sturdy. Holding up a PS4 should be no problem...my MPCNC was a CNC that used PLA for much of the structure. It’s all based on infill. For electronics enclosures it works great..all my pi amd arduino cases use it. If something gets hot (like in the sun on a dashboard or something) then PLA will get sticky and can wear or even melt. PETG is sturdier and of you can dial it in a great filament but I just personally am more comfortable with PLA. Prints so clean.

[@DavidBluelineGaming]

Very helpful info- thank you! Learning a 3D printer seems daunting. I want to build more toy & miniature prototypes... is it worth taking the time to learn it?

[@geektoolkit]

it's like any good hobby, the time invested pays back dividends if you stick with it. It's not as bad as it may seem, just stick with it, watch videos, join a community and you should be good to go!

[@jp-hh9xq]

Very very good video. Thank you!

[@geektoolkit]

Glad it helped!!

[@stevelawrence8053]

One thing I wished you would have touched on, is customer service. One of the most important things about buying a printer. Most printers are Chinese based. The customer service is, in my experience, useless. It`s more like you bought it, you deal with it. I am talking from experience. And after buying a couple of printers, the worst in customer service Ender. The back and forth e-mails are andless. Them asking questions and requesting photos, videos, and worthless suggestions to try. Avoid any Ender products at all cost. The reviews you read are from people who are compensated for their review. Do not buy from them, you will be disappointed.

[@geektoolkit]

Yeah that’s a good point. At the time I made this I’d only had a Cetus and had great experiences with their service. Now I’ve owned an Ender and I’ve gutted the board, the nozzles, replaces the bed and soon the hotend. The new board (SKR mini) uses updated firmware. Plus endless 3D printed “fixes” (let’s not call them mods). I feel like the steppers and frame are all I’ve kept. I wanted this video to be applicable though also for a long time because so many videos expire as the tech moves. It’s a good point and if I do another follow up I’ll definitely mention it. I asked at CES why some of the printers are 2,500 dollars and they simply said it’s the service. It’s just amazing to me

[@playgrounddolls7766]

Well this is one off rare videos when I press pause each time I had to do something else just to not miss any word You say. Well done. Information is very usefull and presentation with no time waste hacks. Thank You very much. You have a tallent to teach and present. (Only missed eye contact) Deffinetely like button hit and new subscriber. Maybe You can advise good 3d printer? I need for small detailed objects as well for big ones. What do You think off Prusa versus Creality 3D Printer CR-10 10S S5? Or maybe anything better?

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! I've been working on my eye contact in later videos, in this one I just really wrecked it with the setup I had. I pride myself in making videos that are content rich to try to not waste peoples time, so it's always great to hear that's appreciated!

[@playgrounddolls7766]

@@geektoolkit all respect.

[@geektoolkit]

Sorry I missed the last half of your question!!! IMO Prusa is the gold standard, though they all seem to need fiddling. CR10S will get you the large sizes until Prusa has an XL version. If you’re willing to tinker and have space and want both large and small I’d say a 10s AND an SLA printer for the small stuff. SLA is tough to compete with for quality but they’re usually smaller

[@sumguy3119]

Great video! I encourage you to post more.

[@geektoolkit]

Sum Guy Thankyou! I’m definitely working on it. Right now I’m working on my workflow a bit...that video took me 3 weeks to edit, so I have to work on that :) I’ll get there and appreciate the support and encouragement!

[@KaysFantasy]

DUDE! Yor a lifesaver! 👊🏾💙 I've been dying to get a 3D printer for awhile. You've deffo helped. 😆

[@geektoolkit]

Yay!! They’re awesome fun, and occasionally useful to!

[@KaysFantasy]

@@geektoolkit Indeed, I've been really wanting to recreate something but of course, I need a 3D printer to do so, aha 😅

[@METAAL01]

i have also an cetus3d printer and if I knew the troubles I going to get, I never bought this piece of junk. If you have some doubts to buiing a printer, go to a printing service. It cost a little bit more per print, but you have no stress. And if you still want to buy one, ask youself: is it for hobby purposes or for work related stuff

[@geektoolkit]

I’m curious what issues have you had with your Cetus? Maybe I can help you out. Once I found a video on how to level mine I’ve found it to be rock solid and advanced in many ways, however mine is a MK1 and I heard that the MK2s has issues. Not sure on later versions

[@METAAL01]

I had the mk3; Loose screws, bed leveling stays all over the place even after leveling, slipping Y-axis specialy when moving fast over printend part, rattling noises in X-axis, heater problems even after replacement, raft printing; sometimes starts ok, sometimes sticking to the bed problems, found already several balls (4) from the bearings. Thrown my printer is in the garbage bin. Mayby I salvage the aluminium parts. What i find curious is that the reviews are so positive. But then, in the beginning the printer worked ok and after some monthts the firts troubbles started: loos screws amd other vague stuff. I decided to go to a printing service to print my parts. For the monney i spend, I could print many parts through this. And I only printed PLA and some PETG, in total of 8kg. Arie

[@smartsolution7254]

Very Helpful and Informative Video ....... After watching this video I clarify all the things about 3d printer.... now I'm able to buy a good 3d printer........... thank you Sir

[@geektoolkit]

Yay glad it helped!

[@smartsolution7254]

@@geektoolkit I need a cheapest 3d printer, if you can help and guide....I'll be very thankful

[@geektoolkit]

@@smartsolution7254 I honestly am not great at answering that...I'm not really a reviewer of printers and so I can't confidently compare/contrast different ones. I can give general advice, and one thing I'd say is to be careful about going cheap...many cheap printers require upgrades to print well, or will waste material. I've seen people get the AnetA8 working well (160USD) but they typically spend over 40 dollars or more on parts plus time. The Ender 3 is $200 mostly assembled, but you may want the autoleveling addons and hotend upgrades to get better prints. I had a $100 printer which didn't print anything useful. I'd be careful what you go after, and search for "3D printer review 2019" to try to find better printers out there

[@onyx9857]

Why do your pies need cases? Just eat the pies.

[@geektoolkit]

Yeah but I can’t always eat the whole pie and so a case gives me a way to store it. But you make a good point...it also opens me up to more pies besides raspberry....

[@darkpeyrises9723]

I just need to know are you actually being stupid or are you just making a joke and know what a raspberry pi is

[@ivanpetrov4917]

@@darkpeyrises9723 its joke, chill

[@tuppy1043]

@@darkpeyrises9723 r/woooosh

[@dingdingdingdiiiiing]

same reason laws need suits

[@mohammedraziq4781]

This is a great introduction to 3d printing, thanks. I am worried about the fumes and the microplastic problem you raised, I'm thinking of using my attic for the printer (was going to use my study room, until I watched this), do I need to build an enclosure of some sort for the printer? How do make sure the is enough ventilation?

[@geektoolkit]

I think you have to consider things like the environment I think he attic. Stuff like if it’s vented, temperature variability, humidity. It may be good for particles but terrible for printing. I print in a room I’m usually not in at night, seems to work for me. I have an enclosure but I know it’s leaking particles because I can smell the melted filament. I’m not sure a great solution honestly...my friend is researching it and found that even hepa filters aren’t enough to filter them. So avoiding the room while printing to minimize exposure is all I have right now

[@allenfrost6828]

I know i can research it myself but do you know is there any filimant that puts off less fumes. I have seen resin printer resin that puts off almost no fumes.

[@geektoolkit]

Allen frost I’m not aware..resin printing is a different technology...it is typically smoother but can be spendy for the printer and resin up front. I do know that ABS has much more toxic fume than PLA as a rule. I’ll have to research this myself as I realize now that I don’t know how petG and other filaments compare.

[@chucklesprice]

Is that a Commodore running on that wall monitor?

[@geektoolkit]

Good eye!! It’s an emulator running off of the steampunk book project which started my channel :) But it’s indeed a C64 emulator. My actual C64C is still at my parents house somewhere

[@talonabuser1072]

Thank you for being straight with us boss you earned a sub even if it’s not much hope you grow more man

[@geektoolkit]

If I have a sub from the great 0 01, I don't think I need to grow any more man than that!

[@therandals]

Great job & great information! Very helpful! Thanks for your insights...

[@geektoolkit]

Randal Sutherlin Your welcome!! Glad it was helpful!

[@StriderNZL]

I found your video on 3d printers interesting. I am interested in printing items like Star Wars helmets or Han Solos blaster for example. What printer would you recommend for this type of 3d printing?

[@geektoolkit]

For full size helmets the main one I hear about is the Creality CR10s...it has a 400mm x 400mm bed I believe. I’d research it and competitors to it...then decide. I have no personal experience with that one myself but if I look to go big I’ll be investigating it. Blasters like solos can be done on much smaller beds as they usually require assembly anyway. For a high end printer I recommend the Prusa Mk3s..they have a great rep and I’ve seen the print quality on them...it is very smooth.

[@StriderNZL]

@@geektoolkit Thanks for getting back to me. With so many printers out there. I want one I can get value for money in what I want to print. You have given me some where to start from. Thank you.

[@DavidBajayo]

I wish I had known those things too !!!

[@gadamwoll]

What do you suggest for Aquarium safe decor? Looking make corals, racks, parts

[@geektoolkit]

I'd suggest ABS...from what I've read PLA can become consumed by bacteria. But both are considered safe from what I can find.

[@dondec]

Very informative. I'm thinking about buying my first printer, but don't know where to put it. Plenty of room down the basement but no real ventilation down there. Any suggestions?

[@geektoolkit]

You can put it in a basic enclosure and try to trap as much as you can in that. I honestly just have mine in my maker space and try to not be in the room when it's running...I'll go watch TV or whatever just so I'm not breathing in the particles directly (I can 'smell' the PLA, though PETG I noticed has no odor...and makes me wonder if is 'cleaner'. I'd not worry about it too much at the start, but if you're going to print for days on end...probably look at options. One thing to know is you can put 3D printers under a desk...bit tougher to get to, but I'm seeing more people do that lately...frees up a ton of room, and you only need to be near it when you're leveling or pullin a print off. So not too bad, and may give you more options of placement.

[@yourhousenowjustwaiting]

Great video, very informative. I am getting ready to purchase my first printer and I would like to know which one do you recommend that I purchase that's upgradable and versatile.

[@geektoolkit]

I purposely don't recommend printers...my main goal is to help others know what questions to ask so that when they watch printer reviews or are shopping, they're informed. But I only have experience with 2 printers currently...an Ender 3 and a Cetus. The Cetus of the 2 is much easier for beginners to get going on, but is spendy for the featureset and isn't nearly as upgradable as say the Ender 3. The Ender 3 however took me quite a while of waching videos and in forums to get up and running well, and I"ve felt like there are several addons that I"ve needed to get it working. Also learning Cura as a slicer is it's own science. So..I can give you info like that, but there are many printers out there...I'd recommend following my video with one of a dedicated printer channel, and combine the info. If I were to recommend a printer it simply wouldn't be the right move.

[@WargamingForFun]

Thanks for the video buddy - I found this really useful :)

[@geektoolkit]

No problem! I'm glad it helped...it's a fun hobby, I wanted to just ease the way into it :)

[@chotafallen6570]

What about the cost? I think, usefull "things" are not much cheaper by printing myself? And what about stability? I can´t use the prints for something which needs stability?

[@geektoolkit]

Filament and electricity I find to be super inexpensive...most of my prints are under a dollar and many smaller ones are under 30 cents. The main sacrifice is time. One thing about these is I tried to include things that were special to 3D printing...sure you can find plenty of pen holders but a Julius Cesar one? Or trying to find a holder for a retro game cartridge...Sometimes cost doesnt come into play simply because the market is too niche. If I want a webcam holder for my specific printer and camera for octolapse...there’s not much there in the market but many options for 3D printing. As far as stability, I didn’t mean this as a “3D prints are better than”...peg hooks that are metal will of course outperform PLA..but for everything I’ve hung up on a pegboard PLA works fine (and if it didn’t I’d just get peghooks!). Like anything this was, for me, about knowing about options and giving others some ideas of things to print. I’ve gotten great feedback though that I’ll incorporate into future videos

[@chotafallen6570]

@@geektoolkit thank you for the fast and good response.

[@crossthreadaeroindustries8554]

Great review - very accurate about realistic expectations. This is the video I will refer noobs to when they ask for information.

[@geektoolkit]

Thankyou! That's exactly what I'm going for. I figure someone watches this, and when they're done they'll have much better knowlege to know what to ask about. I made a followup to this because there is that second level of when they get the printer, and people tell them they need to set the Z offset and make sure their E-steps are calibrated because they're overextruding....I figured a video to explain that stuff would be helpful :)

[@goliathindustries1068]

Thanks Joe that was very informative

[@geektoolkit]

Yay glad it helped!

[@Illogical.]

this video is helpful. thank you for making it.

[@geektoolkit]

I'm glad it's helping people. It's been a while since I made it, and I"ve learned a ton since then. I may have to make a followup soon. I'ts a great hobby, just..it really has a steep learning curve.

[@Illogical.]

@@geektoolkit I ordered an ender3v2 at around the start of December. Unfortunately, it has gone lost in shipping at least twice since then. I have probably forgotten everything I learned from this video, cause it wasn't relevant yet. The video is helpful. Just not helpful for me yet. Still, thank you for making it.

[@geektoolkit]

@@Illogical. Hope you get your Ender soon! Don't worry you'll learn things many times over I feel. I still go back and relearn stuff like esteps now and then