Looking for independent 3D pen reviews? This article has you covered.
With over 70 3D pens in the market, deciding which one to buy for art use, hobbies or your kids can be difficult. 3D pens are the in-thing. Both children and adults enjoy doodling and creating different three-dimensional objects.
There are 2 main technologies that 3D pens use: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and UV light
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM is the most common technology used to make 3D drawing pens. With this technology, the 3D pen heats a plastic-filament and then extrudes it as molten plastic. The process is similar to how most desktop 3D printers work.
UV Light Pens
This technology is less common and is only found in unique 3Ds. Here, the 3D pen uses a special liquid ink known as resin, which hardens on exposure to UV light. The nozzle tips of the 3D pens that use this technology have LED nodes. When the liquid is extruded through the tip, it is immediately cured by the LED nodes.
UV pens are gaining popularity, especially as writing tools for children, because they are safe. Their nozzles don’t heat up and, therefore, don’t pose a burning hazard.
Although there are many 3D pens in the market (check out Amazon; you’ll be amazed) most of the models are just copycats of each other. The pens are mainly different in price and brand. There are, however, a few premium products that stand out from the rest. These 3D pens cost a little bit more.
In this 3D pens review article, we’ll look at the top models in the market.
Best 3D Pens for Artists
The new generation artists are drawing in the air with high functioning and reliable 3D pens. The best 3D pens for artists enable them to engage in long printing projects without getting tired. The pens also offer the artists control of the projects.
To find the best 3D pens for professionals, you should consider the design, technical aspect, user-friendliness, and price.
#1: 3Doodler PRO
The 3Doodler PRO by Wobble Works is an improved version of the original 3Doodler. This new 3D pen is made with more versatile materials and features an improved nozzle.
The Doodler Pro can use all types of conventional 3D printing filaments, including metal filaments, polycarbonate, nylon and even wood, in addition to the full range of 3Doodler filament materials.
The nozzle sizes available for the 3Doodler Pro are 0.5mm, 1mm and 1.5mm. There are also different nozzle opening shapes like ribbon, square and triangle.
The pen has integrated dials at its rear end that can be used to adjust the extrusion and temperature speeds. An LCD screen on the pen will help you in monitoring the speed and temperatures while an adjustable in-built fan helps to keep the pen cool.
The Doodler Pro 3D pen is designed for expert artists. The pen is flexible, luxurious and produces excellent 3D creations.
Features
- FDM technology (uses a wide range of filament materials, including metals, nylon, wood and even PLA)
- Has a professional design
- The in-built fan is adjustable
- LCD screen can be used to monitor speed and temperature
- Speed control dial
- Temperature adjustment dial
- Can be used wirelessly or plugged into a power source
- Portable and easy to use
#2: LIX Pen
This Lix 3D pen is a high-end model that holds the title of the smallest circular 3D pen in the world, at 0.55 inch diameter and 6.54 inch length. The pen has previously won the Design Intelligence Award and is marketed as a professional tool that offers you comfort and pushes your creativity to a new level.
The Lix 3D pen body is made of anodized aluminum, which makes it look cool. On the body, there are two speed control buttons.
The Lix 3D pen kit has one 3D pen, one bag of random PLA filament and another of random ABS filament and an external adapter.
A Kickstarter campaign that was backed by 8,030 people who raised £731.690 made the development of this pen possible.
Features and Specifications
- LED indicators for temperature and speed
- Portable
- A professional design for artistic use
- FDM technology (PLA and ABS)
- Temperature adjustment dial
- Hot nozzle that makes it unsuitable for use by children
Read the full review of the Lix 3D pen.
#3. Ipeson 3D Printing Pen
The Ipeson 3D Printing Pen has an LCD screen that you can use to monitor the nozzle temperature. There are also two buttons on the body, next to the LCD screen, for adjusting the temperature in 1-degree increments.
The Ipeson 3D pen also has filament unloading and extrusion buttons and a switch on the side for controlling the speed of extrusion. The safety feature automatically switches the pen into standby mode after five minutes of non-use. There is also a filament-jam detection system that prevents the nozzle from clogging.
This unique professional 3D pen can be powered by either a battery or a USB cable. This makes this 3D pen highly portable.
Features
- A button for adjusting the temperature in 1 degree increments
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Filament-jamming detection system
- Safety feature that automatically shuts down the pen after 5 minutes of idleness
- Extrusion and reverse buttons
- LCD screen for monitoring nozzle temperature
- Powered either using a battery or through a wall adapter
- Hot nozzle (is therefore, not suitable for children)
- Portable and easy to use
- Quiet operation
- Speed control switch
#4: NEXTECH Intelligent 3D Printing Pen
The NEXTECH Intelligent 3D Printing Pen lives up to its name. The 3D drawing pen uses FDM technology to extrude ABS, PLA and wood filaments. This pen is lightweight and has both the look and feel of an artistic model. The 3D pen is designed has an auto-standby mode that takes effect after one minute of idleness.
The nozzle of the NEXTECH Intelligent 3D Pen has an airflow design that will make it easy for you to be in control of your project. This pen has a pair of buttons on one side for controlling the filament extrusion speed. There is also an unload button on top of the feed button that you can use to switch between filaments or clean up after use.
Two buttons for controlling the nozzle temperatures are located further down the pen. To The LCD screen on the body of the pen will help you see any temperature adjustments you make.
Features
- FDM technology (ABS, PLA and wood filaments)
- LCD screen for monitoring nozzle temperatures
- Nozzle temperature control buttons
- Speed control buttons
- Feed and Unload button
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to use
- Professional design tailored for artists
#5: Scribbler V3
The Scribbler 3D Pen is a sleek artistic quiet model with an automatic standby feature that deactivates it when not used for a predetermined duration.
The pen has two buttons on the side; one for unloading and the other for extruding filament. There is also has a side slider for controlling the speed of extrusion and an LCD screen for monitoring the nozzle temperature.
You can use both the ABS and PLA filaments with this pen. Therefore, there is you can take your creativity to the next level with the pen.
Features
- Temperature monitoring through the LCD screen
- FDM technology (both ABS and PLA filaments)
- Speed adjustment slider
- Light weight and easy to use
- Extrusion and filament reverse buttons
- Quiet in operation
- Hot nozzle, which makes it not suitable for use by children
Read full review of the Scribbler V3. Pen.
#6: AIO Robotics 3D Printing Pen
The AIO Robotics 3D pen is a rather basic 3D pen for artists. The pen has an LCD screen for monitoring the nozzle temperature. The screen is surrounded by buttons that you can use to select the filament type and to adjust the temperature. You can use the buttons on the right side of the pen to adjust the extrusion speeds, unloading and extruding filament.
An LED light indicator on the pen will flash a red light when the pen is heating up. When the pen is ready for use, a blue LED indicator will light up.
The AIO Robotics printing pen package comes with a packet with 4 PLA filaments of different colors, a stand for the device, a power adapter and the 3D printing pen.
Features
- LCD screen for monitoring the temperature
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Blue and Red LED light indicators for showing the pen status
- Speed control buttons
- Extrude and reverse buttons
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Hot nozzle
#7: MYNT3D Professional 3D Printing Pen
The MYNT 3D pen uses FDM technology and has two buttons on the side that unload or extrude the filament when pressed. The unload button can also be double-clicked instead of being held continuously to feed the filament. This makes doing big projects relatively easy.
The MYNT3D Professional 3D printing pen has a removable nozzle that is easy to clean or switch in case of a clog. The pen also has an OLED display that will show both the temperature of the nozzle and the material being used. You can adjust the temperature in 1-degree increments to between 130-240 degrees Celsius. The pen also has a side slider that you can use to adjust the extrusion speed to your preference.
Features
- Adjustable temperatures (in 1-degree increments) between 130-240 degrees Celsius
- FDM technology(Both ABS and PLA filaments)
- OLED screen that displays the temperature of the nozzle and material used
- Removable nozzle for easy maintenance
- Lightweight (40grammes)
- Speed control slider
- Filament feed and unload buttons
- A smart feed button for a continuous stream
- Easy to handle and use
Read the full Mynt3d Pen Review.
#8: 7TECH 3D Printing Pen
The 7TECH is an affordable 3D pen for expert artists. Like most 3D pens, you can choose between ABS and PLA filaments, control the speed of extrusion and set the nozzle temperatures. The 7Tech 3D pen also has a filament-jamming detection that helps to prevent clogs. The gadget works quietly and will go into sleep mode if idle for five minutes.
You can monitor every data about the pen from the LCD screen on the body.
Features
- Speed control slider
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- LCD material that displays the nozzle temperature, extrusion speed and the filament material being used
- Hot nozzle that makes it dangerous for use by children
- Automatic filament jamming detection
- Unclogging mechanism
- Automatic standby mode after 5 minutes of inactivity
- Easy to use and extremely quiet
Read the full 7Tech 3D pen review.
#9. HATCHBOX 3D Printing Pen
The Hatchbox 3D pen is made of plastic and is therefore light in weight (50 grams). The slim curved design makes holding it quite easy. You can use the 3D pen just like a normal pen.
The Hatchbox professional 3D pen for artists can print with both ABS and PLA filaments. The pen has a temperature control button and a button for selecting the type of filament. An OLED screen provides information about the pen and materials used for a job.
The 3D printing pen has 6 extrusion speeds that you can choose from to have better control of your project.
This 3D pen is the simplest and cheapest in our list of the best 3D pens for experts.
Features
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Temperature control buttons
- Very light weight (50 grams)
- LCD display screen that shows the filament type and the temperatures.
- Speed control buttons
- Hot nozzle that makes it unsuitable for use by kids
Best 3D Pens for Hobbyists
Most 3D art enthusiasts (hobbyists) are newbies in 3D printing and therefore need simple 3D pens that will encourage their creativity. We analyzed the pens on the market based on design, features and user-friendliness and came up with a list of the best 3D pens for hobbyists and 3D art enthusiasts.
#1: 3Doodler Create (V 2.0)
The 3Doodler Create Version 2.0 is a product of the pioneer 3D pen manufacturers; Wobble Works. This 3D pen is an improved version of the 3Doodler Pen. The drawing gadget is lightweight and appealing in its aluminum body. It also has simple but intuitive controls. This pen can only be adjusted to two temperatures and two speeds.
There are many accessories available for the 3Doodler Create 3D pen. These include a Doodle Pad that can be used as a Doodling surface, a changeable nozzle set, a project book, a foot pedal for relieving fingers and a Jet pack (portable battery pack). 3Doodler also offers Create (V 2.0) 3D pen bundle that can be used for educational purposes.
Features
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Appealing look
- Multiple accessories
- Reputable manufacturer
- Compact build quality
- Hot nozzle
- Easy to handle and use
#2: Dewang X4 Intelligent 3D Printing Pen
The Dewang X 3D Printing Pen is a simple 3D pen for hobbyists. This pen has only two buttons; one for adjusting the extrusion speed and switching between ABS and PLA filaments, and the other for unloading and feeding in the filament.
The pen also has an LCD display that indicates the kind of filament thatís in use. The safety feature automatically turn off the 3D pen after being inactive for 3 minutes.
The pen has a USB port that you can use to charge it using a power bank.
Features
- Has USB port for charging using USB cable
- FDM technology (Both ABS and PLA filament)
- Extrusion and unloading buttons
- Nozzle heats up o high temperatures
- Automatic shutdown feature
- Filament selector button that also functions for speed control
- Easy to use
#3: TR-LIFE 3D Printing Pen
The TR-LIFE 3D pen is another reputable brand you should consider when shopping for a 3D pen to use for fun. The pen captures the needs of both kids and adults.
The TR-LIFE 3D pen has speed control features for adjusting the filament extrusion speed and two buttons; one for unloading filament and the other for extruding. There is also a safety feature that automatically unloads filament when the pen has been idle for 3 minutes, therefore preventing burns and nozzle clogs. This is an important feature that the best 3D pens for kids have.
The TR-LIFE 3D pen has an enhanced cooling system that ensures the extruded filament is cooled down immediately it leaves the nozzle. For this reason, you can easily draw in the air with this pen.
Features
- FDM technology (PLA Filament)
- Safety feature automatically unloads filament after 3 minutes of idleness
- Extrude and reverse buttons
- Speed control buttons
- Hot nozzle
- Easy to use
#4: TecBoss 3D Drawing Pen
The TecBoss 3D Pen has a slim design, is lightweight and easy to work with. The 3D drawing pen has a load/unload button that automatically extrudes the filament or reverses it. There is also has a feed/load button that automatically opens the back of the pen to allow you to feed the filament.
You can adjust the filament extrusion speeds using a variable speed slider on the pen. The penís safety feature will let it sleep when idle for five minutes.
The TecBoss 3D pen has a removable nozzle that can be replaced. The pen does not have an and LCD screen. Instead, it has LED lights that will alert you when the pen is ready for use.
Features
- LED light indicator
- Auto-shutdown safety feature
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Speed control slider
- Hot nozzle that make it unsuitable for use by children.
- Easy to use
- Affordable
#5: DIKI IV Intelligent 3D Printing Pen
The DIKI IV Intelligent 3D pen stands out for its ability to be operated with a single button. The single button on the body makes the pen easy to set up and to use. After plugging in the pen, simply click the button and wait for the flashing red light to turn green.
The green light will indicate that the pen is ready to use. You can then load the filament and single-click the button again for extrusion to start. Pressing the button again will stop the extrusion.
This DIKI IV 3D pen has a USB port for charging using a power bank or adapter.
Features
- FDM technology (PLA Filament)
- Features a single button on the body
- Affordable
- LED indicator
- Nozzle tends to heat up
#6: Adroit One Intelligent 3D Printing Pen
The AdroitOne Intelligent 3D Printing pen has an ergonomic, sleek design and is light in weight. An LCD display will alert you whether the pen is active or not, show the extrusion speed and the nozzle temperature, and indicate the type of filament thatís being used. The 3D pen also has a smart control feature. You only have to press a button once to initiate continuous extrusion.
AdriotOne 3D penís speed control buttons can make it eject the filament at 6 different speeds. The penís safety mechanism automatically shuts it down when it has not been active for more than one minute.
Features
- The nozzle heats up to very high temperatures
- Uses FDM technology (ABS and PLA Filament)
- Load/ Unload buttons
- Speed control and adjustment buttons
- Automatic shutdown safety feature
- Easy to use and cheap
- LCD screen that indicates filament type, speed and temperature
#7: Lay3r 3D Drawing Pen
The Lay3r 3D Drawing Pen has a simple design. The pen has two buttons on the body; one for feeding in the filament and another for unloading, and an automatic shutoff feature that inactivates the pen when it has stayed idle for more than 5 minutes.
The Lay3r 3D pen also features a cooling fan that prevents it from overheating. Apart from the 3D pen, you will get a power adapter and some ABS filaments in your Lay3r package.
Features
- The nozzle can heat up to really high temperatures
- Has an unloading button and an extrusion button
- Affordable
- Basic and relatively easy to use
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Has a cooling fan
Read the full Lay3r 3D pen review.
#8: Tipeye 3D Pen
The TipEye 3D pen is features a basic design but with an ergonomic aura that makes it attractive. The 3D pen has two buttons; a power button that also serves as the extrusion button when you press then hold, and an extrusion button.
You can use ABS and PLA filaments with this pen. The safety and power saving feature of the pan make it go cold when idle for 5 to 10 minutes.
Features and Specifications
- FDM technology (ABS and PLA filament)
- Ergonomic and basic design
- Ideal for newbies in 3D printing
- Allows switch of filament type
- The nozzle gets heated to high temperatures
- Extrusion stop/start button
- Speed adjustment and control buttons
- 100% money back guarantee given on purchase.
#9: Manve Intelligent 3D Pen
The Manve Intelligent 3D pen has a simple design with only 2 buttons on its body; one for unloading the filament and another for extruding the molten material. There is also a slider on the other side of the 3D pen for controlling the extrusion speed for better control of your project.
The Manve 3D pen features 2 LED lights that show if it’s plugged in and active. The safety feature of the pen puts it into standard mode if not used within 5 minutes.
Features and Specifications
- Standby mode after 5 minutes of inactivity.
- Hot nozzle
- LED light indicator that shows when the pen is in use and when it’s powered.
- Very quiet during operation
- Uses both ABS and PLA filaments (FDM technology)
- An extrusion and a reverse button
- Speed adjustment slider
- Easy to handle and to use
#9: Da Vinci 3D Pen
The XYZ Printing Company is popular for its budget 3D printer. The company also has a 3D pen, the Da Vinci 3D Pen, which is excellent for beginners. The pen has a simple design with two buttons; one for feeding filament and the other for unloading it. A tiny LED light indicates when the pen is plugged in.
The Da Vinci 3D pen only uses PLA filament. The company offers 11 propriety filament colors for use with the pen. However, you can use any other PLA filament with the pan as long as itís of the right gauge.
The Da Vinci is one of the most affordable 3D pen on the market.
Features
- FDM Technology (PLA filament)
- Power cable with no allocation for battery used
- LED indicator
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Unload and Feed buttons
- Relatively easy to use
- 11 propriety filament colors
