Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D Printer Review

Looking for the best 3D printer for schools? You’ll love the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D printer. Find out why this versatile performer is a must-have workhorse for both a workshop and school environment.

If you want to buy a 3D printer for use in a classroom or professional environment, there are several things to look for in the machine. For one, you want a quality printer that is affordable and reliable.

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 is one such printer.

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Review

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This 3D printer is easy to use, reliable, affordable and safe for use in a classroom or workshop. In this Dremel DigiLab 3d45 review, we look at the features, specifications, performance and what to expect in terms of print quality from the machine.

Let’s get started.

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Specifications

General

Temperature

Software

Electric

Weight and dimensions

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Features

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 is one of the best 3D printers for schools, and for good reason. This printer can cope with more advanced materials that require high printing temperatures (think EcoABS, polycarbonate and Nylon). In fact, it is one of the best ABS printers on the market.

The 3D printer comes with a heated bed and a removable build platform. The total volume of the machine is 10 x 6 x 6.7 inches.

In terms of bed leveling, the printer does not have a fully automatic system nor does it require manual bed leveling. Instead, leveling is semi-automatic and is performed by a simple two-point system.

During the leveling process, the printer indicates on the 4.5-inch color IPS touchscreen how much each knob should be turned to equalize the print area. Moving on to precision, this printer can print models with a resolution of 50 microns.

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 has a high-temperature extruder and features a full enclosure. The enclosure helps ensure that the temperature in the print chamber remains uniform to prevent the printed models from spoiling.

Although the printer is closed, you can observe and adjust the printing process thanks to the transparent door and lid. These two can also be opened during a print job for any touch-ups.

When using Dremel manufactured filament, the printer’s RFID reader will automatically recognize it and adjust the settings accordingly. So, in a school environment, you won’t have to customize the printer much before you start your first prints.

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 also has a 720p camera. You can use the camera to monitor and control multiple machines remotely. In addition, you can create time-lapse videos with the captured images.

If you want to watch the printing process, you can do so through Dremel Print Cloud (a cloud-based cutter). The camera works well, although there seems to be some lag, which can sometimes stop the real-time streaming.

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D printer is UL certified and features Bosch sensor technology. Therefore, you can be sure that it is safe for use in both workshops and classrooms. To eliminate toxic gases emitted during the printing process, carbon filters are installed in the printer.

We love how easy it is to network and stack multiple Dremel DigiLab 3D printers to create an efficient print farm. That’s why this printer is our top choice for schools and workshops. After connecting multiple printers together, you can control them all from one place.

The connection can be made via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. For offline printing, you can connect the printers via USB.

The DigiLab 3D45 is a plug and play printer that requires only a few steps for assembly. In about 20 minutes, it will be up and running, ready for your first test print.

The printer is intuitive and easy to use, especially if you are going to use your own filament. However, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of.

Dremel DigiLab 3D45 Software

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 comes with two main software options for preparing and managing your 3D prints:

1. Dremel DigiLab 3D Slicer (Free)

This is the pre-installed slicing software on the Dremel DigiLab 3D45. It’s based on the popular open-source Cura software, offering a familiar and user-friendly interface for beginners.

Benefits

• Offline usage: Slice your files without an internet connection, ideal for secure or offline environments.
• Cura compatibility: Use Dremel DigiLab 3D Slicer to prepare files not only for your Dremel printer but also for other Cura-compatible printers you might own.
• Basic functionalities: Offers essential slicing features like layer height adjustment, infill settings, support generation, and print preview.

Limitations

May lack the advanced features and customization options found in paid slicing software.

2. Simplify3D (Paid):

Dremel also recommends Simplify3D, a powerful 3D printing software known for its comprehensive features and user control. It’s not included with the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 and requires a separate purchase.

Benefits

• Advanced features: Offers extensive control over various printing parameters, enabling fine-tuning for optimal results.
• Simulation tools: Provides a detailed preview of the printing process, allowing you to visualize potential issues and adjust settings accordingly.
• Material profiles: Includes pre-configured settings for various Dremel filaments, simplifying the printing process.

Limitations

• Requires additional purchase, adding to the overall cost of the printer.
• Steeper learning curve compared to Dremel DigiLab 3D Slicer due to the abundance of features.

Choosing the right software

ultimately depends on your needs and experience level.

• Dremel DigiLab 3D Slicer is a good starting point for beginners or those who prefer a simple and offline workflow.
• Simplify3D offers greater control and advanced features for experienced users who seek to optimize their prints and explore deeper customization options.

Read on to learn about the printer’s drawbacks.

Amplification of Advanced Materials

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 can print a wide range of flexible materials, including Nylon and Eco-ABS.

For our test, we printed the 3DBenchy model to see how the printer handles the difficult design and geometry features. To start, we loaded the proprietary EcoABS filament into the spool holder compartment on the side of the printer.

Loading the filament is easy. The spool snaps into place and is inserted into the top of the print chamber, where a guide clip holds it in place as it is fed into the extruder. The printer’s RFID recognized the Eco-ABS filament and automatically initiated the recommended print settings.

The 3DBenchy came out great. The design was flawless and the print was smooth. We did not notice any layering issues.

After the 3DBenchy, we printed other test models that came on the SD card shipped with the printer. The first model we tested was the stunning Mechanic Girl. This is how the print turned out using the Eco-ABS filament:

The Mechanic Girl 3D model features a girl standing on a gear holding a wrench, with a bunch of tools around her feet. This model has a lot of angles and protrusions. Therefore, it is quite difficult to print. However, we were pleasantly surprised at how the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 printed it. The model came out almost perfect and we didn’t even have to use support structures.

The Eco-ABS print turned out amazing. The only problem we noticed is that the model was slightly discolored in some areas. However, on second thought, the discoloration made the model even more aesthetically appealing.

When you see the test print, you’ll notice that all the details were well captured, including the model’s wavy hair all the way down to the shoelaces.

Next on our list was the Lion bust. This model turned out very well and we were able to see intricate details such as the facial features and hair (see image below). The lion’s mane almost looks like it is waving in the wind. It’s not easy to get these details with other 3D printers. This is another proof that the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 is one of the best 3D printers for capturing intricate details.

Next, we decided to try printing nylon filament. In our test, the Dremel DigiLab had more difficulty printing Nylon than Eco-ABS.

The start of our test print with Nylon filament was a circular holder included by the manufacturer for test prints.

Comparing Nylon filament to Eco-ABS, it is clear that the former is more difficult to print than the latter. For starters, we had trouble getting the first layer of the model to adhere to the bed. To solve this problem, we increased the bed temperature and the model was able to print.

In some areas, the quality of the nylon model was decent. However, the layers seemed to have difficulty sticking together. For example, when we tried to remove the print, it broke into two pieces. Also, we noticed that the surface layer seemed to peel away from the rest of the model.

After trying several ways to get the Nylon filament to print correctly, we discovered that external moisture was probably affecting it. Moisture affects Nylon filament more than PLA or ABS materials.

The bottom line is that we struggled to print the Nylon filament due to layering issues. As a result, we opted to continue our tests with Eco-ABS filament.

But what about third party filaments, how does the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 handle them?

Third-Party Filament Printing with the Dremel DigiLab 3D45

The manufacturer recommends using their own filament with the Dremel DigiLab 3D45. However, the printer can also use third-party filament. How does it perform?

The first thing we noticed is that there was a noticeable difference in quality when we compared models printed with Eco-ABS filament and those printed with third-party filament.

We started our test with third-party filament by printing the Fillamentum Extrafill PLA. Dremel spools are sized to fit in the side compartment of the 3D printer. Therefore, for third-party spools, you will need to prepare them outside the printer before feeding them into the extrusion system.

To solve this problem, the TUSH filament spool holder. However, any other external filament spool holder will also work.

After loading the filament, we dialed in the appropriate settings and started printing with the 3Dbenchy. Initially, the quality of the Benchy seemed to be on par with what we got with the Eco-ABS. However, halfway through the print, the Dremel 3D printer started not extruding. In fact, the printer even stopped printing at one point.

The result was a Benchy that was not clean. The model was missing layers in several areas. To be sure, we checked to see if the extruder was clogged and confirmed that it was not. Even after printing several times, the Benchy did not come out as clean as when we printed with Eco-ABS filament.

Based on our tests, the Dremel DigiLab 34D45 is an excellent printer, but only if Eco-ABS filament is used. When using third-party filament, the quality of the models decreases. Therefore, if you are going to buy this machine, we recommend that you stick with the Eco-ABS recommended by the manufacturer for best results.

Browsing the manufacturer’s catalog, we have seen that they currently have a wide range of filaments, including 11 colors of Nylon, PETG and PLA. There are also two colors of Eco-ABS. Spool prices range from $30 to $40.

Dremel Education Ecosystem

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 printer comes with a robust educational ecosystem. The system comprises a curriculum for students of all ages, from elementary school to college level. The curriculum includes various lessons, such as biotechnology and mathematics. The ecosystem also includes Thingiverse and other resources that offer free educational projects and lessons.

Dremel has tools designed for educators. The tools include various projects on STEM-based topics, as well as ready-to-use lesson plans. These resources make the printer perfect for classrooms.

The printer itself is also perfect for schools. Setting it up and starting to print is easy to begin with. The printer is reliable and easy to use, which even the youngest students can follow along with. There is also a full manual with instructions on how to level the bed, load filament and print.

In short, the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 is the best 3D printer for schools. With it, you can monitor and control the printing process, ensuring that no time or resources are wasted.

Safety is another aspect in which the printer excels. Its transparent door and lid make it easy to observe the printing action, while keeping the heat inside. It also features a carbon filter to keep toxic odors out of the classroom or workshop.

Conclusion

The Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D printer is easy to set up and use. The printer produces quality prints when using Dremel filament. In addition, this unit is reliable, safe, and a great overall performer for use in schools or in the shop.

However, the printer does not work very well with third-party filaments. In particular, we have found that the print quality of third party filaments is not as good as models printed with Dremel filaments. In addition, the printer tends to have problems with advanced materials, such as nylon.

Finally, while the closed system ensures that the printer is safe and reliable, it also limits creativity.

Should I buy the Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D printer?

The DigiLab 3D45 is an outstanding 3D printer. If you plan to primarily use Dremel filaments for your prints, this machine is fantastic. We appreciate its safety features and reliability.

However, when venturing beyond Dremel materials and attempting to print with filaments from other suppliers, we observed a significant reduction in the quality of the produced models.

In summary, the DigiLab 3D45 has proven to be an excellent 3D printer, especially when paired with Dremel filaments. However, users exploring a wider range of materials may experience a decline in print quality.

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