If you’re looking for a budget 3D printer, the Easythreed K7 might be just what you need. This compact and user-friendly printer has an intuitive interface. These features make the machine an ideal choice for kids and amateur hobbyists. However, given the cheap price, what is sacrificed from the machine? How is the quality of prints?
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Easythreed K7. We’ll see its features, assembly, operation, quality of print, and how it stacks up against other affordable 3D printers on the market. By the end of the review, you will know whether it makes sense to buy the Easythreed K7 or just go with a slightly pricier printer, perhaps a 3D printer under $200.
Let’s get started.
Easythreed K7 3D Printer Review
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The Easythreed K7 is a compact 3D printer that is ideal for beginners on a small budget. We also recommend it for parents looking to buy their children 3D printers. In fact, it is one of the cheapest 3D printers for kids that we’ve seen this year.
The Easythreed K7 is a mini 3D printer that costs less than $100. At this price, it is one of the most affordable 3D printers currently available. The printer also comes bundled with PLA material, tools, and full documentation. Thus, it is a great value for individuals, classrooms, and makerspaces testing 3D printing.
Key Takeaways
- The Easythreed K7 is a budget 3D printer that’s perfect for beginners.
- This printer has an intuitive interface and average printing accuracy.
- It is easy to use and produces good-quality prints.
- With its compact size and user-friendly design, the Easythreed K7 is an ideal choice for kids
Easythreed K7 3D Printer Specs
| Nozzle Diameter | 0.4mm |
| Layer Thickness | 0.1-0.4mm |
| Printing Filament | PLA |
| Diameter of Filament | 1.75mm |
| Printing Accuracy | 0.1-0.2mm |
| Slicer Software | Easyware K7 , CURA,Simplify3D |
| Print Connectivity | TF Card, USB Cable, |
| Industry Certifications | CE, FCC, RoHS ,REACH, WEEE, PSE |
| Extruder Temperature | 180-230℃ |
| Print Speed | 10-40mm/s |
| Fila Format | Input:.Stl/obj, output:.gcode |
| Power | 12V, 30W |
| Machine Size | 175x235x270mm |
| gift box Size | 270x100x310mm |
| G.W | 1.6kg |
| N.W | 1kg |
| Building Platform | Removable |
| Support OS | Windows XP/7/8/10 (32 bit/64bit) |
What’s in the Box?
When your package arrives, you will get the following items inside the box:
- Partly pre-assembled Easythreed K7 3D printer
- Necessary tools for complete assembly
- White PLA filament (enough for one or two small prints)
- Set of instructions for assembly and operation
- TF card
- USB adapter
- USB cable
- Pre-sliced objects
- Slicing software for printing
The Easythreed K7 does not have a display. Therefore, while it’s marketed for beginners, some people can find it challenging to use. However, this obstacle is not something that is too difficult to be overcome. Simply following the instructions will help you get the hang of it. Even if you’re new to 3D printing, you can still use the printer without a problem.
Design and Build Quality
The compact size of the Easythreed K7 3D printer makes it easy to store or transport. The printer also has removable elastic magnetic suction stickers that make it easy to remove prints.
Despite its small size, the printer offers a build volume of 100 x 100 x 100 mm. This is quite enough for beginners to experiment 3D printing, and even slightly larger than what is offered by its competitor, the Kokoni EC1. The build volume means you can only print small items. However, the small build volume it is not a major drawback as it is still sufficient for most hobbyist and educational purposes.
The small 3D printer has an impressive printing accuracy. Its accuracy precision is low as 0.1mm to 0.4mm. Therefore, it produces vibrant and smooth prints. The latest technology standard 0.4mm metal nozzle is used on this unit. The improved extrusion technology eliminated nozzle clogging and prevents subpar extrusion.
The nozzle heats up fast, reaching 230°C in just 3 minutes. The maximum temperature reached is 230°C, which means you experiment with different types of PLA filaments.
Ease of Assembly
The Easythreed K7 3D printer has a simple assembly process. The printer comes with a clear instruction manual and all the necessary tools for assembly. The manual is easy to follow, even for beginners. You will be able to assemble the printer without any difficulties.
The assembly process takes approximately 20-30 minutes. The process includes attaching the printer’s frame, installing the print bed, and mounting the filament spool holder. The printer’s compact size makes it easy to handle and assemble on a small 3D printer table or desk.
Ease of Use
We would have preferred if the Easythreed K7 had a touch screen to enhance intuitiveness and user-friendliness. The current process of switching between feed mode and retract mode for filament changes can feel somewhat. I mean, since there is no temperature display, waiting for the nozzle to heat can feel like a guessing game.
Of course, given its low price, the K7 Easythreed lacks certain features such as automatic print bed leveling or a filament sensor. These omissions seem to be a trade-off to maintain affordability and cater to its intended entry-level user base. Despite these shortcomings, reading the instruction manual and some hands-on experience can make this 3D printer reasonably manageable, even for beginners.
We don’t expect these challenges to be major dealbreakers, especially when considering the printer’s cost and the impressive printing accuracy it achieves after calibration.
Print Head
The print head of the K7 features a compact design and is encased in robust plastic. The plastic has two purposes; offer protection from the heat generated by the hotend’s power, and ensure user safety by minimizing the risk of accidental burns or damage to internal components. Enclosing the print heads makes the printer a relatively safe choice, even for younger users.
Leveling the Printer
The Easythreed K7 3D printer requires minimal calibration. The printer’s assisted manual leveling system makes it easy to level the print bed, since the printer guides you through the process of leveling the bed. The leveling ensures that the first layer of the print adheres properly to the bed, resulting in better print quality.
The printer provides some assistance with leveling, an essential step in the initial setup. Instead of adjusting the print head through a menu, the printer features four buttons located on the base. When you press these buttons, the print head moves to each corner. At each corner, you’ll need to level the print bed manually using the paper method.
To do this, you insert a sheet of paper between the nozzle and the print bed, and then you adjust the bed’s height until the nozzle gently holds the paper. The objective is to maintain a small and consistent gap across the entire bed, ensuring that the first layer of your print sticks evenly.
Once the leveling is complete, you can press the home button to reset the printer’s position.
Thanks to the step-by-step manual, assembly only takes about 15 minutes. All mechanical and electrical components are easily installed in place without the need for tools.
Overall, the Easythreed K7 3D printer’s assembly process is straightforward and easy to follow.
Printing Performance
The Easythreed K7 mini 3D printer’s build volume of 100 x 100 x 100 mm is suitable for small prints. The printer can print at a speed of 10-40 mm/s, depending on the complexity of the object being printed. During testing, I discovered that adjusting the speed to approximately 20 to 30 mm/s, after calibration significantly improved print quality.
When setting the print speed, it’s important to consider the printer’s lightweight construction and single Z-axis. These two can affect the unit’s stability at higher speeds, potentially resulting in print errors like ringing or ghosting. To achieve optimal results, careful calibration and speed settings are key.
The K7 uses a direct drive extruder. This means that the filament is fed directly into the hotend. Therefore, the filament is melted evenly and consistently, resulting in better print quality. The printer has a nozzle temperature range of up to 230°C, which is sufficient for printing with most types of filaments.
It also has a non-heated removable print bed. When prints are finished, you can easily remove them from the heated bed. However, one potential drawback of a non-heated bed is that you will be restricted on the materials you can use. For this machine, you can only use PLA. As such, if you are looking to make strong functional parts with high-temperature materials like ABS, you will need a different machine, such as the QIDI X Smart 3.
Print Quality
Straight out of the box, the printing quality of the Easythreed K7 is average, especially when using the pre-loaded TF card models. This is to be expected, given the printer’s low price and its target audience.
However, fine-tuning and calibrating the 3D printer can result in improved print quality. We found out that 3D printer can exceed initial expectations and deliver competent prints when you get the correct print speed settings.
Post-calibration, I was able to produce impressive models, including ghost models and a 3DBenchy with high printing accuracy.
Connectivity
The Easythreed K7 3D printer offers versatile connectivity options. Included in the package are a TF card, USB adapter, and USB cable, which you can use to transfer files from computer or other devices to the printer. Whether you prefer the convenience of a TF card, the versatility of a USB adapter, or the direct connection via USB cable, this printer ensures that you have the flexibility to choose the most suitable method for your needs.
Furthermore, the package goes a step further to enhance user convenience. With pre-sliced objects and slicing software included, you can start printing immediately after assembly. This means you can access a library of pre-designed models or customize your own creations with ease. The combination of these features simplifies the process and reduces the barriers for beginners and experienced users alike, making the Easythreed K7 3D printer a user-friendly choice for all your 3D printing projects.
Software Compatibility
The Easythreed K7 3D printer uses proprietary software known as Easyware K7 software. However, it is also compatible with a variety of slicing software, including Cura, Repetier-Host, and Simplify3D.
Cura is a free and open-source slicing software that is easy to use and provides a wide range of features. Repetier-Host is another free slicing software that is compatible with the Easythreed K7 and provides advanced features such as multi-extruder support and customizable G-code. Simplify3D is a paid slicing software that is known for its advanced features and support for a wide range of 3D printers.
When using slicing software with the Easythreed K7, confirm that the correct printer profile is selected and that the settings are adjusted to match the printer’s capabilities. The printer’s specifications, such as the nozzle diameter and print bed size, should be taken into account when adjusting the slicing settings.
In addition to slicing software, the Easythreed K7 3D printer is also compatible with a variety of 3D modeling software, including Tinkercad, Fusion 360, and SketchUp. Tinkercad is a free and easy-to-use 3D modeling software for beginners. Fusion 360 is a more advanced 3D modeling software that is popular among professionals and provides advanced features such as parametric modeling and simulation. SketchUp is another popular 3D modeling software that is known for its ease of use and intuitive interface.
When using 3D modeling software, it is important to take the printer’s specifications into account when designing models.
Materials Compatibility
The Easythreed K7 3D printer is compatible with different PLA materials. Therefore, you can use a variety of different materials to create your 3D prints, depending on your needs and preferences. PLA is a popular choice for 3D printing beginners because it is easy to use and produces high-quality prints. It is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Keep in mind that while the Easythreed K7 is compatible with these materials, you may need to make adjustments to your printer settings in order to achieve the best results. For example, you may need to adjust the temperature of the extruder, or change the speed at which the printer operates.
Cost Efficiency
The Easythreed K7 mini 3D printer is a great option for those on a budget. Priced at less than $100, it’s one of the most affordable 3D printers on the market. Not only is the printer affordable, but it also has low operating costs. It uses PLA filament, which is one of the most common and affordable types of 3D printing filament available.
TheK7 mini 3D printer has a small build volume of 100 × 100 × 100 mm. Therefore, it uses less material than larger 3D printers. This makes it an efficient choice for those who want to minimize material waste and save money on filament costs.
The printer has a direct drive extruder, which reduces the risk of filament jams. The print bed is removable and non-heated. Therefore, it’s easy to remove prints once they’re finished and there’s no need to worry about heating the bed before printing.
Customer Support
When it comes to buying a 3D printer, having good customer support is crucial. Fortunately, Easythreed K7 has a responsive and helpful customer support team. You can reach out to them via email or their website’s contact form, and they will respond within 24 hours.
In addition to email support, Easythreed also provides a comprehensive user manual that covers everything from setup to troubleshooting. The manual is well-written and easy to understand, making it an excellent resource for beginners.
If you encounter any issues with your Easythreed K7, the customer support team is always ready to assist you. They are knowledgeable about the product and can guide you through any problems you may encounter. They can also provide you with replacement parts if necessary.
Best for Beginners and Children
The Easythreed K7 3D printer offers a host of advantages for newbies and children venturing into the exciting world of 3D printing. Its low cost means that even those new to the technology can get started with 3D printing. The printer’s user-friendly approach, along with step-by-step instructions, makes it easy to use.
This 3D printer also provides access to a vast library of materials. You can experiment with 3D printing different basic to complex 3D models for free from Easythreed’s 3D Models Library. You simply need to slice the models in the free Easyware software (or any slicer of your choice), and start printing.
The comprehensive instructions, combined with its light and compact design, create a safe and engaging 3D printing experience for children. The Easythreed K7 fosters a nurturing environment for learning and exploration, making it an excellent choice for young aspiring makers and those taking their first steps into 3D printing.
Conclusion
The Easythreed K7 is a dependable entry-level 3D printer that offers good value for its price. Surprisingly, I did not encounter any significant quality issues that would be considered deal-breakers. While it may lack certain convenience features and prints relatively slowly, its affordability, respectable print quality (especially after calibration), and ease of use make it a reasonable choice for beginners and hobbyists. Although it has its limitations, it can yield satisfactory results in the hands of a patient.
What I Appreciated About the Easythreed K7
- Affordability: The Easythreed K7 offers an affordable price tag, making it an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists looking to enter the world of 3D printing without a hefty financial investment.
- Print Quality: Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the printer is capable of delivering impressive print quality post-calibration. Without calibration, the quality might be mediocre at best.
- Operational Simplicity: Once you become familiar with its operations, the printer is relatively easy to manage, even for those new to 3D printing.
- Good Connectivity: The Easythreed K7 provides convenient connectivity options, including TF card, USB stick, and USB cable.
Room for Improvement
- Lacks an Intuitive Interface: The absence of a touchscreen or a temperature display can make initial operations somewhat challenging and might lead to some head-scratching moments in the beginning.
- Missing Convenience Features: Notable features like automatic bed leveling or a filament sensor, which are often found in higher-priced models, are absent.
- Slow Print Speed: In comparison to pricier entry-level 3D printers, the Easythreed K7 prints at a relatively slower speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the EasyThreed K7 be upgraded?
Yes, the EasyThreed K7 can be upgraded with various add-ons and modifications. Some popular upgrades include adding a heated bed, upgrading the extruder, and installing a new control board. These upgrades can improve the printing quality and expand the range of materials that can be printed.
How does the EasyThreed Nano 3D printer compare to the K7?
The EasyThreed Nano is a smaller and more basic 3D printer than the K7. It has a smaller build volume of 90 x 110 x 110mm and a lower printing speed. However, it is also more affordable and easier to use than the K7. The Nano is a good option for beginners or for those who need a compact and portable 3D printer.
Is the EasyThreed Mini 3D printer a good option for beginners?
Yes, the EasyThreed Mini is a good option for beginners who want to get started with 3D printing. It is affordable, easy to use, and has a compact design. The Mini has a build volume of 100 x 100 x 100mm and can print with PLA. However, it is important to note that the Mini has limited features and may not be suitable for more advanced 3D printing projects.
Overall, the Easythreed K7 3D printer is a well-built machine that is perfect for beginners, students, and hobbyists on a tight budget. Its compact size, ease of use, and impressive printing accuracy make it an excellent choice for those looking to try 3D printing for the first time.
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