Last updated on October 17th, 2020 at 01:58 pm
There is this idea that two are better than one and, in some applications, faster. For example, if you have two machines working together to complete one task, they’ll typically complete the task faster than a single machine.
However, when you’re using a dual extruder 3D printer, it doesn’t mean that it will be twice as fast as a single extrusion 3D printer.
It might print faster, but that should be the least of your concerns when getting the best dual extruder 3D printer.
For example, when using a single extrusion, you have to keep pausing the print and clearing out the filament from the extruder before adding the next filament. Having a dual extruder would eliminate this process and hasten the print process.
If you’re planning on getting a dual extruder 3D printer, below are some reviews you might want to check out:
A high-performance 3D printer with dual extruders.
Best 3D printer if you like a lot of 3D printing.
The best budget 3D printer with dual extruders.
A high-performance 3D printer with dual extruders.
Best 3D printer if you like a lot of 3D printing.
The best budget 3D printer with dual extruders.
Last update on 2020-10-22 at 15:45 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Preview |
Name |
Rating |
Printing Technology | Build Volume | Nozzle Diameter |
Printing Speed | Levelling Type |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
FDM | 230 x 150 x 150 mm | 4 mm |
60-150mm/second | Manual (assisted) |
|||
 |
FFF | 227 x 148 x 150 mm | 0.44 mm |
100mm/s | Manual |
|||
 |
Fused deposition modeling (FDM) | 214 x 186x 160 mm | 0.4 mm |
60-80 mm/s | manual |
|||
 |
FDM | 255 x 255 x 255 mm | 0.4 mm |
180 mm/s | Fully Automatic |
|||
 |
Fused deposition modeling | 300 x 300 x 350 mm | 0.4 mm |
180 mm/s | Auto-leveling |
|||
 |
Fused deposition modeling | 300 x 300 x 400 mm | 0.4 mm |
200mm/s | Automatic |
What Are The Best Dual Extruder 3D Printers?
- Qidi Tech X-Pro – Best Overall
- FlashForge Creator Pro – 2nd Best
- BIBO 3D – Best Value
- GEEETECH A20M – Best Budget
- HICTOP Tenlog D3 Pro – 5th Place
- Creality CR-X Pro – 6th Place
Here Is A List Of The 6 Best Dual Extruder 3D Printer
➕ Pros
- Enclosed design
- Intuitive touch screen display
- Decent print quality
- Removable print bed
- Responsive customer support
➖ Cons
- Some assembly required
- Manual bed leveling
Printing Technology: FDM | Build Volume: 230 x 150 x 150 mm| Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm | Printing Speed: 60-150mm/second | Levelling Type: Manual (assisted)
When QIDI Technology released the QIDI Tech I, it was seen as an absolute workhorse for hobbyists and professionals. It’s an incredible workhorse but had a few issues, such as the bed leveling needed frequent readjustment.
QIDI Technology later released the QIDI Tech X-Pro as an upgrade to the Tech I, but it is a little bit cheaper. The drop in price was worrisome, and it was expected that it wouldn’t have the same precision and performance as its predecessor.
It comes pre-assembled, but you’ll have to install a few components before it’s ready for use. Once it’s complete, you’ll soon realize that it offers the same or even better performance than its predecessor.
The X-Pro comes with a USB key that contains the slicing software. It’s preconfigured to run on the XPro, and your sole task is to install it. You also get some test models to help you get started.
It’s arguably the best dual extruder 3D printer for beginners and hobbyists looking for an affordable option. It’s also a great option for those who don’t want to deal with DIY assembly and manual configuration. Overall, the best 3D printer with dual extruders.
➕ Pros
- Great quality prints
- Incredible customer support
- Comes pre-assembled
- Affordable
➖ Cons
- Fragile enclosure panels
Printing Technology: FFF | Build Volume: 227 x 148 x 150 mm | Nozzle Diameter: 0.44 mm | Printing Speed: 100mm/s | Levelling Type: Manual
FlashForge was established in 2011, and since then, it has become one of the top 3D printing brands. It’s also among the largest filament manufacturers in China and is seen as one of the most affordable 3D printing brands.
It costs less than $1000, which makes it a great option for budget-conscious individuals. It’s an upgraded version of the FlashForge Creator and comes with better features and durability.
According to FlashForge, the new model is 60% faster than the old model, and it has a new frame that improves the stability of any moving parts, especially when printing. This results in better quality prints as the printer can run at high speeds with fewer vibrations.
The printer comes fully assembled, and it’s a closed unit; thus, it does offer the same raw building volume that you would typically get from an open model.
It has a dual extruder that allows you to print different colors, materials, and support filaments. It comes with its own software, but it has several issues.
Fortunately, FlashForge is an open-source printer; thus, you can use any other software such as Cura, FlashPrint, etc.
➕ Pros
- Laser engraver
- Filament runout detection
- Compatible with a smartphone app
- Great customer support
➖ Cons
- Could use a better build plate
Printing Technology: Fused deposition modeling (FDM) | Build Volume: 214 x 186x 160 mm | Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm | Printing Speed: 60-80 mm/s| Levelling Type: manual
The BIBO 3D printer costs less than $800, has the laser engraver module, upgraded touchscreen, and dual extruders. At face value, that’s a great deal, but how does it perform in real-life applications?
It has a sturdy frame that’s made of a high-density aluminum composite panel. The purpose of the sturdy panel becomes apparent when you begin printing as it provides stability needed for precision and quality prints.
According to BIBO, the 3D printer has a level build plate that they calibrate in their factory; thus, you won’t have to meddle with the bed leveling knobs during setup. It’s a thoughtful addition considering how hard it is to align the tandem hot-ends.
The print quality is great, but as expected, you’ll encounter a few problems when printing with a single extruder. You can fix this problem by incorporating practices that help you avoid the oozing.
The printer is also compatible with a smartphone application that allows you to monitor progress from other locations.
It’s a versatile machine and arguably the best dual extruder 3D printer under $800. Highly-recommended as one of the best dual extruder 3D printers.
➕ Pros
- Good quality print
- Adequate filament support
- Large build
- Affordable
➖ Cons
- No Wi-Fi / Bluetooth Connectivity
Printing Technology: FDM | Build Volume: 255 x 255 x 255 mm| Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm | Printing Speed: 180 mm/s | Levelling Type: Fully Automatic
The Geeetech A20M is based on the CR-10 design except for a few differences in size and features. Like the CR-X Pro, it has dual extruders but only one nozzle, which allows you to blend colors.
It’s biggest let down is the build process. It looks and sounds easy on paper, but when you try it, you’ll find that it’s challenging.
The bed is almost impossible to level, and you’ll spend most of your build time trying to level. Once you pass this hurdle, the bed functions as expected without wobbling.
Printing on this 3D printing is exciting as it has a huge build. It also supports a wide range of filaments, and you can utilize the dual-color printing feature.
Its precision is impressive, and its large build space makes it ideal for both small and big projects. Overall, the best budget 3D printer with dual extruders.
➕ Pros
- Duplicate and mirror print
- Dual-color print
- Upgraded power supply
- Life-time after-sales services
➖ Cons
- Could use better quality control
Printing Technology: Fused deposition modeling | Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 350 mm | Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm | Printing Speed: 180 mm/s | Levelling Type: Auto-leveling
The HICTOP Tenlog D3 Pro is relatively cheap at less than $600. It’s not perfect, but it comes with three print models, such as two-color, duplicate, and mirror models.
The D3 Pro also has additional features such as the Dual Z-Axis Design and LCD Touch screen, which are hard to ignore at that price point.
Its compact design means that it does not take up too much space. The easy assembly process only takes about 10 minutes, and it’s a two-step process. Arguably HICTOP’s best feature is the ability to print two identical models with different colors simultaneously.
➕ Pros
- Two-color print
- Touch screen control
- Dual cooling fans
- Silent operation
➖ Cons
- Lacks filament runout sensors
Printing Technology: Fused deposition modeling | Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400 mm | Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm | Printing Speed: 200mm/s | Levelling Type: Automatic
Creality released Creality CR-10 in 2016; it performed relatively well but had a few issues. Two years later, Creality released CR-X, which was based upon the CR-10. The manufacturer recently released Creality CR-X Pro as an upgrade to the CR-X.
It has an upgraded motherboard, auto-leveling, and offers multi-color printing. It features the TMC2208 ultra-silent driver, which is fast and barely makes a sound. This makes it better suited for home use compared to Creality-X.
The manufacturer also fixed the bed leveling issues present in the CR-X by including a 9-point auto bed-leveling.
However, it doesn’t have a filament runout sensor, which is becoming a standard feature in the best dual extruder 3d printers.
What Is The Best Dual Extruder 3d Printer?
The answer to this will depend on certain considerations. For example, when working with a tight budget, you’ll want the best dual extruder 3D printer in your price range. If you want additional features such as dual print, mirror print, dual-color, etc. then that’s the category that should focus on.
Also, do you prefer a closed unit to an open unit? Your needs and preferences will guide your decision. We’ve reviewed a couple of dual extruder 3D printers; hopefully, you’ll find one that fits your selection criteria.
Are Dual Extruders Worth It?
You’re probably debating whether you should get a dual extruder 3D printer or a single extruder. The answer is simple; if you’re a beginner and prefer simplicity, get a single extruder. If you’re open to complexity and additional functionality, then get a dual extruder.
Dual extruders are worth buying if you have use for them and hope to utilize some of the benefits detailed in the section below. However, it’s not necessarily worth buying for a beginner considering the extra cost and level of complexity.
Also, consider your prints; if they are simple models, a single extruder will do. However, if you have intricate designs that require support materials and detailed color prints, then a dual extruder would be a better investment.
Benefits Of Dual Extruders
There is more to dual extruders than being slightly faster than single extruders. Other benefits include:
- Support Filaments
Dual extruders have made it easier to print complex objects without worrying about geometry concerns. You can use as much support material as you like, provided you can remove it once you’re done.
This is where soluble support materials come in handy. However, be sure to research more about soluble support materials. Think of it this way, if a support material is soluble, it also means that it can absorb moisture from the air.
This might corrupt the filament quality and, ultimately, your design.
- Multi-material prints
Dual extruders allow you to use different materials, which is beneficial if you’re trying to combine the benefits of both.
For example, if you’re printing an object that needs a hard interior but soft exterior, you’ll combine materials that offer these benefits.
- Creates homogeneous prints
If you keep pausing to swap materials, you’re bound to have a print with several inconsistencies. This is attributed to the time spent changing the filament.
The longer it takes to complete the changeovers, the more changes will occur. In the end, you’ll notice some inconsistencies.
However, if you have a dual extruder, you can expect smooth transitions and, consequently, uniform quality throughout.
Final Words
Upgrading to a dual extruder is the logical step after owning a single extruder for some time. You at least understand everything you need to know about 3D printing, and you can deal with the complexity associated with dual extruders.
That said, some of the dual extruder models detailed in this article are beginner-friendly, and you’ll have fun figuring out how everything works.
