There are a lot of technicalities and specifications for the 3D printers available in the market. You have to be aware of them. So hold on; read these five important things before you move out to buy a 3D printer.

Types of 3D printers  There are a number of types of 3D printers available in the market. One popular type is fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) which involves heating and extruding plastic. Another is Stereo lithography which uses ultraviolet light beam to harden a model from a pool of photosensitive liquid.  Another is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). So you need to first know about these types and decide which one suits you.

Build your own 3D printer or buy one readymade  If you don’t have time then buy a pre-assembled printer. But if you have time then build one. It depends how much you have interest on this technology. If you have well enough then go for building your own 3D printer.

Pricing  Pricing is one important aspect for your buying decision for 3-D printers. It depends mainly on the output and the higher quality goes above $1000. Professional printers like MakerBot can cost more than $2000.But if you have just started your interest in 3D printing, then start with simple 3D printer models as low as $100.

Materials used for 3D printing  Poly lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) are required for 3D printing. Their price is around $30 per 1 kg and are thermoplastics which are soft and malleable when heated and frozen when cooled.  PLA is great to start with while ABS has strength and flexibility.

Safety  Remember that you are working with heated plastics. Beware of Fumes emitted by heated plastics. These can be overwhelming so please be cautious and take safety precautions.