If you’ve considered buying a 3D printer, you’ve probably also considered the cost of the 3D printer controller. While 3D printers themselves have become more accessible in terms of price, the convenience of a 3D printer-controller combo is still a major consideration. But the good news is that there are many different controllers that fit a wide range of budgets.
Here, we’ve rounded up the best 3D printer controllers to help you find the right one for your needs.
Read on to learn more.
Our Editor’s Best 3d Printer Controllers Reviews
SaleBestseller No. 1
AOSEED 3D Printer for Kids, Beginner 3D Printer with 8 PLA Filament Set, Huge Toy Library & Modify, Wi-Fi & App Control, Create STEM Toys, High Precision, W/ 15+ Mini 3D Design Module, X-Maker Joy
- Effortless 3D Creation: Start your 3D printing journey with just one click using our smart app, perfect as a beginner 3D printer for kids and home use; compatible across iOS, Android, and Windows platforms for a seamless experience; voice commands make it accessible and fun for all ages
- Precision and Speed: Achieve professional-grade, kids 3D printer with 0.05 mm accuracy at speeds up to 200 mm/s; this small 3D printer features an innovative quick-release nozzle for easy changes, ensuring smooth and consistent printing every time
- Creative Library Access: Dive into a vast catalog of over 1,500 digital designs with weekly updates, perfect for a 3D printer for kids; includes 15+ themed design modules, providing endless customization options tailored for both kids and home use
- DIY Customization: Personalize your small 3D printer with printable decorations; a unique feature that makes this an ideal 3D printer for home, allowing for a truly individualized and creative look
- Monitor with Ease: The built-in camera allows real-time monitoring of your printing projects from your smartphone, ideal for a 3D printer for home use; it also automatically generates time-lapse videos for sharing your creative process, making it a perfect 3D printer for kids
$299.99
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Bestseller No. 2
Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer with Auto Leveling, 400×400×400mm Large Build Volume, Max 700mm/s Speed, All-Metal Dual Gear Extruder, Multi-Printer Control Over WLAN
- 【Extreme-Speed Printing Of Up to 700mm/s】 Equipped with a high-torque motor on the XY axis, the ender 5 max 3d printer delivers extreme print speeds of up to 700 mm/s and 2000mm/s² acceleration, letting you complete models in record time with smooth precision.
- 【400×400×400mm Large Build Volume】 Enjoy a massive print area that allows both batch printing of small models and the creation of large prototypes. Unleash your imagination without size limits. The creality 3d printer built-in Wi-Fi supports remote control, multi-printer management, and real-time monitoring.
- 【High-Precision, High-Quality Print】 Creality Ender 5 Max, featuring a 36-point auto leveling and a reinforced, thickened frame, ensures a stable structure and reliable adhesion. The X-axis linear rail enhances layer accuracy and guarantees consistent output across large prints.
- 【Fast Heating 1000W AC Bed】 The aluminum alloy bed heats to 80 °C in under 200 seconds and can reach temperatures of 100 °C. Compatible with PLA, ABS, ASA, PA, and other filaments, this versatile 3d printer provides for printing options variety of projects.
- 【Manage Multiple Printers on One PC】Ender-5 Max is connected with fine-tuned profiles and filament/nozzle presets in the Creality Print slicer, which also allows you to group up and manage multiple printers on a PCinterface over WLAN. Your printing farm production will be organized and efficient.
$749.00
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Bestseller No. 3
LNL TL-D3 V2 Dual BMG Extruder 3D Printer, TMC2209 32-bit Silent Mainboard, Wi-Fi Connect Remote Control, 300 Degree High Temperature, Removable Magnetic Platform,11.8''x11.8''x13.8''
- 💥 EACH MACHINE Has Been Fully Tested at Our U.S. Based Warehouse to eliminate the chance of damage during overseas transit. This ensures you’ll spend more time printing and less time troubleshooting. If you do have a problem, our full time regional staff will always be here to help.
- 【Independent Dual Extruder Design】Our TL-D3 Pro dual extruder 3D printer has dual nozzles independent of each other, so you can print in dual material/duplication/mirror mode. With dual material printing mode, you can get two color models. Choose duplication or mirror mode, you can get two models of the same color or different colors.
- 【32-Bit Motherboard】: The main chip is upgraded from 8-bit to 32-bit, and the printer runs more smoothly The 32-bit motherboard supports wifi and can control the printer through the Internet!
- 【Print recovery】：The printer can resume printing after a power outage or material supply stops to save time and consumables. You can also print with a custom height.
- 【Springsteel PEI Coated Magnetic Build-plate】 From hundreds of hours of testing, we have determined that the most versatile, effective, and cost efficient printing surface is PEI coated springsteel plating. We have created a dual sided system to allow for smooth surface finishes or rougher textured finishes to ensure maximum adhesion. This interchangeable system allows individual users to get the perfect first layer while allowing print farms to maximize production with hot-swappable plates.
$549.99
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Bestseller No. 4
Youyoute Mini Heater for 3D Printer, Resin 3D Printer Temperature Controller Heating Thermostat Temp Control for LCD DLP 3D Printers
- Our heater is equipped with buttons to set the target temperature ( from 10°C to 50°C). The optimal heating temperature for resin being 30°C. Some other heaters default to cooling at 25°C and do not allow target temperature adjustments.
- Use for: Resin 3D printer mini heater designed for Resin 3D printers, it is small but powerful, for use in cold weather. It helps you to heat up the resin and rise the ambient temperature. Make your 3D printer work well, save your time and Resin material.
- Professional design: Our heater is designed for long-term working, capable of running continuously 24/7. The PCB is dual-sided and wiring are professionally engineered to ensure an exceptionally long service life.
- Professionally manufactured: Our 3D printer heater built-in high-precision industry temperature sensor, accurate to 0.1 ℃. Fireproof case, high-quality power cord, all professionally designed for your safe printing.
- Small Size: Our 3D printer heater is compact, measuring 10.8 x 5.7 x 3.2 cm (4.25 x 2.24 x 1.25 inches) and weighing 117 grams. It is perfect for 8-15 inch resin 3D printers. The heater can raise the temperature from 40°F to 80°F in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for use in cold weather.
$47.99
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Bestseller No. 5
3D Printer for Kids, Safe for Children, Toy 3D Printer, STEM Learning Mate, Wi-Fi & App Control, Weekly Update Toy Library, Touch Screen, Mini Size, Easy Setting/One Click to Print
- 【Easy to use Mini 3D Printers】- Pre-assembled Kidoodle mini 3D printer (312*312*352mm) saves space and works out-of-the-box. Perfect for kids and 3d printing beginners with one-click printing.
- 【Child-Safe Lock】- Enjoy peace of mind with a fully enclosed 3D printer structure designed for safety. If the door is opened it automatically pauses printing and reduces the nozzle temperature. Prevent accidents and keep children safe.
- 【Smart Wi-Fi Control & Vast Model Library】- Control prints anytime via our intuitive app with Wi-Fi/USB/Cura compatibility. Access massive 3D models and monitor your printing progress remotely.
- 【Precision and Speed】- Up to 600mm/s high-speed printing, 3X faster than other mini 3d printers. You can complete more prints in the same amount of time, reduce waiting time and enjoy smoother creation.
- 【5” Large Touch Screen】- Upgraded User-Friendly 5-inch touchscreen offers intuitive navigation and premium interactive experience. Make 3D printing more convenient and fun.
SaleBestseller No. 6
Upgraded Tina2S 3D Printer, HEPHI3D 3D Printers WiFi Cloud Printing Auto Bed Leveling, Fully Assembled Mini 3D Printers for Beginners, Silent Print, Fully Open Source DIY 3D Printer for Home, School
- 【Smart APP Wireless Printing】 Fully assembled 3d printer, out of the box. Compact TINA2S 3D printers with self-developed APP "Poloprint Cloud", which has massive models library, realize the smartphone or tablet intellegent online one-click slicing and wifi cloud printing, no tedious operation, an ideal gift for men, women, beginners, teens, kids, etc.
- 【Fully Open-Source】Tina2S mini 3d printer is compatible with Wiibuilder, Cura, Kiri(Chrome book), PrusaSlicer software, you can diy your own models and fast upload to print on computer, as well as support USB transfer. Fully open source supports command edditing, etc.
- 【Quiet-Print Enviroment】WEEFUN Tina2S small 3d printers is built in self-developed motherboard for ultra-quiet printing(40~50dB), faster print speed up to 200mm/s, 8 times CPU running level increase.
- 【Auto-Leveling Bed & Resume Printing】WEEFUN mini 3D printers don't need manual adjustments, auto-leveling with Dual X/Y/Z-axis for more simple and more precise printing. It's supper easiest operation and simplest configuration for beginners to get entry printing The resume-print function allows models continuously print when suffering power outages(5 seconds memory).
- 【Heatable Platform & Stable-Print】Upgrade small 3d printer adopts heatable PEI spring steel magnetic flexible platform(max 60°C), anti-warping, improves the printing effect of models. Built in Teflon PTFE Copper Hose for filament-feeding more smoothly. New cooling system with 6pcs heat dissipation aluminum sheet and high-speed fan, enhance the quality of printing and avoid clogged nozzle.
$199.99
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Bestseller No. 7
Chitu Systems Upgraded 3D Printer Mini Heater-Versatile Temperature Control, Easy Installation,Quiet Operation, High-Performance Fan&Overheat Protection-Works for Most LCD 3D Printers
- 🌟 Compact & Versatile: Our Mini Heating Module easily fits most LCD 3D printers, providing a convenient solution for resin-based 3D printing enthusiasts
- 🌡️ Wide Temperature Control: Freely adjust the heating temperature, catering to your specific printing needs，Maximum power up to 200W
- 🔧 User-friendly Installation: Hassle-free setup without drilling or modifying your 3D printer's casing; neat and tidy cable management
- 🤫 Quiet Operation & High Performance: Low noise operation paired with 2 powerful dual-bearing fan , ensuring optimal efficiency
- 🔥 Powerful, Safe, & Reliable: Our module features a independent controller for fast heating, built-in overheat protection , and a durable design
Bestseller No. 8
Up to 70°C Smart Temperature Control Multifunctional Heating Mat 3D Printer Heater Mini Greenhouse Heater for Green Tent and 3D Printer Enclosure Keeping Warm, Filaments Drying (Heat Pad)
- This heating mat is designed to keep a constant heat temperature environment for Green tent, 3D Printing and filament drying, reducing the bad impact to printed models when low-temperature weather, improving printing stability
- Three-Level Temperature Settings To prevent damage, particularly to plants, ensure you select the appropriate temperature for your intended use: 70°C: For ABS/PLA filament printing temperature compensation, filament drying, and root drying; 50°C: For drying 3D printing filaments; 30°C: For temperature compensation in plant growth box
- The three levels on the temperature control switch refer to the max surface temperature of the Mat. PLS note that the effects of the Heating Mat in raising the temperature can be influenced by external factors such as room temperature, the size of the enclosed environment, and the air tightness of the enclosure
- NOTE: If connect the power adapter directly to the Heating Mat (without the control switch), the Heater will heat immediately after power on to the temperature 70°C as default
- Heating Mat Size: 20×32cm, Input: 12V/3A, 36 watts; Power adapter Input: 100-240V,50/60HZ, Output: 12V/3A.
$23.89
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Bestseller No. 9
Caydo Filament Dryer 4-Spool, 3D Printer Filament Dry Box with Auto Humidity Control for Anti-Moisture Filament Storage, 350W PTC Heater, 95-160℉ Temperature & 99H Timer for Nylon, PETG, TPU, etc
- DRY & STORE FOUR SPOOLS SIMULTANEOUSLY - Maximize your 3D printing efficiency with the Caydo filament dryer, designed to accommodate four 1kg spools at once. It is equipped with four filament holes and POM tubes, allowing for simultaneous drying of multiple filaments or support for multiple 3D printers
- NO MORE MOISTURE ISSUES - The Caydo filament dry box includes a ±3℃ high-precision sensor, offering 40% more accuracy than others. Equipped with a powerful 350W PTC heater and turbo fan, this filament dehydrator ensures fast and even heating, preventing clogs, stringing, and bubbles
- SMART HUMIDITY CONTROL - In AI mode, it will automatically reactivate drying if the humidity rises above 40%, keeping filaments ready-to-print. With a built-in desiccant storage area, the dryer also doubles as a reliable filament storage box.
- SIMPLE AND USER-FRIENDLY - Forget about complicated setups. The door panel provides recommended settings for a quick and easy start. Just set your desired temperature (35–70°C / 95–160°F) and timer (0–99 hours) according to the filament type. No operation within 3 seconds enters the program.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY - Compatible with 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm filament types, including PLA, PLA+, PETG, TPU, ABS, PC, PA, and more. Perfect for all your 3D printing needs
$99.99
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SaleBestseller No. 10
Filament Dryer Box S4,Four-Spool 3D Printer Dehydrator with Rapid Heating, Auto Humidity Control, and Advanced Triple Fan Upgrade,Compatible with PLA,PETG,ABS,TPU,PA
- Four-Spool Filament Dryer Box - SUNLU S4 is the first filament dryer box capable of accommodating four 1kg spools simultaneously. It is equipped with eight filament holes and PTFE tubes, meeting the demands for drying multiple filaments and enabling concurrent printing with multiple printers.
- Fast Heating & Drying Evenly - The SUNLU S4 filament dryer is equipped with a PTC heating element and a triple-fan configuration. The interior heat is efficiently circulated with three fans, making the heating process more even. Additionally, the S4 filament dry box achieves rapid heating up to 70 °C in record time. The robust 350W PTC heater is 6.9 times more powerful than the SUNLU S2, ensuring an accelerated and efficient filament drying experience.
- Auto Humidity Control - The SUNLU FilaDryer S4 incorporates a high-precision humidity sensor, displaying real-time interior humidity. Even when the filament dryer is in standby, it will automatically activate when the interior humidity reaches or exceeds 50%, preventing secondary moisture exposure. Thus, it can also serve as your filament storage box.
- Easy to Use - The adjustable temperature range is 35°C to 70°C, with a setting time from 0 to 99 hours. This 3D printer filament dryer features a large touch screen, providing a tablet-like operation experience. It also comes with pre-configured temperature and drying time settings for commonly used filaments such as PLA, ABS, PETG, as well as PA and PC. This reduces setup complexities and enhances your user experience.
- Universal Compatibility - The SUNLU S4 filament dehydrator is compatible with PLA, PLA+, PETG, TPU, ABS, PA, PC, Nylon, and other high-end 3D filaments. It works perfectly with all standard filament diameters: 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm.
$139.99
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Best 3d Printer Controllers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best 3D printer controller you should consider following options:
1. RAM Memory: RAM memory is the fastest form of computer memory. It acts as a temporary storage location for the operating system and program files a computer uses.
For 3D printer controllers, RAM memory is used to store information while programs run. It is important that you purchase a 3D printer controller with enough RAM memory to run the programs you will use.
If you are planning to print large, complex objects, you will need a 3D printer controller with at least 1GB of RAM memory. If you are using your 3D printer controller for simpler 3D printing jobs, 512MB will be enough.
2. Flash Memory: Flash memory is a non-volatile storage medium. This means that it can store information even when the power is off.
The information stored in flash memory is used to control the printer’s functions. 3D printer controllers with more flash memory have a higher level of customization.
If you are new to 3D printing and are unsure what settings to use when printing, a 3D printer controller with a limited amount of flash memory may be best.
3. ROM Memory: ROM memory is a non-rewritable form of computer memory that holds an operating system and program instructions.
For a 3D printer controller, ROM memory is used to store the operating system. A higher amount of ROM memory allows the 3D printer controller to run more efficiently and with fewer errors.
A 3D printer controller with 512MB of ROM memory is recommended for new users. Experienced users may find that a 3D printer controller with 1GB of ROM memory is more than enough.
What else you should know about 3d printer controllers
1. What are the different types of 3D printer controllers?
There are three main types of printer controllers:
1. Stand-alone controllers: These controllers are typically dedicated to a single printer and are not connected to a network. They are typically used for lower-end printers.
2. Embedded controllers: These controllers are built into the printer itself and are used for mid-range and high-end printers.
3. Networked controllers: These controllers are connected to a network and can be used to control multiple printers.
2. What are the benefits of using a 3D printer controller?
A printer controller is a device that helps manage printing jobs and sends them to the appropriate printer. It can be used to monitor the progress of print jobs, track printer usage, and control access to printers.
3. What are the features of a 3D printer controller?
Some features of a printer controller may include:
-The ability to connect to and control multiple printers simultaneously
-A user-friendly interface for managing print jobs
-Support for a variety of printing technologies (e.g., inkjet, laser, thermal, etc.)
-Advanced features for managing color printing, paper size and orientation, and other print job settings
4. How does a 3D printer controller work?
A printer controller is a device that connects a printer to a computer. It allows the computer to send data to the printer and receive data from the printer.
5. What are the limitations of a 3D printer controller?
Some printer controllers only work with specific types of printers, so if you change printers you may need to also change the controller. Printers also require specific types and amounts of ink or toner, which the controller may not be able to accommodate.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best 3d printer controllers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best 3d printer controllers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.