Should You Buy Your Kid a 3D Printer? A Parent's Hands-On Review
A WIRED journalist tested three 3D printers for kids and found modern models surprisingly easy to use, though they require space and produce noise.
A WIRED journalist, initially reluctant to buy a 3D printer for his 11-year-old daughter, decided to test three different models and share his experience with other parents.
The printers tested were the Elegoo Centauri Carbon, Snapmaker U1, and Toybox. The Toybox, designed specifically for kids, proved the easiest to use – it's small (smaller than a coffee can), works with an intuitive app, and offers quick prints (20–30 minutes). However, its STEM value is more limited as it resembles a self-serve toy store.
The Elegoo Centauri Carbon is larger – about the size of a laundry basket – and produces noise comparable to a dishwasher. Its single-color printing is straightforward, and the author's daughter could download files and print phone stands, fidget spinners, and figurines within half an hour. The only issue was a clogged nozzle, which was easily replaced.
The Snapmaker U1 is the most advanced, with four colors, but printing is slower (up to 23 hours) and noisier. Its software is more complex, so the author's daughter currently only uses preloaded options. This printer is suitable for older kids.
All printers require space and ventilation due to fumes from melted plastic. However, the author concludes that 3D printers are becoming more accessible and kids learn them easily, so parents should not fear this technology.
