How we rank products

Every ranking on this site is calculated, not hand-picked. Here is the whole method.

1. Specs come from the manufacturer

We enter only figures the manufacturer publishes and link the page we used under every product. If a figure isn't published we show "Not listed" instead of guessing.

2. Each spec is scaled from 0 to 1

Each criterion has a fixed reference range, from a "weakest reasonable" value to a "best in class" value (for example 280 to 350 °C of nozzle temperature for enclosed printers). A product's figure is placed on that range and clamped between 0 and 1, so scores stay meaningful as products are added. For specs where lower is better, such as weight, the range runs the other way. Yes/no features count as 1 or 0. The ranges are listed below.

3. Weights decide what matters most

Each category lists its criteria and weights on the page. The score is the weighted average, multiplied by 10:

score = 10 × Σ(weight × scaled value) ÷ Σ(weight)

4. Missing data is neutral

If a spec isn't published, the product gets the category median for that criterion, so it is neither rewarded nor punished. A few criteria that only apply to some products (like a cycle rating or surge figure some makers don't publish) are skipped instead, and their weight is removed for that product.

5. Prices and ratings switch on automatically

When our retailer feeds supply a current price or customer rating for at least 60% of products in a category, two more criteria join the formula: Price / value (20%) and Customer rating (15%, discounted when there are few reviews). Until then we show "Check price" and never estimate a price.

6. What the score can't tell you

Specs don't capture print quality, slicer quality, reliability, noise or support. Speed and acceleration are the maker's own figures, and resin speeds are usually quoted with the maker's fast resin. Use the score to shortlist, then read the pros, cons and sources. When we add hands-on testing notes, we label them clearly.

7. Money never changes the order

We earn affiliate commissions from some retailers. Commission rates are not an input to the formula, and no brand can pay for placement. See our affiliate disclosure.

Criteria by category

Enclosed 3D Printers

• Build volume: 25% · range 10 → 45 L
• Max nozzle temperature: 20% · range 280 → 350 °C
• Active chamber heating: 15% · yes/no
• Multi-color system offered: 15% · yes/no
• Max acceleration: 15% · range 10000 → 30000 mm/s²
• Built-in camera listed: 10% · yes/no

Open-Frame 3D Printers

• Build volume: 25% · range 6 → 45 L
• Multi-color system offered: 20% · yes/no
• Max acceleration: 20% · range 5000 → 40000 mm/s²
• Max nozzle temperature: 15% · range 260 → 320 °C · skipped when not published
• Max bed temperature: 10% · range 80 → 120 °C · skipped when not published
• Built-in camera listed: 10% · yes/no

Resin 3D Printers (MSLA)

• XY pixel size (larger axis): 30% · range 50 → 14 µm · skipped when not published
• Build volume: 30% · range 1.5 → 18 L
• Max print speed: 20% · range 60 → 170 mm/h
• Heated resin vat: 20% · yes/no

Filament Dryers & Drying Multi-Color Units

• Max drying temperature: 45% · range 50 → 85 °C
• 1 kg spools held: 25% · range 1 → 4 spools · skipped when not published
• Dual independent heating zones: 15% · yes/no
• Works as the printer's multi-color feeder: 15% · yes/no