submitted 9 months ago by TheFermentalist@reddthat.com to c/3dprinting@lemmy.world

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Hi all, I want to buy my son a 3D printer for his 20th birthday. He is a third year computer science major, so has no issues with the software side. I have no idea where to start, or even what questions to ask. Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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[-] PlasticExistence@lemmy.world 6 points 9 months ago

I just setup an Elegoo Centauri Carbon yesterday. At $300 USD, it’s a lot of printer for the cost.

I’ve also built printers which is a different beast. If you think your son would enjoy assembling a kit, then there are several great options within your price range. The Voron line of open source printers is where I’d look.

It’s hard to go wrong with a Prusa, but I have a lot harder time justifying their prices these days. I had a MK3S for 5.5 years that served me well.

[-] TheFermentalist@reddthat.com 3 points 9 months ago

Thanks for the input. There is a lot to think about, and whilst $1,000 is ok, if I can get a good result for less, then I have no objections to that.

People here have given great advice, and have given me a good base to start my research. I have about seven weeks until his birthday, which gives me time to research and order.

Thanks to all who have weighed in

this post was submitted on 05 Jan 2026

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