Our picks from Bambu Lab use their own slicer, called Bambu Studio, but are broadly compatible. It’s a big plus if a printer has a preconfigured profile in PrusaSlicer or UltiMaker Cura, our favorite slicing software. The software should come preloaded with print settings but provide options for more experienced users to fine-tune. Intuitive software: Beginners should be able to jump right into using a printer’s software, including making adjustments to models before printing.A design that requires you to keep a computer tethered to the printer at all times via USB is a serious flaw but not necessarily a dealbreaker. Loading files onto an SD card that you plug into the printer is also okay. Ample connectivity options: Ideally, you should be able to start a print over Wi-Fi or transfer the file over a USB cable.The bed should also level itself or be simple to level manually, since a sloping print bed can cause printing errors. Easy-to-use hardware: Even a complete beginner should be able to put the printer together, load filament, start a print, and remove the finished model from the print bed.High-quality prints: Without too much tweaking, the printer should put out smooth-looking models with layers that are 0.1 mm thick at most and barely visible.
