If you’re looking for a reliable tool that will help you bring your designs to life, a 3D printer is definitely worth considering. However, not all printers are created equal, and choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. When it comes to prototyping, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider before making your purchase.
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the printer’s accuracy and resolution. This will ensure that your parts and components are printed with the precision you need, which is especially important for prototyping. Additionally, you’ll want to think about the size of the printer’s print bed. This will determine the maximum size of the parts you can print, which is particularly important if you plan to prototype larger components.
Other important factors to consider include the printer’s speed, ease of use, and software compatibility. You’ll want to make sure the printer you choose meets your specific needs and workflow, and that it’s easy to use. This will help you save time and reduce the amount of frustration in the prototyping process.
Are you tired of outsourcing your prototyping needs? Are you looking for a more efficient and cost-effective way to create prototypes? If so, a 3D printer may be the perfect solution. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this article, we’ll dive into the factors you need to consider to help you make an informed decision.
10 Best 3D Printer For Prototyping
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The product is ideal for rapid prototyping and high-precision portable printing with U Disk offline capabilities.
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The product is ideal for creating 3D prints with its auto-leveling feature, silent mainboard, and spacious printing size.
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It is ideal for creating high-resolution 3D prints and post-processing them with a wash and cure station.
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The Voxelab Aries 3D printer is ideal for industrial-grade, high-precision printing with a touch screen, resume printing function, and WiFi capabilities.
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The product is ideal for high-performance 3D printing with WiFi connectivity, built-in camera, filament runout detection, and on-board touchscreen interface.
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The product is ideal for 3D printing small to medium-sized objects with auto-leveling glass hot bed, built-in camera, and Wi-Fi cloud printing.
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This product is ideal for creating high-resolution 3D prints using resin material.
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The product is ideal for 3D printing small objects with high precision using stiff resin.
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The product is ideal for those looking for an affordable, open source 3D printer with upgrade options for metallic/carbon PLA printing.
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This product is ideal for jewelry-making and creating miniatures with its high-quality resin 3D printing technology.
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1. Lsjtz Portable Resin 3d Printer: High-Precision Prototyping
Introducing the Curing 3D Resin Printer, a revolutionary product that is perfect for printing high-quality, accurate models and designs. The package includes a resin printer, power adapter, funnel, gloves, shovel, tool bag, release film, and U disk.
With its impressive accuracy that can reach up to 30 microns, the Curing 3D Resin Printer is four times more accurate than traditional FDM printing. This makes it the ideal choice for professionals who require precision in their work.
The printer uses light curing molding, which cures the whole layer of resin at a distance from the light source. This results in faster printing speeds, allowing users to complete their projects in less time while still maintaining high levels of accuracy.
At the Curing 3D Resin Printer, customer satisfaction is a top priority. The team is committed to providing the best products and services to their clients. In case of any issues during the purchase process, customers are encouraged to reach out via email for prompt assistance.
2. Silent 3d Printing Marvel: Anycubic Vyper
The ANYCUBIC Vyper 3D Printer is a high-quality printer that comes with a range of advanced features to make your printing experience more efficient and enjoyable. One of the standout features of the Vyper is the auto-leveling function, which uses a 16-point precise pressure strain gauge to adjust the hotbed automatically. This ensures that your prints are always level, resulting in a higher success rate and more consistent printing.
With a large build volume of 9.6"(L) x 9.6"(W) x 10.2"(H) / 24.5 x 24.5 x 26cm, the Vyper provides ample space for your creative ideas to come to life. Whether you're creating large-scale prints or multiple smaller items, the Vyper has you covered.
In terms of speed and stability, the Vyper is a cut above the rest. With a maximum printing speed of 7.1 in/s / 18 cm/s, you won't be left waiting around for your prints to finish. The high-precision double screw design ensures that the printer runs smoothly and efficiently, while the patented Z-axis helps to avoid print layer marks, resulting in improved printing details and precision.
The Vyper's durable and removable magnetic platform is another standout feature. The platform is coated with a special material and combined with spring steel, making it rust-proof and maintenance-free. You can easily remove your prints from the platform with your bare hands simply by bending it, and it will remain flat for decades.
The Vyper is compatible with a range of filaments, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU, so you can choose the material that best suits your needs. And with the intelligent resume printing function, the Vyper will automatically resume printing when power is restored or the filament is replaced, saving you time and reducing material waste.
Other features of the Vyper include double fan two-way heat dissipation, a 4.3" LCD screen, and fast assembly. All of these features work together to provide a seamless and enjoyable printing experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced 3D printer user, the ANYCUBIC Vyper is a great choice for all your printing needs.
3. Anycubic Photon Mono 4k + Anycubic Wash And Cure Station 2.0 + 3d Printer Resin(Black, 500g)
Introducing the ANYCUBIC Resin 3D Printer, Photon Mono 4K, a top-of-the-line 3D printer that allows users to create high-quality models with ease. The printer boasts a 6.23" monochrome UV LCD screen, which allows for fast printing and precise details. With a printing size of 5.19"(L) x3.14(W) x6.49(H), users can print a variety of models with impressive accuracy.
To ensure the best results, the ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin is the perfect addition to this printer. This 405nm SLA UV-curing resin provides high precision and quick curing for LCD 3D printing. The black resin comes in a 500g bottle and has excellent fluidity, making it easy to print models with intricate details.
To complete the set, the ANYCUBIC Wash and Cure Station is the newest upgraded 2 in 1 wash and cure 2.0 machine for Mars Anycubic Photon S Photon Mono LCD SLA DLP 3D printer models UV rotary curing resin box. This machine not only cleans and washes the models but also cures them, making the process even more efficient for users.
This set is perfect for beginners who want to dive into the world of 3D resin printing. The printer, resin, and wash and cure station work together seamlessly to create stunning models that exceed expectations. With this set, users can be confident in the quality of their prints and enjoy the process of creating intricate designs.
4. Aries 3d Printer: Precision And Performance Unleashed.
The Aries 3D printer is an excellent choice for professional and personal use. With its pre-assembled design, the Aries is ready to use in just a few minutes with minor manual assembly. The printer's WiFi and touch screen features make it easy to start your first print quickly.
The Aries 3D printer is built with an alloy frame and dual Z-axis rails, providing stability during printing and extending its working life. The optimization and cooperation of the overall structure ensure sustainable and efficient operation.
The Aries 3D printer also features auto filament loading and unloading functions, making it easier to detect when the filament is running out or other issues arise. The printer stops printing and notifies you on screen when such issues occur and will recover printing when the issue is fixed.
With its better flatness, carbon silicon crystal glass platform heats up equably in a short time, ensuring strong adhesion, preventing warping of the printed model.
Voxelab 3D printers come with a lifetime technical assistance and 12-month warranty, ensuring that you receive quick responses to any queries or issues within 24 hours. Overall, the Aries 3D printer is a reliable and efficient choice for all your 3D printing needs.
5. Smart 3d Printer With Built-In Camera: Zortrax M200+
The Zortrax M200 Plus is a 3D printer designed for high-quality and reliable manufacturing or prototyping from the convenience of your desktop. It offers unparalleled print quality and remarkable dimensional accuracy, thanks in part to its integrated Zortrax Ecosystem.
One of the standout features of the Zortrax M200 Plus is its network connectivity, which includes both WiFi and Ethernet options. This allows for the easy submission of 3D printing projects, as well as the creation and management of a Zortrax 3D printing network. Users can easily manage all of their network-connected Zortrax 3D printers from their computer screen and divide work between devices to finish it quickly.
The Zortrax M200 Plus is also highly user-friendly, with an easy-to-use touchscreen interface and material end detection technology that will pause the printer if it runs out of filament. Additionally, its upgraded extruder and nozzle allow for 3D printing of a wide variety of materials, including flex-type materials. A built-in camera also provides the convenience of remote monitoring.
The Zortrax M200 Plus is a versatile printer that can be used for a wide range of professional and industrial applications, including rapid prototyping, consumer product design, architecture modeling, education, large-scale manufacturing, medical models, aerospace engineering, robotics, automotive research and development, and much more.
In terms of specifications, the Zortrax M200 Plus offers a build volume of 200mm x 200mm x 180mm (7.9” x 7.9” x 7.1”), a layer resolution of 90-390 microns, and a nozzle diameter of 0.4mm. The max extruder temperature is 290℃, and the max build platform temperature is 105℃. The printer is also equipped with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity options, and it uses 1.75mm diameter materials. The Zortrax M200 Plus is compatible with a range of Zortrax materials, including Z-ABS, Z-HIPS, Z-ULTRAT, Z-PETG, Z-GLASS, Z-ESD, Z-PLA Pro, Z-ASA Pro, Z-PCABS, Z-SEMIFLEX, and Z-FLEX.
6. Hd Wi-Fi 3d Printer: Adventurer Pro
The AD3 Pro 3D Printer is an innovative and efficient device that is perfect for both novice and expert users. Designed with top-of-the-line features, this printer is equipped with a glass build platform that ensures excellent flatness and prevents edge curling. The build plate is heated and flexible, made with 100% genuine borosilicate glass that provides a smooth surface for printing.
One of the most convenient features of this printer is the auto-leveling capability. The build plate comes pre-leveled from the factory, which means you can start printing as soon as you unbox the package. With the touchscreen prompts, you can easily navigate and follow the instructions to start printing with ease.
The AD3 Pro 3D Printer is also equipped with a built-in HD camera that allows you to monitor the progress of your prints remotely. You can now check the status of your prints from anywhere, giving you more freedom and flexibility in your printing process.
This printer is designed with a high-temperature nozzle that can reach up to 265℃, making it compatible with various materials such as PLA, ABS, PC, and PETG. It also has two detachable nozzle types, which makes it easier to switch between different materials and achieve high-quality prints.
Another practical feature of the AD3 Pro 3D Printer is the filament detection system. It has an auto-loading and feeding system, and it can detect when the filament runs out, providing notification and reminding you to take the appropriate action.
The AD3 Pro 3D Printer supports USB stick and Wi-Fi transmission, and it can be controlled via the cloud using FlashCloud or Polar Cloud. This allows you to save, share, and download 3D files at any time, giving you more flexibility and convenience in your printing process.
Finally, the manufacturer recommends that children use this printer under the guidance of adults, and users should read and understand the basic knowledge of 3D printing before purchasing the machine. They also suggest watching relevant operation videos on social media before using it. If you have any queries or need clarifications, the manufacturer is happy to answer them.
7. Ultra High Res Mini 3d Printer + Free Resin
The MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is a game-changer in the world of 3D printing. It boasts a layer height of 20 microns, which enables it to produce prints with fine details as small as 1/5 the width of a human hair. This feature is particularly important for industries that require high-detail parts, such as medical, dental, and jewelry prototyping.
In addition to its impressive resolution, this SLA printer is also capable of printing at a speed of up to 30mm per hour vertically. This makes it comparable in speed to ordinary FDM/FFF printers, which is a rare feat for SLA printers.
Despite its high-resolution capabilities, the MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is also affordable. It is compatible with a wide variety of UV photo-reactive materials, making it a versatile choice for a range of industries. Whether you need to prototype medical implants or create intricate jewelry pieces, this printer is up to the task.
One of the standout features of this printer is its auto support generator. The software that comes with the printer has the ability to automatically generate any necessary support elements for your 3D model. This means you can import your design and generate all the supports you need with just one click of a button.
Finally, the MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is capable of printing at ultra-high resolutions of up to 20 microns. This is significantly higher than most competitors, which are typically limited to 50 microns. It can even print with negative gaps (holes) as small as 30 microns, which is ideal for applications that require the highest level of detail.
8. Sonic Mini 3d Printer Bundle With Black Resin
Introducing the Sonic Mini 3D printer bundle with Rock-Black Stiff resin – the perfect package for beginners looking to delve into the world of 3D printing.
The Mini printer boasts a Mono-LCD that cures resin in just one second, allowing for faster manufacturing and prototyping processes. This feature is highly beneficial, especially when compared to printers with regular RGB LCDs. Installation of the building platform and resin vat is a breeze, and with the CHITUBOX Slicing Software, printing parameters can easily be added, and files can be sliced, saved, and uploaded onto the printer with just a few clicks.
Included in this bundle is Phrozen's Rock-Black Stiff resin, which comes in a volume of 1kg per bottle. With an XY Planar Resolution of 0.047 mm and a Layer Height/Parameter of 12 sec @ 50 um, this resin produces 3D models that are not only heat-resistant but also sturdy and flexible.
9. Mini Wireless Open-Source 3d Printer
The XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer is a top-of-the-line product that boasts both speed and accuracy. With a consistent 200 micron printing resolution and an impressive printing speed, this printer is perfect for those who need to produce high-quality prints in a timely manner.
Additionally, the Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer heats up its nozzle in just one minute, meaning you'll spend less time waiting around for the printer to be ready to use. It is suggested to use PLA, Tough PLA, or PETG Filament with a nozzle temperature of 245 degrees.
Despite its name, the Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer offers a print dimension that is anything but mini. With a printing dimension of 5.9’ x 5.9’ x 5.9’, users have ample space to print a wide variety of objects at a great size.
One of the best features of this printer is that it requires no assembly – it is a plug-and-play device that is easy to set up and start using right away. The printer also comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to start your first 3D printing project.
XYZprinting is known for providing excellent after-sale customer service, so you can buy with confidence knowing that any questions or concerns you have regarding the product can be handled promptly by their phone support team.
It is important to note that the Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer should only be used with 600G filament, in order to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the printer. Overall, the XYZprinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer is a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality, user-friendly printer that produces impressive results.
10. Jewel Sonic: Mini Resin 3d Printer
Experience lightning-fast printing with the Sonic Mini 3D Printer. Its Mono-LCD cures resin in just one second, making your manufacturing and prototyping process faster than ever before. This printer is highly efficient and surpasses regular RGB LCD printers.
Operating the Sonic Mini is effortless. Simply install the building platform, fasten the resin vat, and install the CHITUBOX Slicing Software. Add the printing parameters, slice your file in the software, save it, and upload it onto the printer with just a few clicks. You will be amazed at how easy it is!
With the ParaLED technology, a parallel UV LED matrix back light system, the Sonic Mini ensures over 95% Optical Uniformity, which is better than conventional COB LED printers. This translates into excellent accuracy and print quality.
The Sonic Mini boasts impressive specifications, with an XY resolution of 0.0625mm, printing speed of 50mm/hr, and layer thickness of 0.01-0.30mm. Its Z-Axis is made of aluminum extrusion, which ensures precision and durability.
The Sonic Mini 3D Printer has a stable Mono-LCD screen that can work for over 2000 hours, making it a reliable investment. Additionally, the Sonic Mini is made, manufactured, and assembled in Taiwan, assuring you of its quality.
Best 3D Printer For Prototyping FAQs
What are the pros and cons of different 3d printers for prototyping?
When it comes to 3D printers for prototyping, there are several options available in the market, each with their pros and cons. Here are a few:
1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers: These printers are affordable, easy to use, and can print with a variety of materials. However, the printed parts may have visible layer lines, and the printing speed can be slow.
2. Stereolithography (SLA) printers: These printers produce highly detailed and accurate prints, making them ideal for prototyping intricate designs. However, they are more expensive and require more maintenance than FDM printers. Additionally, the materials used in SLA printing are typically more expensive.
3. Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printers: These printers can print with a wide range of materials, including nylon, polycarbonate, and metal. They also produce highly durable parts. However, they are expensive and require a lot of space. Additionally, the printing process can be slow, and the materials used in SLS printing are typically more expensive.
4. Digital Light Processing (DLP) printers: These printers use a projector to cure a liquid resin, producing highly detailed prints with a smooth surface finish. They are faster than SLA printers and can print multiple parts at once. However, they are more expensive than FDM printers and can require more maintenance.
Ultimately, the choice of 3D printer for prototyping depends on the specific needs and budget of the user. It's important to consider factors such as speed, material availability, accuracy, and maintenance requirements before making a decision.
What are the top 3d printers for prototyping?
There are several 3D printers available that are specifically designed for prototyping purposes. Here are some of the top 3D printers for prototyping:
1. Ultimaker S5: This printer is a popular choice for prototyping due to its large print volume and high-quality prints. It has a build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm, and can print with a resolution of up to 20 microns.
2. Formlabs Form 3: The Form 3 is a popular choice for prototyping due to its high accuracy and precision. It uses a resin-based printing process, which allows for highly detailed prints with a smooth surface finish.
3. Prusa i3 MK3S: This printer is a great option for prototyping on a budget. It has a build volume of 250 x 210 x 200 mm, and can print with a resolution of up to 50 microns. It also has a range of features, such as automatic bed leveling and filament sensors, that make it easy to use.
Ultimately, the best 3D printer for prototyping will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and choose a printer that meets your requirements and is compatible with the materials you plan to use.
What features should I look for in a 3d printer for prototyping?
When it comes to selecting a 3D printer for prototyping purposes, there are several features that you should consider. Here are a few key things to look for:
1. Print Quality: The quality of the prints is crucial for prototyping. You need a printer that can produce high-quality prints with smooth surfaces and fine details.
2. Build Volume: The build volume determines the maximum size of the prints that you can make. For prototyping, you may need a larger build volume to create bigger prototypes.
3. Material Compatibility: The range of materials that the printer can work with is important. You should look for a printer that can handle a variety of materials, including both flexible and rigid plastics.
4. Ease of Use: A 3D printer that is easy to use and has an intuitive interface can save time and frustration during prototyping.
5. Support: Technical support and customer service are crucial when it comes to troubleshooting issues and getting help with your printer.
Overall, when selecting a 3D printer for prototyping, it's important to consider your specific needs and budget to find the best fit for your project.
What is the best 3d printer for prototyping small parts?
When it comes to choosing the best 3D printer for prototyping small parts, there are many options available in the market. However, the final decision depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of materials you will be using.
One of the most popular 3D printers for small parts prototyping is the Prusa i3 MK3S. It is a reliable and affordable printer that offers an excellent print quality with a variety of filament options. It also has a large community of users who share their experiences and tips, making it easier to troubleshoot issues.
Another good option is the Ultimaker 2+ 3D printer. It is a high-end printer that offers a larger build volume and can print with a variety of materials, including ABS and Nylon. It also has a user-friendly interface and is known for its fast and accurate printing capabilities.
Other notable mentions include the LulzBot Mini 2 3D printer, the Formlabs Form 3 printer, and the MakerBot Replicator+. Ultimately, it's essential to do your research and choose a printer that suits your specific needs and budget.
What is the fastest 3d printer for prototyping?
When it comes to 3D printing for prototyping, speed is an important consideration. The fastest 3D printer for prototyping is generally considered to be the Carbon M2 printer. This printer uses a unique technology called Digital Light Synthesis that allows it to print objects at incredibly fast speeds. It also produces parts that are strong, accurate, and have a smooth surface finish.
The Carbon M2 printer is capable of printing with a wide range of materials including resins, elastomers, and rigid plastics. It also has a large build volume, which makes it ideal for printing larger parts or multiple parts at once.
While the Carbon M2 printer is one of the fastest 3D printers on the market, it is also one of the most expensive. If speed is your top priority and you have the budget for it, the Carbon M2 printer is an excellent choice for prototyping. However, there are other fast 3D printers available at a more affordable price point, such as the Ultimaker S5 and the Formlabs Form 3.
What is the most affordable 3d printer for prototyping?
There are several affordable 3D printers available in the market that can be used for prototyping. However, the most affordable 3D printer for prototyping would depend on your specific needs and budget.
One of the most affordable 3D printers for prototyping is the Creality Ender 3, which is a great option for beginners and hobbyists. It has a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm and offers a high level of accuracy and precision in its prints. Another affordable option is the Monoprice Select Mini v2, which is compact and easy to use. It has a build volume of 120 x 120 x 120 mm and offers decent print quality.
Other options include the Anycubic Mega-S, the Prusa Mini, and the FlashForge Finder. These printers are also affordable and offer good print quality, making them suitable for prototyping.
Ultimately, the most affordable 3D printer for prototyping would depend on your specific requirements, budget, and level of experience. It is important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Which 3d printer is the easiest to use for prototyping?
When it comes to 3D printing for prototyping, there are several options available in the market. However, the ease of use of these printers varies depending on their design and features. Some of the popular 3D printers that are considered user-friendly and easy to operate for prototyping include Ultimaker 2+, Makerbot Replicator+, and Prusa i3 MK3S.
Ultimaker 2+ is known for its reliability and ease of use. It has a simple interface, and the build platform is easy to level. The printer is also equipped with an active cooling system that ensures smooth and accurate prints.
Makerbot Replicator+ is another 3D printer that is easy to use for prototyping. It has a user-friendly interface and can be operated through Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet. The printer also comes with an onboard camera that allows you to monitor your prints remotely.
Prusa i3 MK3S is a popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts due to its ease of use and affordability. The printer has a user-friendly interface and is equipped with a self-leveling bed. Additionally, it comes with a filament run-out sensor that alerts you when the filament is low.
In conclusion, Ultimaker 2+, Makerbot Replicator+, and Prusa i3 MK3S are among the easiest 3D printers to use for prototyping. However, it is advisable to do proper research and compare different models before making a final decision.
Which 3d printer is the most reliable for prototyping?
When it comes to 3D printing for prototyping, reliability is a key factor to consider. There are several 3D printers in the market that are reliable for prototyping, but one of the most reliable printers is the Ultimaker S5.
The Ultimaker S5 is known for its reliability, precision, and high-quality output. It has a large build volume, which means it can print larger parts and prototypes. The printer also has a dual extruder system, which enables it to print with two materials simultaneously, and this makes it suitable for printing complex prototypes.
The Ultimaker S5 is also user-friendly and has a touch screen interface that makes it easy to operate. It also has a network connection that allows for remote monitoring and control. This feature is especially useful for prototyping as it saves time and resources.
In conclusion, the Ultimaker S5 is one of the most reliable 3D printers for prototyping. It offers high-quality prints, reliability, and user-friendliness, making it an excellent choice for prototyping.
Which 3d printer is the most versatile for prototyping different materials?
When it comes to 3D printers that are versatile for prototyping different materials, the Ultimaker S5 is a great option. This printer is known for its ability to print with a wide range of materials, including PLA, ABS, Nylon, TPU, and even advanced materials like carbon fiber composites. It has a large build volume and is capable of producing high-quality prints with intricate details. Additionally, the Ultimaker S5 has a dual extrusion system, which allows for the printing of two materials simultaneously or the use of soluble support materials. This printer also has a user-friendly interface and is compatible with a variety of slicing software. Overall, the Ultimaker S5 is a reliable and versatile 3D printer that can handle a variety of materials for prototyping.
Which 3d printer offers the best print quality for prototyping?
There are various 3D printers available in the market that offer excellent print quality for prototyping. However, the answer to this question depends on several factors such as the type of material used, the level of detail required, the size of the print, and the budget.
One of the most popular 3D printers for prototyping is the Formlabs Form 3. It uses stereolithography (SLA) technology that produces highly detailed prints with a smooth surface finish. The Form 3 also offers a large build volume, making it suitable for prototyping larger objects. Another popular option is the Ultimaker S5, which uses fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology and offers a high level of precision and accuracy. The S5 also has a large build volume and can print with a wide range of materials. Finally, the Prusa i3 MK3S is an affordable option that offers excellent print quality and a high level of customization.
Ultimately, the best 3D printer for prototyping will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to research and compare different models before making a decision.