We have reviewed many other entry level 3d Printers here but ignored this printer when it is initially launched. But we have found that it has become popular quite fast and right now this printer is sitting at top positions of best sellers on many online stores.
Then we have decided to take a closer look why there is so much traction and high star ratings on this device. Monoprice has launched this product last year as v1. Kudos to their effort on design and keeping the low price tag. In this review, you will find a detailed discussion on its features, pros, and cons of this device.
<Performance
Contents
MP Select performance and final print quality are amazing for an FDM printer. Do not underestimate by its size and price. It is a workhorse and you can print all your toys and favorite models one after another non-stop for long hours without issues. Even if you are a pro and using larger printers, this device could be a great time saver in printing smaller parts so that you can save time and free-up your other printers.
It’s layer resolution is 0.1mm. This device can print 55mm/sec which is quite comfortable speed for this category printers.
The extruder is Bowden style that means the filament motor is not on the print head. This design reduces the mass moving around considerably and results in less vibration and better print quality. This device is featured with a single extrusion print head, that means you can print only single solid color models. The maximum extruder temperate as per specifications is 482 F or 250 c.
Nozzle size 0.4 mm and it is removable and replaceable in case you decide to change it in future when it wore out.
<Compact Design
It is well built and aesthetically pleasing model. It has an open frame design, easy to reach out inside objects and also for during any maintenance. But safety could be an issue if the printer is not enclosed type so if you have small kids around, you have to caution to keep them away from the device when it is in operation.
It is little in size with overall dimension (13.5″ x 11.3 x 7.5″ or 343 x 287 x 190 mm). So you might find it compact enough for any desk and convenient to move around of your room. You will find even the large spool is fitted nicely on the side of the main unit.
Thanks to its heated build plate, it is also possible to use other popular types of wood, conductive PLA, metal composites. It is better you start with PLA first before you start experimenting with other advanced types of filaments.
It can accept 1.75 mm size filament. The Filament holder is in rectangle shape with the measurements 4.04″ Length x 1.04″ Width x 0.75″ Height
A sample filament is included with the package for testing. But it is just very small in length(about 10ft) and will run out fast before you finish the test print. If you decide to buy this printer, you might include sufficient quantity (one spool at least) of the filament in your order along with the printer. That way, you can avoid waiting time till the filament arrives before you start your printing.
You can find your choice of filament colors here.
A good quality PLA filament spool of 1KG should cost you about $20-$25 and it is only the recurring expenditure for you.
You might prefer to use microSD card with the gCode file loaded and start printing your favorite model. This way you can use your printer anywhere and no need to connect to your computer all the time while you operate it.
You can use open source programs like Cura or Repetier-Host(these are preinstalled in SD card) to generate and create your own G-code file.
This unit has built in wifi but you need to activate this feature explicitly though.
Monoprice supports Windows 7 & above. Mac OSX, and Linux as well so there won’t be an issue if you are Mac user.
An insulated and heated built plate (with pre-installed build mat is) already included. So you need not hold your excitement to start printing right away those dream models after unboxing it.
- 3d printer along with bed masking tape type bed liner
- Filament Rack with sample filament to test printing
- Plastic Scraper to remove and lift the prints when you complete the printing
- USB cable to connect the printer to computer directly
- 256 MB MicroSD card with Cura and, Repetetier-Host pre loaded along with a sample cat 3D model to start your test print right away after unboxing. 256 MB not a lot of memory but just fine for most prints.
- Hex Wrench to help you adjust the print bed height
- Power adapter. It is 110v but you could use a switchable 220v power supply with the same rating
- AC power cord
- User Manual – Though the directions are not very clear for setting up the PC connection.
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