By 2025, 3D printers are becoming more affordable and accessible, and many parents would like to buy one as a gift for their children, especially for special occasions like Christmas or birthdays.

In this guide, we'll help you decide if a 3D printer is right for your child, choose the best one for them, and give you tips on how to use it safely.

Before we talk about the best 3D printers for kids, let's answer this question first:

Is a 3D Printer Worth Buying for Your Child?

To answer this question, we need to consider factors like your child's age, their interest, and how much help and supervision you can give them.

So, what's the best age to start 3D printing?

Thanks to newer, easier-to-use 3D printers, many models are simple enough for kids to use. Some even have one-click features that make printing super easy. Most kids between the ages of 8 and 11 are a great fit for 3D printing. At this age, they’re becoming more independent and can focus on tasks for longer periods, which helps them enjoy and learn from the experience.

But remember that every child is different, and some may be ready earlier or later than others. As a parent, you know your child best.

Another factor is the child's interest. For example, if your child loves to draw, build with Legos, or tinker with gadgets, a 3D printer might be a good fit. With 3D printing, kids can create their own toys, gadgets, and school projects, making learning fun and exciting while building important skills.

When your child is using the 3D printer, it's important to be there with them and watch what they're doing.Not just for safety, doing activities like this helps create unforgettable memories and strengthens your connection. With your help and support, you can also make them more confident and know how to learn.

After thinking about everything above, you may have your answer. The next step is to decide which 3D printer to buy for your child.

Top 7 3D Printer for Kids in 2025

Here's our list of the top 7 3D printers for kids in 2025 to help you choose. Each of these printers offers unique benefits that make 3D printing easy, fun, educational, and safe:

Toybox 3D Printer

Price: $299

If you're searching for a 3D printer designed specifically for 10-year-olds, the Toybox is an ideal choice. With its easy-to-use interface and one-touch functions, kids can print independently without needing technical knowledge or adult assistance.

The printer offers a vast catalog of over 500 toys, constantly updated to keep the creativity flowing. Your children can also upload or draw their designs using user-friendly apps, storing them in the cloud for effortless printing. The Toybox turns imaginative ideas into reality, providing endless fun and creative exploration.

AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer

Price: $199

Next one is a budget 3D printer for kids: AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer.

One of the best things about the M5 is its 7x7 auto-leveling system. This makes sure that every print comes out consistently good, a teen who is just starting out doesn’t have to worry about spending hours adjusting the printer to get a clean first layer and focus more on their ideas.

With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, teens can control and monitor their prints directly from their mobile phone using the AnkerMake app. This makes it easy for them to manage their projects from anywhere.

If you’re looking for an affordable, user-friendly 3D printer that offers speed and convenience, the M5C is a top choice for teens.

AnkerMake M5 3D Printer

Price: $399.99

Compared with AnkerMake M5C, the AnkerMake M5 3D Printer has a better balance of easy-to-use features, dependability, and performance.

A major improvement over the M5C is the M5’s touch screen. The touch screen makes the printer much more user-friendly, especially for teens who may be new to 3D printing.

The touch screen gives teens more control and visibility over the printing process. They can check print progress, pause or cancel prints, all from the screen. It help teens to learn faster and make quick changes as needed.

Moreover, with its 235x235x250mm build volume, teens can work on larger projects or print more than one part at the same time.

Creality Ender-3 V3 SE 3D Printer

Price: $199

The Creality Ender-3 V3 SE offers a fast printing speed of 250mm/s without compromising quality. Its auto-leveling feature with CR Touch and strain sensor makes it user-friendly, while the "Sprite" direct extruder's compatibility with various filaments like PLA and TPU encourages creativity. The stable dual Z-axis and easy filament loading and unloading make it approachable for young users, providing a seamless jumpstart to 3D printing and fostering curiosity and learning.

Anycubic Kobra Max

Price: $429

For your child's 3D printing adventures, the Anycubic Kobra MAX is also a good choice. It offers a huge 400x400x450mm build size, perfect for larger projects. The LeviQ Smart auto-leveling technology ensures worry-free printing, while the stable double Z-axis provides consistent quality.

As a beginner-friendly option, Kobra MAX delivers successful prints with ease. What's more? It has a filament runout detection system which is an essential tool for extensive printing jobs, making it a reliable choice for your child's creative endeavors.

Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer

Price: $799

If you want a 3D printer that blends high-quality performance with user-friendliness, the Bambu Lab P1S is an exceptional choice for kids interested in STEM education. Known for producing superior objects swiftly and reliably, it caters to the imaginative and exploratory nature of children.

Its simplicity ensures that even beginners can achieve flawless prints shortly after setup, encouraging a stress-free learning experience. The printer's compatibility with various filaments empowers young creators to experiment and bring a wide variety of projects to life.

Voxelab Aquila X2 3D Printer

Price: $219

Looking for a kid-friendly 3D printer that fosters innovation and learning? The Voxelab Aquila X2 is an outstanding choice. Its carbon crystal silicon glass plate guarantees quick heat-up times and strong adhesion, reducing waits and enhancing print success.

The ability to resume printing after power cuts ensures uninterrupted creativity, while quiet operation allows children to focus on their projects without noise distraction. The open-source nature of the Aquila X2 invites endless possibilities for upgrades and customizations, catering to evolving creativity and technical skills.

Factors to Look for in a Kids' 3D Printer

Choosing the best kid-friendly 3D printer doesn't have to be overwhelming. By keeping a few key factors in mind, you can find a printer that's safe, easy to use, and fun for your child. Here's what you should look for:

• Ease of Use: Kids need a printer that's simple to operate. 3D printers with user-friendly controls, touchscreen interfaces, auto leveling, and pre-programmed settings make it easy for them to get started without feeling frustrated.
• Safety Features: Safety should always come first, especially when kids are involved. Look for best 3D printers for kids with features like enclosed printing areas to keep little fingers away from hot parts, non-toxic filaments, and automatic shut-off options.
• Print Quality: While kids don't need professional-level results, you'll want a printer that produces smooth and detailed prints. This helps their creations look great and keeps them excited about the process.
• Build Size: Think about the size of the projects your child will want to create. A smaller build area is great for beginners and keeps the printer compact, while a larger one allows for more ambitious creations.
• Durability: Let's face it-kids can be rough on things. Choose a children's 3D printer that's sturdy and built to handle everyday bumps and knocks. Look for robust construction and high-quality components to ensure longevity.
• Filament Compatibility: Most kid-friendly printers work with PLA filament, which is easy to use, eco-friendly, and safe for beginners. Make sure the printer supports common filament types so you can easily find replacements when needed.

What Can Kids Create with a 3D Printer?

Safety Tips for Using 3D Printers with Kids

3D printing is a fun and exciting activity for kids, but it's important to make sure they're using the printer safely. Here are some simple safety tips to keep in mind while they're printing away:

• Supervise at All Times: Always keep an eye on your child while they're using the printer. Make sure that they understand and follow safety guidelines and be ready to intervene if necessary.

• Use Appropriate Materials: Stick to using non-toxic and child-friendly filaments, such as PLA, which has a lower melting point and is less prone to releasing harmful fumes compared to other materials like ABS.

• Ventilate the Area: 3D printing can produce fumes, so it's essential to use the printer in a well-ventilated area. Open windows or use an air purifier to maintain good air quality and minimize potential health risks.

• Prevent Burns: Teach children not to touch the hot nozzle or print bed during the printing process. Ensure the printer has cooled down completely before allowing them to remove the printed object.

• Keep the Work Area Clean: Encourage kids to keep the 3D printing area tidy and free from clutter. This prevents accidents and ensures a safe working environment.

Conclusion

Getting the best 3D printer for kids is like opening the door to a world of endless possibilities. Whether it's their first toy design or an impressive school project, a good kid 3D printer can inspire your child to think, create, and learn in ways that are super engaging and fun. By exploring our top picks for 2025 and keeping an eye on safety, ease of use, and features that match your child's needs, you'll find the perfect fit for your family. So why wait? Start your child's 3D printing adventure today and watch their creativity soar!

FAQs about 3D Printer for Kids

Is it safe for kids to use a 3D printer?

Yes, it is generally safe for kids to use a 3D printer under adult supervision. 3D printers are designed with safety features, such as enclosed printing areas and automatic shut-off mechanisms. However, it's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, ensure proper ventilation, and teach children about the potential risks, such as hot surfaces and moving parts.

What age range is appropriate for 3D printers?

The appropriate age range for using 3D printers depends on the child's maturity level and ability to follow instructions. Generally, children aged 8 and above can start learning about 3D printing with close adult supervision. As they gain experience and understanding of the process, they can gradually take on more responsibility in operating the printer.

What is the first 3D printer I should buy for my kids?

When choosing a 3D printer for your kids, look for models that are user-friendly, safe, and reliable. Some good options include the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer and Toybox 3D Printer. These printers offer features like non-toxic filaments and easy-to-use software, making them suitable for beginners and young users.

Can children use 3D printers without adult supervision?

It is not recommended for children to use 3D printers without adult supervision, especially when they are just starting out. Adult oversight is very important to make sure that children follow safety guidelines, use the equipment correctly, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. As kids become more experienced and show they can handle the printer responsibly, they can gradually be given more freedom to use it on their own.