The Tevo Tarantula i3 has garnered a significant following in the 3D printing community, particularly among hobbyists and beginners. This review delves into the intricacies of the Tevo Tarantula i3, assessing its capabilities, ease of use, and overall value proposition. We’ll examine its key features, printing performance, and potential drawbacks to help you determine if this budget-friendly 3D printer is the right choice for your needs. This comprehensive Tevo Tarantula i3 review offers an in-depth look at what makes this printer tick, from its assembly process to the quality of prints it produces. Is this a good 3D printer? Let’s find out.
What is the Tevo Tarantula i3?
The Tevo Tarantula i3 is a Cartesian-style 3D printer that gained popularity due to its affordability and accessibility. It is often regarded as a good entry-level machine for those looking to explore 3D printing without a huge initial investment. It features a heated build plate, which is crucial for printing with materials like ABS and PETG, and a single extruder, making it straightforward to operate. The printer comes in a kit form, requiring assembly, which is a common characteristic among budget-friendly 3D printers, allowing manufacturers to reduce costs. The Tevo Tarantula i3 3D printer is well-known among the 3D printing community.
Key Features of the Tevo Tarantula i3
The Tevo Tarantula i3 boasts several key features that contribute to its appeal. These include a decent build volume, allowing for the creation of moderately sized objects. It also features a heated bed, allowing for compatibility with various materials. The printer often comes with an LCD screen and a control knob for basic operation and monitoring. The frame is usually constructed from aluminum extrusions, which provides a relatively stable base. The open-frame design is another characteristic, providing easy access for maintenance and modifications, however it does need to be in a place free from interference from external sources.
Print Volume and Build Plate
The print volume of the Tevo Tarantula i3 is a key consideration. It typically offers a build area that is suitable for many common 3D printing projects, the exact dimensions can vary slightly depending on the specific version of the printer. The heated build plate is another critical aspect, allowing the printer to work with a wider range of filaments. The flatness of the build plate and its ability to maintain a consistent temperature are essential for successful prints. Ensuring proper bed adhesion is a crucial step in the 3D printing process. It is highly recommended to level the bed before each print, which is very important on this 3D printer.
Extruder System and Nozzle
The extruder system is a critical component, responsible for feeding the filament and melting it before it is deposited. The Tevo Tarantula i3 typically uses a Bowden extruder setup, where the extruder motor is mounted on the frame and the filament is fed through a PTFE tube to the hot end. The nozzle size commonly used is 0.4mm, which is a good balance between detail and print speed, however, the nozzle can be changed and upgraded. The quality of the extruder and hot end design directly impacts the print quality and the printer’s ability to handle different types of filaments, such as PLA, ABS, and PETG.
Assembly and Setup Process
The Tevo Tarantula i3 comes as a kit, requiring assembly. This process can be a learning experience for beginners, providing a hands-on understanding of how the printer works. The assembly typically involves attaching the frame components, mounting the motors, installing the heated bed and extruder, and wiring the electronics. The kit usually includes all the necessary parts and tools, along with instructions. The level of detail and clarity of the instructions can vary. Taking your time and following the instructions carefully is crucial for ensuring proper assembly and optimal printer performance. Calibrating the printer after assembly, including bed leveling and extruder calibration, is also an important step.
User-Friendliness and Software
User-friendliness is an important factor for any 3D printer, especially for beginners. The Tevo Tarantula i3 typically uses a basic LCD screen and control knob for navigating menus and starting prints. The printer is compatible with various slicing software programs, with Cura being a popular choice. Slicing software converts 3D models into instructions that the printer can understand. These programs allow users to adjust settings such as layer height, print speed, and temperature, optimizing the print for different materials and desired outcomes. The user interface of the printer and the software chosen have a huge impact on the overall user experience.
Print Quality and Performance
Print quality is a critical aspect of any 3D printer review. The Tevo Tarantula i3 can produce acceptable prints, especially for its price point, but it may require some tuning and adjustments. Factors that affect print quality include the accuracy of the printer’s movements, the consistency of the filament extrusion, and the proper calibration of the bed and extruder. Layer adhesion, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy are all key indicators of print quality. Experienced users often spend time calibrating their printers, experimenting with different settings, and making improvements to achieve the best possible results, which may be a common theme with this printer.
Print Speed and Accuracy
Print speed is a consideration, but often comes at the cost of quality. The Tevo Tarantula i3 can achieve moderate print speeds, however, faster speeds may lead to a reduction in print quality. The accuracy of the printer is influenced by factors such as the stability of the frame, the precision of the components, and the quality of the motion system. Achieving precise prints with the Tevo Tarantula i3 may require careful calibration and adjustments to print settings. Finding a balance between speed and quality is key to getting the most out of the printer. The quality of your prints relies on several settings that are available to alter via the printer’s control interface.
Pros of the Tevo Tarantula i3
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to beginners.
- Large community support with readily available upgrades and modifications.
- Relatively easy to assemble and learn the basics of 3D printing.
- Heated bed allows for printing with a variety of filaments.
- Open-source design facilitates customization and experimentation.
Cons of the Tevo Tarantula i3
- Assembly is required, which can be time-consuming for beginners.
- Print quality may not be as high as more expensive 3D printers.
- Frame can be less stable than more robust designs.
- May require significant tuning and adjustments for optimal performance.
- Can be a noisy machine during the printing process.
Is the Tevo Tarantula i3 Worth the Price?
The value of the Tevo Tarantula i3 lies in its affordability and its potential as a learning platform. It’s an excellent entry point for individuals interested in 3D printing. While it may not offer the same level of print quality or convenience as more expensive printers, it provides a hands-on experience and access to a vast community of users. The overall worth depends on your expectations, budget, and willingness to learn and experiment. It is a great printer to start with, and it will get you printing without breaking the bank.
Alternatives to the Tevo Tarantula i3
Several other 3D printers compete in the budget-friendly segment. The Creality Ender 3 series is a popular alternative, offering a similar feature set and performance, often with improved build quality and ease of use. The Anycubic Mega series is another option, known for its user-friendly features. When choosing an alternative, consider factors such as build volume, ease of assembly, print quality, and community support. Comparison shopping and reviewing different options can help you find the best 3D printer to fit your individual needs. The Ender 3 series is a common upgrade from this 3D printer.
Final Verdict on the Tevo Tarantula i3
In conclusion, the Tevo Tarantula i3 offers a compelling option for beginners and hobbyists seeking an affordable 3D printer. Its key advantages include its low price, ease of access, and the extensive community support. While the print quality may not be as high as more expensive models and assembly is required, the Tevo Tarantula i3 provides a valuable learning experience and the potential to create a wide variety of 3D-printed objects. If you are on a budget and willing to invest time in learning and calibration, the Tevo Tarantula i3 is a worthy consideration. Overall, the Tevo Tarantula i3 is a great choice, for a starter 3D printer.