If you make a purchase using a shopping link on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn More
Prusa MK3S+
About the Prusa MK3S+
The Prusa MK3S+ is a 3D printer released in 2020 by Prusa. It is an upgraded version of previous models, incorporating new features and design tweaks to enhance its performance and ease of use. One notable improvement is the inclusion of the SuperPINDA probe, which ensures improved first layer calibration. The printer also features high-quality bearings and a removable PEI spring steel print bed, providing a reliable and efficient printing surface. Automatic Mesh Bed Leveling, filament sensor, power loss recovery, and safety features are also included. One standout feature of the Prusa MK3S+ is its large and active online community. This is beneficial for users as they can find answers to common questions, access slicing profiles, and discover printable upgrades online. The printer utilizes high-quality components, prioritizing reliability and performance over a lower price point. Additionally, it employs a direct drive extruder, which is known for its reliability and ease of use with flexible materials. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The Prusa MK3S+ is shipped mostly unassembled, requiring users to spend extra time putting it together. While this can be a valuable learning experience, it may pose a challenge for those new to 3D printing. Another drawback is the higher price point compared to other consumer printers. Although it offers premium features, the cost may not be justified for users who are willing to compromise on some high-end functionalities. Lastly, the printer's LCD screen is a basic monochrome interface, lacking graphical components and offering limited resolution. While this does not significantly affect the printer's usability, it may result in slightly longer navigation through text-only menus and give the printer a less premium feel.
Benefits of the Prusa MK3S+
Large online community - A large online community is important when it comes to any questions that come up as you learn how to use your 3D printer. A larger community typically means that you'll be able to find answers already posted to the most common questions, and you'll be able to find slicing profiles and printable upgrades online.
Modern mainboard features - Many 3D printer features relate to the version of the mainboard and firmware, including features like resuming prints after a power failure and support for silent stepper motor drivers for quieter printing. Newer boards also include safety features like thermal runaway protection which shuts the printer down if it detects issues with overheating.
Premium components - This printer is known for using the highest quality components, and prioritizes this over providing a lower price point on their printers.
Direct drive extruder - Direct drive extruders are mounted right above the hot end, and push the filament directly into it, as opposed to a side mounted bowden extruder setup. We prefer direct drive extruders to bowden since they are less prone to jamming and typically require less maintenance. they also are much easier to use with flexible materials
Disadvantages to consider
Difficult to assemble - This 3D printer is shipped mostly unassembled, and will require more time to put together. This can be a good learning experience to better understand how the printer works, but can be a challenge especially if you are new to 3D printing.
High price tag - While this printer includes a lot of premium features, they come with a price. This printer is one of the more expensive consumer printers, and may not be worth the cost if you are willing to sacrifice some of the high end features.
Dated LCD Screen - The printer's LCD screen is a more basic monochrome interface with limited resolution and no support for graphical components. While this does not detract much from using the printer, it can take a bit longer to navigate through the text only menus, and gives the printer a less premium feel.
Where to buy the Prusa MK3S+
Brand Summary: Prusa
Prusa Research is a well-known manufacturer of high-end 3D printers that are known for their top-performing and innovative designs. The brand is mostly recognized for its impeccable documentation, high quality parts, and excellent customer support. Prusa printers are beginner-friendly once assembled, but the assembly process can be time-consuming, even though the firmware has extensive calibration and troubleshooting routines built-in. The Prusa community is large and active, with many technical experts among the veteran 3D printing hobbyists. Prusa's focus is on a few models at a time, and they are known for their well-made printers. However, competitors are rapidly catching up to Prusa, offering similar features at a lower price.
Pros
- Large online community
- Modern mainboard features
- Premium components
- Direct drive extruder
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
- High price tag
- Dated LCD Screen
Printer Comparisons
The articles below provide in depth comparisons of the Prusa MK3S+ to other similar printers on the market.
Comparing the Prusa MK3S+ vs the Prusa MK4
Vs
You can compare the Prusa MK3S+ to other 3D printers using our Compare tool.