Best 3D Pens in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 24, 2024
3D pens allow you to draw 3D objects even when the surface is non-existent. In a nutshell, 3D printing pens are pretty much handheld ...Read more
PROS

The device boasts a DualDrive™ mechanism that allows the plastic to run smoothly. This model is compatible with almost any kind of ABS and PLS plastic filaments with a thickness of 3 mm.

CONS

The pen gets rather hot after long use.

OUR VERDICT

The Create+ 3D Printing Pen is a reliable assistant for creating wonderful plastic art pieces like phone cases, cup holders, coasters and so on. You can find lots of interesting ideas in the 3Doodler App.

detailed parameters
Recommended Age

14+

Kit Contents

3D Pen, 75 Refills (15 different colours), Stencil book

Compatible Materials

ABS, PLA

Power Source

AC (power adapter included)

Control

Fast and slow speed buttons, Mode selector (ABS / FLX, PLA), Temperature adjuster, Status indicator light

Extras

Compatible with 3Doodler App (available on iOS and Android), DualDrive™ Technology, Toolkit included

Warranty

1 year

PROS

This 3D pen is compatible with the PLA and ABS filament. The USB cable easily connects to a portable power source, laptop, PC, etc. The filament does not stick to the hands.

CONS

It takes a lot of material for complex compositions.

OUR VERDICT

The Dikale ‎DKL-DE-H07A-WHITE 3D pen is a good gift for kids and adults. Improve children's spatial imagination, develop creativity and artistic skills. Easy controls for beginners or experts. The pen is equipped with the UK power supply.

detailed parameters
Recommended Age

10+

Kit Contents

3D Pen, PVC drawing board, 2 x Finger stalls, Silicone mat blue in large size, 30-Colour PLA, Pen holder, 250 Drawing stencils, E-book

Compatible Materials

ABS, PLA

Power Source

AC (power adapter included)

USB (USB cable included)

Control

Fast and slow speed buttons, Mode selector (ABS / PLA), Temperature adjuster, OLED screen

Extras

Non-clogging design

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Only the safest 3Doodler Start plastic filaments are used in this pen. The 2022 release introduces the improved extrusion gears for smoother 3D drawing.

CONS

It is difficult to find suitable replacement cartridges.

OUR VERDICT

Designed without the external hot parts, the 3Doodler is completely safe for children aged 6 to 13. A good educational gift for a kid, which will help reveal their creative potential. Great for developing the spatial orientation skills.

detailed parameters
Recommended Age

6+

Kit Contents

3D Pen, 2 Mixed-colour packs of Start plastics (48 strands), Charging cable, DoodlePad/Doodlemat

Compatible Materials

Eco plastic

Power Source

Micro USB charger

Control

On/off switch and feed button

Extras

Ergonomic grip

Warranty

1 year

PROS

This 3D pen is designed specifically for children, with a comfortable ergonomic design and a low-temperature nozzle that does not burn the kids' hands. Convenient charging is done via Micro USB.

CONS

The instructions are not always accurate.

OUR VERDICT

The MYNT3D pen is the best gift you can give your kids to bring their fantasies to paper in 3D. The pen design helps the young explorers avoid nozzle clogging.

detailed parameters
Recommended Age

6+

Kit Contents

3D Pen, User manual, 3 Rolls of MYNT3D PCL plastic, Starter stencils, USB cable

Compatible Materials

PCL plastic

Power Source

Micro USB charger

Control

On/off switch and feed button

Extras

Kid-safe ergonomic grip, Non-clogging design

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Owing to adjustable speed modes, this pen allows you to create complex patterns or fill large spaces, making it a good tool for arts and crafts that can be used on the go.

CONS

The charging connector is of non-standard size.

OUR VERDICT

The MYNT3D MP033-GN is basic model that opens the door to the world of 3D art for those who don't need any additional features. The pen is fully compatible with ABS/PLA 3D printers.

detailed parameters
Recommended Age

8+

Kit Contents

3D Pen, Power cable, ABS filament, Manual, Stand

Compatible Materials

ABS, PLA

Power Source

USB (USB cable included)

Control

ABS / PLA switch, Speed control, Load and unload buttons, Led indicator lights

Extras

Ergonomic grip, Clog-free operation

Warranty

1 year

DualDrive Technology For Smooth Doodling

When selecting a 3D pen, it's only natural to want to get a product that would be comfy, safe to use, functional and durable. Is it what you want too? Then we recommend the 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen. This model deftly combines all these things and can actually offer you much more, which is exactly why we've given it the title of the best 3D pen in our list. Let's talk about its advantages.

To begin with, the 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen features an advanced DualDrive™ technology which gives it durability, increased power and reliability. The pen's made with a special mechanism that ensures the plastic will melt and run flawlessly giving you more control over the doodling speed. In addition to this, there's a lower chance of clogging compared to similar models, hence no overheating and longer service life of the pen.

Speaking of plastic, this model is compatible with 3mm ABS and PLA refills. Plus, it features a temperature adjuster and can work with different melting ranges, making it a suitable option for all kinds of filaments. The pen heats up quickly, and when it's ready to use, a status indicator lights up, notifying you that the pen's reached the set temperature and you can get started.

Also adjustable is the speed. The pen features 2 buttons for slow and fast doodling, so you will be able to try different techniques and make small details with high precision.

Find Inspiration in the App

This 3D pen from 3Doodler is suitable for children of the age of 14 years and older, but it's still recommended to use it under adult supervision to exclude electricity hazards.

When it comes to drawing, starting the doodling is very easy: make an outline on the flat surface, draw upward lines and then connect them together. The stencil book included in the package is a handy addition, allowing you or your child to practise different designs. What's more, you can install the 3Doodler App on your Android smartphone or iPhone and seek inspiration there.

Apart from the 3D pen and stencil book, you also get 75 refills in 15 different colours. The pen itself is also available in numerous designs, so you can purchase it in Onyx Black, Quartz Grey, Arctic White, and Camouflage Green.

We also want to add that this model comes with a 1-year warranty, so in case of malfunction, it won't be a problem to replace it. Plus, the manufacturer offers 24/7 customer support service so you can contact them at any time you need.

In conclusion, the 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen is one of the top choices if you want to get creative and make beautiful DIYs. It is a robust product that is highly praised by numerous authoritative sources for its smart features and impeccable performance.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07CL3LLNW

It’s Creativity Time

3D pens are so much fun for kids and adults, and the Dikale unit is among the best offers in the market. It’s easy, safe to use, and fit for small or complex projects.

If you’re getting such a pen for kids, know that it can boost their spatial imagination, creativity, and artistic skills. Pick an animal or object and start crafting a colourful 3D model – it’s that simple. No need to be a trained expert to use this pen; even your little ones will know how to do it from a few tries.

The Dikale is PLA and ABS filament compatible, supporting 12 colours and 120 ft. PLA refills. The PLA doesn’t smell as much as ABS and doesn’t stick to the hands in the process. Yes, you’ll need a lot of filament for complex projects with this pen, but what it never does is compromising on the fun. Create mind-blowing designs with your kid and make family time even more exciting.

Out of ideas for today? Check out the 3D paper form templates that come with this pen. A bright flower or a cute cartoon cat – you can pick any and kick-start the playtime. The sky is the limit to what you can do with this impressive and versatile device.

Go at Your Own Pace

The Dikale pen features 3 drawing temps with speeds. Use them depending on your skill level – and be amazed with the results. Note that drawing upwards is harder, so unless you’re extra slow, your project may collapse. Other than that, using this pen is not a chore, and even the 4 year olds will have lots of fun with this product.

As for the charging and power supply, you get a USB cable that can easily connect the pen to a power source, a laptop, a PC, or other compatible device. The UK power supply is included in the package, so no worries here. Charge it up quickly on the go – and be ready to create at any place or time. Perfect for active lifestyle customers or a family vacation, this pen is user-centric to a ‘T’.

And finally, the safety. If you’re buying this 3D pen for a child, don’t leave them unsupervised, as it does get hot. There is the shut-off feature and the auto sleep mode for the added comfort.

Summing up, the Dikale 3D pen is pure gold for parents with kids or adults with a creative mind. Versatile and user-friendly, it can be used by experts and beginners, which makes for an amazing holiday gift.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07C5SSXP4

Safe for Children

While 3D pens are generally child-friendly, the 3Doodler model is the only one that’s actually child-safe. It has no hot parts at all, so you needn’t worry about your little one’s hands. Let’s take a closer look at how amazing this product is.

First things first; this pen doesn’t get hot in any place, so you can safely entrust your kid with it. The unit is completely safe for the 6 to 13 year olds, helping them learn and unlock their creativity. Spend some quality family time with your children and let them create whatever animal or object they have in mind. Want to also develop their special orientation? Couldn’t be easier with the 3Doodler.

Did you know that the 2022 edition of this pen features the refined extrusion gears? Well, now you certainly do – and can have a much smoother 3D drawing experience. Great for smaller kids or active lifestyle people, it makes for faster and more precise creative projects.

This pen lets you or your kid draw, plan, and build with all the excitement of a quality toy. Who said there is a limit to imagination? Take the pen with you on vacation or a trip – and let everyone have their share of fun.

A Pleasure to Work With

The manufacturer of this 3D pen does care about your child’s safety. Not only is it not hot at all, but it also uses the kid-friendly PCL plastic. The only problem here is that it’s pretty hard to find the replacement cartridges. This is due to the fact that the pen only uses the brand’s plastic, so it’s better to stock up on refills beforehand.

Does this pen produce the fine and long continuous strands? Yes, and the whole creative process feels so much more fun rather than a chore. The kids get tired pretty quickly, and the faster a 3D pen is, the more excited they will be about using it. All you have to do is teach them the basics of how to (basically) draw in the air. After that, the sky is the limit as to what they can create with the 3Doodler.

Great, but what about the filament getting stuck? Although this may happen to just about any 3D pen, this one can hold its ground and work fine after the last completed project. More excitement and fewer problems on your hands.

Overall, the 3Doodler pen is child-friendly, extra safe, and more refined. A brilliant birthday present for a kid – or a creative adult.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B086JQQHPK

Ergonomic Handle

Need a 3D pen that’s safe for kids and also easy to use? Enter the MYNT3D Junior2 model. It’s a) ergonomic; b) low-heat; and c) has a long battery life. Try it out for many happy hours with your child.

To start with, this pen is extra easy to hold for a little 3D artist. The tip doesn’t get as hot as to cause burns, and your kid’s hands will stay safe. Teach them the basics of art, unlock their creativity, and give them an amazing chance to make their own toys. Using this pen doesn’t require too much effort, and after a few first tries, your kid will grasp it with no problem.

What can this pen actually do? Anything and everything, from following a pre-made form to building your own objects and shapes. Young artists, architects, or explorers will find it amazingly fun – and will become more confident in their skills.

The advanced sealed nozzle design prevents the annoying clogs – and boosts the fun from using this product. Let the kids create for as much as they want, without any breaks. The fine strands will seamlessly blend into the amazing shapes fuelled by children’s imagination.

Fit for Any Project

This 3D pen is battery-powered and charges up via a Micro USB cable that is included in the package. Convenient and modern, this charging type allows you to use the pen on the go. Take it with you on a family trip – and let the little ones enjoy their favourite toy right in the hotel room. What’s more, the battery life is quite long, which means that you can finish the more complex projects in one take.

What paper is best for this unit? The glass and parchment types work best, and you can always frame the 3D artwork and proudly put it on display at home – or give it away as a nice holiday present. Digital art and photo filters are fine and all, but real-life art pieces are no less valuable in our day and age. In fact, pro artists even sell their 3D pen works, which says a lot.

Is it easy to use this pen if you’re a complete beginner? Yes and no; it doesn’t take too long to learn the ropes, but the instructions do have some inaccuracies.

In short, the MYNT3D Junior2 pen is pitch-perfect for young artists or adult hobbyists. Extra safe and with a good battery life, it’s fit for simpler or more complex projects.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08K8RPZVX

A Starter Pen

Looking for a beginner’s 3D pen? The MYNT3D may be your best choice in this case. No advanced features or a painful learning curve; only the basics that open up the door to the amazing world of 3D art.

This pen is fully compatible with the economical ABS/PLA filaments. In fact, 3D printers use the same materials, so you won’t be chasing a rare and expensive one to use it in your pen. There even will be filament samples in the box for you to start a project right away. Try a simple object first, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the outcome.

If you do want to create more complex shapes – or fill more space, this pen has 3 speeds to choose from. Pick the slow, medium, or fast to fit your needs to a ‘T’ and bring your project to success. A small tip: if you’re building vertically, give the material some time to settle down and only then continue further. Otherwise, the structure may collapse, and you’ll have to start over again.

Is this pen suitable for kids? Yes, anyone from 8 years old and up can use it. Impress your little one with a unique holiday present – and be ready for the thanks.

Practical & Portable

3D pens are fun, but clogs, not so much. The MYNT3D prevents this issue by having a sealed nozzle plus an overbuilt gearbox. Thanks to this, the clogs will be no more, and you won’t have to take a break for the clean-up. A very nice touch if you’re buying the pen for a small kid whose patience has its limits.

The pen is USB-powered, which makes it very portable. Take it to a friend’s house or charge it up on the go from your smart device. The battery life is pretty decent, and you’ll have the time to finish your more demanding projects. Note, however, that the charging connector is of non-standard size. This is not too convenient, as losing the cable may prevent you from using the pen.

What can you make with this handy device? Anything, from following the pre-made templates to letting your imagination run free and experimenting. Animals, cars, buildings, and a million other objects can be done with so much fun and enjoyment.

All in all, this 3D pen by MYNT3D is a nice choice for a complete beginner. It doesn’t overload you with features – but still allows you to create exciting 3D art on the go.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08K8R2P9P

Infographics


What Is a 3D Pen?

3D pens sound like something straight from science fiction, don't they? Seriously, the ability to draw vertically on nothing, no surface at all, nothing but air sounds ridiculous. That's precisely what these pens are able to do though. Using these printing pens, you're able to create the most intricate 3D objects, which is pretty absurd considering how affordable these gadgets are. We've addressed what these pens are all about in the aptly named How Do They Work and What Can You Do With These Pens? section, so that's not what we'll highlight here.

What we'll highlight is that, aside from all the benefits we've laid out there, these pens are easy to figure out and easy to maintain. Unlike most 3D printers, these gadgets do not require you to understand complicated CAD software to conceive 3D objects. You won't see the energy bills skyrocketing too. You won't even have to sacrifice any space at all since these are about the same size as ordinary pens. You grab the 3D printing pen, squeeze the button that's responsible for extrusion, and proceed to draw 3D objects, there's nothing complicated here at all.

What Features to Compare

Recommended Age

3D pens can be toys and tools and sometimes both. The difference comes from various factors, including controls, settings, output, and more. We'll address these factors soon enough but what you should know now is that there are reasons these restrictions exist and you should definitely avoid giving printing pens designed for people above 12 years old to children. Sometimes, these reasons also include the melting plastic that can cause injuries and the gadget's rising temperature that can make kids uncomfortable.

Compatible Materials

Normally, printing pens work with non-toxic, BPA-free, biodegradable plastic, like ABS and PLA. Occasionally, specific models are compatible with more plastic types. When you go from high-end and mid-range pens to budget models, the people behind these models usually pack them with ink cartridges filled with some eco-friendly plastic that you cannot replace.

Controls

This is where premium models designed to accommodate big-time hobbyists and artists differentiate from children's toys. These controls can include temperature and flow rate adjustment settings. Sometimes, you'll even be able to switch between different output speeds, fine-tune the output thickness, and enable continuous feed so that you do not have to hold the button to have the plastic coming out. We've even seen and reviewed models with LCD/OLED screens that allow you to access and manage these settings.

Extras

Not unlike most gadgets, 3D pens are sometimes fitted with different extra features. The most advanced 3D pens are usually compatible with proprietary apps that are usually packed with interactive instructions, suggestions, and more. Some models come equipped with changeable tips so even though you're unable to change the thickness, the pen lets you switch the tips that extrude varying degrees of thickness.

Power Source

This is where things are pretty straightforward. You'll see pens that work from the mains, so you're tied to the next AC outlet but do not have to change/recharge the batteries. Personally, we like the models that come equipped with rechargeable batteries that are compatible with most USB-enabled devices, including power banks. 

Package 

In addition to the gadget, you'll usually receive refills and different guide books that will let you figure out the pen's usability. Besides that, 3D can come supplied with drawing sheets and different forms to aid sculpting.

How Do They Work and What Can You Do With These Pens?

Most adults know what hot glue guns are and how they work. We cannot say the same about 3D pens even though the principle is not that different. When you put things into perspective, these pens are basically handheld 3D printers. Sounds pretty neat, right? More often than not, printing pens come equipped with heating elements and an extruder, not unlike the components that desktop 3D printers are usually fitted with. The biggest difference here is that 3D printers are controlled via software, whereas 3D pens do not do anything themselves and rely upon you to guide them.

The melted plastic coming from the pen is usually soft enough to be fused onto most surfaces and worked into basically any shape you want. When the plastic leaves the tip, it usually takes no more than 1-2 seconds to cool down and solidify, allowing you to draw vertically on air.

Arts and Crafts

These pens can bring fun and usability to kids and adults, especially different artists, hobbyists, and professional designers. But how do you use them? Well, you can use them however you want but, according to experts, the easiest way to create 3D art is through 2D sketches. Sounds sketchy, right? Stick with us though. You draw these sketches, then use the pen to extrude plastic over them. This way, you have the baseline, so you know where the lines should lead and where the borders are, giving you the necessary limits to ground the object yet enough leeway to create.

Alternatively, you can create decor for objects at home. Any bland bowl or vase from the local department store will do. You can use these containers as a mould for the print so that you have some idea of what you're drawing there. That's where you'll start. Gaining experience, you'll be able to create much more complex, complicated, and intricate 3D objects, without using any props at all. The raised decorative design is these pens' biggest strength but crafts, sculpture, and fine arts, in general, are where these gadgets will come in handy.

3D Design, Prototyping, Repair Work, and Education

Working with 3D printers, these pens will be able to aid small-time post-processing as well as repairing different 3D objects. Hard-to-reach corners are where 3D pens especially shine.

With 3D pens, automotive, jewellery, and fashion fields can streamline product development. Realising basic 3D shapes within minutes is not something that you can underestimate when it comes to these areas, especially when brainstorming and conceptualizing.

Needless to say, education is where printing pens can do unlimited good. From mathematics (drawing geometric shapes) to architecture (modelling) and hard sciences (visualizing physical models like atoms and organs), 3D pens will be able to aid them all.

Poor Man's 3D Printers? Not Really

What we're describing sounds like printing pens are basically poor man's 3D printers but that's not the case. Sure, they're able to do less and the price mirrors that too but there are areas where 3D pens are much more preferable to 3D printers. With these pens, you're able to develop freestyle hand drawings and free sketch concepts, you can play around with 3D tech without paying king's ransom, and you can teach children 3D printing basics without subjecting them to CAD software.

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