Buying a 3D Printer for Wargames and Dioramas

“Which printer should I buy?” and “What to look for when buying a 3D printer” are common questions among first-time printers. In this article, we’ll cover the factors to consider when buying a printer, like what you will be printing, how much to spend, and what specs to look out for.

We have divided our guide into two parts: “The Quick Guide” and “The Comprehensive Guide.”

The Quick Guide

When getting into 3D printing for wargaming and roleplaying games, you have two options: FDM or Resin. Generally, FDM is for printing terrain while resin is for printing miniatures. This primarily concerns resolution, as resin printers are higher definition, while FDM printers are more cost-effective to print out large amounts of terrain.

We recommend buying a machine for around USD 600. This is enough to get a reliable machine to quickly earn back its buy-in cost.

FDM Printers

For those looking to fill tables with terrain or create buildings for model railways and dioramas, FDM printers are your best bet. We recommend spending a bit more to get one with some of the following ease-of-use features:

• A 0.4mm extruder
• A minimum build volume of 200mm x 200mm x 200mm
• A self-leveling print bed
• A magnetic, removable print bed

Our recommended print settings for each product are under the additional information tab. The printer will generally come with all the accessories to start printing, but we recommend also picking up a cheap heat gun or Brulé torch. This will be useful for heating and bending sections or cleaning up wispy plastic post-printing pieces.

Resin SLA Printers

If you plan on printing miniatures for D&D or your wargaming forces, then a resin printer is for you. Resin printers shine UV light into a liquid resin to create high-detail prints. Recent advances have improved both the cost and accuracy of these printers, though we would recommend finding one with these minimum parameters:

• A 4K LCD screen
• Resolution of 35 microns (μm)
• minimum 100mm x 60mm x 100mm build volume
• Compatibility with 3^rd party resins

The Comprehensive Guide

The rise in popularity of tabletop wargames and roleplaying games has sparked significant interest in 3D printing, as enthusiasts seek ways to customize and expand their collections of miniatures, terrain pieces, and accessories. With a 3D printer, you can create unique models and game terrain tailored to your creative vision. This guide will help you navigate the essential factors to consider when purchasing a 3D printer for wargames and RPGs, including types of printers, costs, technical aspects, and tips for beginners.

1. Understanding 3D Printing Basics

Before exploring specific printer models, it’s essential to understand the two main types of 3D printing technologies commonly used in hobbyist settings: FDM and resin printing. Each has distinct features suited to different kinds of gaming models, and understanding these technologies can help you make an informed decision.

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling): FDM printers use thermoplastic filament fed through a heated nozzle, which melts and deposits the material in layers to build the model. They are known for their versatility, affordability, and wide range of compatible materials. If you plan to print larger models or terrain, FDM printers are generally the way to go.
• Resin Printing (SLA/DLP/LCD): Resin printers use liquid resin cured by UV light, creating highly detailed prints with smooth surfaces. This precision makes resin printers ideal for creating detailed miniatures and intricate props, though they tend to have higher material costs and require more post-processing work.

2. Key Considerations When Buying a 3D Printer for Gaming

To make the best choice, consider your budget, the type of models you wish to create, the technical features that matter most to you, and the available setup space.

A. Determining Your Budget

The cost of a 3D printer setup can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars for entry-level models to thousands for professional-grade options. Deciding on a budget will help you narrow down your choices.

• FDM Printers: Entry-level models can cost between $300 and $1000, with filament ranging from $20 to $30 per kilogram. While PLA filament is affordable and widely available, specialized filaments (such as those containing wood or metal particles) are more expensive. You can get a decent setup without breaking the bank, mainly if you’re focusing on larger, less detailed models like terrain pieces.
• Resin Printers: Entry-level resin printers typically start around $300-$1000, but they come with additional expenses. Resin is more expensive than filament, costing around $30 or more per liter. Resin printing also requires post-processing equipment, like a curing station, which can add another $100-$200 to your setup costs.

B. Identifying the Types of Models You’ll Print

What you plan to print will significantly impact the type of printer you choose.

• Miniatures and Detailed Models: Resin printing is the best option for printing detailed miniatures at a small scale (such as 25-35mm figurines). Resin printers capture fine details, making them ideal for printing character miniatures, monsters, and intricate props with high resolution.
• Terrain, Scenery, and Larger Models: An FDM printer is better suited for printing larger objects, such as modular terrain pieces, structures, or dungeon tiles. FDM printers are more cost-effective and provide durable, robust outputs suitable for high-use gaming scenarios.

C. Considering Printer Specifications and Features

Aside from print quality, other key features to consider when selecting a 3D printer include print volume, connectivity, whether the printer is a kit or comes fully assembled, print speed, and additional components like a heated bed or dual extruders.

• Print Volume: Print volume determines the maximum size of the models you can create in a single print. For tabletop gaming, a resin printer with a build volume of around 120mm x 68mm x 155mm is usually sufficient for miniatures. If you’re more interested in printing large terrain pieces, look for an FDM printer with a larger print volume, such as 220mm x 220mm x 250mm.
• Connectivity: Some printers offer multiple connectivity options, including USB, SD card, or Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi connectivity can be helpful if you want to control the printer remotely, though USB or SD card options are usually sufficient for most users.
• Kit vs. Fully Assembled: Some 3D printers come as kits that require assembly, while others are fully assembled. Kits are generally more affordable but may be challenging for beginners. Fully assembled printers allow you to start printing immediately and are more convenient if you’re new to 3D printing.
• Print Speed: Print speed is often less critical for gaming models, as many users prioritize quality over speed. FDM printers are typically faster for larger, less detailed prints, while resin printers tend to be slower due to their higher resolution requirements. Remember that factors such as model orientation and layer thickness also affect print speed.
• Heating Bed: A heated bed prevents warping and helps adhesion and is standard with all new FDM printers

D. Setting Up Your Printer Workspace

Choosing the right space for your 3D printer setup is crucial, particularly for resin printers requiring proper ventilation.

• Noise: 3D printers can generate significant noise, especially during longer prints. FDM printers tend to be quieter than resin printers, but both produce enough background noise to consider a dedicated space if you plan to print frequently.
• Ventilation: Resin printers emit fumes that need proper ventilation. Ideally, set up your resin printer in a workshop or a well-ventilated room to ensure safe usage. FDM printers produce minimal fumes but should still be placed in an open or ventilated area for optimal performance.
• Space Requirements: Make sure you have enough room for the printer, materials, and tools you’ll need. FDM printers require a larger workspace due to their larger build areas, while resin printers need space for post-processing equipment like curing stations.

3. Comparison of FDM and Resin Printers for Tabletop Gaming

Now that you have a basic understanding of the two main types of 3D printers, let’s compare their features based on specific gaming needs.

4. Practical Tips for Success in 3D Printing for Wargames and RPGs

Once you’ve chosen a 3D printer, there are a few tips and best practices to ensure successful prints and minimize errors.

A. Finding and Sourcing Models

There are numerous websites and communities where you can find 3D printing files; in fact, anyone who can drive 3d software can make a 3D printing file. However, the quality varies dramatically. Printable Scenery specializes in premium, highly detailed models designed for tabletop gaming.

B. Understanding Slicing Software

Slicing software is essential for converting 3D models into print-ready files. It allows you to adjust settings like layer height, print orientation, and support structures. Popular slicing software includes Cura and PrusaSlicer for FDM printers and Chitubox for resin printers. Adjusting settings based on your printer and material can significantly improve the quality of your prints.

C. Tips for Resin and FDM Printing Success

• Choosing the Right Material: For FDM printers, PLA filament is ideal for beginners and general use, while ABS and PETG offer added durability. For resin printing, standard resin is usually sufficient for miniatures, but flexible or tough resins are available for more durable prints.
• Adjusting Print Settings: For highly detailed prints, use a smaller layer height, which can increase print time but improves surface quality. Use slicing software to adjust settings and experiment to find the best balance between speed and quality.
• Post-Processing Resin Prints: For resin prints, post-processing involves washing the prints in isopropyl alcohol, removing supports carefully, and curing the model under UV light. This step is essential for achieving a smooth, polished finish on miniatures and props.

5. Choosing the Right Printer for Different Types of Wargames and RPG Models

Different types of gaming models require different printing approaches, depending on the level of detail and size.

• Miniatures and Small Figures: If you primarily want to print 28-32mm scale miniatures, a resin printer is ideal for capturing fine details. The high resolution of resin printing allows you to print faces, textures, and intricate elements that would be difficult to achieve with an FDM printer.
• Terrain and Modular Scenery: FDM printers are better suited for printing terrain pieces, buildings, and large props, thanks to their larger print volumes and affordable material costs. These models often don’t require the same level of detail as miniatures, making FDM printing a cost-effective and efficient choice.
• Accessories and Game Props: For items like dice towers, storage containers, or larger game props, both FDM and resin printers can work well. Choose based on the level of detail needed: FDM for durable, larger pieces, and resin for intricate accessories.

6. Additional Considerations: Dual Extruders, Nozzle Types, and Heated Beds

Some advanced features can enhance your 3D printing experience, though they may not be necessary for beginners. Here are a few that might be worth considering:

• Dual Extruders: These allow for printing with multiple materials or colors in a single print. This feature can be especially useful for creating support structures with dissolvable filament or combining different colors for unique effects.
• Direct-Drive Extruders: A direct-drive extruder feeds filament directly into the nozzle, allowing for better handling of flexible materials like TPU. This type is ideal if you plan to experiment with different filament types.
• Heated Bed: A heated bed is highly recommended, as it prevents warping and improves print adhesion. While not necessary for PLA, it’s essential for filaments like ABS and PETG, which require stable temperatures.

7. Final Thoughts: Bringing Your Games to Life

Investing in a 3D printer can open up new creative possibilities for tabletop gaming, allowing you to craft unique miniatures, detailed terrain, and game-enhancing props. By considering the factors outlined in this guide—budget, model types, printer features, and practical tips—you’ll be well-equipped to choose a 3D printer that aligns with your needs. Whether you go with an FDM printer for large-scale terrain or a resin printer for intricate miniatures, your 3D printer will bring an extra dimension to your gaming experience, enhancing immersion and creativity on the tabletop.

Happy printing, and enjoy bringing your game worlds to life!