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3D pen buying guide: which one fits you?

A 3D pen lets you draw freehand with molten filament. A fun way to get kids started, or a toy alongside your 3D printer.

3D pens for kids

These pens use low-temperature filament: the tip and filament don't feel hot, safe for kids' hands.

3D pens for adults

These pens really do melt filament hot, just like a 3D printer, and work with standard 1.75 mm PLA or ABS.

Filament for your 3D pen

Most 3D pens for adults use the same 1.75 mm filament as a 3D printer. Got a cheap spool of PLA or PETG for your printer? It often fits your 3D pen too: see the filament options on the materials page.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 3D pen the same as a 3D printer?

No. A 3D pen melts filament just like a 3D printer, but you draw with it freehand instead of having a machine print a design automatically.

Is a 3D pen safe for kids?

Choose a 3D pen that uses low-temperature filament, like the 3Doodler Start. Its tip and filament don't feel hot. Pens for adults do melt filament at a hot temperature.

What filament fits my 3D pen?

Most 3D pens for adults use standard 1.75 mm PLA or ABS filament, the same as a 3D printer. Kid-friendly pens often use thinner, low-temperature PCL filament: check this for your specific pen.

Hooked? Check out our printer comparison for the next step.

Prices are indicative and may differ from the current price on Amazon.nl.