Shopping for a 3D printer can feel overwhelming if all you see is a bunch of specs. Most people want to know whether the printer can handle the project they want to do and if it’s compatible with their computer and software. They’re interested in how easy it is to use and how fast it works.
Let’s break down the specifications of the Creality CR-10 Smart 3D Printer and the Creality CR-10 Smart Pro 3D Printer to help you decide between them.
Creality CR-10 Smart
The CR-10 Smart is marketed to new users for several reasons. First, it takes less than ten minutes to put together out of the box.
Next, it has an automatic bed leveling system which prevents beginner mistakes and makes it easy to get started on a new project quickly.
Just as important, it’s compatible with major operating systems and slicing software apps. It hooks up to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer over Wi-Fi or with a cable to print projects made with Cura, Creality Slicer, and Simplify3D.
Since there’s a touchscreen to control it, you don’t even need a computer as long as you have an SD card with the STL, AMF, or OBJ file you want to print.
Lastly, it accepts the common 1.75mm filaments like ABS, PLA, TPU, and PETG with an easy auto-feeding system. It even keeps track if the filament’s going to run out. After the project is complete or if it’s idle for thirty minutes, the printer shuts down automatically.
Here are some more details:
- Printing precision is ±0.1mm with a layer height of 0.1 to 0.4mm
- Print volume is 300mm × 300mm × 400mm (11.81in × 11.81in × 15.74in)
- Printing speed 80 to 100mm/s
- Aluminum frame with dual Z-axes and diagonal support struts for extra stability
- Carborundum glass bed for good adhesion and easy removal of prints
Now, let’s take a look at the other 3D printer.
Creality CR-10 Smart Pro 3D Printer
The basics are the same – the Smart Pro is compatible with the same software and operating systems as the one above. It has the same build volume as the CR-10 Smart, too.
However, it accepts a wider range of filament types including ABS, PLA, TPU, PA, PETG, wood, carbon fiber, and more as the full-metal dual-gear extruder can handle higher temperatures up to 572°F (300°C).
It also has an automatic bed leveling mode. But it differs in that it has a rotary knob for manual leveling, too. Instead of a glass bed, it has a steel surface. Once the print completes, you can remove the object by lifting and flexing the magnetic sheet.
Furthermore, it comes with an HD camera that monitors the print remotely with the Creality Cloud app. With it, you can record and share videos of the printer in action. The built-in LED strip on the Z-axis means you don’t need to leave a room light on.
Although it’s straightforward to use the app and print from your phone with Bluetooth, you can also print from a computer using an Ethernet cable or over Wi-Fi. Finally, the touchscreen lets you select a file from an SD card and print without a PC or other device.
Here are more specifications:
- Printing precision is ±0.1mm with a layer height of 0.1 to 0.4mm
- Print volume is 300mm × 300mm × 400mm (11.81in × 11.81in × 15.74in)
- Accepts 1.75mm filament
- Printing speed 80 to 100mm/s
Now that you’ve seen both reviews of Creality 3D printers, which one should you get?
Recommendation
If you’re new to 3D printing, you can’t go wrong with the CR-10 Smart. It’s straightforward to assemble and has a generous build volume and automatic leveling. Moreover, it’s compatible with a variety of systems and software and prints over Wi-Fi or from an SD card without a computer.
Nevertheless, if you’d like to print with non-standard filaments like wood or carbon fiber, it’s worth the upgrade to the Smart Pro. It has a handy removable steel sheet for the bed and you can monitor the printing process with the included HD camera. (Creality is currently exploring new smart controls and AI features based on the camera and app.)
Click here to purchase Creality CR 10 Smart on Amazon.com
Click here to purchaseCreality CR 10 Smart Pro on Amazon.com