3D pens have evolved dramatically over the past few years, and 2025 models represent the pinnacle of this technology. With faster heating times, improved ergonomics, wider material compatibility, and smarter temperature controls, today’s 3D pens offer capabilities that were unimaginable just a generation ago. Whether you’re an artist looking to bring your sketches into the third dimension, a professional designer creating prototypes, or a parent searching for a safe creative tool for your child, there’s never been a better time to invest in a 3D pen.
If you’re looking for the best 3D pen to buy this year, our expert reviews and comprehensive buying guide will help you choose the perfect one for your skill level and budget. We’ve tested and analyzed the top models on the market to bring you this definitive ranking.
Quick Comparison: Top 5 3D Pens for 2025
| Rank | 3D Pen Model | Best For | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Top Pick | MYNT3D Pro 3D Printing Pen | Versatile Users | $$$ | OLED Display, Wide Filament Compatibility |
| Best for Beginners | 3Doodler Flow | Ease of Use | $$ | Anti-Clog Design, Simple Controls |
| Best for Professionals | 3Doodler Pro+ | Advanced Users | $$$ | Multiple Material Support (Wood, Metal), Dual-Gear Extruder |
| Best for Kids | 3Doodler Start+ Essentials | Child Safety | $$ | Low-Temperature Nozzle, Eco-Friendly PCL Filament |
| Best Budget Pick | SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen | Value for Money | $ | Simple, Reliable, and Affordable |
Best 3D Pens for Versatility & Overall Use
MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display
Reasons to Buy:
- Precise OLED display shows temperature and speed settings in real-time
- Compatible with both PLA and ABS filaments for maximum versatility
- Stepless speed control allows for intricate detail work
- Adjustable temperature settings from 130°C to 240°C
- Ergonomic design comfortable for extended use
- Built-in cooling fan prevents overheating
Reasons to Avoid:
- Higher price point than basic models
- Requires learning curve to master temperature settings
- Corded design limits portability
The MYNT3D Pro stands as our overall top pick for 2025, and for good reason. This pen strikes the perfect balance between professional capabilities and user-friendly design. The crisp OLED display eliminates guesswork by showing exactly what temperature and speed you’re working with, making it far easier to switch between materials and techniques.
What sets the MYNT3D Pro apart is its genuine versatility. The adjustable temperature range means you can work with virtually any filament type, from low-temperature PLA for beginners to ABS for more demanding projects. The stepless speed slider gives you precise control over extrusion rate, essential for both filling large areas quickly and creating delicate details.
In our testing, the ergonomic design proved comfortable even during multi-hour sessions, and the built-in cooling system kept the pen from becoming uncomfortably warm. While it requires a power cord, the trade-off is consistent performance without worrying about battery life.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced users who want professional features without overwhelming complexity, artists working on detailed projects, and anyone who plans to experiment with different materials.
MYNT3D Super 3D Pen
Reasons to Buy:
- Most affordable pen in the MYNT3D lineup
- Compatible with PLA and ABS filaments
- Simple three-speed settings
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Auto-sleep feature prevents accidents
- One-button operation for beginners
Reasons to Avoid:
- No OLED display for temperature monitoring
- Fixed temperature settings limit material options
- Fewer advanced features than the Pro model
The MYNT3D Super is essentially a streamlined version of the Pro, offering the brand’s quality construction at a more accessible price point. While it lacks the OLED display and granular temperature control, it still delivers excellent performance for most users.
The three-speed settings (slow, medium, fast) cover the majority of use cases, from detailed work to quick filling. The auto-sleep feature is particularly valuable for beginners who might forget to turn off the pen, automatically pausing extrusion after a period of inactivity.
What impressed us most was how lightweight this pen feels compared to competitors. During extended use, this becomes a significant advantage, reducing hand fatigue and allowing for more precise control.
Best for: Budget-conscious users who want MYNT3D quality, beginners who don’t need advanced temperature control, and anyone prioritizing simplicity and ease of use.
Best 3D Pens for Beginners & Hobbyists
3Doodler Create+
Reasons to Buy:
- Undisputed champion for ease of use
- No complicated settings or temperature adjustments
- Extensive library of project templates and guides
- Large ecosystem of accessories and filament colors
- Dual-speed drive for smooth extrusion
- Ambidextrous design works for left and right-handed users
Reasons to Avoid:
- Proprietary filament strands (not universal spools)
- More expensive filament refills than standard 1.75mm
- Limited temperature flexibility
The 3Doodler Create+ has earned its reputation as the most beginner-friendly 3D pen on the market. From the moment you pick it up, everything feels intuitive. There are no temperature dials to adjust, no complex menus to navigate—just insert the filament, wait 60 seconds for it to heat up, and start creating.
What truly sets 3Doodler apart is the ecosystem. The company provides an extensive library of stencils, project ideas, and video tutorials that take you from complete novice to confident creator. The dual-speed drive system produces remarkably smooth and consistent extrusion, eliminating the frustrating stops and starts that plague many budget pens.
The main trade-off is the proprietary filament system. 3Doodler uses specialized plastic strands rather than standard 1.75mm filament, which means you’re locked into their refills. These cost more per gram than universal filament, though the convenience and reliability may justify the premium for many users.
Best for: Complete beginners taking their first steps into 3D pen art, hobbyists who value simplicity over customization, and anyone who wants to start creating immediately without a learning curve.
PIKA3D Pro 3D Printing Pen
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable price point for a feature-rich pen
- LCD screen displays temperature and speed
- Compatible with standard 1.75mm PLA and ABS filament
- Eight-speed settings for precise control
- Portable design with comfortable grip
- Comes with filament starter pack
Reasons to Avoid:
- Less refined than premium brands
- Occasional clogging issues reported
- Customer support can be slow
The PIKA3D Pro represents excellent value in the beginner segment, offering features typically found on more expensive pens. The LCD screen, while smaller than the MYNT3D Pro’s OLED, still provides useful feedback about your current settings.
In our testing, the eight-speed settings proved more than adequate for various project types. The pen feels well-balanced and comfortable, though the build quality doesn’t quite match the premium feel of MYNT3D or 3Doodler products.
We did experience occasional clogging when switching between PLA and ABS without properly purging the nozzle, but this is fairly common across the category and easily preventable with proper maintenance.
Best for: Beginners on a tight budget who still want adjustable settings, users who prefer standard filament compatibility over proprietary systems, and hobbyists experimenting with 3D pen art for the first time.
Best 3D Pens for Professionals & Advanced Users
3Doodler Pro+
Reasons to Buy:
- Supports the widest range of materials including Wood, Copper, Bronze, and Nylon
- Professional-grade dual-gear extruder for consistent flow
- Precise temperature control from 160°C to 270°C
- Robust aluminum body built to last
- Interchangeable nozzle system
- Designed for industrial and architectural applications
Reasons to Avoid:
- Significantly more expensive than consumer models
- Heavier than standard pens (can cause fatigue)
- Overkill for casual hobbyists
- Longer heat-up time
The 3Doodler Pro+ isn’t just a 3D pen—it’s a professional tool designed for serious creators. While consumer pens focus on PLA and ABS, the Pro+ opens up an entirely new world of materials. Working with wood composite filament creates pieces with authentic grain and texture. Metal composite filaments (Copper, Bronze) can be sanded and polished to achieve stunning finishes.
The dual-gear extruder represents a significant engineering upgrade. By gripping the filament from two sides, it maintains consistent pressure and flow even with challenging materials. This eliminates the inconsistent line widths and flow interruptions that plague lesser pens when working with specialty filaments.
The aluminum body construction inspires confidence—this pen feels like a precision instrument. However, that robustness comes with weight. During our multi-hour testing sessions, we found ourselves needing more frequent breaks than with lighter consumer models.
Best for: Professional artists and designers, architects creating physical models, product designers prototyping concepts, jewelers working with metal composites, and anyone whose work demands material versatility and reliability.
Best 3D Pens for Kids (Safety Focus)
3Doodler Start+ Essentials
Reasons to Buy:
- Low-temperature nozzle completely safe to touch
- Uses eco-friendly PCL plastic (biodegradable)
- No hot parts, no burns, no burns—ever
- Wireless operation with rechargeable battery
- Simplified one-button control
- Designed specifically for ages 6+
- Educational lesson plans included
Reasons to Avoid:
- PCL plastic is softer and less durable than PLA
- Limited to a single material type
- Battery life only 45-60 minutes per charge
- Not suitable for detailed adult projects
The 3Doodler Start+ deserves recognition as the safest 3D pen on the market. Unlike adult pens that heat plastic to 180°C or higher, the Start+ uses PCL plastic that melts at just 60°C. This means the nozzle never gets hot enough to cause injury, even if a child touches it directly during use.
Parents will appreciate the thoughtful safety engineering throughout. There are no exposed heating elements, no sharp edges, and the pen automatically shuts off after several minutes of inactivity. The wireless design eliminates cord tangles and tripping hazards.
PCL plastic is biodegradable and non-toxic, addressing environmental and health concerns. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations: PCL creates softer, more flexible structures than PLA. Projects won’t have the rigid strength of adult creations, but for children’s art projects and learning activities, this is rarely an issue.
3Doodler includes educational materials aligned with STEAM curriculum standards, making this an excellent tool for both creative play and learning.
Best for: Children ages 6 and up, parents prioritizing absolute safety, educational settings and classrooms, young creators exploring 3D art for the first time.
MYNT3D Junior 2
Reasons to Buy:
- Uses safe low-temperature PCL plastic
- Wireless operation with 1-hour battery life
- One-button simplicity for young users
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- More affordable than 3Doodler Start+
- Includes silicone tip protector
Reasons to Avoid:
- Smaller filament capacity than competitors
- Basic feature set with no adjustments
- Fewer educational resources than 3Doodler
The MYNT3D Junior 2 offers a more affordable entry point into safe 3D pen creation for kids. Like the 3Doodler Start+, it uses low-temperature PCL plastic that won’t cause burns, but it comes in at a significantly lower price point.
The single-button operation couldn’t be simpler—press once to start extruding, press again to stop. There’s no speed control or temperature adjustment, which keeps things straightforward for younger users while limiting advanced capabilities as children grow.
In our testing with children ages 7-10, the lighter weight of the MYNT3D Junior 2 compared to the Start+ made it easier for smaller hands to control during longer creative sessions. The one-hour battery life proved adequate for typical play sessions.
Best for: Budget-conscious parents, younger children (ages 6-8) who might find heavier pens difficult, families wanting to try 3D pens without major investment.
Budget Pick: SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen
Reasons to Buy:
- Extremely affordable entry price
- Compatible with standard 1.75mm PLA and ABS
- Simple two-speed operation
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes filament samples to get started
- No-frills reliability
Reasons to Avoid:
- No temperature display or control
- Basic build quality
- Limited warranty and support
- Manual temperature adjustment via small dial
- Prone to jamming if not used correctly
The SCRIB3D P1 makes 3D pen technology accessible to anyone, regardless of budget. At a fraction of the cost of premium models, it delivers the core functionality: melting plastic and extruding it in three dimensions.
Expectations must be calibrated appropriately. You won’t find an OLED display, precise temperature control, or premium materials. What you get is a functional 3D pen that works with inexpensive, universally available filament.
In our testing, the P1 performed adequately for basic projects. The two-speed settings (slow and fast) handle most situations, though you’ll miss the granular control of higher-end models. We experienced occasional jamming when switching filament colors, but this is easily resolved by purging the nozzle properly—a skill any 3D pen user should learn.
The build quality reflects the price point. The plastic housing feels less substantial than metal-bodied competitors, and we question long-term durability with heavy use. However, for occasional hobbyists or those testing whether they enjoy 3D pen art before investing more, the P1 represents a reasonable calculated risk.
Best for: Extreme budget constraints, first-time users unsure about commitment, occasional crafters who won’t use the pen heavily, buyers who prefer to invest in filament rather than expensive hardware.
How to Choose the Best 3D Pen: A Buyer’s Guide for 2025
Selecting the right 3D pen requires understanding several key factors. This guide will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Filament Compatibility (PLA, ABS, PCL)
The type of plastic your pen uses fundamentally shapes what you can create:
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most beginner-friendly option. Made from renewable resources like corn starch, it’s biodegradable and low-odor. PLA melts at around 180-220°C and produces a slight sweet smell when heated. It’s ideal for detailed work because it cools and hardens quickly, allowing structures to maintain their shape. However, PLA is somewhat brittle and can break under stress. Best for: indoor decorations, models, detailed art pieces.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is the same plastic used in LEGO bricks. It requires higher temperatures (210-250°C) and produces a noticeable plastic smell during use—adequate ventilation is essential. ABS remains slightly flexible after cooling, making it more durable than PLA and better suited for functional objects. It’s also easier to sand and finish. The trade-off is that ABS can warp as it cools, making it trickier to work with on complex structures. Best for: durable items, objects that need flexibility, projects requiring post-processing.
PCL (Polycaprolactone) is the safety-first option used in children’s pens. Melting at just 60°C, it’s cool enough to be completely safe to touch. PCL is biodegradable and produces no fumes. However, it creates softer, more flexible structures that lack the rigidity of PLA or ABS. Best for: children’s projects, biodegradable art, safe educational environments.
Specialty Filaments (Wood, Metal, Flexible) are supported by professional-grade pens. These composites combine PLA with wood fibers, metal particles, or flexible polymers to create unique textures and properties. They require precise temperature control and are significantly more expensive than standard filament.
Temperature Control
Temperature control separates basic pens from versatile tools:
Digital OLED/LCD Displays show exactly what temperature you’re working at, making it easy to switch between materials and dial in the perfect setting for each. These displays typically also show your current speed setting. If you plan to work with multiple filament types or want precise control, a digital display is invaluable.
Fixed Temperature pens are optimized for a single material type (usually PLA). They’re simpler to use but limit your creative options. If you’re certain you’ll only ever use one type of filament, this simplicity can be an advantage.
Manual Adjustment via unmarked dials sits awkwardly between these extremes—you have some control but no precise feedback about your actual temperature. This design is common on budget pens and requires trial and error to find optimal settings.
Ergonomics & Design
Comfort matters enormously during extended creative sessions:
Weight Distribution affects control and fatigue. Pens weighing under 65 grams feel nimble and responsive, while heavier professional models (100+ grams) inspire confidence but can tire your hand during long sessions. Consider how long your typical projects take.
Grip Diameter varies significantly between models. Smaller grips (around 15mm) offer precision but can cramp hands during extended use. Larger grips (20mm+) are more comfortable but sacrifice some fine motor control.
Button Placement should feel natural. The best designs put controls exactly where your fingers rest, allowing you to adjust speed or start/stop extrusion without shifting your grip.
Corded vs. Cordless involves trade-offs. Corded pens provide unlimited runtime and consistent power but can tangle and limit movement. Cordless designs offer freedom but require regular charging and may have slightly less consistent performance as the battery drains.
Speed Settings
Extrusion speed dramatically impacts your creative process:
Variable Speed Control allows you to move slowly for intricate details and quickly to fill large areas. The best implementations use a slider or dial for infinite adjustment rather than fixed steps. Stepless control gives you precise command over your workflow.
Multi-Speed Settings (typically 3-8 preset speeds) offer a good middle ground. Low speeds (around 1-2 setting) work for detailed lines and text. Medium speeds handle general drawing. High speeds quickly fill backgrounds and large surfaces.
Single Speed pens force you to adapt your hand movement rather than adjusting the tool. While this can work, it’s unnecessarily limiting for most users.
Speed control becomes essential when working on projects with varying requirements—you’ll want slow precision for faces or text, then fast coverage for backgrounds.
Nozzle Technology
The nozzle is where the magic happens, and quality varies dramatically:
Anti-Clog Features like ceramic tips and enhanced airflow prevent frustrating jams. Budget pens often skimp here, leading to frequent clogs that interrupt creative flow. Premium models incorporate cooling systems and wider pathways to minimize issues.
Replaceable Nozzles extend your pen’s lifespan. Even with careful use, nozzles eventually wear out or become irreversibly clogged. Pens with standardized, replaceable tips can be maintained indefinitely, while integrated designs become disposable once the nozzle fails.
Nozzle Diameter (typically 0.6mm to 0.8mm) affects line thickness. Finer nozzles allow more detailed work but are more prone to clogging. Wider nozzles extrude faster but produce chunkier lines.
Power Source
Your working environment should influence this choice:
Wall-Powered Pens provide unlimited runtime and consistent performance. They’re ideal for studio work, extended projects, and situations where outlets are readily available. The cord is only a minor inconvenience when you have a dedicated workspace.
Rechargeable Battery Pens offer portability for outdoor sketching, travel, or working away from outlets. Typical battery life ranges from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on usage intensity. The freedom is wonderful until the battery dies mid-project.
USB-Powered Options provide a middle ground—you can use a power bank for portability or plug into a computer for unlimited runtime. However, USB power sometimes delivers less consistent heat than wall adapters, particularly with demanding materials like ABS.
Final Verdict: Which 3D Pen Should You Buy?
After extensive testing and comparison, our recommendations break down as follows:
For most users, the MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display represents the sweet spot of capability, quality, and value. Its combination of precise temperature control, wide filament compatibility, and professional features at a reasonable price makes it the best all-around choice. Whether you’re a serious hobbyist or an intermediate creator looking to elevate your work, this pen will serve you well for years.
If you’re a complete beginner, the 3Doodler Create+ remains unmatched for ease of use and the depth of learning resources available. Yes, you’ll pay more for proprietary filament, but the frustration-free experience and extensive project library justify the premium for newcomers.
For professional applications where material versatility is essential, the 3Doodler Pro+ stands alone. Its ability to work with metal, wood, and specialty composites opens creative possibilities impossible with consumer pens.
For children’s use, the 3Doodler Start+ Essentials sets the standard for safety without compromising creativity. The low-temperature technology provides genuine peace of mind for parents while delivering a satisfying creative experience for kids.
If budget is your primary concern, the SCRIB3D P1 offers a functional introduction to 3D pen technology at minimal cost, though be prepared for a more basic experience compared to premium models.
The 3D pen market has matured significantly, and 2025 brings exceptional options across all price points and use cases. Whichever pen you choose from our top picks, you’re investing in a creative tool that can bring your imagination into physical reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 3D pen worth it?
A 3D pen is worth it if you enjoy hands-on creative activities, want to add three-dimensional elements to art projects, or need a tool for quick prototyping. Unlike 3D printers that excel at reproducing digital designs, 3D pens shine for freehand creation, repair work, and adding dimension to existing objects. They’re relatively inexpensive, require no computer skills, and have a much shorter learning curve than 3D printing. However, if your goal is producing multiple identical objects or highly complex geometries, a 3D printer would be more appropriate.
What is the difference between PLA and ABS filament?
PLA and ABS differ in several important ways. PLA melts at lower temperatures (180-220°C), is made from renewable plant materials, produces minimal odor, and creates hard, brittle objects that work well for decorative pieces. ABS requires higher heat (210-250°C), is petroleum-based, produces a noticeable plastic smell requiring ventilation, and creates more flexible, durable objects suitable for functional items. PLA is easier for beginners because it cools quickly and maintains shape, while ABS is preferred when durability and the ability to sand or finish the piece matters more than ease of use.
Are 3D pens safe for children?
Standard 3D pens that use PLA or ABS operate at temperatures between 180-250°C, hot enough to cause burns. These should only be used by children old enough to understand and respect the heat danger, typically ages 12 and up with supervision. However, specialized children’s 3D pens like the 3Doodler Start+ and MYNT3D Junior 2 use low-temperature PCL plastic that melts at just 60°C. These pens have nozzles that are safe to touch and are genuinely appropriate for children as young as 6 years old. Always check what type of plastic a pen uses before giving it to a child.
How long does the filament last?
Filament consumption varies dramatically based on what you’re creating. A standard 10-meter strand of 3Doodler filament might last 15-20 minutes of continuous drawing, while a 50-gram spool of 1.75mm PLA provides approximately 17 meters of filament. Simple line drawings and delicate projects consume filament slowly, while filling large solid areas or creating chunky sculptural pieces uses it quickly. Most beginners are surprised by how fast filament disappears when creating their first projects. As a general guideline, budget for 5-10 grams of filament per hour for moderate use, with higher consumption for intensive projects. Buying filament in bulk multi-color packs significantly reduces cost per gram compared to individual spools.