Creality Ender 3 Pro Review: Still good in 2021?

Overview

The Ender 3 Pro, an upgraded version of the popular Ender 3, has been introduced with key improvements aiming at providing both beginners and experienced hobbyists with a more enhanced 3D printing experience. This upgraded model boasts significant enhancements designed to improve precision and overall printer performance. Through a detailed examination, this review explores whether the Ender 3 Pro truly lives up to the expectations set by its predecessor.

Assembly

First impressions reveal that the Ender 3 Pro arrives securely packaged, with all components nestled in high-density foam, indicating thoughtful consideration towards protective shipping. However, the assembly process presents a somewhat challenging start. The printed instructions accompanying the printer lack clarity, with illustrations that could lead to potential misinterpretation, particularly concerning the identification and correct assembly of various parts. As such, a fair amount of time and attention is required to ensure accurate assembly, as errors at this stage could adversely affect printing capabilities later on.

Included Accessories

Along with the printer, purchasers can expect to find an array of accessories aimed at providing a complete setup experience right out of the box. These include a scraper, filament cutters, a micro SD card with USB adapter, spare parts, hex wrenches, and a sample of filament. Such inclusivity facilitates a relatively quick transition from assembly to initiation of printing projects.

Initial Use and Print Quality

Upon completing assembly and initial setup, the Ender 3 Pro demonstrates impressive print quality capabilities. Even at slower print speeds, the printer manages to produce high-quality prints with considerable detail and accuracy, highlighted by a successful series of test prints ranging from standard models to more challenging benchmarks. Notably, the printer exhibits proficiency in handling various printing tasks, including the use of flexible TPU filament, which is a notable accomplishment for a printer in this category.

Key Enhancements

The Ender 3 Pro distinguishes itself from the base Ender 3 model through several key upgrades. These include an improved power supply for safer and quieter operation, a more robust Y-axis rail that contributes to a more stable and precise printing experience, and a magnetic flexible build surface that enhances print adhesion while simplifying print removal. These features collectively address some of the inherent limitations observed in the previous model and enhance the user experience significantly.

Pros and Cons

The Ender 3 Pro's strong suit includes its capability to produce high-quality prints across a variety of projects and materials without the need for immediate upgrades or extensive tinkering post-assembly. The magnetic flexible build surface, in particular, is a standout feature that eases the removal of completed prints. On the downside, the assembly process may pose a challenge due to less-than-clear instructions, a common trade-off for more budget-friendly 3D printers that require self-assembly.

Conclusion

The Ender 3 Pro successfully builds upon the foundation of the beloved Ender 3, offering improvements that cater to both novices and seasoned hobbyists. Despite the initial assembly hurdle, the printer stands out as a reliable, precise, and versatile tool for 3D printing. With its commendable print quality and thoughtful upgrades, the Ender 3 Pro affirmatively answers the call for an accessible yet performance-oriented 3D printer. It represents a value-packed option for those willing to navigate the initial setup for a rewarding printing experience thereafter.