Tevo Tornado Review

Overview of the Tevo Tornado 3D Printer

The Tevo Tornado has generated interest among the 3D printing community for its similarities with the well-known CR-10 printer, including design and construction aspects. It arrives almost completely assembled, with an all-aluminum frame and a substantial print surface of 300 x 300 x 400mm. The printer includes a single Z-lead screw for movement, a feature it shares with the CR-10, and a Titan clone extruder.

Unique Features and Design Choices

One of the more appreciated features of the Tevo Tornado is the included filament feeding mechanism, which facilitates easy loading of the filament. Additionally, the machine boasts a unique dual-color build surface offered in bright red and lime green, equipped with an adhesive backing for easy swaps. However, the pre-printed netting on the surface intended to indicate factory testing can be difficult to remove. The build surface’s strong adhesion properties, while beneficial for print stability, can make removing finished prints a challenge. Also, the Tornado comes with a full metal hot end and operates on a Bowden tube setup.

Performance and Usability Enhancements

The printer features an impressively fast-heating bed, a result of its AC heated bed, which significantly reduces the wait time for starting prints. This is a double-edged sword, however, as AC heating systems may present reliability concerns compared to DC options. The pre-tightened belts and overall sturdy construction contribute to the Tornado’s readiness out of the box, though the manufacturer's inclusion of simpler bed leveling knobs could significantly improve the user experience.

Encountered Challenges

Initial hurdles with the Tevo Tornado include difficulties with the power supply unit requiring replacements, troubles in leveling the print bed due to the design of the leveling screws, and occasional layer shifts during prints. Moreover, the included SD card's reliability was questionable, affecting the ability to start prints, though this was easily remedied with a replacement card.

Print Quality and Recommendation

Despite the outlined challenges, the Tevo Tornado is capable of producing high-quality prints once optimized and fine-tuned. Its capacity to achieve detailed prints rivals that of more established models in the market. However, when considering price and value, potential buyers might explore other options if the Tornado does not present a significantly better deal. While the printer stands as a commendable option for those able to secure it at a competitive price, alternatives like the CR-10S offer enhanced user-friendliness and potentially superior print quality for a slightly higher investment.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Tevo Tornado is a noteworthy contender in the budget 3D printer market, offering a blend of generous build volume, robust construction, and effective printing capabilities. Yet, given its quirks and the competitive landscape of 3D printers within similar price ranges, it may not be the first choice for everyone. Shoppers should weigh its features and challenges carefully against personal needs and other available options. As with any 3D printer, prospective users should be prepared for a learning curve and the potential need for troubleshooting and modifications.