TEVO Tornado Review - the Fully Assembled 3d printer

Overview

The TiVo Tornado is presented as an accessible entry point into the 3D printing world, especially noted for its appeal to those new to the technology. This pre-assembled printer boasts a design aimed at easing the initial learning curve encountered by novices. The review touches on various aspects of the unboxing experience, setup, and initial use, providing a comprehensive look at what new users can expect.

Unboxing and Assembly

Upon arrival, the product is reported to be meticulously packed, ensuring the printer's safety during transit. The robust packaging is a testament to the manufacturer's attention to detail and consideration for the end user's experience. Although the printer arrives mostly preassembled, the reviewer notes some confusion during the initial setup, particularly with attaching the heated bed due to somewhat lacking instructions. However, this hiccup is relatively minor as the assembly is intuitive enough to be figured out within a short period.

First Impressions and Usage

The TiVo Tornado's print surface impresses with its strong adhesion, although this feature also presents a slight learning curve in removing finished prints. The included metal spatula and a tip to ease removal by heating the bed are useful pointers for newcomers. Early printing attempts highlight the importance of leveling the bed properly and the potential for improvisation, such as creating a makeshift spool holder, showcasing the printer's flexibility. Furthermore, the initial challenges with filament loading and the auto-home feature's testing underscore the hands-on learning process inherent to 3D printing.

Community Support and Resources

Engagement with the TiVo Tornado's online community, particularly through platforms such as Facebook, is highly encouraged. The exchange of tips, trouble-shooting advice, and custom settings for slicing software like Cura enriches the user experience. This communal support is invaluable for newcomers, offering insight into optimizing printer settings and finding solutions to common issues.

Performance and Projects

Following the setup and initial learning phase, the printer's performance is noted to be reliable, with subsequent projects printing smoothly. This underscores the TiVo Tornado's capability as a solid performer in the realm of 3D printing once the user overcomes the initial learning curve. The ability to execute various projects without significant issues speaks to the printer's robust design and functionality.

Conclusion

The TiVo Tornado is portrayed as an excellent choice for those venturing into 3D printing for the first time. Despite some initial assembly and operational learning challenges, the product proves to be user-friendly and capable of producing quality prints. The supportive community and the ease with which one can start printing after overcoming the initial setup hurdles make the TiVo Tornado a commendable option for beginners. The reviewer's positive experience and anticipation for future projects reflect the printer's potential to inspire creativity and exploration within the realm of 3D printing.