Or Why You Might Want to Skip the Hassle

Thinking about getting a 3D printer for beginners? It’s a fun and empowering journey — but it also comes with a steep learning curve and a surprising number of downsides. Before you commit to buying a machine, here’s what many beginners discover once the excitement wears off.

😵‍💫 It’s Not Just Plug and Print

Even the most beginner-friendly 3D printers require you to learn quite a bit. You’ll need to understand:

• How to slice your 3D models correctly
• When and where to add support structures
• What infill patterns and percentages to use
• The trade-offs between speed and print quality
• Bed leveling, adhesion, and nozzle temperature settings

It’s not impossible — but if you just want your part printed, you’re suddenly deep in a world of trial and error.

🔊 Noise and Space: The Hidden Killers

3D printers are surprisingly noisy. That subtle hum becomes a real nuisance when:

• You’re taking Zoom calls from the same room
• You or your kids are trying to sleep nearby
• You’re in an HDB or condo and neighbors can hear it through the wall

Prints also take time — many parts need hours or even overnight to finish. That means continuous noise, often when you’re trying to rest.

Plus, printers take up physical space — and not everyone has a spare desk or workshop corner to dedicate to a single machine.

💸 Cost Adds Up — Fast

Beginner printers might seem affordable, but total costs quickly rise:

• Quality printers = $300–$700+
• Filament = $25–$50 per spool
• Failed prints = wasted time and material
• Wear and tear = belts, nozzles, heat beds need replacing
• Filament spoils if not stored properly (yes, even in humid Singapore)

You’ll also need to maintain your printer regularly. Without upkeep, even beginner models become unreliable.

💡 Kalukan: The Beginner-Friendly Way to 3D Print

If you’re interested in the results of 3D printing — not the hassle — Kalukan is a smarter way to get started.

For just $59/month, Kalukan gives you:

• Unlimited 3D printing (within fair use)
• No setup, no tuning, no failures
• Islandwide delivery across Singapore
• Access to professional 3D design help (quoted separately)
• A 7-day free trial — cancel anytime

You just upload your files. We slice, print, and deliver. No noise, no mess, no downtime.

🚀 Try Kalukan Free

Still curious about 3D printing? Skip the hard part and experience what great 3D printing feels like first. Try Kalukan with a 7-day free trial and get your first jobs printed — no printer required.

👉 Start Your Free Trial at kalukan.com/onboarding