Author: Cody Dover

  • Best 3D Pens For Printing – Top 5 Picks To Consider

    Best 3D Pens For Printing – Top 5 Picks To Consider

    a girl using a 3d pens

    In the past few years, there has been a rise in consumer 3D printing, and one of the best and easiest ways to get into the 3D printing hobby is with a 3D pen. A 3D pen is a pen that is able to print in three dimensions. You can imagine the world as your canvas as you design objects with this type of product. Unlike 3D printers, 3D pens allow for freehand design, so there is no need for any knowledge of 3D modeling software when getting started. This type of pen works similarly to a glue gun; however, instead of sticks of glue, these pens use colored sticks of plastic, and the pen has a much smaller tip. When using the pen, you simply “draw” and allow your sculptures to stand freely on their own.

    ​Table of Comparison

    [amazon box=”B07L73K351, B0796HK3RK, B079FS4W2R, B07F18LJWT, B07JZCLZKK” template=”table”]

    Product FAQs

    What Is a 3D Pen?

    ​What Does a 3D Pen Do?

    ​How Does It Work?

    ​Where Can You Buy It?

    ​How Much Does It Cost?

    ​How We Reviewed

    It is our belief that accurate and honest information should be provided to our readers, and as result, we want you to understand our review process. In our reviews, we begin by searching all across the internet for product data and technical information about these products, and we extensively consider feedback from users who already own them. Then, we compare this data, which helps us to get a clear view of all angles of a product in order to present an accurate view for those who are interested in purchasing.

    ​Overall Price Range

    Most of the 3D pens that are presented in this article range from $40 to $60 in cost.

    ​Best 3D Pens

    [amazon box=”B07L73K351″]

    ​Features

    ​The Kimitech 3D Pen has adjustable temperature and speed settings so that the device can be customized to your needs and to the type of plastic filament that you are using with it, with preset modes for PCL filament and PLA filament. The LCD display screen is also clearly legible with the temperature, speed, and filament shown. Additionally, the Kimitech is compatible with PCL and PLA plastics only, which are non-toxic and odorless, making this 3D pen a perfect item for young creatives. It is designed with an ergonomic grip, making the pen easy to hold while in use.

    ​warranty

    ​This 3D pen includes a 1-year limited warranty.

    ​pros and cons

    PROS

    • PCL and PLA plastic compatibility ensures child safety, and eliminates health risk from melting plastic fumes
    • Ergonomic grip makes long doodling sessions hassle free
    • Adjustable temperature and speed

    CONS

    • Although much more environmentally friendly, PCL and PLA plastics take longer to cool than ABS plastic

    [amazon box=”B0796HK3RK”]

    ​Features

    ​The 3D Pen by 3D Pentastic is a great pen for both children and adults that can help to grow your imagination and help you to practice a creative hobby. While the 3D Pentastic is only compatible with PCL filament, like PLA plastic, it is nontoxic with no fumes, and it’s eco-friendly as well. As PCL filament has a low melting temperature, the pen only heats to 85 degrees while others heat to over 100 degrees. The low heat and compatibility with only nontoxic filament make this device great for children.

    ​warranty

    ​This 3D pen includes a 1-year limited warranty.

    ​pros and cons

    PROS

    • Low temperature and non-toxic filament
    • Fosters creativity in children
    • PCL filament will not clog the pen

    CONS

    • Only compatible with PCL filament

    [amazon box=”B079FS4W2R”]

    ​Features

    ​The Vallerton 3D Pen for Kids is a printing pen that lets your child draw in three dimensions. The premium pen has a metal body and metal buttons with an extra-long nozzle. The Vallerton 3D Pen only weighs 55 grams, which means that you can use it for longer, as it will not cause fatigue in your hand. This pen is compatible with PLA and ABS filament.

    ​warranty

    ​This pen is included under a 30-days unconditional full refund policy.

    ​pros and cons

    PROS

    • Compatible with both PLA and ABS filament
    • Great activity for parents and their children
    • Quality build material

    CONS

    • The charger included is fairly short in length

    [amazon box=”B07F18LJWT”]

    ​Features

    ​The ​MKOEM Robotics Full-Metal Premium 3D Pen is of a high-quality design and allows you to bring objects from your imagination to life. The pen allows adjusting of flow speed of your filament to fit your personal preference, and a temperature adjustment option is available as well. The OLED is easily legible and lets you monitor the flow speed and temperature of the material. Additionally, the kit includes two colors of plastic filament so that you can start creating right away.

    ​warranty

    ​With the purchase of this pen is include 1-year manufacturer warranty.

    ​pros and cons

    PROS

    • Adjustable temperature and material flow controls
    • Bright OLED display
    • This kit includes two colors of PLA plastic filament that lets you get started immediately

    CONS

    • While it is great for detailing, some users have noted the fineness of extruded filament is difficult to work with.

    [amazon box=”B07JZCLZKK”]

    ​Features

    ​The BeTIM 3D Pen set includes 20 packs of colored filament so that you can get started as soon as you open it. The pen is not hot to the touch, and it is light enough that even children will feel comfortable holding and using it. The single button control makes this pen perfect for both left-handed and right-handed creatives. This kit also includes a stencil book with 20 different templates that make learning to use the BeTIM 3D Pen Set easy and fun.

    ​warranty

    ​The BeTIM 3D Pen has a 1-year warranty.

    ​pros and cons

    PROS

    • Includes 20 different filaments and stencils along with the 3D pen
    • The pen body is not hot to the touch, and the heated nozzle is guarded with finger guards for use by children
    • The BeTIM 3D Pen is compatible with both PLA and PCL filament

    CONS

    • ​Not available

    ​Buyer’s Guide

    different colorful best 3d pens

    Image Via Flickr

    If you are interested in getting started in the 3D printing hobby, 3D pens are great devices with which you can dip your toe and gauge interest before springing for a full-fledged 3D printer. There is a lot of information to take in for newcomers, but if you follow these few tips in our buyer’s guide, your purchase of a 3D pen will be smooth and painless.

    • Make a budget for yourself. While most 3D pens are relatively inexpensive, setting a threshold for your purchase can help narrow down your options to find the perfect 3D pen for you.
    • Find features that you want, and features that you don’t. If there are features in the 3D pen that you don’t believe are necessary for your uses, this can further help you to narrow down the choices of 3D pens. Additionally, eliminating models that include features that you find superfluous can keep your cost low.
    • Seek feedback from customers who have already purchased the 3D pen. Read both positive and negative reviews left by people who already own the product. This can help you to gain a balanced viewpoint and a clear understanding of how you might like the product.
    • If you are new to the hobby, be sure to remember that you need filament for the 3D pen to be fully operable. Some 3D Pen kits include multiple filaments in a bundle that allow you to start doodling in three dimensions right away. Keep this in mind when purchasing, as you may need to purchase filaments separately.

    ​The Verdict

    person holding the best 3d pens

    Image Via Flickr

    After our thorough research, we have concluded that the Kimitech 3D Pen, 3D Pen by 3D Pentastic, Vellerton 3D Pen, ​​MKOEM Robotics Full-Metal Premium 3D Pen, and the BeTIM 3D Pen Set, are the best 3D pens. All of these pens are compatible with environmentally friendly biodegradable plastics and are designed specifically for use by both adults and children. If you are interested in the 3D printing hobby, but have no experience with advanced 3D modeling software, a 3D pen is the perfect place to start. With it, you will be able to bring your imagination to life with freehanded designs. Creating small toys and objects can also be a wonderful activity for bonding with your children, and designing miniature plastic sculptures can function as a fantastic creative outlet and hobby.

  • Action Camera 4k+ Review: EKEN Alfawise V50

    Action Camera 4k+ Review: EKEN Alfawise V50


    Action Camera 4k+ review: EKEN Alfawise V50


    eken alfawise action camera

    When you decide to buy an action camera, everyone’s first move is to look at the latest GoPro cameras. While they are great pieces of technology, they come with a very large price tag. I decided to see if I could get similar performance from a much cheaper option. That’s why I chose the EKEN Alfawise V50 Action Camera 4k+.  

    Are Gopros Worth it?

    I have asked myself this question hundreds of times. Should I spend several hundred dollars on an action camera? Especially when there are other models for significantly less? For most people the answer is no, and that is even more true after I tried out this action camera 4k+ from EKEN Alfawise.

    eken alfawise camera on stand

    Action Camera 4k+: Specifications

    At first glance the specs are not all that different. Here are some of the features from the Alfawise V50.

    Stunning ultra 4K video and 12MP photos in single, burst and time-lapse modes

    ● Durable by design, waterproof to 30m with a housing

    ● Preview and playback your shots, change settings and trim your footage, all on your action camera

    ● 170-degree wide angle fish-eye lens

    ● WiFi control design, you can remote control it

    ● Mini size, easy to carry and use

    ● 2-inch HD screen, lightweight and convenient

    ● Power supply: 1050mAh lithium battery ( included )

    ● External memory: 16 – 32GB TF card, UHS-3 or above ( not included )

    ● A 2.4G remote controller and a USB charging cable are included

    I was pleasantly surprised by all of the accessories and items that came with this camera. For this price point, having wifi capabilities is incredible. I had no issues with the remote or wifi setup and it all worked flawlessly.

    There were also several different mounts and attachments that came with it. You would have no issue connecting it to your helmet or bike right out of the box.

    This camera also has a small LCD screen on the back to navigate the menu options which I was very happy with. Some of the much more expensive action cameras on the market don’t even have that.

    Like most higher end action cameras this one also has a Lithium Ion rechargeable battery that come with it. You’ll want to buy a few extras and keep them on hand so you’re always ready to swap one out. This way you’ll never have to worry about missing that crucial shot when you’re out in the field.

    top of eken alfawise action camera

    Action Camera 4k+: Video Quality for EKEN Alfawise V50

    Here is what really matters. I was also surprised by the video quality of this action camera 4k+ . It is not the sharpest or clearest image, but it is easily good enough for most people. It was easy to see and watch back, even on the small screen.

    Is this the best video quality in an action camera 4k+ ? No, definitely not. But for almost anyone buying an action camera I think it will do just fine. If you are going on a family vacation or a trip and you need an action camera, or you want to experiment filming some of your hobbies, this camera will work great. You can also read our other reviews on more EKEN action camera 4k+

    The two biggest downsides to the video quality were the color and the stabilization. While the quality was fine, the one area it could improve is color. It’s not as bright as some other cameras, but for the price point I was thrilled.

    It also does not seem to have any stabilization, or if it does it doesn’t work extremely well. When I had this mounted on the handlebars of my motorcycle it seemed to shake quite a bit. Now, obviously any footage from that location is going to be shaky, I just think that some of the higher end cameras stabilize the footage better. Again, for the price I was thrilled.

    waterproof case
    EKEN Alfawise V50 4k+

    Action Camera 4k+: Should you buy the EKEN Alfawise V50

    Yes. I think this is a great camera that most people should purchase. I own GoPros and I own cheap action cameras and I still think this is absolutely worth purchasing. It may not be the absolute best camera out there, but for the value it is, you can’t go wrong.

    When you are deciding on what best value action camera, or expensive action camera to purchase, you cannot just compare the features. You have to compare what you get for the amount you spend. With this camera being so affordable, the performance is more that I could ask for. If you need more help deciding which action camera 4k+ is best for you, we have more reviews for you to check out here

    I think that this action camera 4k+ would be useful to any level of user. If you record a ton of action sports and usually use GoPros to get the best possible footage, then this camera would be a great “B” camera or backup. It would work great as a camera to use for filming things that risk the loss of equipment. You won’t have to worry about losing a $400 camera.

    If you are a beginner with action cameras and just want to test them out to see if you want to use them more in the future, then this camera is also perfect for you. It is a very cheap action camera that will do anything you need it to at an entry level price.

    packaging and unboxing EKEN Alfawise V50 4k+

    Action Camera 4k+: EKEN Alfawise V50 Conclusion

    The EKEN Alfawise V50 action camera 4k+ is a great entry level action camera or backup camera. You won’t beat it’s performance for the price and I would not hesitate to buy more of them in the future. The amount of accessories allow you to use it directly out of the box and start to record your awesome adventures.

    For more articles on any action camera 4k+, you can read them here.

    If you are in search of more information on only the EKEN action camera 4k+ series, you can also check that out here.