A warm, beginner–friendly guide to dual extrusion: why it matters, top printer recommendations, calibration basics, and must–have tools for multi-material prints.
Best Dual Extruder 3D Printer
Ready to take your 3D printing game to the next level? Dual extruder machines let you print two colors or two materials in a single go. You can swap between PLA and PVA for easy supports. Or go wild with color blends. Today, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about picking the Best Dual Extruder 3D Printer as a total beginner.
Best Dual Extruder 3D Printer
Dual extruder printers have two nozzles that feed from separate filament spools. This means you can:
Combine flexible and rigid plastics in one model
Print water-soluble supports that wash away (PVA or HIPS)
Create two-tone or full-color prints without pausing your machine
Because you’re new, look for a machine with easy setup, clear instructions, and reliable customer support. Yikes, tangled filaments are frustrating. So we’ve chosen printers known for tangle-free spool mounts and sturdy extruder gearing.
Why Go Dual Extruder?
Most beginners start with a single nozzle. But dual extrusion unlocks creative freedom. And it solves the problem of supports. No more breaking fine details trying to pry off scaffolding. Use a soluble support material and watch it disappear in water. Cool, right?
But dual extrusion can feel complex at first. You need to calibrate two nozzles so they align perfectly. (That alignment step can be awkward on your first try!) So choose a printer with auto-bed leveling and simple calibration wizards.
Top Picks for Beginners
Here are three friendly machines that won’t overwhelm you:
Snapmaker J1s 3D Printer, IDEX
Price: $1100
Why we love it: Independent dual extruders (IDEX) means you can mirror or duplicate prints without extra setup.
Features: Auto-bed leveling, touchscreen, modular tool heads for laser engraving and CNC.
Quick tip: Use mirror mode to print two identical parts at once. Saves time for batch prints.
