This is a reprint of a post from forum.makewithtech.com.
I think the most critical factor in selecting a 3d printer is the size of the community of users and the availability of parts. I have used many different 3d printers, done many printer modifications, and keep returning to two brands that I find cost-effective with good communities and good part availability. Creality and FLSUN. Unfortunately, since Creality has so many different machines, you have to be careful. Some are excellent. Some are overpriced and perform poorly.
IDEX printers are excellent in principle but tricky to align and support. So I would only recommend them if you have a specific need.
Right now, the printers I use the most is Ender 3 S1 Pro (for high quality and higher temperatures) and a FLSUN Super Racer for fast prints.
Cura and PrusaSlicers' latest version has created a new dynamic for selecting 3d printers. The Arachne variable line width engine focuses on extruder accuracy and flow control. In my opinion, this makes a direct extruder which by design has less "slop" in the system, a new requirement. Additionally, with new, much smaller direct extruders, the advantages of Bowden configurations are minimized.
In the Creality line, this pushes you towards an Ender 3 S1 since the Ender 3 Ero, a solid printer, is a Bowden configuration if you need the very best quality.
I have multiple lower prices direct extruder printers I will be reviewing in the next few months to see if there is a better entry point for people new to the hobby.
P.S. Yes, the FLSUN Super Racer is a Bowden still of the printer, but I use it for SPEED not for quality. For quality, I use the Ender 3 S1 Pro.
