Best Filament Dryers for 3D Printing

Imagine this: you’re all set up for 3D printing, your filament spool is loaded, and the print job starts. Everything seems fine until you notice weird things happening—like bubbles, stringing, or blobs on your print. Your perfect print is ruined, and you have no idea why.

More often than not, the culprit is moisture in your filament. You may not have realized it, but filament absorbs moisture from the air, especially if you live in a humid environment. Once that moisture gets into your filament, it can cause all sorts of problems when you try to print. But don’t worry! This is where filament dryers come in. They’re designed to remove moisture from your filament and get you back to printing without the frustration.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about filament dryers, why you might need one, and how they can save your prints. Plus, we’ll look at the top filament dryers available right now to help you choose the best one for your 3D printing setup.

Let’s get started!

Why Does Filament Absorb Moisture?

Before we get into the details of filament dryers, let’s first understand why filament absorbs moisture. Most 3D printing filaments are made of thermoplastic materials like PLA, ABS, TPU, and nylon. These materials are hygroscopic, meaning they can absorb water from the air over time. The amount of moisture they absorb depends on the humidity of the environment where the filament is stored. For example, if you live in a coastal or rainy area, your filament will absorb moisture much faster than if you live in a dry region.

Once moisture gets into your filament, trouble starts. When the filament is heated in your 3D printer’s extruder, the water inside the filament turns into steam. This steam causes air bubbles in the filament, resulting in poor print quality. The results? Your print may look stringy, bubbly, weak, and just plain bad. The surface may feel rough, and parts may not fit together properly.

But it doesn’t stop there—filament that has absorbed moisture can also cause nozzle clogs and more frustration. And over time wet filament becomes more brittle and more likely to snap while feeding into the printer.

How Can You Tell If Your Filament is Wet?

You can’t tell if your filament is wet just by looking at it. Wet filament doesn’t feel damp to the touch, and the spool doesn’t look any different. But there are some telltale signs to watch for while printing:

1. Popping or sizzling sounds: As the moisture turns to steam in the hotend, you’ll hear little pops.
2. Stringing: Thin unwanted strands appear between parts of the print.
3. Bubbles and blobs: You’ll see bubbles forming in the print and blobby imperfections.
4. Weak layers: If your print doesn’t feel as strong or flexible as it should be, moisture could be the problem.
5. Cloudy filament: Transparent filaments will become cloudy if they absorb too much moisture.

What’s a Filament Dryer?

A filament dryer is a simple but super useful tool that removes moisture from your 3D printing filament. Wet filament can cause all sorts of problems, like weak prints, bubbles, or stringing, and a dryer fixes that by gently heating the filament in a safe, controlled environment. This evaporates the moisture without damaging the filament.

What makes filament dryers better than DIY methods like using an oven is that they are built for this job. They provide consistent heat and make sure all parts of the filament are dry. Some dryers can even dry and print at the same time, feeding the filament straight into your printer while keeping it dry. So, you can print without worrying about moisture ruining your work.

Airflow is a key feature of these dryers. Many dryers have 360° air circulation or built-in fans that make sure the heat is evenly distributed across the filament. This prevents uneven drying, which could still cause printing problems. Instead of just heating from one side like an oven would, these dryers make sure every bit of the filament is treated.

Some advanced filament dryers also have real-time monitoring, showing you the current temperature and humidity on a simple screen. This lets you watch the drying process and adjust if needed. Many also have preset modes for different materials like PLA, ABS, or nylon, so you don’t have to figure out the best drying temperature yourself.

It’s already programmed for you!

Can You Dry Filament Without a Filament Dryer?

Yes, you can dry filament with a regular oven or a food dehydrator. But there are risks. Ovens, especially cooking ovens, don’t have precise temperature control, so you might end up with uneven drying or, worse, melted filament. A temperature that’s too high can soften or ruin your spool.

If you want to try drying filament at home, here’s a common method:

1. Set your oven to low (40°C to 70°C depending on your filament type).
2. Let the oven preheat and stabilize at the right temperature.
3. Put the filament spool in the oven and let it dry for 4-6 hours.

But this method isn’t foolproof. It’s time-consuming, and without a thermometer, you won’t know if your oven’s temperature is accurate. That’s why many people use a filament dryer—it’s easier, safer, and more reliable.

The Best Filament Dryers for 3D Printing

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into some of the top filament dryers on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced 3D printer, there’s a dryer for every need and budget. Here are some of the best out there, along with their features and benefits.

1. Kingroon 3D Filament Dry Box

The Kingroon 3D Filament Dry Box is a budget-friendly way to keep your 3D printing filament dry without breaking the bank. Priced at $59.00 (regularly $69.00), this dryer is perfect for those who want to maintain filament quality and avoid moisture-related print issues. Despite being affordable, the Kingroon Dry Box has some useful features, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced users.

One of the standout features of the Kingroon Filament Dry Box is its baking performance. With a built-in ball fan, the heat is distributed evenly, so the filament dries fast and consistently. The arc-shaped bottom structure creates a constant temperature, so the drying is efficient. The box can heat up to 68°C, so it’s suitable for a wide range of filament types, from PLA and ABS to more advanced materials like PETG, TPU, and nylon.

The adjustable temperature controls give you flexibility with 3 temperature levels from 50°C to 68°C, so you can fine-tune the drying process based on your filament’s needs. For added convenience, it has a timer setting so you can set the drying time from 1 to 24 hours. Once the timer is up, the box will automatically switch to standby mode, so it’s safe.

The Kingroon Filament Dry Box also has broader compatibility. It has a has a maximum box size of φ200*73mm, and is compatible with filament diameters of 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm. You can use it with various consumables like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and even more specialized materials like ePA-CF, ePA-GF, and PC.

Here’s the specs:

Features:

• Holds one spool of filament
• Temp: 50-68°C
• Built-in ball fan: for even heating and faster drying
• 3 temperature settings: for different filaments
• Timer: 1-24 hours, auto standby
• 360° surround heating: for even drying of filament
• Compatible with: 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm diameters
• Broader filament compatibility: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU-95A, PVA, and more
• Product size: 248x125x242mm
• Price: $59.00

It’s a reliable, user-friendly option that will help you get consistent, high-quality prints without the hassle of moisture interfering with your filament.

Buy the Kingroon Filament Dry Box Here

2. Sovol SH02 Filament Dryer

The Sovol SH02 Filament Dryer is the perfect solution to keep your 3D printing filament in top shape without breaking the bank. It can hold 2 spools at the same time, great for users who switch between materials or have multiple 3D printers.

With 150W 360° PTC surround heating, the filament is heated evenly from all sides. It can reach 70°C in 25 minutes, perfect for drying PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and even moisture-sensitive materials like nylon.

For easy use, the Sovol SH02 has a 3.9-inch LCD touch screen that shows real-time temperature and humidity inside the dryer. One-touch settings allow you to select the right temperature for different filament types, from 40°C to 70°C. It also has triple rings for better sealing, so no moisture can get in during the drying process.

Key Features:

• Holds 2 spools (200 mm for 2 rolls or 2001 mm for 1 roll).
• Reaches 70°C in 25 minutes
• 360° PTC surround heating for even drying
• 150W power for faster heating
• 9-inch LCD touch screen for easy operation and real-time monitoring
• Adjustable temperature from 40°C to 70°C
• Triple sealing system: outlet, middle, and bottom seals to keep moisture out
• Supports filament diameters of 1.75mm and 2.85mm.
• Preset options for different filament types like PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS, ASA, PVA, PC, PA, and PP
• Automatic temperature and humidity control for safe and consistent operation
• Price: $69 (on sale from $99.99)

The Sovol SH02 allows you to print while drying, feeding the filament directly into your 3D printer during the drying process, which helps avoid reabsorption of moisture. With its quick heating and efficient moisture protection, this dryer ensures that your filament stays in the best condition, helping you achieve high-quality prints every time.

Buy the Sovol SH02 Here

3. SUNLU FilaDryer S2

The SUNLU FilaDryer S2 is a super popular and affordable way to keep your 3D printing filament dry; it’s small enough to fit in most places. It’s reliable and efficient, so it’s the top choice for anyone who wants to improve their print quality and avoid moisture issues.

The S2 filament dryer has 360° surround heating, so heat is distributed evenly across the entire filament spool. This even heating eliminates common problems like stringing, bubbling, and clogging. It has a 4.6-inch large touch screen; you can adjust temperature and time settings easily. You can also switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit with one tap, and it has one-click presets for different filament types like PLA, ABS, PETG, and more.

One of the best features of the SUNLU S2 is that it supports printing while drying. The filament feeds directly from the dryer into the printer, so the filament stays dry during the printing process. This saves time and prevents moisture from getting back into the filament mid-print.

Key Features:

• Holds one spool of filament
• 360° surround heating for even drying
• Max temperature: 70°C
• 6-inch touch screen for easy control and real-time monitoring of temperature and drying time
• One-touch presets for different filament types (PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, etc.)
• Quiet operation under 10 dB
• Filament feed system for printing while drying
• 75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm filament diameter
• Compatible with various filaments, including PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG, nylon, and more.
• Price: $64.99 (was $116.99)

This dryer not only enhances your printing results by keeping filaments dry but also saves time and frustration by offering an efficient drying and printing solution. Its compact design, low noise level, and easy-to-use features make it an excellent addition to any 3D printer setup.

Buy the SUNLU FilaDryer S2 Here

4. Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer

Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer is a good quality and reliable dryer for drying moisture-sensitive filaments like Nylon and TPU, as Creality is known for producing durable 3D printers. This dryer is designed to work best by using a 110W PTC heating system for fast and even heating of filament. Max temperature is 75°C and can handle various types of filaments, including high-performance materials.

One of the best features of Creality Space Pi is the 360° hot-air circulation system, which ensures the filament is heated evenly and prevents common issues like clogging and stringing caused by uneven drying. The built-in fan circulates hot air evenly, removes moisture, and improves the print quality.

Unlike other models, Creality Space Pi has a 3.7-inch LCD touch screen, making it easy to use. The screen allows you to adjust temperature from 45°C to 70°C and monitor real-time humidity and temperature. The dryer also has one-key presets for 12 types of filaments; you can dry various filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, etc.

This dryer is compatible with 99% of FDM 3D printer filaments and supports 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm filament diameters, suitable for almost all standard filaments and brands. It also has a filament feed system for printing while drying, so the filament won’t get moisture during long print jobs.

Key Features:

• PTC 360° Hot-air Heating with built-in fan for fast and even drying
• Max temperature: 70°C
• 7-inch touch screen for easy operation; show real-time temperature and humidity
• One-key presets for 12 types of filaments, including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, PP, PA, PC, ASA, PET, PLA-CF, PETG-CF, PA-CF, and more
• 75mm and 2.85mm filament diameter
• Real-time monitoring of humidity and temperature
• Quiet and energy-saving design
• Filament feed system for printing while drying
• Heating time: 0-48h
• Price: $62.99

This dryer is a great option for anyone looking to improve print quality by eliminating moisture from their filament. It's ideal for both beginners and experienced users who regularly work with more advanced materials.

Buy the Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Here

5. SUNLU FilaDryer S4

The SUNLU FilaDryer S4 is a big, high-capacity filament dryer for users with multiple 3D printers or print farms that need to dry multiple spools at once. It can dry up to 4 1 kg spools at the same time, perfect for those who want to increase efficiency and streamline their workflow. Big capacity and powerful drying system to dry moisture-sensitive filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, PC, and Nylon.

The FilaDryer S4 has a 300W PTC heater and triple fan system, fast and even heating. It can reach 50°C in 30 minutes, making it one of the fastest filament dryers on the market. Fast heating and 360° hot air circulation to dry filaments evenly prevent common printing problems like clogging, stringing, or weak layers caused by moisture.

One of the best features of the S4 is the 8 filament feed holes; you can print from multiple spools while drying from different angles. Perfect for those who have multiple printers, the dryer feeds dried filament directly to the printers, ensuring consistent print quality.

The SUNLU S4 comes with a pre-set temperature for different filaments, which is user-friendly and convenient. With a big 4.6-inch LCD touch screen, you can monitor and control the drying process, real-time temperature, and humidity. Adjustable humidity to keep the inside of the dryer at the correct moisture level, extra protection for your filaments.

Key Features:

• Holds up to 4 1 kg spools of filament at once.
• Max temperature: 70°C
• 300W PTC heater with triple fan system for fast and even drying
• Reach 50°C in 30 minutes (up to 70°C).
• 8 filament feed holes for multi-printer setup, dry and print at the same time from different angles.
• Pre-set temperature for different filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, PA, and PC
• 6-inch LCD touch screen for easy monitoring and control
• Adjustable humidity to keep the inside of the dryer at the correct moisture level
• Support 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm filaments
• Price: $179.99

The SUNLU FilaDryer S4 offers unparalleled efficiency and versatility, making it a perfect choice for professional setups or hobbyists who want to keep their filaments in top condition while managing multiple print jobs at once.

Buy the SUNLU FilaDryer S4 Here

FAQs

1. What is a filament dryer, and why do I need one?

A filament dryer is a device that removes moisture from your 3D printing filament. Filament absorbs moisture from the air, which can cause stringing, bubbles, or weak prints. A dryer gently heats the filament and evaporates the moisture to improve print quality and prevent nozzle clogs and weak layer adhesion. If you want consistent and good prints, especially in humid environments, a filament dryer is a must-have.

2. How does a filament dryer work?

Filament dryers heat the filament in a controlled environment, usually with the help of airflow systems or fans to evenly distribute the heat. The moisture evaporates, and the filament becomes dry again. Some dryers can also feed filament directly into your printer while drying so your filament stays moisture-free throughout the entire printing process.

3. Can I dry filament without a dedicated dryer?

Yes, you can dry filament in a regular oven or a food dehydrator, but it’s risky. Ovens may not have precise temperature control and could melt the filament if the heat gets too high. A filament dryer is designed to dry filament safely and evenly without the risk of overheating or damaging the material.

4. How can I tell if my filament is wet?

You can’t tell if filament is wet by looking at it, but you may notice some signs during printing. These are popping or sizzling sounds, stringing between parts, bubbles or blobs in the print, weak layers, or cloudy filament. If you notice any of these signs, your filament has likely absorbed moisture.

5. Can I print while drying filament?

Yes, many filament dryers like the SUNLU FilaDryer S2 and Creality Space Pi allow you to print while drying the filament. The filament is fed directly from the dryer into the printer, so your filament stays moisture-free throughout the entire print process. This is especially useful for long or multiday prints.

6. Are filament dryers compatible with all filament types?

Most filament dryers, like the Sovol SH02 and SUNLU FilaDryer S4, support a wide range of filament types, including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and Nylon. They also support multiple filament diameters like 1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3.00mm. Always check the dryer’s specifications to make sure it supports your filament type.

7. What are the best filament dryers available right now?

There are many great filament dryers out there, each with their own features to suit different needs and budgets:

Kingroon 3D Filament Dry Box: A cheap one that holds 1 spool and goes up to 68°C.

Fixdy NT1: Has a 110W PTC heater and holds 2 spools with adjustable temperature.

Sovol SH02: Dries 2 spools at once with 360° heating and a nice LCD touch screen.

SUNLU FilaDryer S2: Compact, cheap, and reliable with 360° heating and real-time temperature control.

Creality Space Pi: Known for its good build and compatibility with moisture-sensitive filaments like nylon and TPU.

8. Do filament dryers use a lot of energy?

Most filament dryers are energy efficient. For example, the Creality Space Pi and SUNLU FilaDryer S4 use PTC heating technology, which is energy-saving and eco-friendly. They heat up fast and maintain consistent temperatures, so you don’t use too much power.

9. How much do filament dryers cost?

Filament dryer prices vary depending on their features and capacity. Cheap ones like Kingroon Filament Dry Box are around $59, while more advanced ones like SUNLU FilaDryer S4 are up to $179. There’s one for every budget, and even the cheaper ones are good enough for most 3D printing setups.

So, Do You Really Need a Filament Dryer?

If you’re serious about 3D printing and don’t want to deal with wet filament ruining your prints, then yes—you absolutely need a filament dryer. Whether you live in a humid area, store your filament in less-than-ideal conditions, or just want to guarantee your prints are perfect every time, a filament dryer is a must-have for any 3D printing enthusiast.

A good filament dryer prevents moisture issues and improves the overall quality of your prints. You’ll see fewer print failures, better layer adhesion, and stronger, more durable prints. Plus, it can save you money by extending the life of your filament.

Happy printing!