Top 10 coolest 3D prints for 2024

3D printing has opened up a world of possibilities, allowing enthusiasts to create innovative, functional, and artistic objects. From everyday items to intricate designs, the potential is vast. In this post, we will explore the top 10 coolest 3D prints that showcase the creativity and versatility of 3D printing technology.

Top 10 Coolest 3D Prints

1. Fractal Vice

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4904044

• Description:The Fractal Vice is a fully functional mechanical vice that can be 3D printed without the need for supports. When completed, it functions as a robust 3D printed vice based on a design from the 1920s.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Intricate Design: Features a complex, aesthetically pleasing design based on a 1920s model, bringing historical engineering to life with modern technology.
  • Functionality: Fully functional despite being 3D printed, demonstrating the practical capabilities of 3D printing technology.
  • Precision Engineering: Showcases detailed and accurate components that fit together perfectly, highlighting the precision possible with 3D printing.
  • Support-Free Printing: Can be printed without supports, simplifying the printing process and reducing material waste.
  • Educational Value: Serves as an excellent educational tool for understanding mechanical design principles and 3D printing potential.

2. LiftPod - Multipurpose Foldable Stand

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4614448

• Description:The LiftPod is a fully modular camera stand designed to support smartphones, cameras, Nintendo Switches, and tablets. Its foldable and versatile design makes it a practical accessory for various devices and purposes.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Modular Design: The LiftPod's modular structure allows for easy customization and adaptability to different devices and configurations.
  • Versatility: Supports a wide range of devices, including smartphones, cameras, Nintendo Switches, and tablets, making it suitable for multiple uses.
  • Practicality: 3D printed clamps and foldable design provide a stable and convenient solution for hands-free video projects and other applications.
  • Portability: The foldable nature of the stand makes it easy to transport and store, enhancing its practicality for on-the-go use.
  • Customization: Users can modify and personalize the stand to fit their specific needs, showcasing the flexibility and creative potential of 3D printing.

3. Cactus Toothpick Holder

Model URL: https://than.gs/m/1031049

• Description:The Cactus Toothpick Holder is a cool 3D printed item that dispenses standard toothpicks. Shaped like a cactus, it combines functionality with decorative appeal.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Unique Design: The cactus shape offers a fun and creative twist on a common household item, making it an eye-catching piece for any desk or kitchen.
  • Functional and Decorative: Not only does it serve the practical purpose of dispensing toothpicks, but it also adds a decorative touch to any space.
  • Conversation Starter: Its quirky design is sure to catch the attention of guests and spark conversations.
  • Ease of Use: The holder is designed to dispense toothpicks effortlessly, adding convenience to its charm.
  • 3D Printing Showcase: Demonstrates the potential of 3D printing to create both functional and aesthetically pleasing objects.

4. Aloe Vera Pen Plant

Model URL: https://than.gs/m/1033496

• Description:The Aloe Vera Pen Plant is a 3D printed potted plant where each leaf is a disguised pen held in place by magnets. This creative design combines functionality with decorative appeal, making it a unique addition to any desk.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Versatile Design: Demonstrates the versatility of 3D printing by creating a practical item that also serves as a decorative piece.
  • Hidden Functionality: Each leaf is a disguised pen, offering a fun and clever way to keep pens handy while blending seamlessly into the desk decor.
  • Magnetic Assembly: Uses magnets to hold the leaves (pens) in place, ensuring easy access and reassembly.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a touch of greenery and charm to the desk environment, enhancing the overall workspace ambiance.
  • Conversation Starter: Its unique and innovative design is likely to catch the attention of others and spark interesting conversations.

5. Gear Ball

Model URL: https://than.gs/m/1069853

• Description:The Gear Ball is a unique 3D print that requires no supports. When assembled, turning the gears causes the original ball shape to fold in on itself, revealing a smaller gear ball inside.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Complex Mathematics: Demonstrates the use of intricate mathematical concepts to create a fascinating and functional sphere.
  • Transformative Design: The ball's ability to fold in on itself and reveal a smaller gear ball showcases the creative potential of 3D printing.
  • Fidget Toy: Serves as a fun and engaging fidget spinner or desk toy, providing both visual and tactile stimulation.
  • Support-Free Printing: Designed to print without supports, simplifying the printing process and reducing material waste.
  • Engineering Marvel: Highlights the precision and complexity that can be achieved with 3D printing technology.

6. Desktop Disk Golf

Model URL: https://than.gs/m/1085114

• Description:Desktop Disk Golf is a 3D printed miniature version of the popular disk golf game, designed to be played on a desk. The game includes all the necessary components, optimized for 3D printing, to allow for an enjoyable desktop gaming experience.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Miniaturized Fun: Reimagines the popular disk golf game into a compact, desk-friendly version, bringing the fun of the sport into the office or home.
  • Thoughtful Design: Every aspect of the game, including the mechanism to fling the disk, has been carefully designed for practicality and ease of use.
  • Optimized for 3D Printing: Each model component has been optimized for 3D printing, ensuring high-quality prints and efficient use of materials.
  • Interactive Desk Toy: Provides an engaging and entertaining way to take breaks and enjoy some light-hearted competition at your desk.
  • Showcases 3D Printing: Demonstrates the ability of 3D printing to create complex, interactive games and toys that are both functional and fun.

7. Secret Butterfly Box

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2977908

• Description:The Secret Butterfly Box is a 3D printable puzzle box that requires finding the hidden key and lock, both of which are incorporated into the print. The design includes built-in supports that need to be removed after printing.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Engineering and Design: Combines intricate engineering with thoughtful design, making it a fascinating project to print and assemble.
  • Puzzle Challenge: Offers an engaging and entertaining challenge as users must solve the puzzle to unlock the box.
  • Hidden Mechanics: The key and lock are cleverly hidden within the print, adding an element of mystery and surprise.
  • Interactive Fun: Provides a fun way to entertain friends and family, challenging them to solve the puzzle and discover what is inside.
  • Built-In Supports: The design includes built-in supports, showcasing the ability to integrate necessary print features seamlessly.

8. Puzzle Cube Print in Place

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6264100

• Description:The Puzzle Cube Print in Place is a 3D printed puzzle cube designed to be printed all in one go, without the need for assembly. This print-in-place design showcases the precision and capability of 3D printing technology.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Print-in-Place Design: Demonstrates the advanced capability of 3D printers to create complex, movable objects in a single print session.
  • Precision Engineering: Highlights the precision of 3D printing by producing a fully functional puzzle with tight tolerances and intricate details.
  • Engaging Puzzle: Provides a challenging and entertaining puzzle that is both tricky and fun to solve, making it an engaging desk toy.
  • Eye-Catching: The intricate design and smooth movement of the puzzle cube make it an attractive and intriguing object.
  • Showcases 3D Printing: Exemplifies the innovative potential of 3D printing to create functional, intricate, and interactive objects.

9. 3D printed mechanical Clock with Anchor Escapement

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:328569

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgZBPYJ2Y-w

• Description:This fully functional mechanical clock is entirely 3D printed and features an anchor escapement. It displays hours, minutes, and seconds, requiring only winding to run, with no need for batteries or electronics, and just a few small screws for assembly.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Mechanical Marvel: A fully 3D printed mechanical clock showcases the intricate possibilities of 3D printing technology.
  • Battery-Free Operation: Runs purely on mechanical winding, eliminating the need for batteries or electronic components.
  • Functional Design: Displays hours, minutes, and seconds accurately, demonstrating the precision of 3D printed parts.
  • DIY Assembly: Involves assembling the clock with a few small screws, providing a hands-on project that highlights mechanical engineering principles.
  • Educational Value: Serves as an excellent educational tool for learning about clock mechanics and the functionality of anchor escapements.

10.Yet ANOTHER Machine Vise

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2064269

• Description:Yet ANOTHER Machine Vise is a mini, fully 3D printed vice designed for various applications. It is assembled from 3D printed parts that snap together, making it a practical tool for a range of tasks.
• Why It's Cool:
  • Fully Functional: A mechanical 3D print that is fully functional and useful for a variety of applications, showcasing the practical potential of 3D printing.
  • Easy Assembly: Assembled from snap-together 3D printed parts, making it straightforward and accessible for users to put together.
  • Versatile Applications: Ideal for tasks such as soldering, holding small parts, and other precision work, demonstrating its utility in various projects.
  • Compact Design: Its mini size makes it a convenient tool for desktop use, adding functionality without taking up much space.
  • Practical Tool: Highlights the ability of 3D printing to create practical, everyday tools that are both durable and effective.

FAQ

1. What is the coolest thing to 3D print?

One of the coolest things to 3D print is a fully functional mechanical clock. This project combines intricate design, precision engineering, and functionality, showcasing the capabilities of 3D printing technology. The clock can be assembled from multiple printed parts and, when wound, keeps accurate time, demonstrating both the aesthetic and practical potential of 3D printing.

2. What is the most popular 3D printing?

One of the most popular 3D prints is custom action figures. These figures can be designed to represent favorite characters, unique creations, or even personalized miniatures. The ability to customize and personalize these figures makes them a favorite among 3D printing enthusiasts, blending creativity with a love for collectibles.

3. What can you make with a resin printer?

Resin printers excel at producing highly detailed and smooth objects, making them ideal for creating:

• Miniatures:Detailed figures for tabletop games and collectibles.
• Jewelry:Intricate designs and prototypes for rings, earrings, and necklaces.
• Dental models:Precise models for dental applications and orthodontic devices.
• Prototypes:High-resolution prototypes for product development and design validation.
• Art and sculptures:Smooth and detailed artistic pieces and sculptures.