I think the Toybox 3D printer has something going for it, but will it be around for the long haul to keep improving on the foundation it’s built? That’s a question mark for me. What I can say is that I thoroughly enjoyed exploring its capabilities and it definitely belongs in the market. While I wouldn’t say it’s a game-changer, my gut feeling is that it’s in the same tier as other quality 3D printers out there. So, what’s the endgame with the Toybox, and how does it move to the next level? Let’s explore my experience with it and see if it’s the right fit for you.
Pros
Before we look into the advantages of the Toybox 3D printer, let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out from the rest.
Direct Drive
Drive away with ease! The Toybox features a direct drive system, which means you’ll experience fewer issues with filament feeding and printing. This results in a more reliable and efficient printing process.
Simple to Use
To make 3D printing accessible to everyone, the Toybox is designed with simplicity in mind. With a user-friendly interface and minimal settings to adjust, you can focus on creating amazing prints without getting bogged down in technical details.
Any user, regardless of their experience level, can easily navigate the Toybox’s interface and start printing right away. The printer’s simplicity is perfect for kids and beginners who want to explore the world of 3D printing without feeling overwhelmed.
One Button Slicer
Any print job can be sliced with just the click of a button! The Toybox’s one-button slicer makes it easy to prepare your files for printing, eliminating the need for complex slicing software.
Simple and intuitive, the one-button slicer ensures that your prints turn out perfectly, every time. No more worrying about settings or configurations – just click and print!
Curated Library of G-Rated Prints
To get you started, the Toybox comes with a vast library of G-rated prints that are perfect for kids and families. These prints are carefully curated to ensure they’re safe, fun, and easy to print.
Prints from popular franchises like DC Comics and Cartoon Network are available, making the Toybox an ideal choice for kids who want to bring their favorite characters to life. The library is constantly updated with new and exciting models, so you’ll always find something new to print and enjoy.
Cons
Even with its many advantages, the Toybox 3D printer is not without its drawbacks.
Pricey
For a printer aimed at kids, the Toybox comes with a hefty price tag of $419, which may be out of budget for many families.
Does Not Work Without Internet
Does your internet connection go down frequently? You’ll be out of luck with the Toybox, as it requires a constant internet connection to function.
To make matters worse, this means you won’t be able to print anything if your internet is down, which can be frustrating for kids who are eager to create.
Unheated Bed
Does your child want to print with materials other than PLA? Unfortunately, the Toybox’s unheated bed limits its printing capabilities to only PLA, which may not be ideal for all users.
Work around this limitation by using only PLA-compatible prints, but this may limit the creativity and experimentation that 3D printing is all about.
Design and Features
Keep in mind that the Toybox printer is designed with kids in mind, and its features and design reflect that.
Toybox Printer Design
For a junior-sized 3D printer, the Toybox has a sturdy all-metal frame with rounded edges, making it safe for kids to use. The printer’s compact size and sleek design make it perfect for a child’s bedroom or playroom.
Included in the Box
Features like a set of hex wrenches, a small spool of filament, and a cord come included with the Toybox, ensuring you have everything you need to get started.
The Toybox also comes with software located online, which is accessible through their website. This is where you’ll find the curated library of G-rated models, a simple slicer, and some clever apps to create custom models.
Software and Website
Design-wise, the Toybox website is the central hub of the experience, where kids can access curated models, a simple slicer, and those clever apps to create custom models.
Any parent or guardian will appreciate the ease of use and the safety features built into the Toybox website and software. The website is designed to be kid-friendly, making it easy for your child to navigate and find the perfect print.
Using the Toybox
Many users will be excited to dive right into using their new Toybox printer, and fortunately, the process is designed to be easy and straightforward.
Assembling the Toybox
If you’re worried about complicated assembly processes, fear not – the Toybox ships fully assembled and only needs to be unpacked and plugged in.
Leveling the Print Bed
If you’re used to leveling print beds on other 3D printers, you’ll be pleased to know that the Toybox doesn’t require any leveling – the factory settings are good enough.
Plus, after setup is complete, the website suggests running a calibration test, which involves loading a circle onto your Toybox from the website and comparing it to photos to ensure the nozzle distance is correct.
Loading Filament
Now that you’re ready to start printing, loading filament on the Toybox is a breeze – simply warm up the printer by pressing the “food” button, then press the “insert” button and feed in the filament.
It’s also easy to unload or change colors – just reverse the process.
Preparing Files and Software
Some users may be used to more complex slicing software, but the Toybox is designed to use its own built-in slicer, which is limited to scaling prints, adding supports, and picking a speed.
Assembling the Toybox experience means you can also import your own files and slice them using the Toybox slicer, although be cautious when doing so as no profiles are provided for this machine.
Printing on the Toybox
Little ones will love jumping right into printing with the Toybox, which comes with a roll of Coconut filament and access to a whole library of prints.
Software limitations mean that all test prints are done at a.3 layer height and 60mm/s speed, but the results are still impressive and fun for kids to use.
Specifications: ToyBox
| Build Volume | 70 x 80 x 90 mm (2.75 x 3.14 x 3.5 inches) |
| Material | PLA |
| Extruder Type Bowden | Direct Drive |
| Nozzle .4mm MK8 | .5mm V6 |
| Build Platform | Easy Peel Magnetic, unheated |
| Bed Leveling | None |
| Filament Runout Sensor | No |
| Connectivity | WiFi |
| Interface | LED touch screen, Web App, smartphone |
| Machine Footprint | 190 x 190 x 230 mm (7.4 x 7.4 x 9.05 inches) |
| Machine Weight | 3 KG (6.6 lbs) |
FAQ
Q: Is the Toybox 3D Printer suitable for kids?
A: Yes, the Toybox 3D Printer is designed specifically for kids and is a great introduction to 3D printing. It has a simple and user-friendly interface, a curated library of G-rated models, and a one-button slicer that makes it easy for kids to use.
Q: Can I use third-party filament with the Toybox 3D Printer?
A: No, using third-party filament with the Toybox 3D Printer is not recommended and will void your warranty. The printer is designed to work only with Toybox’s proprietary “Printer Food” filament, which is specifically formulated to work with the printer’s settings and avoid clogging.
Q: Does the Toybox 3D Printer have a heated bed?
A: No, the Toybox 3D Printer does not have a heated bed. It is designed to print only with PLA filament, which does not require a heated bed. The printer’s build plate is designed with a thick rubbery magnet pad that holds prints in place, making it easy to remove prints once they’re complete.