How to Choose Filament Dry Boxes and Dryers in 2024

You might know that 3D printing has got pretty much advanced over the last decade and this industry has seen many transformations. As the technology evolves, so do the components that enhance the printing process.

One such critical element is the care and handling of filament. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a professional, managing the quality of your filament through proper drying and storage is of great importance for high-quality prints.

This guide explores the best filament dryers and dry boxes available in 2024, and helps you make an informed decision for you or your project.

What are Filament Dryers and Dry Boxes? Before diving into specific products, let's clarify what filament dryers and dry boxes are and how they differ:

Filament Dryers: This is essential for materials like PETG and TPU, which are particularly hygroscopic and prone to moisture absorption. By heating the filament, these dryers prevent the appearance of print artifacts caused by moisture.

Filament dryers not only actively remove moisture but also enhance the printing process through several mechanisms:

Improved Print Quality :By ensuring the filament is dry, dryers help maintain consistent extrusion rates during printing, which leads to smoother layers and a higher quality finish on the printed object. Reduction of Printing Issues :Moisture in filament can cause popping and spitting during the printing process as steam escapes, which disrupts the consistency of the print. Material Versatility :Dryers enable the use of a wider range of filaments, some of which are extremely sensitive to moisture, such as PVA (polyvinyl alcohol), which is often used as a support material because it dissolves in water. Enhanced Mechanical Properties :Dry filaments result in stronger and more mechanically reliable prints. Moisture can weaken the structural integrity of printed parts, making them less durable and prone to failure under stress. Filament Dry Boxes: These are used for storing filament in a moisture-free environment to prevent it from absorbing water vapor from the air. They often use desiccants and provide an airtight enclosure, making them ideal for long-term filament storage and even direct printing without removing the filament from the box.

Filament dry boxes also offer significant benefits that cater specifically to storage and direct printing needs:

Long-Term Storage Solution :Dry boxes provide a stable environment that can significantly extend the shelf life of filaments by preventing them from absorbing moisture over time, which is especially important for less frequently used or specialty materials. Direct Printing Capability :Many modern dry boxes come equipped with features that allow filaments to be fed directly to the printer while still in the box, reducing the chance of moisture absorption during the printing process itself. Maintaining Filament Quality :Consistent environment control in dry boxes helps in preserving the physical and chemical characteristics of the filament, such as tensile strength and flexibility, which might otherwise degrade in fluctuating conditions. Scalability and Convenience :Dry boxes are often scalable and can accommodate multiple spools simultaneously, making them ideal for users who operate multiple printers or those who switch between different types of materials frequently. Cost Efficiency :While initially, it may seem like an added expense, using dry boxes can save money in the long run by reducing the waste of spoiled filament and minimizing failed prints, thereby ensuring more efficient material usage. Now it's time of review, let's discuss each filament dryer one by one so that you have idea which you would require.

1. Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer

The Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer is a high-performance tool designed to enhance 3D printing by keeping filaments dry and ready for use. It operates within a temperature range of 45-70 °C, making it suitable for a diverse range of filament types.

Its modern design includes an LCD touchscreen, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also facilitates better interaction and control by displaying essential information such as temperature, humidity, material settings, and drying time.

Pros:

Offers a versatile temperature range to accommodate different types of filaments. Provides the option to handle either one or two spools, adding to its flexibility. Includes pre-programmed settings for various filaments, making it easier to operate. Cons:

Priced higher than many competing models, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. The dual spool version is not available immediately; expected to ship in summer 2024, which could be a drawback for some users. Price: Approximately $70 for the single spool version.

Sunlu FilaDryer S2

The Sunlu FilaDryer S2 is a compact and efficient filament dryer designed for both personal and professional use. It features 360° surround heating, which ensures even and thorough drying of filaments.

The device is equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen interface that simplifies the operation and allows users to easily monitor and adjust settings.

Pros:

Efficient 360° heating provides thorough drying. The touchscreen interface enhances user interaction and allows for easy adjustments. Supports a broad spectrum of filament materials, offering great versatility. Cons:

Reports from some users suggest it operates noisier than other models. Limited to handling only one spool, which may not meet the needs of all users. Price: Approximately $80.

PrintDry Pro 3

Targeted at enthusiasts and small businesses, the PrintDry Pro 3 is a robust filament dryer that offers precise temperature control and can accommodate two spools simultaneously.

This makes it an excellent choice for more demanding 3D printing tasks that require managing multiple materials.

Pros:

Dual spool capacity enhances productivity by drying multiple filaments at once. Allows for precise temperature adjustments between 35 to 85 °C. Features a compact control panel and screen for straightforward management of settings. Cons:

Higher price point may not be suitable for all budgets. Its larger size might not be ideal for those with limited workspace. Price: Approximately $200.

Polymaker PolyBox II

The Polymaker PolyBox II is designed to keep filament spools dry passively, utilizing a hygrometer and thermometer to monitor the internal environment effectively. This device can manage two spools simultaneously and employs desiccant to maintain low humidity levels.

Pros:

Passive drying system with desiccant effectively reduces humidity. Accommodates multiple spools, adding to its utility. Includes a built-in display for monitoring humidity and temperature. Cons:

Lack of active heating may not be suitable for extremely humid conditions. Desiccant requires periodic replacement or recharging, which could be inconvenient. Price: Approximately $70.

PrintDry Filament Container

These airtight containers are specially designed for storing individual filament spools, providing a simple, effective way to keep them dry. The containers are stackable, which saves space, and are vacuum-sealed to ensure maximum dryness. They are also easy to handle and operate.

Pros:

Compact and stackable design helps conserve space. Vacuum sealing provides optimal dryness. Simple operation makes them user-friendly. Cons:

Each container holds only one spool, which might limit their use in larger projects. Requires a vacuum pump for sealing, which may incur additional costs. Price: Approximately $110 for a set of five containers with a vacuum pump.

Sovol SH01 Filament Dryer

The Sovol SH01 is a compact, dual-spool filament dryer ideal for users who need to manage multiple filaments in a small space. It features a half-transparent design, allowing for easy monitoring of the drying process, and provides a temperature range suitable for most common filaments.

Pros:

Compact and efficient design, perfect for limited spaces. Capable of drying two standard 1-kg spools simultaneously. The transparent section allows for easy monitoring without needing to open the unit. Cons:

The limited temperature range may not be suitable for high-temperature filaments like nylon. May not fit spools larger than 1 kg, limiting its utility for some users. Price: Approximately $60.

DIY Heated Box A DIY Heated Box offers a customizable approach to filament drying, where users can construct their own dryer using a plastic storage container, a heating element, and other components. This solution is tailored to individual needs and preferences.

Pros:

Highly customizable, allowing adjustments for various spool sizes and specific requirements. Potentially cost-effective if you already possess some necessary components. Provides a hands-on approach that can enhance understanding of the drying process. Cons:

Assembly requires DIY skills and time investment. The performance and safety depend heavily on the quality of the components used and the assembly itself. Price: Approximately $20-$30, depending on the components utilized.

FixDry Dryer Box

The FixDry Dryer Box is a high-capacity, dual-spool dryer with an integrated heating system that can reach temperatures between 45 to 70 °C. It is designed to allow printing while drying the filament, featuring a built-in fan for even heat distribution.

Pros:

Supports drying and printing simultaneously, increasing efficiency. Adjustable temperature settings accommodate a wide range of filament types. The integrated fan ensures even and consistent drying. Cons:

Higher cost compared to simpler models. Its larger size might not fit well in smaller workspaces. Price: Approximately $80.

Prusa Drybox V2

The Prusa Drybox V2 is designed primarily using 3D-printed components. It keeps filament dry through the use of silica gel packets and is focused on ease of use and filament accessibility.

Pros:

Cost-effective, especially for those who can print their own parts. The design includes hinges and bearings for easy access and smooth spool rotation. Compact enough for desktop use, making it suitable for small spaces. Cons:

Assembly might be complex and requires precise construction. Relies on passive drying, which might not be effective in extremely humid conditions. Price: Approximately $20.

Mihai's DryBox

Mihai's DryBox is an advanced DIY solution that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. It includes features like a hygrometer, bearings for smooth spool rotation, and PTFE tubing to ensure optimal drying conditions.

Pros:

Highly customizable with numerous features for optimal drying. Clear side panels allow for easy monitoring of the filament status. Designed to meet specific user needs, enhancing its effectiveness. Cons:

Significant assembly time and higher DIY skills are required. Costs can accumulate based on the materials and parts chosen. Price: Approximately $50.

Oven

Utilizing a conventional oven is one of the simplest methods to dry filament, especially if you have an electric oven readily available in your kitchen. Ovens are typically not designed for heating plastics, but setting them to a low temperature can effectively dry filament by expelling moisture. The key is to set the temperature just below the glass transition temperature of the filament—about 60 °C for PLA or 100 °C for ABS.

Pros:

Readily available in most homes, requiring no extra investment. Capable of drying large quantities of filament at once. Effective at removing moisture when used correctly. Cons:

Risk of overheating the filament, which can cause it to soften and fuse, especially if the oven does not maintain a consistent temperature. Requires careful monitoring to ensure the temperature is set correctly and maintained. After drying filament, the oven needs to be aired out to remove any residual plastic fumes before it can be used for cooking. Price: No additional cost if using an existing oven.

Food Dehydrator

Food dehydrators are an excellent alternative for drying filaments due to their primary function of removing moisture from sensitive materials, such as fruits and meats. They operate by circulating air at a low heat over extended periods, which helps in gently drying filament without reaching its glass transition temperature. This method is particularly useful for filaments that are sensitive to heat.

Pros:

Specifically designed to remove moisture, making them very effective at drying filament. Lower risk of damaging the filament since they don’t heat to high temperatures. Can be modified to print directly from the dehydrator, adding convenience. Cons:

Requires an initial investment if you do not already own one. The drying process is generally slower compared to methods that use higher temperatures. Occupies additional space, which might be a consideration for users with limited storage or working area. Price: Approximately $50-$75

Faqs about Filament Dryer 1. What are filament dryers, and why are they important for 3D printing? Filament dryers ensure printing materials like PETG and TPU remain free from moisture, which can degrade print quality. By controlling humidity, these devices help maintain the filament’s ideal state for flawless 3D printing.

2. How do filament dry boxes enhance the storage of 3D printing materials? Filament dry boxes store printing materials in a moisture-proof environment to prevent spoilage, allowing safe storage for extensive periods. Many models enable direct feeding to printers, maintaining the quality and consistency of the filament.

3. What should I look for in a filament dryer or dry box in 2024? When choosing a filament dryer or dry box in 2024, consider the device's temperature range, capacity (single or multiple spools), and special features like touchscreen controls or integrated environments for direct printing. These factors greatly influence their effectiveness and convenience in different printing setups.

Conclusion So, I hope that these reviews have been helpful for you to decide which filament dryer you should get.

In case, you're looking for 3D printers , do consider Creality Store. Creality is a well-known manufacturer in the 3D printing industry, and offers a wide range of products through its online store. The Creality store features a variety of 3D printers suitable for both beginners and professionals, alongside an extensive selection of filaments and printer accessories . Whether you're a beginner or a professional, Creality provides all the necessary tools and support to help you harness the full potential of your 3D printer.

You can explore the producers here: https://store.creality.com/

How to Choose Filament Dry Boxes and Dryers in 2024

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