The Chinese manufacturer labels the Wanhao Duplicator 9 an entry-level 3D printer, ideal for hobbyists and educational purposes. Apart from the generous build volume, the above list of specs would more-or-less agree with that assessment. A minimum layer thickness of 100 microns is certainly nothing special and heated beds come pretty standard these days.

Nevertheless, there are a number of impressive characteristics that deserve mentioning with the Wanhao Duplicator 9 3D printer.

First and foremost are the potential print capabilities. Despite listing only a few supported print materials, the Wanhao Duplicator 9’s product brochure says the full metal hot end can melt anything up to 300 °C. If true, that would certainly place the Wanhao Duplicator 9 a step above a majority of the budget 3D printers within the same price bracket.

Print quality can also be expected to be high thanks to the direct extruder attached to the hot end. In contrast, the CR-10’s Bowden extruder delivers filament from its position on the frame. While the extra mass on the print head might raise concerns over vibrations, our guess is that this is somewhat nullified by the Wanhao Duplicator 9’s solid aluminum frame and heavy base.

With a high 3D printing temperature, direct extrusion, and a heated bed, the only thing this 3D printer is missing is an enclosed printing chamber. However, Wanhao does offer the option for an “insulating tent”. Be wary, though. The photo in the product brochure looks suspiciously like a large animal carrier…

Last but not least are the mechanical and electrical improvements over previous Wanhao 3D printer models. They include stronger attachment points between components (to prevent problems during shipping), auto-leveling, and internal housing for all the control electronics at the printer’s base. And let us not forget the user-friendly touchscreen, a huge departure from the twist-and-push knob seen on similar models.

With slightly more to offer than with the CR-10, it should come as no surprise that you’ll ending up paying a little more for the Wanhao Duplicator 9.

The base model of the Wanhao Duplicator 9, with a build volume of 300 x 300 x 400 mm, is priced at around $650. The other two variations go for $850 (400 x 400 x 400 mm) and $1150 (500 x 500 x 500 mm).

Despite it’s recent arrival to the market, the large format 3D printer is already available through a number of online retailers. And, if trends are to be trusted, we may soon see the Wanhao Duplicator 9 reach a level of popularity that is equal to highly sought-after budget 3D printers like the Creality CR-10, Anet A8, and Monoprice Maker Select.

Wanhao Duplicator 9

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