Monoprice Select Mini V2 vs LulzBot Mini 2
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Monoprice Select Mini V2 is a compact, heated-bed 3D printer delivered fully assembled and calibrated out of the box. Designed for hobbyists, students, and makers, it bridges the gap between ultra-budget kits and expensive desktop machines by offering reliable printing performance in a small footprint. Featuring an all-metal frame and compatibility with a wide range of common filaments like PLA and ABS, this printer provides a user-friendly entry point into additive manufacturing. Its intuitive color IPS LCD screen and straightforward menu system make loading filament and starting print jobs accessible even to absolute beginners.
The LulzBot Mini 2 is a portable, high-precision desktop 3D printer engineered to deliver professional-grade results in a smaller footprint. Featuring an innovative belt-driven Z-axis and an improved print surface, it provides effortless part removal and exceptional reliability for a wide variety of materials. Designed with an open-source philosophy, the printer gives users the freedom to experiment with specialized filaments without proprietary cartridge restrictions. Its robust metal frame and advanced tool head ensure consistent, repeatable prints for makers, educators, and professionals alike.
- Incredibly budget-friendly entry price point
- Arrives fully assembled and ready to print
- Heated print bed expands material compatibility
- Compact size saves valuable desk space
- Exceptional print quality and mechanical reliability
- Open filament system with no proprietary locks
- Fully assembled and calibrated out of the box
- Sturdy construction built for long-term use
- Small build volume limits larger printing projects
- Limited cooling fan performance can affect overhangs
- Power supply unit is an external brick design
- Higher initial price point compared to entry-level hobbyist printers
- Heavier and larger than some ultra-portable desktop alternatives
- Lacks native wireless connectivity out of the box
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Monoprice Select Mini V2
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An intuitive, safe, and user-friendly 3D printer designed for beginners and educators.
Alternatives to LulzBot Mini 2
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A reliable dual-extrusion desktop 3D printer for professional prototyping and complex geometries.
An affordable, compact, and fully assembled 3D printer for hobbyists and beginners.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Monoprice Select Mini V2 is the budget-friendly, space‑saving starter printer, while the LulzBot Mini 2 offers far higher performance and durability at a premium price.
Key differences
- •Build volume: Mini V2 is small, limiting larger parts; Mini 2 has a larger footprint for bigger prints.
- •Print quality & reliability: Mini 2’s Aerstruder v2, belt‑driven Z‑axis, and automatic leveling give superior, consistent results.
- •Price: Mini V2 costs $220 versus $1,500 for Mini 2, a huge cost gap for hobbyists vs. professional users.
- •Size & weight: Mini V2 is compact (19×28×30 cm, 4.5 kg); Mini 2 is larger and heavier (44.5×34.3×41.2 cm, 8.7 kg).
- •Advanced features: Mini 2 includes automatic nozzle wiping, bed leveling, and a modular PEI glass surface; Mini V2 lacks these.
Pricing & value
Monoprice MSRP $220 vs. LulzBot $1,500, delivering far lower upfront cost.
Performance
LulzBot’s Aerstruder v2, belt‑driven Z‑axis, and auto‑leveling yield higher print quality and reliability.
Build quality
Sturdy aluminum frame and modular PEI glass bed on Mini 2 versus all‑metal but lighter frame on Mini V2.
Connectivity
Both support USB and SD‑card standalone operation; neither offers native wireless.
Power & efficiency
Mini V2’s external power brick is smaller; Mini 2 is heavier and larger, implying higher power draw.
Compatibility
Mini 2’s open filament system and advanced extruder handle more materials; Mini V2 limited by cooling fan performance.
Warranty & support
Both provide a 1‑year warranty.
Choose Monoprice Select Mini V2 if…
Beginners or budget‑conscious hobbyists needing a compact, ready‑to‑print machine.
Choose LulzBot Mini 2 if…
Engineers, educators, or advanced makers who require higher quality, larger prints, and robust reliability.
Common questions
Can I print ABS with the Monoprice Select Mini V2?
Yes, the heated build plate enables printing with PLA, ABS, and specialized filaments.
Does the LulzBot Mini 2 require any assembly?
No, it ships fully assembled and calibrated out of the box.
Which printer offers better filament flexibility?
The LulzBot Mini 2’s open filament system and Aerstruder v2 support a wider range of materials without proprietary locks.