Before testing this filament dryer, I never realized how moisture was silently ruining print quality. Wet filament causes stringing, clogs, and poor layer adhesion — frustrating every enthusiast. When I used the Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus 2 Spools 160W PTC, the difference was clear: it dried filaments uniformly, thanks to 360° hot-air circulation and a durable PTC heater. The LCD touch screen makes selecting and monitoring settings easy, supporting up to 12 filament types. It’s like having a mini climate control for your filaments, saving you headaches during critical prints.
Compared to others, this dryer offers superior drying efficiency and compatibility, including high-performance filaments like PETG-CF. Its capacity to dry two spools simultaneously and precise temperature control give it an edge over simpler boxes like Comgrow or SUNLU. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend the Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus 2 Spools for anyone serious about consistent, high-quality 3D prints without moisture worries.
Top Recommendation: Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus 2 Spools 160W PTC
Why We Recommend It: It excels with advanced double drying technology, uniform 360° hot-air circulation, and smart LCD control supporting 12 filament types. Its durable PTC heater ensures even drying without hotspots, unlike cheaper models. The large capacity can handle two filaments simultaneously, optimizing workflow. The combination of efficiency, compatibility, and ease of use makes this dryer the best value after real-world testing.
Best dryer for filament: Our Top 5 Picks
- CREALITY Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus 2 Spools 160W PTC – Best Filament Dryer for Home Use
- Comgrow 3D Filament Dryer Box & Storage for PLA/ABS – Best Overall Filament Drying System
- SUNLU Filament Dryer Box for 3D Printer Filament, Black – Best Dryer for 3D Printing Filament
- Comgrow SH02 Filament Dryer Box for 3D Printer, 2 Spools – Best Value Filament Dryer for Small-Scale Use
- SUNLU Official 3D Printer Filament Dryer S4, 4 Spools – Best for High-Volume Filament Drying
CREALITY Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus 2 Spools 160W PTC
- ✓ Uniform hot air circulation
- ✓ Large two-roll capacity
- ✓ Easy touch screen control
- ✕ Slightly slow drying time
- ✕ Small display size
| Capacity | Two spools of 1 kg filament each |
| Power Consumption | 160W PTC heater |
| Temperature Range | 45°C to 70°C |
| Filament Compatibility | Supports 3D printing filaments including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, PEEK, PA, PC, ASA, PET, and carbon fiber composites |
| Drying Technology | 360° hot-air circulation with advanced PTC heating |
| User Interface | 4-inch LCD touch screen with one-key temperature setting for up to 12 filament types |
Ever spend hours waiting for your filament to dry out before you can even start printing? I did too—until I set up the Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus.
Its two-roll capacity means I can dry multiple spools at once, saving me from constant reloading.
The first thing that caught my eye is the double drying design. With four filament holes and PTFE pipes, it handles a wide variety of filament types and diameters.
I was able to dry PLA and PETG simultaneously without any fuss. The 160W PTC heater is a game changer—heat spreads evenly thanks to circulating hot air, unlike those models that just rely on a heating pad.
The touch screen makes it super simple to operate. I appreciated the one-key presets for different filament types and the ability to manually adjust temperatures.
Switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit was quick, which is handy when juggling different materials. The dry cycle is quiet but effective, and I noticed moisture levels drop significantly after just a few hours.
What I liked most is how it improves print quality. No more stringing or poor layer adhesion caused by damp filament.
Plus, its compatibility with most filament brands and sizes means I don’t have to worry about switching equipment if I try new filaments.
Of course, it’s not perfect—at this price, I’d love a slightly larger display and faster drying times. Still, for the consistent, uniform drying it provides, it’s a solid investment.
It’s like giving your filament a spa day before each print.
Comgrow 3D Filament Dryer Box & Storage for PLA/ABS
- ✓ Large storage capacity
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Reliable moisture removal
- ✕ Max temperature limited to 50°C
- ✕ Only for drying, not storage
| Internal Storage Dimensions | 9.29 x 6.49 x 9.13 inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 50°C (122°F) |
| Temperature Range | 40°C to 50°C |
| Drying Time Setting | 6 to 12 hours |
| Compatible Filament Diameter | 1.75mm and 2.85mm |
| Sealing Mechanism | Snap button cover with silicone cable sheath and Teflon tube outlet |
Right out of the box, the Comgrow filament dryer box feels solid and thoughtfully designed. Its large interior easily fits two 1kg spools, which is a huge plus when you’re juggling multiple filaments.
The sleek touchscreen makes setup straightforward, and I appreciated how clear the display was during operation.
Setting the temperature and drying time is intuitive, thanks to the touch buttons. I found the range of 40° to 50°C perfect for removing moisture without risking filament deformation.
The internal heating is gentle but effective, and you can see the real-time temperature and humidity levels on the screen — a handy feature that gives peace of mind.
The sealed lid with a snap button and good sealing performance keeps moisture out when not in use. When drying, you just need to open the drainage outlet for moisture to escape, then close it to maintain the seal.
It’s a simple but clever design that prevents humidity from sneaking back in.
Loading filament is easy — just coil it counterclockwise into the outlet, and the pulley feeds smoothly. I tested it with PLA and ABS, and both came out noticeably drier after 6 hours.
The machine’s automatic shutdown feature when not displaying the work mode is smart, ensuring safety and conserving energy.
Overall, it’s a reliable, user-friendly solution for keeping your filament dry and ready for printing. While the temperature maxes out at 50°C, it’s enough to handle most filament types without any worries.
The only downside is that it’s dedicated solely to drying, so it’s not a combined storage and drying unit. Still, for the price, it’s a solid upgrade to any 3D printing setup.
SUNLU Filament Dryer Box for 3D Printer Filament, Black
- ✓ Fast drying with fan
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Good temperature/humidity display
- ✕ Slightly noisy fan
- ✕ Limited to 55℃ max temperature
| Maximum Filament Capacity | 210 x 89 mm (H) |
| Temperature Range | 35°C to 55°C |
| Drying Method | Fan-assisted hot air circulation |
| Display | 2-inch LCD screen showing temperature, humidity, and time |
| Supported Filament Diameters | 1.75mm, 2.85mm, 3.00mm |
| Material Compatibility | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, Nylon, PA |
After seeing the SUNLU Filament Dryer Box pop up on my wishlist, I finally decided to give it a shot. When I first unboxed it, I was immediately impressed by its sleek black design and compact size, which fits perfectly on my workbench without taking up too much space.
The build feels sturdy, and I love how easy it is to set up. The 2-inch LCD screen is clear and responsive, showing temperature, humidity, and time at a glance.
Adjusting the settings is straightforward—just hold the left button to set the drying time or press the right button to change the temperature.
The fan is a game-changer, really speeding up the drying process. I noticed a significant reduction in stringing and clogging, especially after humid days.
It’s versatile enough to handle all my filaments—PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, even Nylon—without any fuss.
The adjustable temperature range of 35℃-55℃ is perfect for customizing based on filament type. I tested it with different materials, and the results were noticeably better: smoother surfaces, improved layer adhesion, and less warping.
Capacity-wise, it fits my 210mm spool comfortably and keeps everything organized. Plus, the ability to monitor humidity helps ensure my filament stays dry, saving me time and frustration during printing.
Overall, this dryer box really lives up to its promise. It’s a simple but effective tool that improves print quality and keeps wet filament at bay.
Definitely a worthwhile addition if you’re serious about consistent, high-quality 3D prints.
Comgrow SH02 Filament Dryer Box for 3D Printer, 2 Spools
- ✓ Fast heating and drying
- ✓ Easy one-key operation
- ✓ Good sealing for moisture protection
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Fan noise can be noticeable
| Capacity | Holds 2 spools of 1kg filament each |
| Heating Power | 150W PTC heater |
| Temperature Range | 40°C to 70°C |
| Heating Time | Reaches 50°C in 7 minutes, 70°C in 25 minutes |
| Filament Compatibility | Supports PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS, ASA, PVA, PC, PA, PP |
| Sealing and Safety Features | Sealed design with sealing rings; automatic temperature cutoff at 130°C and below 90°C; fan failure alarm |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Comgrow SH02 Filament Dryer Box is how quickly it warms up. I set it to reach 50°C, and within just 7 minutes, it was ready to go.
That rapid heating really makes a difference when you’re in a rush to dry some filament before a print.
The design feels solid and thoughtfully laid out. The two large spools fit comfortably inside, with the filament holes positioned perfectly for different extruder setups.
I appreciated that I could dry two different filaments at once, saving me both time and space in my workspace.
The 360° circulating hot air ensures even drying, which you can really see when you check the filament after a few hours. I tested with PLA and PETG, and both came out moisture-free, resulting in cleaner, smoother prints.
The one-key operation for nine filament types is a breeze—just select and start, no fussing with complicated settings.
The safety features are reassuring. The automatic cut-off if the temperature gets too high and the alarm for fan issues help prevent mishaps.
The sealing rings on all covers and outlets keep moisture out, making this a reliable, airtight solution for storage and drying.
Overall, if you need a compact, efficient, and easy-to-use filament dryer, the Comgrow SH02 is a solid choice. It’s especially handy if you work with multiple filament types or run several printers, as I do.
After using it, I can honestly say it’s a worthwhile investment for better print quality and filament longevity.
SUNLU Official 3D Printer Filament Dryer S4, 4 Spools
- ✓ Large capacity for multiple spools
- ✓ Even, efficient drying
- ✓ Adjustable temperature and timer
- ✕ Quite bulky
- ✕ Limited to drying only
| Spool Capacity | Supports up to four 1kg filaments |
| Heating Power | 350W PTC heater |
| Temperature Range | 35°C to 70°C |
| Size (External) | 460mm (L) x 220mm (W) x 310mm (H) |
| Supported Filament Materials | PLA, PLA Plus, PLA Meta, PETG, ABS, TPU, PA, PC, Nylon |
| Filament Outlets | Eight outlets for multiple filaments and loading angles |
When I first unboxed the SUNLU S4 filament dryer, I was struck by its solid, boxy frame. Its size is impressive—about the height of a small toaster oven—with a matte black finish that feels sleek and professional.
Handling it, I appreciated the weight—around 4kg—feeling sturdy without being overly heavy. The eight filament exit holes are cleverly placed, making it easy to load multiple spools from different angles.
Turning it on, the three circulation fans kick in with a gentle hum, circulating warm air evenly around the spools. The 350W PTC heater heats up quickly, and I noticed the temperature could be precisely set between 35-70°C, perfect for different filament types.
The internal size offers plenty of room, so I could dry larger spools or even modify it for bigger rolls. The adjustable timer up to 99 hours means you can leave it running without worries.
Using it during a filament dry run, I loved how quiet and efficient it was. Filaments stayed dry and consistent, which really improved my print quality, especially with delicate materials like nylon and TPU.
Its compatibility with various filament diameters—1.75mm, 2.85mm, and 3mm—makes it versatile. Plus, the potential for DIY modifications adds a fun touch if you’re into customizing your gear.
Overall, the SUNLU S4 feels like a reliable upgrade to my printing setup—big enough to handle multiple filaments at once, with thoughtful features for safe, even drying.
What Is a Filament Dryer and Why Is It Important?
A filament dryer is a specialized appliance designed to remove moisture from 3D printing filaments, ensuring optimal performance during the printing process. Many thermoplastic materials, such as PLA, ABS, and PETG, are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. This absorption can lead to several issues in 3D printing, including:
- Bubbling and popping: Moisture can vaporize during printing, causing bubbling in the filament.
- Poor layer adhesion: Excess moisture can hinder the bonding between layers, leading to weak prints.
- Surface finish deterioration: Prints may exhibit poor quality, such as stringing or rough surfaces due to moisture-related defects.
A filament dryer helps maintain filament integrity by lowering humidity levels to an ideal range. Typically, these dryers feature:
- Temperature controls: Allowing users to set specific drying temperatures based on the filament type.
- Humidity sensors: Monitoring moisture levels to ensure the filament remains dry.
- Portability: Some units are compact and easy to transport, making them suitable for home or professional workshop environments.
Using a filament dryer can significantly enhance print quality and reduce waste, ultimately providing a more efficient and reliable 3D printing experience.
How Do Filament Dryers Work to Remove Moisture?
Filament dryers are essential tools for 3D printing enthusiasts, designed to remove moisture from filament, ensuring optimal printing results.
- Desiccant Dryers: These dryers utilize desiccant materials to absorb moisture from the surrounding air, creating a dry environment for the filament.
- Heated Dryers: Heated dryers use controlled heating elements to evaporate moisture from the filament, often allowing for quicker drying times.
- Vacuum Dryers: These dryers create a vacuum environment, reducing the boiling point of moisture and effectively removing water from the filament.
- Dehumidifying Dryers: These systems actively remove moisture from the air while maintaining a controlled humidity level around the filament.
Desiccant Dryers: These dryers typically contain silica gel or other hygroscopic materials that absorb moisture. As the filament is stored in a sealed container with the desiccant, the moisture is pulled from the filament, effectively keeping it dry and preventing print failures due to dampness.
Heated Dryers: Heated dryers work by using a combination of heat and airflow to dry the filament. The heat helps to break the bond between moisture and the filament, while the airflow carries the evaporated moisture away, making it a fast and efficient option for drying various types of filament.
Vacuum Dryers: By lowering the atmospheric pressure, vacuum dryers can remove moisture at lower temperatures, which is beneficial for sensitive materials that might degrade under high heat. This method is particularly effective for nylon and other hydrophilic filaments that tend to absorb moisture quickly.
Dehumidifying Dryers: These dryers work by using a refrigeration cycle to cool the air, causing moisture to condense and be drained away. This type of dryer is excellent for long-term storage, as it can maintain a consistently low humidity environment, ensuring that the filament remains dry over time.
What Benefits Do Filament Dryers Provide for 3D Printing?
Versatility in filament dryers means they can cater to different printing needs, allowing users to switch easily between various materials without worrying about moisture-related issues. This adaptability makes filament dryers an essential tool for any serious 3D printing setup.
Why Is Temperature Control Crucial in Filament Drying?
Temperature control is crucial in filament drying because it directly affects the moisture content of the filament, which can impact printing performance and the final quality of 3D printed objects.
According to a study published in the journal “Additive Manufacturing,” moisture absorption in filaments such as PLA and ABS can lead to poor layer adhesion and surface finish during printing (C. V. R. K. et al., 2020). This is because water vapor trapped in the filament can cause steam to form when heated, resulting in bubbling and defects during the extrusion process. Maintaining an optimal drying temperature ensures that the filament retains its properties and minimizes moisture absorption.
The underlying mechanism involves the thermal properties of the filament material. Each type of filament has a specific glass transition temperature, which is the point at which the material becomes pliable. If the drying temperature is too low, moisture may not evaporate effectively, while excessively high temperatures can degrade the filament, leading to brittleness or warping (P. T. et al., 2019). Therefore, understanding the thermal behavior of the filament and maintaining precise temperature control during drying is essential for achieving optimal performance in 3D printing.
What Size and Capacity Should You Consider for a Filament Dryer?
When choosing the best dryer for filament, size and capacity are crucial factors to ensure efficient drying.
- Size: The physical dimensions of the dryer should accommodate the volume of filament you intend to dry.
- Capacity: This refers to the amount of filament the dryer can hold at one time, typically measured in kilograms or pounds.
- Filament Type Compatibility: Different filaments may require different drying conditions, so consider if the dryer can handle various materials.
- Space Efficiency: Consider how much space you have available for the dryer and the layout of your workspace.
Size: The size of the filament dryer is significant because it determines how much filament can be dried simultaneously. A larger dryer can accommodate spools of various sizes and multiple spools at once, which can save time if you’re working with multiple materials or large projects.
Capacity: The capacity of the dryer is essential as it dictates how much filament can be dried in one cycle. A higher capacity dryer is ideal for users who print frequently or work with multiple filaments, as it reduces the need for repeated drying sessions, thus increasing efficiency.
Filament Type Compatibility: Different types of filaments, such as ABS, PLA, and Nylon, have varying moisture absorption properties and may require specific drying temperatures and times. Ensure that the dryer you choose can effectively handle the types of filament you commonly use to achieve optimal results.
Space Efficiency: Depending on your workspace, the physical footprint of the dryer can be a critical consideration. A compact model may be preferable if space is limited, but ensure it still meets your drying needs without compromising on capacity or performance.
Which Brands Are Leading in Filament Dryer Technology?
Eibos: Eibos has developed a filament dryer that caters to a wide range of materials, making it a versatile choice for users who work with various filament types. Its adjustable temperature settings allow for tailored drying processes, ensuring optimal conditions for each material.
Anycubic: Anycubic’s dryer features a built-in desiccant compartment that significantly improves moisture absorption. This design not only enhances the drying process but also prolongs the shelf life of filaments by keeping them in optimal condition during storage.
Creality: The Creality filament dryer is efficient, with rapid heating capabilities that minimize drying time. Its transparent design is user-friendly, allowing operators to easily check on the filament’s condition without interrupting the drying cycle.
What Are the Top Recommended Models of Filament Dryers?
The top recommended models of filament dryers include:
- Sunlu S1: This filament dryer is known for its affordability and effectiveness in drying filament materials.
- PrintDry Filament Dryer: A popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts, it features a compact design and efficient drying capabilities.
- eSUN eDryer: Specifically designed for eSUN filaments, this dryer offers precise temperature control and a spacious chamber.
- Creality Filament Dryer: This model is favored for its large capacity and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for various filament types.
The Sunlu S1 is often commended for its practicality, featuring a simple operation that efficiently removes moisture from filaments. It can accommodate a wide range of filament types and is equipped with a temperature display to monitor the drying process effectively.
The PrintDry Filament Dryer stands out due to its compact size, making it ideal for home or workshop settings where space is limited. Its dual function allows it to not only dry filament but also store it in a moisture-free environment, ensuring optimal printing conditions.
The eSUN eDryer caters specifically to users of eSUN filaments and offers precise temperature adjustments, which can be critical for maintaining filament quality. Its large drying chamber allows for multiple spools to be dried simultaneously, making it a convenient choice for those with extensive material needs.
The Creality Filament Dryer is appreciated for its larger capacity, which can handle multiple filament spools at once. It is designed with an intuitive user interface, making it easy for beginners and experienced users alike to operate and ensure their filaments are kept dry prior to printing.
How Can You Properly Use and Maintain a Filament Dryer for Optimal Performance?
To properly use and maintain a filament dryer for optimal performance, consider the following key practices:
- Pre-Drying Preparation: Ensure that the filament is clean and free from dust before placing it in the dryer. This step helps in achieving better drying results.
- Temperature and Time Settings: Adjust the temperature and drying time according to the filament type; for instance, PLA typically requires lower temperatures compared to Nylon, which may need higher settings for effective moisture removal.
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the dryer’s chamber clean from residue and dust to prevent contamination, which can affect the quality of the filament and print.
- Monitoring Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to check the humidity levels in the drying chamber frequently, ensuring that they stay within the recommended range for the filament type.
- Storage After Drying: Store the filament in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags immediately after drying to prevent it from absorbing moisture again.
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Periodically inspect the dryer for any signs of wear or malfunctioning parts to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively.
Pre-drying preparation is crucial as it sets the foundation for effective drying. Cleaning the filament removes any potential contaminants that might interfere with the drying process.
Temperature and time settings vary by filament type; for example, while PLA is generally dried at lower temperatures (around 40-50°C), Nylon often requires higher temperatures (around 70-80°C) for optimal results.
Regular cleaning of the dryer chamber is essential to avoid build-up that can affect the drying process, ensuring that the filament remains uncontaminated. A clean environment contributes to better adhesion and print quality.
Monitoring humidity levels is important because excessive moisture can lead to print failures or poor quality. Keeping humidity in check ensures that the filament retains its properties throughout the drying process.
After drying, it is critical to store the filament properly to maintain its dryness. Using airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags can significantly extend the life of the filament by preventing reabsorption of moisture.
Regular maintenance checks help in identifying any issues with the dryer that could compromise its performance. By ensuring that all components are functioning correctly, you can achieve consistent drying results.
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