Best 3D Printer Extruders of 2025

Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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3D printer extruders are an essential component of any 3D printing setup. These devices are responsible for melting and extruding the plastic filament that is used to create 3D objects layer by layer. There are various types of extruders available on the market, including direct drive and Bowden extruders. Direct drive extruders are mounted directly onto the printer's hotend and provide better control over the filament, while Bowden extruders use a tube to guide the filament to the hotend and are better suited for printing flexible materials. No matter what type of extruder is used, it is crucial to select one that is compatible with the printer and the type of filament being used to ensure optimal performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1
ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder
ftb score rating icon9.8
#TOP 2
ELEGOO Extruder for Neptune 4
ftb score rating icon9.7
#TOP 3
Xirbbo 3D Printer Dual Gear Extruder Kit
ftb score rating icon9.5

Top 10 3D Printer Extruders

#TOP 1

ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder

CA-EL-3D-NA02
ELEGOO 3D Printer Extruder for Neptune 3 Pro/3 Plus/3 Max 3D Printer, Fully Assemble Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder, ELEGOO Official 3D Printer Accessories
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

ELEGOO Extruder is a fully assembled dual-gear direct drive extruder designed exclusively for Neptune 3 Pro, 3 Plus, and 3 Max. This official ELEGOO 3D printer accessory ensures easy installation without the need for assembly. With premium customer service offered, any queries or concerns can be promptly addressed. The extruder enhances printing precision and reliability, making it ideal for intricate 3D printing projects. Its compatibility with specific Neptune models guarantees seamless integration and optimal performance.

What We Like
Easy installation
Cost-effective replacement
Improved printing speed
Includes all necessary components
Quiet operation
What We Don't Like
Minor sag issues
Tricky screw access
#TOP 2

ELEGOO Extruder for Neptune 4

CA-EL-3D-NA16
ELEGOO Extruder for Neptune 4 Plus/Max 3D Printer, Fully Assemble Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder, ELEGOO Official 3D Printer Accessories
ftb score rating icon9.7
FTB Score

The ELEGOO Neptune 4 Extruder is a fully assembled direct drive extruder designed specifically for the Neptune 4 Plus and Max 3D printers. This means you can easily install it without any complex setup. Each extruder undergoes testing before shipping, ensuring reliability, although you might find some test filament inside. As an official accessory from ELEGOO, you can trust its quality. If you face any issues, their customer support is ready to assist you, providing peace of mind for your printing projects.

What We Like
Affordable replacement option
Quick installation process
Consistent performance
Fast delivery
Spare availability
What We Don't Like
Potential quality control issues
Some extruders may fail quickly
#TOP 3

Xirbbo 3D Printer Dual Gear Extruder Kit

bule ex
3D Printer Extruder for Ender 3 Dual Gear Filament Bowden Extruder, Aluminum Drive Feeder Upgrade Kit,Compatible with Creality Cr-10s Cr10s Pro Ender-3 Ender 3pro Ender 5 (Dual Gear Extruder)
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

Xirbbo Dual Gear Extruder Kit is a high-quality aluminum extruder upgrade suitable for various Creality 3D printers. With its double gear extrusion mechanism, it provides strong extrusion force for smooth filament feeding and quick retractions. The aluminum alloy material ensures stability and durability during operation. This kit is a perfect replacement for your printer's extruder, designed for 1.75mm filament to enhance printing precision. It comes with all necessary parts for easy installation, offering you a hassle-free upgrade experience.

What We Like
Easy assembly with some effort
High-quality machined parts
Effective for difficult materials
Good value for money
Snappy retraction performance
What We Don't Like
No instructions included
Some design concerns with components
#TOP 4

Creality Ender 3/Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit

ENO-Ender3-Hotend-Bluetube
Assorted
Creality Ender 3 /Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit 24V with 0.4mm Nozzle Upgrade with Low Friction Creality-Capricorn Tubing
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Creality Ender 3/Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit is a 100% Creality Original and Creality-Capricorn PTFE Tubing. It is suitable for Ender 3, Ender-3x, Ender-3 Pro, and Ender 3 V2 3D printers. The kit includes a Low Friction Creality-Capricorn Original Teflon Tube 40CM, which has high lubricity additives that make it the lowest friction Bowden tubing on the market. It also comes with extra nozzles and silicone socks.

What We Like
Includes Capricorn tubing
Comes with extra nozzles
Improves print quality
Easy hotend replacement
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Installation can be tricky
May require assembly checks
#TOP 5

Creality Upgraded Aluminum Extruder

Creality Official 3D Printer Extruder, Upgraded Aluminum Drive Feed Extruders Accessories for 3D Printer 1.75mm Filament Works with Creality CR-10 Series, Ender 5 Series, Ender 3 Series
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Creality Aluminum Extruder is designed for durability and performance. Made from high-quality aluminum alloy, it ensures long-lasting use. The upgraded design eliminates the pneumatic joint, which increases gear density and reduces the risk of breakage. You can easily adjust the gear pressure for optimal filament feeding. With its optimized metal extrusion, this extruder smoothly pushes filament into the printer nozzle, while the beveled intake prevents any scraping as the filament is drawn in. Installation is a breeze, allowing you to replace your old extruder quickly and effortlessly.

What We Like
Sturdy metal construction
Easy installation
Improved filament grip
Compatible with multiple printers
Good price for value
What We Don't Like
Non-threaded bowden tube interface
Instructions could be better
#TOP 6

XIFOWE MK8 24 Pcs Brass Nozzles

NZ-0
Copper
MK8 Brass
XIFOWE MK8 Nozzles 24 pcs 3D Printer Extruders Brass Nozzles 0.2mm, 0.4mm,0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm CR-10 Nozzle with DIY Tools and Metal Storage Box for CR-8 / CR-10 / Ender 3 / Ender 3S / 5/6 and so on…
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The XIFOWE Brass Nozzles set includes a variety of sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect nozzle for your 3D printing needs. Made from high-quality brass, these nozzles ensure excellent thermal conductivity and durability, which leads to superior printing results. The precise dimensions help you easily identify the right nozzle for your project, making your workflow smoother. Additionally, their universal compatibility with various 3D printers means you can use them with most 1.75mm filament types, giving you flexibility in your printing options.

What We Like
Variety of nozzle sizes
Durable hardened steel material
Included unclogging tool
Organized storage box
Improved print quality
What We Don't Like
Somewhat less smooth flow
Durability of nozzles can vary
#TOP 7

Micro Swiss Bowden Dual Gear Extruder

M2714
Multicolor
Microswiss Bowden Dual Gear Extruder Compatible with Creality Ender, CR10, CR-10 Pro, CR-10S, CR6-SE, Tornado
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The Micro Swiss Bowden Dual Gear Extruder is a high-quality 3D printer extruder made in the USA. It is compatible with Creality Ender, CR10, CR-10 Pro, CR-10S, CR6-SE, and Tornado machines, and is designed to fit NEMA 17 size stepper motors. It is made of steel and alloy steel, and is a great upgrade from the stock plastic extruder. Customers have reported improved print quality, reliability, and consistency after installing this extruder.

What We Like
Improved print quality
Easy installation
Well-engineered design
Compatible with various filaments
Strong grip on filament
What We Don't Like
Potential motor/extruder issue
Requires adjustments for optimal settings
#TOP 8

Micro Swiss NG Direct Drive Extruder

Micro Swiss NG™ Direct Drive Extruder for Creality CR-10 / Ender 3 Printers (Drop in Upgrade, No modifican Required)
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The Micro Swiss Extruder Upgrade is designed specifically for Creality CR-10 and Ender 3 series printers, making it easy to enhance your 3D printing experience without any modifications. With a high torque ratio of 3:1, you can expect better filament control, resulting in improved print quality. This kit includes all necessary components, like the stepper motor and hotend assembly, ensuring a straightforward installation process. The compact design and short filament path also contribute to a more rigid and efficient system, allowing you to achieve optimal results with less hassle.

What We Like
Improved print quality
Easy installation
Compatible with various materials
Excellent customer support
What We Don't Like
Filament loading can be tricky
Some assembly issues reported
#TOP 9

30PCS 3D Printer Nozzles, High Temperature&Wear Resistance

NZ01
LAIHIFA 30PCS 3D Printer Nozzles, High Temperature&Wear Resistance, Better Thermal Conductivity Brass 3D Printer Nozzle 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm for MK8, Ender 3, Creality CR10
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

This pack of 30 3D printer nozzles in 7 sizes is a great value for all your needs. Made of high quality international standard brass, these nozzles are super durable with better thermal conductivity, high temperature resistance and abrasive resistance. With high precision and perfect aperture, they prevent print head from leakage and filament from clogging. These nozzles are compatible with most 1.75mm PLA ABS 3D printers with external M6 thread, including Makerbot MK8, Creality CR10, Ender 3, etc.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Accurate dimensions
Easy installation
Excellent print quality
Includes helpful accessories
What We Don't Like
Requires specific installation tools
#TOP 10

ELEGOO Neptune 4 Extruder

CA-EL-3D-NA11
ELEGOO Extruder for Neptune 4 3D Printer, Fully Assemble Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder, ELEGOO Official 3D Printer Accessories
ftb score rating icon9.1
FTB Score

The ELEGOO Extruder for Neptune is a fully assembled dual-gear direct drive extruder specifically designed for the Neptune 4 3D printer. This means you can start printing right away without the hassle of assembly. Each extruder is tested prior to shipping, ensuring that you receive a reliable product, although you might find some test filament inside. As an official accessory from ELEGOO, you can trust its quality and compatibility. Should you encounter any issues, ELEGOO offers support to help resolve them, giving you peace of mind as you create.

What We Like
Easy installation
Great replacement quality
Timely delivery
Includes extra parts
Works as advertised
What We Don't Like
Occasional malfunction reported
Filament clogging issues noted
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best 3D Printer Extruders

What are 3D Printer Extruders?

3D printer extruders are essential components of a 3D printer that help in the printing process by heating and extruding the printing material (usually plastic filament) in a controlled manner. They are also responsible for moving the extruded material along the printing path to create the desired object.

Factors to Consider when Choosing 3D Printer Extruders

When choosing 3D printer extruders, there are a few key factors to consider:

  1. Compatibility: One of the most important things to consider is whether the extruder you are considering is compatible with your 3D printer. Most 3D printers come with specific extruders that are designed to work with them, so it is important to check if the extruder you are considering is compatible with your printer.

  2. Printing Material: Different 3D printer extruders are designed to work with different printing materials. Some extruders are designed to work with PLA (polylactic acid) filament, while others are better suited for printing with PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) or other materials. It is important to choose an extruder that is compatible with the type of printing material you plan to use.

  3. Printing Speed: The speed at which your 3D printer can print is largely determined by the extruder you are using. Some extruders are designed to work at high speeds, while others are better suited for slow, detailed printing. If you need a 3D printer that can print quickly, you should choose an extruder that is designed for high-speed printing.

  4. Precision: The precision of your 3D printer is another important factor to consider when choosing an extruder. If you need a 3D printer that can create highly detailed, accurate objects, you should choose an extruder that is known for its precision and accuracy.

  5. Price: As with any purchase, price is always a factor to consider. 3D printer extruders can vary greatly in price, so it is important to choose one that fits within your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right 3D printer extruder is essential for ensuring that your 3D printer can print the objects you need it to. By considering factors such as compatibility, printing material, printing speed, precision, and price, you can find the perfect extruder for your 3D printing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 3 types of extruders?

There are three types of extruders: single screw extruder, twin or multiple screw extruder, and ram extruder. Each type has its own advantages and applications in the 3D printing process.

2. Are direct extruders better?

Direct drive extruders are considered better due to their consistent performance and compatibility with a wide range of 3D printing materials, including flexible ones like TPE and TPU. They offer reliable extrusion and are highly recommended for various printing applications.

3. Is dual extruder faster?

Dual extruder printers can be faster because they eliminate the need to swap filaments during printing. This saves time and allows for more efficient printing. However, the speed of the printer also depends on various other factors, so it's not solely determined by the number of extruders.

4. What is the benefit of having 2 extruders?

Having two extruders allows for the reinforcement of the main printing material with a stronger filament. For example, one nozzle can print the majority of a part using PLA, while the other nozzle can print specific areas using a carbon-fiber-based filament. This dual extrusion technique results in stronger final prints with enhanced properties.

5. What is the difference between rubber extruder and plastic extruder?

Rubber extrusions are suitable for high-heat applications and those that require the extrusion to withstand significant loads. On the other hand, plastic extrusions are preferred when lightweight and stiffness are important factors. Each type offers unique advantages depending on the specific application.

6. What is the major disadvantage of direct extrusion?

One major disadvantage of direct extrusion, compared to other methods like indirect extrusion, is the higher force required to push the billet through the press. This can result in increased energy consumption and potentially slower production rates.

7. What are the disadvantages of direct drive extruder?

Some disadvantages of direct drive extruders include the integration of components like the hotend, extruder, stepper motor, and cooling fan, which can make disassembly and maintenance inconvenient. Additionally, the extruder can be heavier, especially in dual-nozzle printers, leading to increased inertia during movement.

Editor's Notes

During our 3d printer extruder research, we found 24 3d printer extruder products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 19,945 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 3d printer extruders list. We found that most customers choose 3d printer extruders with an average price of $20.11.

The 3d printer extruders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 3d printer extruders, including ELEGOO, Xirbbo, Creality, XIFOWE, Micro-Swiss. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,606 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.