Buying a 3D printer is one of the most promising decisions we can make today, thanks to a DIY universe that has embraced this technology in record time, thousands of free models available, and plenty of documentation just a few clicks away. However, many users are tired of seeing impractical mega-projects, or the 67th miniature version of Baby Yoda in miniature. For them there is the Functional 3D Printing subreddit, a space specially focused on functional 3D prints with immediate use.
The first time I heard about 3D printers, one single idea filled my mind: rebuilding all the battery covers for remote controls. Those blasted covers are like socks—they either break or vanish into thin air. Of course, the 3D design phase isn't exactly simple, but there are very talented people out there with plenty of CAD experience who can reduce these challenges to a project of a few hours and a couple of prototypes.
In other words, I have always prioritized functional 3D printing. Obviously, the web is full of ornaments and decorations, from Mario and Baby Yoda to Sonic and a bust of Kratos… but when it comes to investing time and money in a print, I think we should solve a problem first. That brings us to the Functional 3D Printing subreddit. With more than 340,000 members, it is one of the most important showcase hubs for the best functional 3D prints on the web.
Functional 3D Printing: All Kinds of Practical Prints
Each project we see here is a potential solution for our surroundings. From traps that prevent the accidental turning on of a light to cable organizers, passing through guides for drawing molecules and a 'button reducer' on a remote control, the most satisfying projects are usually those that target relatively small things that require frequent intervention.
In many occasions, creators decide not to share their designs. There are also cases where the model is a simple discovery on Thingiverse or another similar portal. Then we find optimizations of existing products (for example, smaller cases for HDMI converters), or ways to escape the madness of certain manufacturers with exorbitant prices on converters and adapters.
The point is that here you will not find ornaments, toys, or things that gather dust in a corner. Now, there is always a post that tries to bend or break those rules, but generally speaking, the content is quite good. Once again: If you are tired of 3D prints that barely serve as decorations, Functional 3D Printing deserves your time.
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