Monoprice Select Mini V2 vs FlashForge Finder
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 FlashForge Finder is a reliable entry-level 3D printer built specifically with safety and ease of use in mind. Featuring a fully enclosed printing body with non-heated print bed, it minimizes burn risks, making it an ideal choice for classrooms, homes, and young makers exploring the world of additive manufacturing. Equipped with a slide-in build plate, intuitive touch screen, and assist-level calibration, the Finder simplifies the setup and printing process. It supports Wi-Fi connectivity, USB thumb drives, and direct cable printing, allowing users to seamlessly transition from 3D models to finished physical objects without technical friction.
- 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
- Very easy to set up and operate for absolute beginners
- Non-heated build plate and enclosed design prioritize safety
- Includes helpful features like filament run-out detection
- Compact footprint fits easily on a standard desk or workbench
- Small build volume limits larger printing projects
- Limited cooling fan performance can affect overhangs
- Power supply unit is an external brick design
- Does not support high-temperature filaments like ABS or nylon
- Smaller build volume limits the size of printable objects
- Manual bed leveling assist is not fully automatic
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Monoprice Select Mini V2
View all →An intuitive, safe, and user-friendly 3D printer designed for beginners and educators.
Alternatives to FlashForge Finder
View all →An affordable, compact, and fully assembled 3D printer for hobbyists and beginners.
A reliable and advanced 3D printer designed for educators, makers, and professionals.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Monoprice Select Mini V2 is the budget‑friendly, fully assembled option with a heated bed for more material flexibility, while the FlashForge Finder offers a safer, classroom‑ready experience with Wi‑Fi and built‑in safety features but limited to PLA.
Key differences
- •Heated vs. non‑heated build plate (Mini Mini V2 prints ABS/PLA; Finder limited to PLA)
- •Connectivity: MicroSD/USB only (Mini) vs. Wi‑Fi plus USB/Flash drive (Finder)
- •Safety/education focus: enclosed chassis and non‑heated plate (Finder) vs. open frame (Mini)
- •Build volume and size: Mini is smaller (19×28×30 cm) but lighter; Finder larger footprint (420 mm cube) and heavier
- •Open‑source firmware (Mini) vs. closed (Finder)
Pricing & value
Mini MSRP $220 vs. Finder $349, giving a $129 price advantage for similar beginner functionality.
Performance
Heated bed on Mini enables ABS and specialized filaments; Finder only prints PLA.
Build quality
Finder’s enclosed chassis and slide‑in plate provide more robust protection and quieter operation.
Connectivity
Finder includes Wi‑Fi plus USB options; Mini relies on USB and MicroSD only.
Power & efficiency
Mini’s external brick power supply and smaller size likely consume less power than Finder’s larger, enclosed unit.
Compatibility
Mini supports PLA, ABS, and specialized filaments; Finder limited to PLA.
Warranty & support
Both provide a 1‑year warranty (Mini: 1 year; Finder: 1 Year Limited).
Choose Monoprice Select Mini V2 if…
Beginners or hobbyists needing a low‑cost printer that can handle ABS and want a ready‑to‑print, open‑source machine.
Choose FlashForge Finder if…
Educators or safety‑concerned users who prioritize PLA‑only printing, Wi‑Fi convenience, and an enclosed, child‑friendly design.
Common questions
Which printer can print ABS?
The Monoprice Select Mini V2 has a heated build plate and supports ABS; the FlashForge Finder does not.
Is Wi‑Fi available on both models?
Only the FlashForge Finder offers Wi‑Fi connectivity; the Mini uses USB and MicroSD only.
Which option is cheaper?
The Monoprice Select Mini V2 is priced at $220, while the FlashForge Finder costs $349.