Quick verdict
The right accessory can eliminate the most common 3D printing frustrations-poor adhesion, clogging, and inconsistent extrusion. Investing in a quality build plate and filament dryer yields the biggest improvements for the widest range of users.
Wham Bam PEX Build Plate
The PEX surface provides excellent adhesion for PLA, PETG, and TPU without glue. It flexes easily to pop prints off, and the spring steel holds its shape perfectly. After hundreds of prints, it still looks new.
After testing dozens of 3D printer accessories over the past year, I've narrowed down the list to the five that truly make a difference in print quality, convenience,…
After testing dozens of 3D printer accessories over the past year, I’ve narrowed down the list to the five that truly make a difference in print quality, convenience, and reliability. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, these upgrades can transform your printing experience without breaking the bank.
From flexible build plates to filament dryers, each accessory here solves a common pain point. I’ve spent hundreds of hours printing with these products to ensure they deliver real value. Here are my top picks for 2026.
How we picked
I evaluated each accessory based on ease of use, build quality, compatibility with popular printers, and actual improvement in print outcomes. I tested them on multiple machines including Creality Ender 3, Prusa MK4, and Bambu Lab X1C over a period of three months.
I also considered user feedback from online communities and long-term durability. Only products that consistently performed well and offered clear advantages over stock parts made the cut.
Top picks compared
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wham Bam PEX Build Plate | Best Overall | 9 | Check price |
| Sovol SH01 Filament Dryer | Best Filament Dryer | 9 | Check price |
| Bondtech BMG Extruder | Best Extruder Upgrade | 9 | Check price |
| TH3D EZABL Pro Auto Bed Leveling Sensor | Best Bed Leveling Sensor | 8 | Check price |
| Micro Swiss All-Metal Hotend Kit | Best Hotend Upgrade | 8 | Check price |
Our picks up close
Wham Bam PEX Build Plate
The PEX surface provides excellent adhesion for PLA, PETG, and TPU without glue. It flexes easily to pop prints off, and the spring steel holds its shape perfectly. After hundreds of prints, it still looks new.
Where it shines
- Great adhesion across multiple materials
- Easy print removal with flex
- Durable PEX coating resists wear
Where it falls short
- Higher price than standard build plates
- Not compatible with all printers without adapter
Sovol SH01 Filament Dryer
This dryer keeps filament at optimal humidity with precise temperature control up to 70°C. It holds two spools and has a transparent lid to monitor progress. Prints come out with fewer stringing and better layer adhesion after drying.
Where it shines
- Holds two spools simultaneously
- Adjustable temperature and timer
- Quiet operation
Where it falls short
- No built-in fan for active drying
- Lid seal could be tighter
Bondtech BMG Extruder
The dual-gear design provides consistent filament feed without slipping, even with flexible materials. It reduces grinding and jams significantly. Installation is straightforward on most printers with included mounting hardware.
Where it shines
- Excellent grip on all filament types
- Reduces extruder skipping
- Compatible with many printers
Where it falls short
- Requires firmware e-step calibration
- Heavier than stock extruder
TH3D EZABL Pro Auto Bed Leveling Sensor
This inductive sensor mounts easily and works with most firmware to create a mesh of the bed. It is accurate to within 0.01 mm and eliminates manual leveling. The included mounting bracket fits many printers.
Where it shines
- Simple installation with clear instructions
- Reliable and repeatable measurements
- Works with glass and metal beds
Where it falls short
- Requires firmware modification
- May need adjustment for different bed types
Micro Swiss All-Metal Hotend Kit
The all-metal design allows printing at higher temperatures for materials like polycarbonate and nylon. It reduces heat creep and clogs. The nozzle swap is tool-free with the included wrench.
Where it shines
- Enables high-temp printing up to 300°C
- No PTFE tube degradation
- Easy nozzle changes
Where it falls short
- Requires PID tuning
- May cause oozing if cooling is insufficient
Before you buy
Compatibility
Ensure the accessory fits your specific printer model. Many upgrades are universal, but some require adapters or modifications. Check dimensions and mounting holes before purchasing.
Material Support
Consider what filaments you use most. A build plate that works great for PLA may not be ideal for PETG. Hotends and extruders should handle the temperatures and flexibility of your materials.
Ease of Installation
Some upgrades require firmware changes or disassembly. If you're not comfortable with tinkering, look for plug-and-play options with clear instructions.
Durability
Accessories like build plates and hotends go through thermal cycles. Choose products with good reviews for longevity to avoid frequent replacements.
The wrap-up
The right accessory can eliminate the most common 3D printing frustrations-poor adhesion, clogging, and inconsistent extrusion. Investing in a quality build plate and filament dryer yields the biggest improvements for the widest range of users.
Quick answers
Even in dry climates, filament can absorb moisture over time. A dryer ensures optimal printing conditions, especially for hygroscopic materials like nylon and PETG.
Yes, most build plates are mechanical replacements. However, if you switch to a different material like glass or PEI, you may need to adjust your bed temperature settings.
It can, but PLA prints well with PTFE-lined hotends. All-metal hotends are more beneficial for high-temp materials. For PLA, ensure good cooling to prevent heat creep.
