Barely more than a decade ago, 3D printers were hulking, expensive machines reserved for factory floors and deep-pocketed corporations, all but unknown outside the small circles of professionals who built and used them. But thanks largely to the RepRap open-source 3D printing movement, these amazing devices have become affordable, viable tools for designers, engineers, hobbyists, schools, and consumers alike. Today's 3D printers come in styles optimized for different applications and kinds of printing. Models geared to professionals, like the Ultimaker S5, tend to have a closed frame, with a transparent door and often sides as well. Our favorite midrange 3D printer, the Original Prusa i3 MK3S+, and many budget models have open frames. You also tend to get a larger build area for your money with an open-frame model. While higher-end models such as the Ultimaker S5 can cost $6,000 or more, entry-level models can be found for $200 or less. We've even seen an able model geared to kids. If you're in the market for a 3D printer, it's important to know how they differ so you can choose the right model. Read on for mini-reviews of the top models we've tested for a host of uses and users. After that, we go into more detail on understanding 3D printer specs and tech. Preparing to take the plunge? Read on.
Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib: Best Eco-Friendly Travel Crib
Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard -- $165(eBay - adoptababyfromhaiti)
Guava Lotus Bundle & Save: Lotus Portable Bassinet + Travel Crib Bundle ... -- $349.9(Guava Family)
Guava Lotus Travel Crib with Lightweight Backpack Design | Certified Bab... -- $161.21(AliExpress.com)
Lotus Guava Travel Crib - New Kids | Color: Black -- $160(Mercari)
Lotus Travel Crib - Backpack Portable Lightweight Easy to Pack Play-Yard -- $229.95(Amazon)
Guava Lotus Bundle & Save: Everyday Essentials - Includes the Lotus Trav... -- $366.85(Guava Family)
Why We Picked It
The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib is a top pick for parents on the go, offering a perfect blend of convenience, safety, and eco-conscious design. Its lightweight structure and intuitive setup make it a breeze to use, while the side zipper door provides unique access that can be a game-changer for interacting with your baby. The use of eco-friendly materials also ensures that your little one's environment is as healthy as it is comfortable.
Who It's For
This travel crib is ideal for environmentally conscious parents who value convenience and are frequently traveling or need a portable sleeping solution for their baby. It's also great for those who want a multifunctional crib that can double as a play yard. However, due to its higher price point, it may not be the best fit for families who are on a tight budget or who do not travel often enough to justify the investment.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and easy to set up | ❌ Higher price point |
| ✅ Side zipper door for easy access | ❌ May not be necessary for infrequent travelers |
| ✅ Made with eco-friendly materials | ❌ Additional cost for bundle options |
BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light: Ultimate Travel Companion for Babies
Babybjrn Travel Crib Light - Black (040280us) One Size, Infant Unisex, S... -- $196(Walmart - kunmingzhiting)
BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light - Silver -- $279.99(Amazon)
BABYBJÖRN New! Travel Crib Light - Black - New Kids | Color: Black | Siz... -- $143.5(Mercari)
Why We Picked It
The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light stands out for its unparalleled convenience and baby-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for parents on the go. Its extreme lightweight, at just 13 pounds, combined with a simple setup process, ensures that traveling with a baby is easier and more manageable. The crib's materials are not only soft, ensuring your baby's comfort, but also safe, providing peace of mind for parents. The inclusion of a fitted sheet and the crib's airy design for good supervision add to its appeal, making it a practical choice for overnight stays and vacations.
Who It's For
This travel crib is perfect for parents who love to travel or often visit family and friends with their baby. Its portability and ease of setup make it ideal for those who need a reliable, comfortable, and safe sleeping solution for their baby while away from home. However, it might not be the best fit for parents looking for a permanent crib solution due to the thin mattress, which may require additional cushioning for everyday use.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Extremely lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry and travel with | ❌ The mattress is a bit thin, which may require extra cushioning for optimal baby comfort on rough terrains |
| ✅ Simple to set up and fold up, saving time and hassle for parents | ❌ Price variation might be a concern for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ Soft and comfy mattress with removable and machine washable textiles, ensuring baby's comfort and hygiene | ❌ Limited to use as a travel crib, may not be suitable as a permanent sleeping solution |
Phil&Teds Portable Traveller Crib: Best Portable Crib for Outdoor Adventures
Phil & Teds Traveller Silver -- $280.16(Welcome Mr Baby!)
Phil & Teds Traveller Bassinet Accessory, Black -- $54.99(ANB Baby)
Why We Picked It
The Phil&Teds Portable Traveller Crib stands out for its unparalleled portability and outdoor-friendly features. Its lightweight design, coupled with UV protection and a robust build, makes it an ideal choice for families on the go who don't want to compromise on their little one's comfort and safety outdoors. The addition of the Traveller Bassinet Accessory further enhances its versatility, catering to the needs of newborns and providing a cozy, secure space for the earliest stages of life.
Who It's For
This crib is perfect for adventurous families who love to travel, camp, or spend considerable time outdoors. It's also a great fit for those living in smaller spaces who appreciate the crib's compact footprint. Parents of newborns can benefit from the added convenience of the bassinet accessory, ensuring their infant has a snug spot from day one. However, it may not be the best long-term solution for those looking for a crib that will accommodate their child as they grow into a toddler.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ultra-portable design ideal for travel | ❌ Smaller size may not be suitable as child grows |
| ✅ UV protection for safe outdoor use | ❌ Additional cost for bassinet accessory |
| ✅ Robust build quality ensures durability | ❌ May not be as sturdy as traditional, stationary cribs |
Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed: Best Versatile Outdoor Infant Bed
Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed Regular, Sunset Purple -- $99.99(Walmart - JDWS)
Why We Picked It
The Joovy Gloo Infant Travel Bed is selected for its versatility and protective features. It accommodates a wide age range, from infants to toddlers, ensuring long-term use. The UPF 50 sun protection is a standout feature, making it an excellent choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and need to keep their little ones safe from harmful UV rays.
Who It's For
This travel bed is ideal for parents who are on-the-go and want a durable, comfortable, and safe sleeping environment for their child. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who need a portable bed that can provide sun protection during family outings, beach trips, or camping adventures.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large size range for infants to toddlers | ❌ Bulkier when packed compared to other travel beds |
| ✅ UPF 50 sun protection for outdoor use | ❌ May take up more space in luggage |
| ✅ Comfortable and safe sleeping environment | ❌ Could be less convenient for frequent travelers |
KidCo Peapod Plus Portable Travel Bed: Best Portable Bed for Young Travelers
KidCo PeaPod Plus Kiwi Travel Bed P4010_(OFS) -- $129.95(Folding Bed.net)
KidCo Peapod Plus Travel Bed - Camo -- $99.95(KidCo)
Why We Picked It
The KidCo Peapod Plus Portable Travel Bed is an excellent choice for families on the go, offering a convenient and comfortable sleeping solution for children while camping or traveling. Its lightweight design and built-in sleeping pad make it easy to set up and transport, ensuring your child has a familiar sleeping environment wherever you go.
Who It's For
This travel bed is ideal for toddlers and young children who have outgrown their cribs but still need a secure, cozy place to rest when away from home. It's great for camping trips, hotel stays, and visits to relatives. However, it may not be the best choice for infants who require more open and accessible sleeping arrangements.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for travel | ❌ Enclosed design may not be suitable for very young babies |
| ✅ Built-in sleeping pad for added comfort | ❌ Limited space compared to a traditional bed |
| ✅ Enclosed design provides a safe and snug environment for children | ❌ May require a period of adjustment for children to get used to sleeping in a new environment |
Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Infant Travel Bed: Best Budget-Friendly Infant Travel Bed
Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Travel Bed in Denim -- $54.99(eBay - bullseye_deals)
Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Classic -- $34.99(eBay)
Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Metro Baby Lounge, Gray -- $90(ModeSens)
LulyBoo LulyBoo Bassinet To-Go Metro Travel Bed - New | Color: Grey -- $50(Mercari)
Why We Picked It
The Lulyboo Bassinet To-Go Infant Travel Bed is selected for its multifunctionality and affordability. It serves as a convenient solution for parents on the go, offering a comfortable and familiar space for their infant to rest, whether at home or while traveling. Its budget-friendly price points make it accessible for a wide range of families.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for parents who are looking for a portable and cozy spot for their baby to sleep or play, both indoors and outdoors. It's especially suited for those who travel frequently or enjoy family outings and need a lightweight, easy-to-carry bed for their little one. However, it may not be the best fit for families who plan to use it in rough outdoor environments where more durable gear is required.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Versatile use as a bassinet, lounge, and travel bed | ❌ Not as sturdy as some higher-end models |
| ✅ Affordable price range for different budgets | ❌ May not be suitable for challenging outdoor conditions |
| ✅ Lightweight and portable design for easy travel | ❌ Durability may be a concern over extended use |
Munchkin Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet: Portable & Safe Infant Sleep Solution
Munchkin Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet, Grey, Gray -- $47.99(Munchkin)
Munchkin New Muchkin Brica Fold N Go Travel Bassinet - Grey - New Home |... -- $40(Mercari)
Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet -- $36.12(allschoolabs.com)
New Munchkin Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet Gray Grey Quick Set up -- $22.27(Bonanza - Kathy's Bargain Kloset)
Munchkin Brica Fold And Go Bassinet -- $28(eBay)
Munchkin Brica Fold N' Go Travel Baby Bassinet Pod Grey Portable -- $19.99(eBay)
Why We Picked It
The Munchkin Brica Fold N' Go Travel Bassinet stands out for its exceptional portability and safety features, making it an ideal choice for parents on the go. Its locking frame ensures stability and safety for the baby, while the breathable mesh sides provide ample ventilation. The range of prices from various sellers makes it accessible for different budgets, ensuring that parents can find a deal that suits them best. Its ease of setup and compact design for travel further enhance its appeal for active families.
Who It's For
This bassinet is perfect for new parents who love to travel or those who need a portable sleeping solution for their baby when visiting family and friends. It's also great for parents looking for a safe, secondary sleeping area for their baby in different rooms of the house. However, due to its size, it's only suitable for very young infants, making it a short-term investment.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Highly portable with a quick setup design | ❌ Limited lifespan as it's only suitable for very young infants |
| ✅ Locking frame for enhanced safety | ❌ Variability in price points requires shopping around for the best deal |
| ✅ Breathable mesh sides for good ventilation | ❌ May not be as sturdy as permanent bassinets |
Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome: Versatile Outdoor Baby Dome
Fisher Price On The Go Baby Dome -- $63.99(Amazon)
Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome -- $69.69(Walmart - Toyburg)
Fisher-Price Bubbles On-The-Go Baby Dome -- $52.99(GoodBuy Gear)
Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome - Gray -- $67.98(Sam's Club)
Fisher-Price Portable Bassinet and Play Space On-The-Go Baby Dome with 2... -- $69.97(NFM)
Fisher-Price On-The-Go Baby Dome/AQUA -- $117.73(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome is an innovative solution for parents who love to be outdoors or are always on the move. It serves dual purposes by providing a safe and comfortable play space as well as a cozy napping area for babies. The inclusion of a canopy with UPF20 protection ensures that your baby is shielded from harmful UV rays and pesky bugs, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camping, picnics, and beach days. Additionally, it comes with colorful toys to engage your baby and aid in the development of fine motor skills, making it not just a resting place but also an interactive environment for your little one.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors or those who travel frequently. It's perfect for parents who want a portable, versatile solution that can easily transition from a play space to a nap area while providing protection from the sun. However, due to its bulkier size compared to other travel beds, it might not be the best fit for families with very limited space or those who require a more compact travel solution.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dual-purpose design as a play space and nap area | ❌ Bulkier than other travel beds |
| ✅ Canopy with UPF20 protection for outdoor use | ❌ May not fit easily into all camping spaces |
| ✅ Includes colorful toys for developmental play | ❌ Higher price point for certain color variants |
Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed: Versatile Portable Toddler Bed
Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed - Grey -- $29.98(Sam's Club)
Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed -- $39.99(Amazon)
Regalo My Cot Twin Portable Toddler Bed -- $59.99(Target)
Regalo My Cot Extra Long Portable Bed Includes Fitted Sheet - Gray -- $43.99(Walmart)
My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed - Blue Raccoon | Regalo Baby -- $34.95(Wayfair)
Regalo My Cot Pal Extra Long Portable Toddler Bed - Eye Lashes White Sma... -- $53.99(eBay - lisaros_60)
Why We Picked It
The Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed series offers a versatile and affordable solution for parents needing a portable sleeping option for their toddlers. With a range of models including the basic Grey version at $29.98, the Deluxe version at $39.99, the Twin version at $59.99, the Extra Long version at $43.99, and themed options like the Blue Raccoon and Eye Lashes White Small Single, there's a cot to fit every need and budget. These beds are designed for comfort and convenience, featuring a portable fold-and-go system, a removable sleeping bag and pillow in some models, and a carry case for easy transport. The beds are sized to accommodate children up to 75 pounds, making them a durable option for older toddlers.
Who It's For
Ideal for families on the go, whether it's for camping, traveling, or overnight stays at grandparents' house. The Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed series is best suited for parents seeking a lightweight, portable sleeping solution that can easily adapt to various settings. However, it might not be the best fit for children who require the comfort of a traditional mattress due to its cot-like design.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Portable fold and go system for easy transport | ❌ More like a cot than a traditional bed, which may affect comfort for some children |
| ✅ Includes carry case and, in some models, a removable sleeping bag and pillow | ❌ Limited padding compared to a regular mattress |
| ✅ Designed for comfort, accommodating children up to 75 pounds | ❌ Some models may require additional bedding for comfort |
Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed: Best Portable Toddler Bed for Travel
hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers [4-Sided] | -- $71.99(hiccapop)
hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers [4-Sided] | P... -- $71.5(AliExpress.com)
hiccapop 2-Pack Inflatable Bed Rail for Toddlers Travel Bed Rail -- $49.93(hiccapop)
Air Mattresses Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed Safety Bumpers -- $99.99(eBay - reallysmartcookie)
Why We Picked It
The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is selected for its convenience and safety features, making it an ideal choice for families on the go. It's designed to provide a comfortable sleeping environment for toddlers with the added security of 4-sided bumpers. The ease of inflation and deflation makes it a practical option for travel.
Who It's For
This travel bed is best suited for parents who need a portable sleeping solution for their toddlers during trips, vacations, or even for sleepovers. It's also a great option for those who have limited space at home and require an easily storable bed for occasional use.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Comfortable sleep with 4-sided safety bumpers | ❌ Requires an electric pump for inflation |
| ✅ Easy to inflate and deflate for convenience | ❌ Risk of punctures, especially when used outdoors |
| ✅ Portable design ideal for travel and home use | ❌ May not be as durable as a traditional bed |
Thanks for checking out our top picks for baby travel beds! If you need more recommendations or have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy camping with your little one!