Creating vibrant and detailed multicolor miniatures is one of the most exciting advancements in 3D printing. Whether you’re a tabletop gamer, a miniature painter, or a hobbyist looking to add more life to your prints, the ability to print in multiple colors takes your projects to the next level.
But not all 3D printers are built for this task. To achieve smooth color transitions, high detail, and precise layering, you need a machine specifically suited for multicolor miniatures.
In this article, we’ll explore the best 3D printers for multicolor miniature printing in 2025, what to look for, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an advanced user, this guide has something for everyone.
What Are Multicolor Miniatures?
Multicolor miniatures are small-scale 3D printed models that use more than one filament color or resin pigment during the printing process. They’re widely used in:
- Tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons or Warhammer
- Display figurines and collectibles
- Miniature painting practice
- Educational models and prototypes
By using multiple colors, your models become more vivid, realistic, and ready for display right off the printer—no painting required (unless you want to!).
Why Multicolor 3D Printing Is Gaining Popularity in 2025
There are several reasons why multicolor printing is booming:
- Increased demand for custom board game pieces
- Rising popularity of collectible miniatures
- Growth of Etsy-style mini-figure businesses
- Advancements in slicing software and color management
- Affordable multicolor-capable printers entering the market
With better materials, tools, and technology, achieving multicolor results is easier and more affordable than ever before.
Key Features to Look for in a Multicolor 3D Printer
Before diving into the best printers, it’s important to know what features matter most when printing multicolor miniatures:
Multi-material support
Look for printers that support multi-filament input or have multiple extruders. This allows seamless color swapping during the print.
High resolution (XY and Z axis)
Miniatures need ultra-fine detail. A good printer should offer at least 0.05 mm layer height, with precise motion control.
Color blending or color switching
Some printers can blend colors for gradients. Others switch filaments at set layers. Choose based on the style you need.
Reliable software support
Software like PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, or Palette Canvas offer multicolor preview and control. Make sure your printer supports a powerful slicer.
Compact nozzle size (0.2–0.4mm)
A small nozzle is ideal for tiny details often found in miniatures like faces, armor, and accessories.
Good cooling and retraction settings
Prevents color bleeding and stringing when switching filaments during detailed prints.
Top 5 Best 3D Printers for Multicolor Miniatures in 2025
Let’s dive into the best options on the market this year, including both FDM and resin printers.
Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo
Best Overall for Speed and Multicolor Accuracy
The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo is arguably the most powerful multicolor FDM printer in 2025. It supports up to 16 filament colors with the AMS (Automatic Material System), making it a top pick for multicolor miniatures.
Key Specs:
- Print Size: 256 x 256 x 256 mm
- Color Support: Up to 16 filaments
- Layer Height: 0.05 – 0.3 mm
- AI-assisted print quality monitoring
- Closed chamber for consistent results
Pros:
- Fastest multicolor printer in its class
- Excellent out-of-the-box performance
- Quiet, efficient, and user-friendly
- Color and material switching in real-time
Cons:
- Slight learning curve with AMS unit
- Expensive compared to entry-level options
Prusa MK4 with Multi-Material Upgrade 3 (MMU3)
Best Open-Source Choice for Tinkerers
The Prusa MK4 + MMU3 bundle gives you access to detailed, high-quality prints with up to 5 filament inputs. It’s open-source, well-documented, and widely used among creators.
Key Specs:
- Print Size: 250 x 210 x 220 mm
- Color Support: 5 filaments
- Precision: 0.05 mm
- Firmware: Open-source (highly customizable)
Pros:
- Best-in-class print quality for miniatures
- Active community support
- Excellent slicer (PrusaSlicer) with multicolor preview
- Long-term reliability
Cons:
- Filament changes slow down print times
- Setup and tuning require patience
Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo
Best Budget Option for Color Printing Beginners
The A1 Mini Combo from Bambu Lab offers 4-color support with the AMS Lite and top-tier print quality.
Key Specs:
- Build Volume: 180 x 180 x 180 mm
- Colors: 4 filaments
- Speed: 500 mm/s
- Slicer: Bambu Studio with color visualization
Pros:
- Affordable and compact
- Easy multicolor printing setup
- Plug-and-play configuration
Cons:
- Limited build volume
- Color support maxes out at 4
QIDI Tech i-Fast (Dual Extruder)
Best for Dual-Color Engineering and Miniatures
QIDI’s i-Fast offers a dual-extruder setup for dedicated two-color prints. It’s also great for combining support and model material.
Key Specs:
- Dual extruders
- Heated chamber
- Flexible build plate
- Max Nozzle Temp: 300°C
Pros:
- Great for printing support structures in different colors/materials
- Rugged, professional-grade performance
- Ideal for engineering and cosplay miniatures
Cons:
- Not designed for more than two colors
- Takes more manual setup
Palette 3 Pro + Your Favorite FDM Printer
Most Flexible Upgrade for Multicolor Printing
The Palette 3 Pro by Mosaic lets you use your existing printer to create multicolor miniatures by splicing multiple filaments into a single line.
Key Specs:
- Compatible with most FDM printers
- Up to 8 filaments
- Works with Canvas software for color assignments
Pros:
- Great if you already own a 3D printer
- Supports 8-color prints
- Strong software support
Cons:
- Somewhat complex to configure
- Slower prints due to filament splicing
FDM vs Resin Printing for Multicolor Miniatures
Both FDM and resin printers can produce miniatures, but multicolor support varies.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| FDM | Color flexibility, cheaper | Lower detail than resin |
| Resin | High detail, smoother finish | Multicolor requires manual pigment mixing or advanced hardware |
If you’re focused on detail, resin is unmatched. But for multicolor miniatures, FDM printers with multi-filament systems are the most practical solution today.
Best Slicing Software for Multicolor Miniatures
- Bambu Studio – Designed for Bambu Lab printers, supports color simulation
- PrusaSlicer – Excellent control over color changes
- Canvas by Mosaic – Essential for Palette users
- Cura – Compatible with many printers but needs plugins for multicolor
Tips for Printing Multicolor Miniatures Successfully
Use Supports Wisely
Miniatures often have delicate parts. Use tree or organic supports to avoid damaging details during removal.
Preview Color Changes
Check your slicer’s preview mode to ensure color changes happen in the right places.
Be Patient
Multicolor prints take longer. Every filament switch adds time.
Post-Process Smartly
Even if you use colors during printing, light sanding, varnishing, or dry-brushing can enhance the final model.
Test Small First
Always run a small test piece before printing your final design, especially if using a Palette or MMU system.
Common FAQs About Multicolor Miniatures
What’s the easiest way to print multicolor miniatures?
Using a printer like the Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo with AMS Lite is the easiest and most beginner-friendly method today.
Can resin printers print multicolor miniatures?
It’s possible, but difficult. You’d need to pause the print and change resin colors or use multiple vats. Resin isn’t yet practical for automated color changes.
Is multicolor printing slower than regular printing?
Yes. Each filament swap takes extra time, especially in MMU or Palette systems. Expect prints to take 20–50% longer.
Do I need special filament for multicolor prints?
Not necessarily. Regular PLA, PETG, or ABS filaments work well. Just ensure consistency in filament diameter and quality.
Can I use multicolor miniatures for commercial sale?
Absolutely! Just ensure your designs are original or you have the right license for commercial use.
Final Thoughts: Which Printer Is Right for You?
Choosing the best 3D printer for multicolor miniatures depends on your budget, experience, and goals.
Beginners should go for:
- Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo (easy, affordable, plug-and-play)
Advanced users will love:
- Bambu X1-Carbon Combo (top-tier features and speed)
- Prusa MK4 + MMU3 (open-source and detailed)
Already own a printer?
- Add a Palette 3 Pro for full-color flexibility.
With the right setup, multicolor printing can bring your tabletop miniatures, figurines, and character models to life like never before.