Wifi vs USB Printing - Which One to Use for Remote 3D Printing?

January 23, 2022

Wifi vs USB Printing - Which One to Use for Remote 3D Printing?

Printing 3D models is a process that may require printing remotely. There are two practical ways of doing this; WiFi and USB printing. However, which one is better suited? Let's find out in this detailed comparison.

WiFi Printing

WiFi printing is a wireless communication that requires a hotspot or router to be set up for communication between devices. The printer and computer must both have the WIFI enabled. This communication enables the printer to receive instructions and begin printing immediately.

Advantages of WiFi Printing

No tangled cables.
Can have a strong signal.
Helps you print from any device with Wi-Fi compatibility regardless of the distance from the printer.
Remote monitoring if the printer is set up with that functionality.
No need for cords that require space.

Disadvantages of WiFi Printing

Expensive if you don’t have a Wi-Fi-enabled printer since a Wi-Fi connector has to be bought separately.
Requires a stable Wi-Fi signal, which means a router or Wi-Fi hotspot must be set up.
Unlike USB printing, WiFi printing depends on Internet connections and signals, which makes it unpredictable and unreliable.
Low signals and poor connectivity make it slower than USB printing.

USB Printing

USB printing requires a USB connection between a 3D printer and a computer, laptop, or an appropriate USB-enabled device. The 3D printer should be designed with a USB port to connect the USB cord, through which the computer transmits commands to the printer.

Advantages of USB Printing

USB printing is reliable and efficient since it depends on direct connection, ensuring accurate and fast data transfer.
Ideal for small spaces since the need for cables and cords is not necessary.
Doesn’t require Wi-Fi networks or signals for printing, which makes it suitable if you're somewhere without such network accessibility.
More cost-effective than Wi-Fi printing.

Disadvantages of USB Printing

Requires a close distance between the computer and the printer.
Long USB cables are prone to interference, which causes slow transmission rates and low data transfer speed.
No remote monitoring.
Cords that require space.

Which One Should You Choose for Remote 3D Printing?

This depends on what you want to achieve. However, if you require remote printing, we recommend using Wi-Fi printing when you have a strong and reliable connection.

If you are in a location without Wi-Fi connectivity or in places with weak signals, USB printing may be a better option since connectivity isn't necessary, and the printer can be set up with ease.

Conclusion

Both WiFi and USB printing are suitable for remote printing; however, USB printing is more reliable and cost-effective than Wi-Fi printing. More importantly, Wi-Fi printing requires a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal. Ultimately, the choice between Wi-Fi and USB printing rests on personal preference.

References

Botta, A., De Donato, W., Persico, V., & Pescapè, A. (2016). Integration of Cloud computing and Internet of Things: A survey. Future Generation Computer Systems, 56, 684-700.
Wong, T. (n.d.). The Pros & Cons of 3D Printing. Techwalla. https://www.techwalla.com/articles/the-pros-cons-of-3d-printing.