Best 3D Printer Extruders of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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3D printer extruders are an essential component of any 3D printing setup. These devices are responsible for melting and extruding the plastic filament that is used to create 3D objects layer by layer. There are various types of extruders available on the market, including direct drive and Bowden extruders. Direct drive extruders are mounted directly onto the printer's hotend and provide better control over the filament, while Bowden extruders use a tube to guide the filament to the hotend and are better suited for printing flexible materials. No matter what type of extruder is used, it is crucial to select one that is compatible with the printer and the type of filament being used to ensure optimal performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder Cover #TOP 1
ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder
ftb score rating icon 9.8
XIFOWE MK8 24 Pcs Brass Nozzles Cover #TOP 2
XIFOWE MK8 24 Pcs Brass Nozzles
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Bigtreetech 3D Printer Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder Cover #TOP 3
Bigtreetech 3D Printer Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 3D Printer Extruders

#TOP 1

ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder

CA-EL-3D-NA02
ELEGOO Neptune 3D Printer Extruder Cover
ELEGOO 3D Printer Extruder for Neptune 3 Pro/3 Plus/3 Max 3D Printer, Fully Assemble Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder, ELEGOO Official 3D Printer Accessories

ELEGOO Extruder is a fully assembled dual-gear direct drive extruder designed exclusively for Neptune 3 Pro, 3 Plus, and 3 Max. This official ELEGOO 3D printer accessory ensures easy installation without the need for assembly. With premium customer service offered, any queries or concerns can be promptly addressed. The extruder enhances printing precision and reliability, making it ideal for intricate 3D printing projects. Its compatibility with specific Neptune models guarantees seamless integration and optimal performance.

What We Like
Easy installation
Restores print quality
Affordable replacement
Includes sensor and tools
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Minor installation sag
Screws hard to access
#TOP 2

XIFOWE MK8 24 Pcs Brass Nozzles

NZ-0
Copper
MK8 Brass
XIFOWE MK8 24 Pcs Brass Nozzles Cover
XIFOWE MK8 Nozzles 24 pcs 3D Printer Extruders Brass Nozzles 0.2mm, 0.4mm,0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm CR-10 Nozzle with DIY Tools and Metal Storage Box for CR-8 / CR-10 / Ender 3 / Ender 3S / 5/6 and so on…

The XIFOWE Brass Nozzles set includes a variety of sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect nozzle for your 3D printing needs. Made from high-quality brass, these nozzles ensure excellent thermal conductivity and durability, which leads to superior printing results. The precise dimensions help you easily identify the right nozzle for your project, making your workflow smoother. Additionally, their universal compatibility with various 3D printers means you can use them with most 1.75mm filament types, giving you flexibility in your printing options.

What We Like
Affordable price
Good for beginners
Multiple nozzle sizes
Works well with PLA
Useful included tools
What We Don't Like
Not for high temperatures
Needles may bend
#TOP 3

Bigtreetech 3D Printer Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder

WGC000291
Bigtreetech 3D Printer Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder Cover
Bigtreetech Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder, Double Gear MK8 Extruder 3D Printer Dual Driver Stock Feeder All Metal 1.75mm Filament Extruder Kit for CR-10S Pro/CR-10/ Ender 3 V2/Ender 3/Ender 3 Pro Series

The Bigtreetech 3D Printer Upgrade Dual Gear Extruder is a great choice for 3D printers such as CR-10/ CR-10S/ CR-10S Pro/ Ender 3/Ender 3 v2/Ender 3 pro/Ender 5/Tornado, etc. It is made of high-quality imported aviation aluminum material and is processed by CNC imported from Japan. It features a double-gear and double-pneumatic joint extrusion structure, direct drive extruder, and high extrusion force, enhancing the feed strength and ensuring smooth feeding. It also comes with a 24-month warranty.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Improved extrusion performance
Reduces filament skipping
Quick hotend swaps
Enhanced print quality
What We Don't Like
No installation instructions
Minor fitment issues
#TOP 4

Redrex Dual Gear Ender 3 Extruder

RDX3D032
Dual Drive Extruder
Redrex Dual Gear Ender 3 Extruder Cover
Redrex Dual Gear Ender 3 Extruder with Two Washers Metal Drive Feeder Upgrade Kit Compatible with Creality Ender 3 V2 Pro,Ender 3 Neo Series,CR10 3D Printer TPU Filament Supported(Motor Shaft>20mm)

The Redrex Dual Gear Ender 3 Extruder is a great upgrade for your 3D printer. It features a double gear extrusion mechanism that grips the filament firmly with less deformation, an upgraded idler gear design with two washers on both sides, and a spring adjustable extruder that improves printing accuracy. Compatible with Ender 3 V2, Ender 3 Pro, Ender 3, Ender 3 Neo, Ender 3 V2 Neo, Ender 3 Max Neo, Ender 5 Pro, and CR10 S series 3D printers, this extruder is perfect for TPU filament.

What We Like
Consistent filament feeding
All-metal construction
Easy installation
Excellent value for price
Firm filament grip
What We Don't Like
Minor filament dust
Instructions slightly unclear
#TOP 5

Upgraded Ender 3 v2 All Metal Extruder

Gray Extruder
Gray
Gray Extruder
Upgraded Ender 3 v2 All Metal Extruder Cover
Upgraded Ender 3 v2 Ender 3 CR-10 All Metal Extruder Aluminum MK8 Bowden Extruder 40 Teeth Drive Gear for Creality Ender 3 Pro/Ender 5/ CR-10 Series 3D Printer

The Official Upgraded Ender 3 v2 All Metal Extruder is a replacement part for the Ender 3, Ender 3 Pro, Ender 5, CR-10, CR-10S, CR-10 S4, CR-10 S5, CR-10 Mini, CR-10S, and CR-10 Plus 3D printers. It performs better than the original plastic extruder, making it easier to load filament and compatible with a range of materials. The 40 teeth drive gear feeds 1.75mm filament smoothly and the kit comes with instructions for easy installation.

What We Like
Durable aluminum construction
Easy installation process
Improved extrusion reliability
Great value for price
Compatible with multiple printers
What We Don't Like
Minor spring or hardware issues
Not all accessories universally useful
#TOP 6

Creality MK8 Ender 3 Brass Nozzle Kit

AMEU-LD-3D-AC-Nozzles
MK8 24P
Ender Series
Creality MK8 Ender 3 Brass Nozzle Kit Cover
Creality Official MK8 Ender 3 Nozzles 24 pcs 3D Printer Brass Nozzles Extruder for Ender 3 Series and Creality CR-10 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm Printer Nozzle Kit

The Creality MK8 Nozzle Kit offers high-quality brass nozzles designed for durability and long-lasting use, making it easy for you to install and replace parts when needed. These nozzles are crafted to ensure smooth, consistent prints by preventing leaks and reducing filament jams with their rounded edges. You can easily identify each nozzle size thanks to clear engravings, helping you choose the right one quickly. Compatible with popular 3D printers like Ender 3 and CR-10, this kit supports various filament types, giving you flexibility and reliable performance for your printing projects.

What We Like
Extremely good value
Genuine Creality brass nozzles
Wide compatibility with printers
Easy installation
Variety of nozzle sizes
What We Don't Like
Limited compatibility for some models
#TOP 7

FYSETC Sherpa Mini All-Metal Extruder Shell

US-Sherpa Mini Extruder
FYSETC Sherpa Mini All-Metal Extruder Shell Cover
FYSETC Upgraded 3D Printer Accessory - Sherpa Mini Extruder - All Metal Shell NO 36mm Pancake Motor: Light Weight Extruder Hotend Part Compatible with Vorn 2.4 Prusa i3 MK3S+ Ender 3 V2 CR-10

The FYSETC Sherpa Mini Extruder is designed with an all-metal shell for durability and long-lasting use. Its helical gear, made from die steel with a nano coating, ensures smooth and stable filament feeding, giving you reliable printing every time. This extruder fits a wide range of popular 3D printers like Ender and CR series models, so you can easily upgrade your setup if you have the right mounting bracket. Plus, it features a Teflon tube metal connector, which helps you connect to different printer models more flexibly. The CNC POM gear and reduction gear design increase the extrusion torque, making your printing more efficient and precise.

What We Like
Lightweight extruder design
Easy direct drive conversion
Affordable price point
Comes with essential accessories
Responsive customer support
What We Don't Like
Minor quality control issues
Stepper motor could be improved
#TOP 8

Creality Upgraded Aluminum Extruder

Creality Upgraded Aluminum Extruder Cover
Creality Official 3D Printer Extruder, Upgraded Aluminum Drive Feed Extruders Accessories for 3D Printer 1.75mm Filament Works with Creality CR-10 Series, Ender 5 Series, Ender 3 Series

The Creality Aluminum Extruder is designed for durability and performance. Made from high-quality aluminum alloy, it ensures long-lasting use. The upgraded design eliminates the pneumatic joint, which increases gear density and reduces the risk of breakage. You can easily adjust the gear pressure for optimal filament feeding. With its optimized metal extrusion, this extruder smoothly pushes filament into the printer nozzle, while the beveled intake prevents any scraping as the filament is drawn in. Installation is a breeze, allowing you to replace your old extruder quickly and effortlessly.

What We Like
All-metal construction
Easy installation
Improved filament grip
Fixes feed and print issues
Better durability than plastic
What We Don't Like
Lack of detailed instructions
Non-threaded bowden tube interface
#TOP 9

Haldis 3D Dual Gear Aluminum Extruder for Creality

CR10S-EX
Blue
Haldis 3D Dual Gear Aluminum Extruder for Creality Cover
Haldis 3D Dual Gear Extruder, Upgraded Aluminum Alloy Block Bowden Extruder 1.75mm Filament for Creality Ender 3 Cr10 Cr-10 Pro Cr-10s Tornado

The Haldis Dual Gear Extruder is a great upgrade for your Creality 3D printer. It fits popular models like the Ender 3, CR-10, and Tornado, making it a versatile replacement part. With its dual gear mechanism, you get strong and smooth filament feeding, which helps prevent jams and improves print quality. The extruder is made from durable aluminum alloy, so it’s more stable and long-lasting than plastic versions. Plus, it’s designed for 1.75mm filament, providing better pressure to push the filament smoothly into the nozzle. While you’ll need to assemble it yourself, installation is straightforward and user-friendly.

What We Like
Dual gear system
Sturdy anodized aluminum build
Improved extrusion consistency
Includes extra gears and bearings
Budget-friendly upgrade
What We Don't Like
Minor bearing noise after extended use
Occasional missing screws
#TOP 10

Creality Ender 3/Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit

ENO-Ender3-Hotend-Bluetube
Assorted
Creality Ender 3/Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit Cover
Creality Ender 3 /Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit 24V with 0.4mm Nozzle Upgrade with Low Friction Creality-Capricorn Tubing

The Creality Ender 3/Pro/V2 3D Printer Assembled Extruder MK8 HotEnd Kit is a 100% Creality Original and Creality-Capricorn PTFE Tubing. It is suitable for Ender 3, Ender-3x, Ender-3 Pro, and Ender 3 V2 3D printers. The kit includes a Low Friction Creality-Capricorn Original Teflon Tube 40CM, which has high lubricity additives that make it the lowest friction Bowden tubing on the market. It also comes with extra nozzles and silicone socks.

What We Like
Easy installation
Good print quality
OEM compatibility
Comes with extra parts
Fixes print issues
What We Don't Like
Occasional quality control issue
Wiring can be tricky
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best 3D Printer Extruders

What are 3D Printer Extruders?

3D printer extruders are essential components of a 3D printer that help in the printing process by heating and extruding the printing material (usually plastic filament) in a controlled manner. They are also responsible for moving the extruded material along the printing path to create the desired object.

Factors to Consider when Choosing 3D Printer Extruders

When choosing 3D printer extruders, there are a few key factors to consider:

  1. Compatibility: One of the most important things to consider is whether the extruder you are considering is compatible with your 3D printer. Most 3D printers come with specific extruders that are designed to work with them, so it is important to check if the extruder you are considering is compatible with your printer.

  2. Printing Material: Different 3D printer extruders are designed to work with different printing materials. Some extruders are designed to work with PLA (polylactic acid) filament, while others are better suited for printing with PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) or other materials. It is important to choose an extruder that is compatible with the type of printing material you plan to use.

  3. Printing Speed: The speed at which your 3D printer can print is largely determined by the extruder you are using. Some extruders are designed to work at high speeds, while others are better suited for slow, detailed printing. If you need a 3D printer that can print quickly, you should choose an extruder that is designed for high-speed printing.

  4. Precision: The precision of your 3D printer is another important factor to consider when choosing an extruder. If you need a 3D printer that can create highly detailed, accurate objects, you should choose an extruder that is known for its precision and accuracy.

  5. Price: As with any purchase, price is always a factor to consider. 3D printer extruders can vary greatly in price, so it is important to choose one that fits within your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right 3D printer extruder is essential for ensuring that your 3D printer can print the objects you need it to. By considering factors such as compatibility, printing material, printing speed, precision, and price, you can find the perfect extruder for your 3D printing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 3 types of extruders?

There are three types of extruders: single screw extruder, twin or multiple screw extruder, and ram extruder. Each type has its own advantages and applications in the 3D printing process.

2. Are direct extruders better?

Direct drive extruders are considered better due to their consistent performance and compatibility with a wide range of 3D printing materials, including flexible ones like TPE and TPU. They offer reliable extrusion and are highly recommended for various printing applications.

3. Is dual extruder faster?

Dual extruder printers can be faster because they eliminate the need to swap filaments during printing. This saves time and allows for more efficient printing. However, the speed of the printer also depends on various other factors, so it's not solely determined by the number of extruders.

4. What is the benefit of having 2 extruders?

Having two extruders allows for the reinforcement of the main printing material with a stronger filament. For example, one nozzle can print the majority of a part using PLA, while the other nozzle can print specific areas using a carbon-fiber-based filament. This dual extrusion technique results in stronger final prints with enhanced properties.

5. What is the difference between rubber extruder and plastic extruder?

Rubber extrusions are suitable for high-heat applications and those that require the extrusion to withstand significant loads. On the other hand, plastic extrusions are preferred when lightweight and stiffness are important factors. Each type offers unique advantages depending on the specific application.

6. What is the major disadvantage of direct extrusion?

One major disadvantage of direct extrusion, compared to other methods like indirect extrusion, is the higher force required to push the billet through the press. This can result in increased energy consumption and potentially slower production rates.

7. What are the disadvantages of direct drive extruder?

Some disadvantages of direct drive extruders include the integration of components like the hotend, extruder, stepper motor, and cooling fan, which can make disassembly and maintenance inconvenient. Additionally, the extruder can be heavier, especially in dual-nozzle printers, leading to increased inertia during movement.

Editor's Notes

During our 3d printer extruder research, we found 24 3d printer extruder products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 49,456 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 3d printer extruders list. We found that most customers choose 3d printer extruders with an average price of $13.37.

The 3d printer extruders are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 3d printer extruders, including ELEGOO, XIFOWE, BIQU, REDREX, Sovol. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,238 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.