A 3D pen is one of those presents children do not get bored with quickly: drawing in the air, building figures and endless making without a screen. But which 3D pen suits your child best? In this buying guide we set out what to look for and which pens we recommend for each age and situation.

What to look for in a 3D pen for children

Three things decide whether a 3D pen is right for your child:

• The filament (the "ink") - for children, always choose a pen that works with PCL filament. PCL melts at a low temperature, so the tip of the pen gets far less hot than with pens that use PLA filament. All Fits4Kids 3D pens work with safe PCL.
• With or without a cable - a wireless pen gives complete freedom of movement: no cable in the way while drawing, and making things works anywhere. Handy at the kitchen table or on the go.
• What is in the box? - check whether there is enough filament, templates and accessories included. That way your child can start straight away and you do not have to order extras separately.

Our recommendations

1. Wireless 3D Pen Starter Kit

The newest pen in our range, available in blue and pink. Completely wireless, so no cable interrupts the fun, and it works exclusively with safe PCL filament at a low temperature. That makes this the best choice for most children.

2. 3D Pen Race Kit

Does your child want to make a real project straight away? The 3D Pen Race Kit combines a 3D pen (with safe PCL filament) with a complete racing theme: templates for cars and tracks. Perfect for children who work best with a clear goal in mind.

Handy accessories

With a template book with tracing sheet your child makes the nicest figures step by step, and an XXL drawing mat protects the table and gives extra grip while drawing. Both work with every pen in our range.

From what age?

Most children can handle a 3D pen on their own from around the age of 8. Younger than 8? Then at least choose a pen with PCL filament and make things together. Check the product page for the age guidance for each pen.

Ready to choose? Have a look at all 3D pens and accessories in our shop.

Frequently asked questions

From what age is a 3D pen suitable for children?

Low-temperature pens with PCL filament, such as the wireless Fits4Kids pen, are suitable from age 6. Classic pens with PLA filament work at higher temperatures and suit older children better.

What is the difference between PCL and PLA filament?

PCL melts at a low temperature and is therefore the safe choice for children. PLA needs a higher temperature and belongs with classic 3D pens. The two types are not interchangeable: always check which filament your pen uses.

How do you recognise a safe 3D pen?

Look for the CE mark and the European toy safety directive EN71 (2009/48/EC), a low working temperature and a clear manual. The Fits4Kids pens meet this directive.