A 3D printed Gundam would make a great gift for any fan, even if you have to have it printed for you. The franchise has a strong following with great characters, drama, and the best mecha action.
3D printing Gundam is also convenient because you can make any model you want in the comfort of your home. Directly control scale, difficulty level, and styles you want.
That said, as these models can get pretty detailed, you might prefer professionals doing the job for you. In that case, you might find Craftcloud, rather useful. Just upload your model and get a quote from the top printing services worldwide, you might just save yourself a buck or two.
Without further ado, let’s get into the models!
Sazabi Ver.Ka
This model was edited by the creator to make a printable version of a Gundam model found on SketchFab. It’s a wonderfully detailed model that’s sure to look great in any Gundam model collection. The miniature emerald-green resin print shown here shines with sharp details and shows us that it doesn’t have to be a traditional model to be cool.
Who made it? Thingiverse user vick54jr (Based on a SketchFab model created by user cosmos28)
Who printed it? Four Thingiverse users have posted makes of this, so it’s definitely printable. Just bear in mind that it may need supports.
Where to get it? Thingiverse
Char's Zaku II
This Zaku II model is designed to look like one of the “super deformed” Zaku II hobby model kits available at Amazon. The Zaku II is a popular design, but the super deformed Zakus are also super cute! It’s instantly recognizable among fans, making it a great way to meet fellow Gundam enthusiasts.
With the flexibility of 3D modeling and printing, you can even try to improve the quality or customize details, alterations, or accessories that were never possible with traditional models!
Who made it? Thingiverse user DFRobot
Who printed it? Eight Thingiverse users have printed this, with no reports of any real difficulties.
Where to get it? Thingiverse
Neo Zeon Logo (Dual Extrusion)
If you have a dual extruder printer, this is a nice and quick print to try. The Neo Zeon logo is also an excellent decorative piece that would look great on your favorite game console or even as an ornament. The Neo Zeon logo is also universally recognized by Gundam fans, so it’s a great way to start a conversation, as well.
Who made it? Thingiverse user Semanyd3DP
Who printed it? Nobody other than the creator has made this print, but it should be simple for anyone with a dual extrusion setup, as no supports or rafts are needed.
Where to get it? Thingiverse
SD Z Gundam
This SD Z Gundam is another in the “super deformed” series that’s great for anyone that wants a cute Gundam figurine. It would also pair well with the Zaku II, so it’s a great print if you’re looking to print more than one Gundam to display or play with. It’s also simple enough that it should be great for beginners to print.
Who made it? Thingiverse user ZETAMASHI
Who printed it? Two Thingiverse users and the creator have printed this model, so it’s definitely printable, though the slightly niche look might be limiting its reach.
Where to get it? Thingiverse
MS-08TX/S Efreet Schneid
This model of the MS-08TX/S Efreet Schneid was modeled after the one seen in the Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn OVA series as well as the RE:0096 TV series. It looks fantastic with all the fine details. The model design was intended to mimic a HGUC-grade Gunpla model, so it’s not exactly an easy print.
Who made it? Thingiverse user karlin
Who printed it? Only one Thingiverse user has made this other than the creator because it’s a difficult print to achieve. The creator suggests FDM prints be done at a larger scale for better fitting and surface finishing, while SLA and industrial machines should have no problems.
Where to get it? Thingiverse
Neo Zeon Stencil
This is both a fantastic Gundam design and a perfect print for beginners. The creator made it for his cell phone case, but you could easily use it to decorate your favorite game console, PC, or… pretty much anything else. Any Gundam fan would be delighted or jealous at the sight of a fellow fan sporting the Neo Zeon logo.
Who made it? MyMiniFactory user CaiquedeAndrade
Who printed it? At least 35 people have downloaded this model, but it should be a straightforward print!
Where to get it? MyMiniFactory
Destroyed Zaku Gundam Action Base
This is another great print from CaiquedeAndrade which shouldn’t be too difficult to print. It incorporates a destroyed Zaku into the scene, making it a great Gunpla base for your favorite Gundam! If you’re looking to go a step further, you can always try to make a Gundam action base with a destroyed Gundam, seeing as the creator hasn’t gotten around to it yet.
Who made it? MyMiniFactory user CaiquedeAndrade
Who printed it? 416 downloads would seem to indicate that his is a popular model.
Where to get it? MyMiniFactory
High Mobility Type Zaku II
The MSN-01 Psycommu Test High Mobility is another Zaku II model. However, this time, it’s neither deformed nor destroyed.
This design will require glue and sanding along with some other materials to form the finished model, so it’s not for beginners. For those hardcore fans and long-time makers out there, this is still a really cool Gundam print to have.
Who made it? MyMiniFactory user GyubinKim
Who printed it? Join the 229 other who have downloaded this model and turn the model into something amazing.
Where to get it? MyMiniFactory
Time to Make One Yourself
Now that you’ve seen what can be printed, remember that this is just the beginning. If you’re a Gundam fan and a 3D printing enthusiast, you can always make your own models and even customize the ones you already own. With a 3D printer, you make masks, art, and more. Nothing is stopping you from partying Gundam-style!
(Lead image source: NenZilla via YouTube)
License: The text of "3D Printed Gundam: Best Curated Models" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.