Bambu Lab P1S Combo 3D Printer is our top choice for the Best 3D Printers for Teens, offering high-speed performance and multi-color capabilities that allow young creators to produce complex, vibrant models with minimal downtime. For those prioritizing a compact, plug-and-play experience, the Entina Tina2C Mini 3D Printer provides a simplified entry point, while the Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer serves as a robust alternative for teens interested in faster, industrial-style prototyping.
Selecting a 3D printer for a teenager involves balancing technical capability with user-friendly features that encourage long-term engagement. While advanced features like multi-color printing and high-speed motion systems are impressive, the most practical machines for this age group often prioritize reliable first-layer adhesion, enclosed safety designs, and intuitive software ecosystems that reduce the frustration of manual calibration.
Experienced buyers should focus on the specific needs of the user, whether that is rapid iteration for engineering projects or creative exploration through artistic modeling. We evaluate these printers based on their setup requirements, build volume, and the accessibility of their software interfaces to ensure they support a teen's growing skillset without requiring constant mechanical intervention.
For younger users or those just starting their journey, exploring the Best 3D Printers for Kids can provide additional context on age-appropriate safety and simplicity. If the goal is academic or project-based learning, our guide on the Best 3D Printers for Students offers insights into models that handle more rigorous, long-term use.
10 Best 3D Printers for Teens in 2026 Reviews
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Strength | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bambu Lab P1S Combo 3D Printer | Best Overall | 15-minute setup process for immediate usability. | 4.9 |
| Entina Tina2C Mini 3D Printer | Easiest Setup for Beginners | Fully assembled design allows for a 5-minute setup time. | 4.4 |
| Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer | Ultra-Fast CoreXY Performance | 600mm/s high-speed printing for rapid project completion. | 4.4 |
| AOSEED X-MAKER JOY AI 3D Printer | Safe Enclosed Design for Kids | AI-powered model generation via voice and image prompts. | 4.6 |
| Flashforge AD5X Multi-Material 3D Printer | Four-Color Productivity Booster | 4-color printing capability via the Intelligent Filament System. | 4.6 |
| Anycubic Kobra X 3D Printer | Expandable Multicolor Capabilities | Native 4-color printing expandable to 19 colors. | 4.5 |
| Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer for Beginners | Robust Industrial-Grade Frame | 600mm/s hyper-speed printing with Klipper engine | 4.6 |
| Creality K2 SE 4C 3D Printer | Space-Saving Multicolor System | 4-Color Multicolor printing capability without extra setup. | 4.7 |
| Creality SPARKX i7 Combo 3D Printer | AI-Powered Photo-to-3D Creation | AI-powered photo-to-3D model generation simplifies the design process. | 4.6 |
| Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer | Quiet Ecosystem for Creative Projects | Full-auto calibration eliminates manual bed leveling. | 4.3 |
How We Chose
When evaluating the best 3D printers for teens, we prioritize machines that bridge the gap between hobbyist-grade performance and educational accessibility. Our review process focuses on how effectively each printer minimizes the technical barriers to entry, ensuring that students and young makers can spend more time iterating on their designs and less time troubleshooting mechanical failures.
- Ease of setup and initial calibration
- Safety features including enclosure and build plate access
- Software and app integration for model management
- Printing speed and dimensional accuracy
- Multi-material or multi-color capability
1 Bambu Lab P1S Combo 3D Printer — High-Speed Multi-Color Printing
The Bambu Lab P1S Combo 3D Printer streamlines the creative process for young makers by offering a 15-minute setup time and an enclosed design that enhances print performance across a variety of materials. This machine is engineered for efficiency, featuring automatic bed leveling to ensure consistent, high-quality results without the need for complex manual calibration.
Designed for speed and versatility, the printer achieves true high-speed printing with a maximum speed of 500mm/s and an acceleration of 20000 mm/s². This rapid output allows users to transition quickly from digital concepts to physical objects, keeping engagement high during long projects.
A standout feature is the multi-color and multi-material capability enabled by the included Bambu Lab AMS. This system supports up to 16 colors, allowing for vibrant, complex designs that would otherwise require manual filament swaps. The P1S is compatible with a wide range of filaments, including PLA, PETG, TPU, and ABS, providing flexibility for diverse engineering and artistic challenges.
The unit is built for reliability, with a sturdy, fully enclosed body that protects prints and maintains stable temperatures. While it offers advanced performance, the user-friendly interface ensures that students can focus on the design and iteration phases of 3D printing rather than troubleshooting hardware issues.
Best for: Students and teens looking for a high-speed, multi-color 3D printing experience with minimal setup time.
Skip if: Users who require the ability to print with advanced carbon or glass fiber reinforced polymers, as these materials are not recommended for this model.
- 15-minute setup process for immediate usability.
- Multi-color printing capability for up to 16 colors via the AMS.
- High-speed performance with 500mm/s print speeds.
- Automatic bed leveling for consistent print quality.
- Not recommended for carbon or glass fiber reinforced polymers.
- Requires the AMS unit to be connected for multi-color functionality.
2 Entina Tina2C Mini 3D Printer — Easiest Setup for Beginners
Introducing the Entina Tina2C Mini 3D Printer, a compact and fully assembled device engineered for those new to additive manufacturing. This unit prioritizes accessibility by arriving with factory presets and an integrated auto-leveling system, which helps ensure consistent first-layer adhesion without the need for manual calibration. Its small footprint and quiet operation make it a practical addition to home desks or dedicated learning spaces.
The printer integrates with the Poloprint Cloud app, providing access to over 3,500 ready-to-print models and 25 DIY projects. Users can manage the printing process via 2.4GHz WiFi connectivity, which supports AI-powered tools for text-to-3D and photo-to-3D design generation. For those who prefer offline workflows, the device also supports TF card input and maintains compatibility with standard slicing software like Cura and Simplify3D.
Designed for convenience, the Entina Tina2C Mini 3D Printer features a flexible magnetic print bed that allows for easier removal of finished projects. Maintenance is simplified through a quick-swap nozzle system, reducing the time required for cleaning or replacements. The unit also includes power-loss recovery, which allows the printer to resume tasks after unexpected interruptions, providing a more reliable experience for beginners.
With a build volume of 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches, this printer is tailored for small-scale creative projects and STEM learning activities. The inclusion of built-in LED lighting and a guided setup process through the mobile app further streamlines the transition from unboxing to the first print, which can be achieved in as little as five minutes.
Best for: Beginners and students seeking a plug-and-play 3D printing experience with app-based model access and minimal assembly.
Skip if: Users requiring a larger build volume for complex, full-scale prototypes or those who prefer advanced manual hardware customization.
- Fully assembled design allows for a 5-minute setup time.
- Auto-leveling technology simplifies the initial calibration process.
- Wireless app control provides access to a large library of 3,500+ models.
- Flexible magnetic print bed facilitates easy removal of finished prints.
- Limited build volume of 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches restricts the size of projects.
- Small-scale design may not support advanced, large-format 3D printing requirements.
3 Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer — Ultra-Fast CoreXY Performance
Stepping into the world of rapid prototyping, the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer distinguishes itself with a high-speed CoreXY structure capable of reaching 600mm/s travel speeds. This machine is engineered to minimize downtime, featuring a 35-second warm-up time to 200°C and a high-flow 32mm³/s nozzle, making it a robust choice for students looking to move quickly from digital design to physical object.
Usability is a core focus of this model, highlighted by its One-Click Automatic Printing system. By utilizing fully automatic bed leveling, the printer ensures consistent first-layer adhesion without the need for manual calibration, which is often the most challenging aspect for newcomers. The 3S Detachable Nozzle design further simplifies maintenance, allowing for rapid nozzle swaps in just three seconds to accommodate different project requirements.
For those managing projects remotely, the integration with Flash Studio provides real-time app monitoring. This allows users to track print progress, adjust settings, and receive status alerts directly on their mobile devices. The inclusion of a dual-sided PEI platform ensures that finished prints are easy to remove, while vibration compensation technology helps maintain high precision even during high-speed operations.
While the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer offers impressive speed and automated features, it is important to note its build volume of 220x220x220mm. This size is sufficient for most educational and hobbyist projects, though it may limit the scale of larger, single-piece prints. The unit's all-metal structure provides a stable foundation for its 280°C direct drive extruder, supporting a variety of material types for diverse creative applications.
Best for: Students and hobbyists who prioritize high-speed printing and automated setup to streamline the creative process.
Skip if: Users who require a significantly larger build volume for industrial-scale parts or those who prefer a fully enclosed chamber for specific advanced materials.
- 600mm/s high-speed printing for rapid project completion.
- Fully automatic bed leveling eliminates manual calibration.
- 3S detachable nozzle for quick and easy maintenance.
- Real-time mobile app monitoring for remote control.
- 220x220x220mm build volume may restrict the size of larger projects.
4 AOSEED X-MAKER JOY AI 3D Printer — Safe Enclosed Design for Kids
Introducing the AOSEED X-MAKER JOY AI 3D Printer, a specialized device designed to turn a home environment into an interactive toy factory. This printer stands out with its AI-powered creativity suite, allowing users to generate custom 3D models through voice, text, or image prompts, effectively removing the need for complex manual design skills.
Safety and ease of use are central to its design, featuring an enclosed, pinch-resistant chassis that makes it suitable for younger users. The unit operates with a leveling-free platform, which simplifies the setup process significantly. Parents can monitor progress via a built-in camera that supports real-time smartphone viewing and automatic time-lapse video creation.
Performance is driven by high-speed capabilities, reaching peak speeds of 400mm/s for rapid prototyping, with typical print speeds between 220–250 mm/s. The printer includes filament runout detection to prevent failed prints and utilizes a quick-release nozzle for simplified maintenance. It is compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows systems for versatile control.
The package is a comprehensive starter kit, arriving with 8 rolls of PLA filament, a magnetic build plate, and essential tools. While the printer supports single-color printing, users can create multi-color projects by printing individual components separately for assembly. This model provides access to a library of over 20,000 human-reviewed models, offering a structured entry point into 3D printing.
Best for: Families and students seeking a safe, easy-to-use 3D printer with AI-assisted design tools for creating toys and STEM projects.
Skip if: Users who require multi-color printing capabilities in a single pass or those who prefer an open-frame design for larger-scale professional engineering projects.
- AI-powered model generation via voice and image prompts.
- Enclosed, pinch-resistant design for enhanced safety.
- Leveling-free platform for simplified setup.
- High-speed printing with peaks up to 400mm/s.
- Comprehensive starter kit including 8 rolls of PLA.
- Single-color printing only, requiring assembly for multi-color designs.
5 Flashforge AD5X Multi-Material 3D Printer — Four-Color Productivity Booster
The FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Material 3D Printer introduces a high-speed approach to creative projects, capable of reaching print speeds up to 600mm/s with an acceleration of 20000mm/s². This model is engineered for users who want to move beyond single-color limitations, utilizing an Intelligent Filament System (IFS) that supports 4-color printing and a wide range of materials including PLA, TPU, PETG, and carbon-fiber-reinforced filaments.
Designed with a rigid all-metal CoreXY structure, the printer prioritizes stability to minimize mechanical shifts during high-speed operation. It incorporates vibration suppression algorithms that align layers precisely, which is essential for maintaining detail in complex prints. The compact, modular footprint is specifically optimized for space-constrained environments, arranging four filament spools side-by-side to keep the workspace organized.
Usability is enhanced through a full-auto leveling sensor that maps multiple points on the print bed. This system ensures consistent nozzle-to-bed distance and reliable first-layer adhesion, reducing the manual setup often required in 3D printing. The 1-click print functionality simplifies the workflow, making it a practical tool for those focusing on project execution rather than machine maintenance.
While the FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Material 3D Printer offers advanced multi-color capabilities, users should note that its compact design is tailored for specific build volumes. It provides a balance of speed and versatility, making it a capable choice for students or hobbyists looking to explore multi-material printing without the complexity of larger, industrial-grade systems.
Best for: Students and hobbyists who want to explore multi-color and multi-material 3D printing in a compact, high-speed desktop format.
Skip if: Users who require a large-format build volume for printing oversized components or architectural models will find the compact dimensions of this unit restrictive.
- 4-color printing capability via the Intelligent Filament System.
- Ultrafast printing speeds up to 600mm/s.
- Full-auto calibration for consistent first-layer adhesion.
- Rigid CoreXY structure with vibration compensation.
- Compact build volume may limit the size of individual projects.
- Requires specific filament management due to the 4-spool side-by-side configuration.
6 Anycubic Kobra X 3D Printer — Expandable Multicolor Capabilities
The Anycubic Kobra X 3D Printer introduces a native 4-color printing capability, allowing users to expand their creative palette up to 19 colors when paired with four ACE 2 Pro units. This system is designed to streamline the printing process by reducing filament waste and machine travel path by 81.25%, effectively doubling printing speeds compared to standard configurations.
Engineered for precision and efficiency, the printer features a hardened steel nozzle and advanced vibration compensation to maintain smooth layer quality at speeds reaching 600mm/s. The LeviQ 3.0 auto bed leveling system utilizes a 49-point calibration algorithm to ensure a perfectly flat surface, enabling users to begin printing within 15 minutes of assembly.
The unit includes integrated Smart AI monitoring with an onboard camera capable of spaghetti and foreign object detection, providing remote oversight via the Anycubic App. With a generous build volume of 260mm x 260mm x 260mm and support for diverse materials including PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, and ASA, it offers significant versatility for complex projects.
Connectivity is handled through dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4G/5G) and LAN, facilitating seamless remote control and status monitoring. The top-mount spool holder design maximizes desktop space, making this an efficient choice for home environments, schools, or makerspaces requiring high-performance output.
Best for: Makers and students looking for a high-speed, multicolor printing solution with integrated AI monitoring and automated leveling.
Skip if: Users who require a compact footprint or those who do not intend to utilize multicolor printing capabilities may find simpler, single-color printers more suitable.
- Native 4-color printing expandable to 19 colors.
- High-speed performance up to 600mm/s.
- LeviQ 3.0 auto-leveling for precise first layers.
- Integrated AI camera for remote monitoring and error detection.
- Filament not included in the package.
- Requires additional ACE 2 Pro units to reach maximum color capacity.
7 Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer for Beginners — Robust Industrial-Grade Frame
The Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D Printer for Beginners is engineered for rapid output, utilizing a Klipper-based engine capable of 600mm/s hyper-speed printing. This unit features an industrial-grade CoreXY frame with dual linear rails, designed to minimize resonance by 63% compared to traditional bed-slingers, ensuring consistent ±0.1 mm dimensional accuracy during high-speed operation.
Equipped with a 50W ceramic heater, the nozzle reaches 200°C in just 35 seconds, significantly reducing wait times for projects. The printer incorporates auto-leveling via a 25-point detection system and pressure-sensor compensation, which helps maintain precise first-layer adhesion without manual adjustment.
Usability is prioritized through a MagSwitch PEI build plate that allows for removal in three seconds and a Nozzle X quick-change system that enables swaps in under 15 seconds. The machine includes a built-in filament sensor and supports remote monitoring via the Flashforge App, providing a streamlined workflow for students and makers.
For those looking to expand capabilities, the printer offers a modular path. Users can start with the base unit and eventually add enclosure hardware, utilizing provided designs to create a dust-free, temperature-controlled environment suitable for advanced materials like ASA.
Best for: Students and beginners who prioritize high-speed printing and a modular, upgradeable design for home or school projects.
Skip if: Users who require a fully enclosed printer out of the box for specialized materials may prefer a pre-assembled enclosed model.
- 600mm/s hyper-speed printing with Klipper engine
- Auto-leveling with 25-point precision calibration
- Industrial-grade CoreXY frame for reduced resonance
- Quick-change nozzle system for rapid maintenance
- Enclosure requires assembly and additional hardware for advanced material support
8 Creality K2 SE 4C 3D Printer — Space-Saving Multicolor System
Expanding creative horizons requires tools that simplify complex processes, and the Creality K2 SE 4C 3D Printer excels by offering 4-Color Multicolor 3D Printing right out of the box. Designed to minimize the barrier to entry for young makers, this system removes the need for complicated upgrades or extensive assembly, allowing users to jump straight into producing toys, cosplay props, and educational models.
Performance is driven by an advanced CoreXY Motion System, which enables print speeds of up to 500mm/s with 20,000mm/s² acceleration. This high-speed capability ensures that even intricate engineering projects or functional parts are completed efficiently. The machine maintains precision through a rigid all-metal frame that effectively minimizes vibration during high-speed operation.
Reliability is built into the workflow with Intelligent Auto Bed Leveling, which probes the active print area to ensure consistent first layers without manual intervention. To protect long-running projects, the printer includes a suite of smart features such as Filament Runout Sensor, Filament Tangle Detection, and Power Loss Recovery, which collectively help prevent failed prints and reduce material waste.
For those looking to grow their skills, the printer balances beginner-friendly operation with advanced customization options. Users can access Creality OS, Fluidd UI, and Root Access to refine their printing experience. With a compact footprint that occupies 37% less space than traditional multicolor systems, it is a practical addition to classrooms, home offices, or makerspaces.
Best for: Students and makers who want an accessible, space-saving 3D printer capable of multicolor output without complex manual assembly.
Skip if: Users who require a significantly larger build volume than the 220×215×245mm provided by this compact unit.
- 4-Color Multicolor printing capability without extra setup.
- High-speed performance reaching 500mm/s.
- Intelligent Auto Bed Leveling for reliable first layers.
- Integrated smart protection features to prevent print failures.
- Compact design saves 37% more space than standard systems.
- Fixed build volume may limit larger-scale projects.
- Advanced features like Root Access may require a learning curve for absolute beginners.
9 Creality SPARKX i7 Combo 3D Printer — AI-Powered Photo-to-3D Creation
Transforming personal photos into tangible 3D objects is a seamless process with the Creality SPARKX i7 Combo 3D Printer, which utilizes integrated CubeMe AI to generate models directly from portraits. This capability removes the need for complex modeling software, making it an accessible entry point for creative projects.
Designed for immediate use, the Creality SPARKX i7 Combo 3D Printer arrives 95% pre-assembled, allowing users to transition from unboxing to their first print in approximately five minutes. The system eliminates the need for manual tool-heavy assembly or intricate initial configurations.
The printer features a four-color printing system designed to reduce filament waste by up to 50% compared to traditional multicolor setups. This efficiency is paired with a 260 x 260 x 255 mm build volume, providing ample space for diverse projects ranging from gaming accessories to detailed figurines.
Safety and success are supported by a built-in AI camera that monitors print progress in real time. The system automatically detects common issues such as spaghetti, filament tangles, or build plate errors, providing instant alerts to help maintain print quality. For late-night operation, the Night Mode ensures quiet, light-free performance.
Best for: Teens interested in creative 3D modeling and multicolor printing who prefer a quick, tool-free setup.
Skip if: Users who require a larger build volume than 260mm or those who prefer manual assembly and deep customization of printer hardware.
- AI-powered photo-to-3D model generation simplifies the design process.
- 95% pre-assembled design enables rapid setup.
- Four-color printing capability reduces material waste by 50%.
- Built-in AI camera provides real-time failure detection.
- Fixed build volume of 260 x 260 x 255 mm may limit larger-scale projects.
10 Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer — Quiet Ecosystem for Creative Projects
Getting started with 3D printing often involves a steep learning curve, but the Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer simplifies the process with full-auto calibration and active flow rate compensation. This compact machine is designed to handle the technical adjustments automatically, allowing users to focus on the creative aspects of their projects rather than troubleshooting mechanical settings.
The printer arrives as part of a bundle that includes an LED Lamp Kit, enabling users to print functional, decorative light fixtures right out of the box. Its quiet operation, rated at ≤48 dB, makes it suitable for use in shared spaces like bedrooms or study areas without creating significant noise distractions.
Integration with the Bambu Lab ecosystem provides access to the MakerWorld model library, which offers a wide range of ready-to-print designs. Users can manage their print jobs remotely via the Bambu Handy app, streamlining the workflow from digital file to physical object.
Measuring approximately 17.94 inches in height, the Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D Printer is built for everyday creativity, whether printing toys, home decor, or personalized gifts. Its compact footprint ensures it fits naturally into most home or workspace environments while maintaining high-speed performance.
Best for: Beginners seeking a low-maintenance, quiet, and connected 3D printing experience for creative home projects.
Skip if: Users who require a large build volume for printing substantial, full-scale components or industrial-sized prototypes.
- Full-auto calibration eliminates manual bed leveling.
- Active flow rate compensation ensures consistent print quality.
- Quiet operation (≤48 dB) suitable for home environments.
- Integrated ecosystem with easy access to the MakerWorld model library.
- Included LED Lamp Kit allows for immediate functional DIY projects.
- Compact build volume limits the size of individual prints.
Best 3D Printers for Teens Buying Guide
Safety and Enclosure Considerations
Teenagers often work in bedrooms or shared study spaces, making an enclosed printer a significant advantage. Enclosures not only help maintain stable temperatures for better print quality but also prevent accidental contact with hot nozzles or moving parts during operation.
Beyond physical safety, look for machines that include built-in sensors for filament runout or tangle detection. These features prevent the printer from continuing to operate in a failed state, which saves filament and reduces the risk of overheating components.
Software Ecosystems and Model Libraries
The learning curve for 3D printing is heavily influenced by the software provided. Printers that integrate with cloud-based apps or dedicated model libraries allow teens to browse, slice, and send prints directly from a smartphone or tablet, removing the need for complex desktop-based slicing software.
Access to a curated library of pre-tested models can be a great way for beginners to build confidence. Once they become comfortable with basic operations, they can transition to more advanced design software to create their own custom projects.
Speed versus Precision
Modern high-speed printers can complete projects in a fraction of the time required by older models, which is essential for maintaining a teen's interest. However, high speed should not come at the expense of structural integrity or surface finish.
Look for machines that utilize CoreXY motion systems and vibration compensation algorithms. These technologies allow for faster travel speeds while maintaining the precision necessary for functional parts or intricate decorative items.
Maintenance and Reliability
Automatic bed leveling is perhaps the most critical feature for a teen-friendly printer. By eliminating the need for manual paper-based leveling, the printer ensures a consistent first layer, which is the primary cause of print failure for new users.
Consider the ease of nozzle replacement and build plate removal. A flexible magnetic build plate makes it significantly easier to pop off finished prints without using sharp tools, while quick-swap nozzles simplify the maintenance required when switching between different filament types.
Multi-Color and Multi-Material Potential
Multi-color printing adds a new dimension to creative projects, allowing teens to print functional parts with integrated labels or artistic designs with multiple colors. These systems typically use an automated filament switching device to manage the color changes.
While these systems are powerful, they do increase the complexity of the machine and the amount of waste filament generated during purging. Ensure the teen is ready to manage the extra setup and maintenance required for these advanced capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do teens need to learn CAD software to use these printers?
Not necessarily. Many modern printers come with apps that offer pre-designed models, and some even feature AI-powered tools to turn photos or doodles into 3D models, allowing teens to start creating immediately.
Is an enclosed printer safer for home use?
Yes, an enclosed printer keeps hot components out of reach and helps contain fumes, making it a safer and more practical choice for bedrooms or living areas.
How long does it take to set up these printers?
Many of the models listed are designed for quick setup, often taking between 5 to 15 minutes to go from unboxing to the first print, thanks to pre-assembly and automatic calibration.
Can these printers handle different types of materials?
Most are optimized for PLA, which is the easiest and safest material for beginners. Many also support PETG and TPU, which offer more durability and flexibility for functional projects.
What is the benefit of automatic bed leveling?
It ensures the print head is at the correct distance from the build plate across the entire surface, which is essential for getting the first layer to stick properly and preventing print failures.
Conclusion: Our Top Pick
Our top pick is Bambu Lab P1S Combo 3D Printer. Choosing the right 3D printer for a teen depends on their specific interests, whether they are focused on engineering, art, or rapid prototyping. Prioritizing machines with automated features like bed leveling and intuitive app support will ensure a more rewarding and less frustrating experience.
By selecting a model that balances safety, speed, and ease of use, you can provide a powerful tool that encourages creativity and technical skill development. Always consider the available workspace and the level of maintenance the user is comfortable with before making a final decision.