3D printing can make a great hobby, allowing you to craft dozens of different items from your home. But many people are concerned about how much it will cost to purchase all the supplies you need to get started. Increasingly, though, the price to purchase a 3D printer has been decreasing.
But, just how good are cheap 3D printers? There are several inexpensive 3D printers available on the market. In most cases, these will offer great quality, giving you premium features. This can include the ability to upload your model via WiFi or monitor the amount of filament left in the machine. In most cases, you’ll be able to get these options in machines that cost less than $300, making a cheap 3D printer a viable option for most people.
While many people assume that 3D printing is an expensive hobby, this is no longer the case. As 3D printing has become more popular, there has been a greater focus on making more affordable printing devices.
While it’s now easier than ever to begin 3D printing, not every cheap printer is a good choice. To narrow down the market, there are a few factors that you should focus on. First, you want to try to find a machine that will be durable, ensuring it will be able to produce multiple prints.
You also want to try to find something that will come with support services. Often, one of the most difficult aspects of 3D printing is learning how to use the device. To make this easier, many companies offer a user manual or a video tutorial series.
It’s also important to consider the type of features that will be available. This will often determine the type of functionality that you’ll be able to achieve.
To give you a better idea of what you should be looking for, let’s look at some of the best examples of cheap 3D printers available. As we’ll see, just because you’re not spending a lot of money, doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to get an excellent product.
1. Anet 8
Anet 8 has a range of features for users to explore. For example, it is compatible with multiple types of filament and has an LCD screen, which you can use to control the device’s settings. It also comes with a large build space, so you can complete advanced models.
One of the most popular models on Amazon is Anet 8. This is because it offers exceptional quality at an affordable price. The price of the machine will vary, according to the amount of stock on the market and the seller. Generally, though, you’ll be able to purchase this model for around $150.
This model compatible with several types of filament. This will give you a lot of printing options, so you can find the right one for your project. You’ll be able to change the device settings using an LCD screen.
You’ll also be able to get a large build space. This will allow you to take on more complex projects, which other machines don’t offer. You’ll also be able to place your designs onto a USB stick or an SD card. If you want to, you can also set-up the device to have a wireless connection. This will give you more options to explore when trying to decide how you want to use the device. If you want to, you’ll be able to upgrade this model later. This will give you access to more complex builds.
To keep the costs low, this model is delivered as a kit, which you’ll need to assemble yourself. The detailed instructions are included on the SD card. There is also plenty of support available online. As a result, this will often be easy for you to assemble this printer. You’ll also be able to adjust it, to achieve great print quality.
2. Creality CR-10
The Creality CR-10 comes with several high-end features, such as a filament sensor and the ability to recover from a power loss. You will also be able to modify the device, improving its performance.
The Creality CR-10 is another example of an excellent 3D printer for an affordable price. There are many innovative features in this model, making large projects easier. First, it comes with a filament sensor. This makes it easier for you to check the amount of filament available, letting you know when it’s getting low. By doing this, you’ll be able to give yourself plenty of time to put the new filament in, so the quality of the build won’t be impacted.
It comes with the ability to recover from a power loss. This ensures that you won’t lose all your work if you were in the middle of a big build when you suddenly lost power.
Though these are all advanced features, you won’t need to pay a huge price tag. In most cases, you’ll be able to get the Creality CR-10 for between $300 to $400. If you’re willing to pay a little extra, you might want to get the Creality CR-10S. This will give you access to more advanced features and functionality. If you enjoy the experience, there are plenty of modifications that you can make to the device, improving its performance.
This model arrives fully assembled. In most cases, you’ll just need to make sure that all the screws have been securely attached. This makes setting everything up much easier, though you’ll need to make sure that you have enough bench space available.
3. Prusa i3 MK3
The Prusa i3 MK3 is run with open-source software. This will ensure that you’ll be able to see how the operating system works and collaborate with others to design projects. It also includes features like stopping if the head is blocked and detecting when you lose power.
There are plenty of features that will come with the Prusa i3 MK3. First, it’s an open-source 3D printer. This means that all its programming can be found online. As a result, you’ll be able to see how everything works. It will also make it easier for people to come up with new improvements.
It also comes with multiple features to make sure that the printer head is in good condition. For example, it will automatically stop if the head is blocked, preventing your print from getting damaged. It will also stop the print if there is a loss of power. When the power is reconnected, it will automatically start printing again. This is a great way to protect your projects.
This model also boasts a great printing experience. For example, it tends to be one of the faster models on the market, especially in this price range. As a result, you’ll be able to print multiple models each week. Also, it will be able to tackle models that require a lot of intricate details.
This printer comes in two different models. You can get a DIY kit, which you’ll need to assemble yourself. In most cases, this will be around $750. However, if you don’t want to do the set-up yourself, you can get the pre-assembled model. In this case, this will cost around $999.
4. XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 2.0 Mix
This printer comes equipped with the ability to print two differently colored filaments at the same time. It’s also designed to be very quiet when in use, so you won’t disturb the neighbors.
If you’re looking for an excellent cheap 3D printer, you might want to consider the XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 2.0 Mix. Many features help set this model apart. First, it gives you the option to print two different colored filaments at the same time. This is rare, especially amongst affordable printers.
Because of this feature, you’ll be able to complete your models even faster. This can also give you more flexibility with the kind of models that you choose to make. However, there is a potential drawback. You’ll only be able to use certain filaments with the printer.
Another big benefit is that it’s very quiet when in operation. As a result, you’ll be able to leave the printer on for a long time, without disturbing everyone in the house. This can be perfect if you want to start producing longer prints.
There are also many ways for you to load the print designs into the printer. For example, you’ll be able to use a USB or an SD card. You’ll also be able to connect to the device wirelessly, submitting your plans over the internet. This makes designing and printing your models easy.
While you’ll need to do some of the set-up yourself, it should be fairly easy for you to assemble. In most cases, all you’ll need to do is rotate a few parts into the correct positions. If you need any assistance with this, you’ll be able to use the quick start guide that comes with the printer. In most cases, you’ll be able to start printing within a few hours.
5. Photon Zero
The Photon Zero offers an affordable price, often costing just $200. Despite this, you’ll be able to get plenty of build space and protection from UV light. It also comes with an in-built cooling system.
Another cheap printing option is Photon Zero. This is one of the most affordable options on the market. In most cases, you’ll be able to pick up this model for under $200. Despite the low price tag, it offers a lot of functionality for users to explore.
First, it comes with a reasonable build space. This will give you the area that you need to build complex models. Also, it uses SLA technology, which involves creating layers on your model. As a result, this technique can produce more complex projects.
There are some other types of advanced technology that are involved in this type of build. For example, it will be able to ensure that the UV light from the sun is distributed evenly across the model. This is especially if you are planning on putting the printer into a sunny room. In some cases, if you put the printer near a window, the sunlight might fall one side of the model. Over a longer build, the UV light can make that side of the model hotter. In some cases, this can result in the two sides of the model looking different.
The UV protection offered by the Photon Zero will prevent this from happening. This, combined with other features, like a cooling system, ensure that you’ll be able to get excellent print quality for a budget price.
6. MP Select Mini V2
This model is very easy to set-up, arriving fully calibrated. There are several pre-installed prints for you to choose from, so you can start creating prints instantly.
Another popular machine is the MP Select Mini V2. This can offer several advantages to the users. However, one of the biggest, is that it will arrive fully calibrated. This ensures that you won’t need to go through a long set-up process. In most cases, you’ll be able to take it out of the box, place it on the bench, plug it in, and start creating 3D prints.
To make the set-up process even easier, there are several pre-installed models. This will let you start experimenting with the device and the way it works almost instantly.
There are a few other factors that help set this model apart. First, it features a heated build plate. This will make it easier for everything to stick to the plate, and ensure that you get a higher build quality. It also comes with a small amount of filament included. This ensures that you’ll be able to start printing immediately.
Despite the excellent service and printing options that you can explore, this 3D printer is very affordable. In most cases, you’ll be able to pick up this model for under $200.
7. Ender 3
Ender 3 is one of the most spacious cheap 3D printers on the market. It also features a special filament feed. However, you’ll need to be prepared to assemble the model yourself.
One of the biggest reasons why you might want to consider Ender 3 is because of the amount of printing space it offers. The printing plate is 220 x 220 x 250 mm. In most cases, this will be more than enough area to create complex models. If not, you will be able to upgrade the device to a larger printer later.
There are also several innovative features for you to explore. For example, you’ll be able to get a special printing nozzle. This has been designed to make the 3D printing experience easier and deliver a higher-quality model.
The plate is very quick to warm up. In most cases, it will take just 5 minutes to get up to the required temperature. This means that you won’t need to spend much time preparing to print the mold. You’ll also get some sample filament. So, you’ll be able to start printing as soon as everything has been set-up.
One of the biggest myths about cheap 3D printers is that they break easily. However, this model has been designed to last for a long time. For this reason, it comes with an extruder cleaning, to make it easier for you to maintain the device properly. Also, it’s built from strong materials, so it won’t fall apart.
However, for some people, the biggest downside is the need to assemble the printer yourself. Thankfully, there are multiple ways that Ender 3 has tried to take the stress out of the assembly process. First, they have made sure that you have all the required equipment included in the pack. Also, it includes detailed instructions, so you’ll know exactly what you’ll need to do at each stage of the process.
8. M3D Micro
This type of 3D printer has been designed to be as compact as possible. This is great if you only have limited space or want a portable model. However, it also comes with a limited printing size.
In some cases, you might want to take a 3D printer with you to the office or have a smaller model that you can place in your office. If this is the case, the M3D Micro is a great option for you to explore. This type of printer has been designed to be as compact as possible.
It is a self-contained cube design, which makes it easy to store and transport. It is also very light, for a 3D printer, weighing just 1 kilogram. It has a fun cube design, which is available in multiple colors, so you can choose the one that best expresses your personality. The cube structure also ensures stability.
Despite the smaller size, this printer comes equipped with plenty of features. First, the filament compartment is under the heater plate. This makes it easy to load in the filament. Also, the device will be able to automatically calibrate itself. This will ensure that you get consistent print quality.
However, the limited size also has a few potential drawbacks. One of the biggest is a limited printing size. In this case, you’ll only be able to get a model that’s 50 microns thick. This can limit the functionality of the device.
To compensate for the limited number of prints that you can create, the price is very affordable. This model can usually be found for under $300. This puts it at the cheaper end of the 3D printer market.
9. Artillery Genius DIY
The Artillery Genius DIY offers many innovative features, such as a touch screen and the ability to heat up the plate quickly. However, you’ll need to be able to assemble the model yourself.
This is one of the most popular cheap 3D printers available on the market. This is largely because of the amount of functionality that it will offer, for an affordable price. As an example, it features a heating plate which can heat up to 130 degrees Celsius. This will give you a lot of printing options that you can explore. For example, at those temperatures, you’ll be able to work with ABS filament.
The hot plate is designed to get up to temperature very quickly. For example, you should be able to reach the required temperature in between two to three minutes. This means that you won’t have to wait long until you start printing.
You’ll also be able to get a touch screen, which is rare amongst cheap 3D printers. This will make it easy for you to control the print. You’ll also get a filament end sensor. This will monitor the amount of filament that you have left, alerting when you’re about to run out. As a result, you’ll be able to take action before your model is negatively affected.
Another bonus is that this type of 3D printer has a reputation for being quiet. This will make it allow you to leave it on overnight without getting concerned about the noise disturbing the neighbors. Despite these luxury features, you won’t need to pay a fortune for this device. Though the cost will vary from platform to platform, you’ll usually be able to find one for under $300.
However, you will need to assemble this model yourself. For some, this can be a significant downside. But, like most other DIY printers, there will be detailed instructions for you to follow. This will help you make sure that everything has been done properly.
10. Finder 2.0
The Finder 2.0 is widely regarded as one of the best models for a 3D beginner, as the plate can be detached and cleaned. This will let you see how the machine works. It’s also been designed to be easy to control.
Often, if you’re looking for a cheap printer, you want to find a way to get introduced to the hobby of 3D printing. In this case, the Finder 2.0 can offer a wide array of benefits. First, the plate can be detached. This makes it easy for you to make sure that it’s kept clean, ensuring high print quality.
Taking out the plate can also give you a better idea of how the device is meant to function. This can be very useful for a beginner to understand. When you move on to more complex printers, it can give you an understanding of how to fix some common problems.
Also, this printer has been designed to be as easy to use as possible. This model is very popular amongst educators, to introduce children to the concept of 3D printing. It also comes with some advanced features to ensure high-quality prints. For example, it will automatically calibrate the device before each print. It will also alert you when the filament levels are getting too low.
Another great feature that the Finder 2.0 offers is the ability to connect with the printer via Wi-Fi. This will make it easier for you to upload your designs. It will also make it easier for you to control the device. Alternatively, the device comes equipped with a touchpad.
However, all this comes with a slightly higher price tag. In most cases, this model will cost around $500. Thankfully, it’s designed to last for a long time, so you’ll be able to get plenty of value for your money.
Related Questions
- How expensive can a 3D printer get? 3D printing can easily become a very expensive hobby to pursue. For a top-of-the-line machine, you might need to pay over $25,000. Some commercial devices can end up costing millions.
- Are cheap 3D printers safe? One of the biggest concerns about how cheap 3D printers is that they might present a fire risk. However, there are a few precautions you can take to reduce this risk. For example, you can keep any fireproof items out of the room. You might also want to monitor the printer, to make sure that it’s not at risk of overheating. If you do this, you should be able to use a cheap printer safely.
- What are some of the reasons to get a cheap 3D printer? There are several reasons why someone might want to consider getting a 3D printer. First, you might want to experiment with the hobby but aren’t sure whether it will be right for you. In this case, a 3D printer can allow you to experiment with this without spending too much money. In other cases, you might not have the budget to purchase a bigger machine, which can often cost thousands of dollars.
- Why are some 3D printers so cheap? There are many reasons why you might be able to pick up a 3D printer for a low price. First, some manufacturers might give you a DIY model. Because they don’t need to build it themselves, they’ll be able to produce the device for a reduced cost. In other cases, there might be parts that have been made out of plastic, rather than metal. Another common technique is to limit the print plate. In most cases, it will be a combination of all these techniques.
Final Thoughts
When 3D printers first came onto the market, you needed to spend thousands to get involved with the hobby. Thankfully, this is no longer the case, with many cheaper models becoming available. This is perfect for people who are just getting started with 3D printing, or those who are on a limited budget. But how good are cheap 3D printers? As we saw, they can often give you premium features, like filament monitoring and automatic calibrations, for an affordable price. Based on these examples, you will be able to get a lot of enjoyment, and many high-quality models, from a cheap 3D printer.