Would you like to know something? A 3D printer does not have to be expensive. Where does the price of expensive printers come from then? More features of these printers include connectivity options such as cameras, a bigger build volume (sometimes), and support for more filaments. The majority of them are also plug-and-play.
Best Cheap 3D Printers
In fact, both expensive and cheap 3D printers produce identical quality prints (some are even better than more expensive ones).
There is no need to waste money, so there is no need to spend it. Below is a ranking of the best cheap 3D printers.
1. Monoprice Mini Delta V2
There is nothing else like the Mini Delta V2. Delta 3D printers are the fastest on this list, so you won’t get gray hair while you wait.
Small in size, the printer’s build volume is 110x110x120mm. In general, the Delta V2 printer is best suited for smaller-scale prints, such as those on keychains or credit card wallets. The build volume of wide prints makes them more challenging to print, whereas tall prints are easy to print.
Among its excellent features is a touchscreen that is highly responsive and an auto-leveling feature with advanced technology. Besides, manual leveling is tiresome, so you’ll thank yourself for this feature.
PLA, ABS, and TPU filaments are all compatible with the printer.
How do the Delta 3D printer’s prints compare with other 3D printers? Unfortunately, the best feature of this machine is its print quality, which is just okay. While printing, I noticed that there were loose filaments visible in the layers.
When the printer is running, keep kids and pets away from the hot parts, as they are open-frame printers. The printer is quiet (which is a rare quality in a cheap 3D printer).
Visitors. Unwilling to wait. As well as budget-conscious people. You will love this 3D printer because it’s the cheapest on the market.
Pros
- Taking no time
- Cost-effective
- Auto Leveling of the bed
Cons
- There is a low level of print quality
- Children and pets should not use this product
2. Creality Ender 3 V2
This is a secret I want to share with you. The only 3D printer you should purchase is the Creality Ender 3 V2. Be wary of the printer’s low price; it has the capability to compete with the best 3D printers on the market.
It’s highly unlikely that you’ll want to buy another printer after you purchase this one.
Furthermore, if you have any problems, you can reach out to an army of Creality users around the world who can assist you. There are numerous Facebook groups and the official community on this website where you can connect with this army.
In addition to the filament runout sensor and resume-printing option during power outages, the Ender 3 V2 offers other features uncommon at its price point. Additionally, Monoprice Mini Delta V2 prints a larger print area (220x220x250mm) than this printer.
In addition to producing high-quality prints, the machine is also known for its reliability. The printer fails to disappoint in the quality department which is one of the reasons why the Ender 3 has attracted so many fans. A few slicer tweaks are all that’s needed.
Additionally, the Ender 3 V2 and Mini V2 differ in that the latter comes fully assembled, whereas the former needs to be assembled. Though you’ll learn more about the ender 3 V2’s parts while setting it up, you shouldn’t view this as a drawback.
Its affordable price and high-quality 3D printing makes it stand out among competitors. Buying it will not disappoint you.
Pros
- Prints are fantastic
- Community of great quality
- A good number of builds
Cons
- Assembly of the printer is required
3. Elegoo Mars 2 Pro
Cartesian printers have been discussed. Delta printers have been discussed as well. In our next segment, we’ll talk about resin printers. In terms of budget-friendly resin printers, I recommend the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro.
A resin 3D printer’s best feature is that it can print quality prints at a very low cost (* but with a small build volume). The stereotype of cheap 3D printers needs to be broken – resin 3D printers defy traditional notions.
Featuring a monochrome LCD screen of 6.08 inches and a 2.1K resolution, the Mars 2 Pro can print at a level of quality FDM printers can only dream of.
A common feature of both devices is the aluminum frame, which ensures that the printer will stay stable during 3D printing, and therefore, ensures that prints are uniform and steady.
In addition to printing in a hurry, the two printers have another common feature. Printing each layer takes only 1-2 seconds for the Mars 2 Pro, for instance.
129x80x160mm is the build size for this 3D model, so you should keep your expectations for print sizes low.
The Elegoo Mars 2 Pro 3D printer is the best value on the market if you want to print realistic miniatures or jewelry without being afraid of getting your hands dirty.
Pros
- High-quality printing
- Speedy
Cons
- Volume of construction is small
4. Anycubic Photon Mono
One of the most popular resin 3D printers is Anycubic Photon. You may enjoy the Photon Mono even if you weren’t satisfied with the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro. These devices are similar, but also distinct.
In addition to having the same build volume of 130mmx80mmx165mm as the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro, the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro is equipped with a 2K HD monochrome LCD display.
LCD monochrome screens outperform standard RGB screens with their 40% faster printing speed and four times longer lifespan as compared to resin 3D printers at the same price point.
Anyone can easily setup the system. A detailed instruction manual that comes with the printer will help you assemble it in no more than 10 minutes.
The Photon Mono prints are accurate and clean, enabling a high level of detail to be achieved. As with the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro, the prints are accurate.
As compared to Mars 2 Pro, Photon Mono is quieter (it has a loud fan noise). There is one advantage that the Mars 2 Pro has over its predecessor – a carbon filter. What are its advantages? Toxic resin fumes are reduced by using the carbon filter.
However, Mono fans do not need to worry, you can avoid this problem by keeping the printer in a well-ventilated area while it prints, and not getting too close to it.
Those who do not like the size of the Mono may want to consider the Anycubic Photon Mono X, which offers a larger build volume of 192x120x245mm.
This printer is a tried and tested model that doesn’t cost a fortune. I would recommend the Photon over the Elegoo Mars if you can find a discount for it.
Pros
- An accurate and clean print
- A quiet system
Cons
- The filter does not contain carbon
5. Anycubic Mega S
It provides a higher resolution print than its competitors, one of its major advantages.
There are non-resin 3D printers on this list that print at 0.1 mm resolution, but this printer prints at 0.05 mm resolution. Do resolutions really matter? It’s not just a matter of quantity, but also of quality.
This printer would still be easy to set up if you were transformed into a baby by an evil wizard. Moreover, it takes only 20 minutes to do so.
210x210x205mm is standard for a FDM 3D printer build volume. A heated bed on the Ultrabase 3D printer is another useful feature, as it prevents deformation of the prints during print. In addition, prints can be removed easily from the heated bed.
Other useful features of the Mega S include a filament run-out notification (this alerts you when your filament is low), a power recovery switch (resume printing if a power outage occurs) and the ability to handle a wide variety of filament types (PLA, ABS, TPU, TPA, and PETG).
Apart from the rattling frame, the printer also makes a loud fan noise (I know, it’s always the fan).
Pros
- High-quality prints
- Printer with a variety of features
- Assemblable
Cons
- There’s a lot of noise from this bugger
6. Flashforge Adventurer 3
How can libraries and classrooms best use 3D printers? See Flashforge Adventurer 3 if you want to check it out.
In what ways does this printer prove valuable in an educational setting? They include:
- It’s simple to use
- There’s not much noise from it
- A printer’s enclosure keeps toxic fumes from escaping, preventing children from being exposed to hot internal components.
Watching the 3D printer do its thing in person is oddly therapeutic, but the printer comes with a camera for remote monitoring. The camera can be used in the classroom for an audience to watch what’s happening. If you like seeing your prints live in HD, the camera is also high-resolution.
The high temperature of the Adventurer 3 means that even the worst budget 3D printers can handle flexible filaments with ease.
It is of good quality. Nevertheless, I noticed more stringing issues with prints that were more complex.
There is no sensor to show if the bed is level so leveling can be a bit difficult. Printing a larger spool holder would also be useful because the original is small.
Pros
- Enclosed in full
- User-friendly
- Flexible filaments can be handled easily
Cons
- It’s not easy to level
7. Artillery Sidewinder X1
It’s time to get serious now. Let me introduce the Artillery Sidewinder X1. No, this isn’t a fighter jet, but it’s a high-quality printer for both experienced photographers and newcomers to the hobby.
With a build volume of 300x300x400mm, this printer (along with the next one) is the largest on this list. In addition to looking attractive, if you’re interested in printers (wink), you’ll appreciate this printer.
During the heating up process, most printers take time to start printing. Ours does not. Within 45 seconds, the ceramic glass bed is heated. Moreover, the printer can reach 120°C, allowing it to print material such as ABS at room temperature. Unbelievable.
A Titan Aero Extruder is installed on the printer, as well as a Volcano Hotend. But why do we need these parts? Ultimately, they give us the best results. Additionally, flexible materials such as TPU can be printed effortlessly (squishy phone covers?).
Not only that, but the extruder is capable of reaching fast temperatures of 270°C as well.
Smooth surfaces make it difficult for irregularities to be seen. You will be producing gold if you simply get the calibration right.
Unfortunately, the printer has a hard time adjusting the spool holder when changing spools, which is a disappointment. You may print another separate copy here without worrying about this issue.
It is a great 3D printer for beginners and professionals alike, since it has great printing quality and can print in a variety of materials.
Pros
- High-quality printing
- Nozzles and beds heated quickly
- Stunning
Cons
- Spool holders are awful by default
8. Creality CR-10 V2
As an additional side note, if you see Creality in a printer, assume that it is a good printer. In comparison with the Sidewinder X1, the CR-10 V2 could make for an interesting alternative.
Aside from setup and hardware, the Sidewinder X1 has great print quality, while the Creality CR-10 V2 earns top marks for stock printing. With relatively little effort, it is easy for either system to be modified to improve its performance.
With the CR-10 V2, you would have to set up the printer yourself, so you’ll need prior experience.
The dimensions of the CR-10 V2 are similar to those of the Sidewinder X1. These machines are more expensive due to their higher volume as opposed to the Ender 3 V2.
Although the CR-10 V2 and the Sidewinder are quite similar, the CR-10 takes longer to heat up the nozzle and bed than the former. As well, it’s louder – 45 dB as opposed to 35 dB for the X1.
This machine prints very well on stock material, especially with PLA (some stringing is to be expected). Compared to the stock X1, it prints much better. ABS prints however were unsatisfactory. The print quality can be increased by experimenting with the settings.
The CR-10 V2 stands out because of its customizability. Thingiverse or other online repositories can be used to print the Machine of Your Dream.
In general, if you enjoy modding and high-quality prints, this affordable 3D printer is a good choice. Throughout the years, it has been a reliable and trusted machine.
Pros
- Large volume of construction
- High-quality PLA printing
- High degree of customization
Cons
- Heating the bed takes a long time
9. Anycubic Mega X
Looking for a high-volume machine that produces quality prints consistently? This could be the machine for you.
Aesthetically, the Anycubic is similar to its predecessor Mega S. Thanks to its design, it works great. Solid construction also makes this machine sturdy, so prints will be consistent.
If you hate tweaking settings, this printer would be perfect for you. Straight from the box, the printer prints well. Furthermore, the Ultrabase built into this printer enhances print adhesion (better adhesion = better prints).
With PLA and PETG, 3D printers can create masterpieces. Printed out of ABS, it does a good job, but not quite as well as the previous filament.
It is a loud printer, so prepare your ears. Similar problems were also present with the Mega S.
Despite the Mega X’s differences from the Mega S in most aspects, the build volume is the biggest difference between the two. The printer does not have an automatic bed leveling function, which is not necessarily a good thing.
You can simply press play and have high-quality prints delivered consistently by this cheap 3D printer.
Pros
- Quality prints that are consistent
- Booty sized
- Due to Ultrabase, prints adhere fantastically
Cons
- Unbearable noise
- Bed doesn’t have an automatic leveling feature or WiFi
10. QIDI Tech X-Pro
Other printers are envious of this 3D printer. Is it because of its appearance? It isn’t particularly impressive. On the plus side, it has dual extruders.
How about that, you ask? Why not just have one extruder? The most expensive printer in the list has two extruders.
Many things can be done with a dual extruder:
- Two extruders are faster than one, according to an old adage.
- A print can be made with two different filaments.
- Multicolor printing is better than monochrome printing.
- Dissolvable supports can be printed.
A common complaint of 3D printers is their magnetic beds that frequently come loose during printing. This printer doesn’t have that problem. Prints can be easily popped out of the bed by simply bending it.
With dimensions of 230x150x150mm, this 3D printer is a bit smaller than the last few budget printers we reviewed.
Due to the enclosed design of the 3D printer, no poisonous fumes will damage your lungs.
It doesn’t give the best results right out of the box. Many stringing issues can be found as well as small flaws. To optimize the data, play around with the slicer settings.
The QIDI Tech-X Pro 3D printer with dual extrusion is the most affordable dual extrusion 3D printer on the market.
Pros
- Extrusion in two directions
- Magnet print bed with awesome results
- Completely enclosed
Cons
- There’s nothing to boast about when it comes to print quality
What To Look For In A Cheap 3D Printer?
In today’s market, it is not hard to tell the difference between a high-end 3D printer and one that is inexpensive.
A cheap 3D printer previously didn’t have the ability to automatically level its bed or proper software. Now, most reputable 3D companies have their own software.
When it comes to 3D printers, what is the difference between a cheap one and an expensive one?
Unlike the most expensive 3D printers, the best affordable models do not have a wide range of connectivity options, build volume, or filament support.
Can I get a 3D printer with an open frame or a closed frame?
Open-frame or closed-frame printers are best for certain applications.
You can protect your children from burns and toxic fumes when using a closed-frame printer.
Open-frame printers have a greater build volume, so they can print larger models. In exchange, you lose the advantages of a closed printer.
How Can I Find 3D Printer Software and Connectivity?
Software for 3D printers was barebones in the past. In order to print the final product, you would have to own multiple programs.
The majority of companies now create their own software, or they adapt open source Cura. You shouldn’t worry about software.
A 3D printer’s strongest suit is its connectivity, however. The device can be connected via many types of connectivity, including USB Type-A, USB Type-C, WiFi, Ethernet, SD card, and mobile apps.
3D printers that are cheaper have fewer of these options.
Should I Consider A 3D Pen Instead?
Artists who want to create art in a new way may be interested in 3D pens. By using them, you can make intricate prints freehand. This device can range in price from $50 to $100.
Compared with standard 3D printers, 3D pen’s allow for a more personalized experience. The upside to 3D printing, however, is that it creates objects with greater consistency and repeatability.
