Table of Contents
Introduction
Not more than a decade ago, 3D printers were considered as machinery specific for large industries and professionals. They were so expensive that a person could not even think of buying them for simple home use. But now, as we know that the world of technology is progressing day by day, these posh devices have made their way to the public. All thanks to the manufacturing companies who paid attention to the high prices of these 3D printers and started making cheap ones for the use of the general public.
The word “cheap” is often confused with low-quality, but it is not justified. There are a lot of products that are not only cheap but also super in quality at the same time. The same is the case with 3D printers. Innumerable printers with outstanding features and exceptional qualities are available at affordable rates in the market. So, in addition to professionals, enthusiasts can also mollify their ingenuity.
The next trouble is the choice of a suitable 3D printer. Making the right choice according to your needs and requirements is obligatory. So, we are here to help you out. If you are looking for a cheap as well as a super functional 3D printer, then you are in the right place. We are going to provide you with a list of 10 Good Cheap 3D printers. We hope that this will help you in making a sensible choice.
Our Top Picks: 10 Best Cheap 3D Printer
JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer
JGAURORA has gained a quick reputation due to its cheap prices and big quality. JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer is the latest model and magical in its performance and design. It resembles Creality Ender 3.
The most important thing to notice is its sturdy design based on the aluminum extrusion style frame. This feature contributes to its accurate and reliable printing. Its extruder system is improved as compared to the other models and the short Bowden tube is an important factor in producing good quality prints.
It is very easy to operate but you can contact customer support services for assistance. Filament run-out detection and automatic power resume function, quick-release hot end, and SD card hot-swapping are the features that add to the value of this amazing 3D printer.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It offers a large build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm.
- The weight of the JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer is 8 kg.
- It is made of an all-metal frame and includes a hefty metal base.
- This printer offers three resume printing functions. In addition to power outage resume and filament run-out detection, it features a resume printing function when the SD card gets accidentally removed.
- It comprises a single nozzle.
- The size of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- It is compatible with PLA, ABS, PETG, and Flexibles.
Pros
- Sturdy aluminum extrusion frame.
- Short Bowden tube.
- High print quality.
- Cheap cost.
- It is reliable.
- It is very easy to set-up.
Cons
- PVC stickered print surface.
- Only Z-axis lead screws are used.
- Poor cable management.
Verdict
JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer is a reasonable buy relative to its price. It provides a high print quality without any major issues. Its sturdy frame and improved extrusion design add to its stability and durability. If you are a printing enthusiast and looking for an easy-assembly industrial power then this printer is for you.
Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer
The Ender series of Creality has always had a strong reputation in the market of 3D printers. After the great success of Ender 3, the expectations from its pro version were really high and this printer tried its best to fulfill all the hopes.
Creality Ender 3 Pro is an affordable and excellent printer for hobbyists, makers, tinkerers, and beginners. After spending some time and giving some care, this printer is proficient in providing such astounding quality prints that put expensive printers to indignity. But, unfortunately, it cannot be regarded as a professional printer.
Still, Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer is a top-rated printer and loved by many. There are a lot of reasons for its popularity. The first and foremost is the extremely low price, and the other one is its surprising features that are even absent in many highly-priced printers. It offers a tight filament pathway, decent build volume, magnetic bed, and a power recovery mode. It covers the flaws of its predecessor, Ender 3, famous and loved by its users for its hell-like hackability.
Features
- It is an open-source printer based on FDM printing technology.
- Its frame is made up of aluminum extrusions.
- It offers a decent build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer comes in a semi-assembled form.
- The layer resolution is 100-400 microns.
- The resume printing function helps in case of an unexpected power outage.
- The safe power supply feature protects from unexpected power surges.
- Its heating bed rapidly heats up to 110C in just 5 minutes.
Pros
- Compact design.
- Decent build volume.
- Super affordable.
- Easy to assemble.
- High-quality prints.
- Upgradeable.
- Compatible with flexible filaments.
- Amazing hackability.
Cons
- Bed leveling is complicated.
- Additional adhesion materials are required occasionally.
- Magnetic bed cause problems sometimes.
Verdict
Creality Ender 3 Pro is one of the top-rated printers. It is the best choice for beginners and enthusiasts at a highly affordable rate. Although it also has some flaws, nothing is perfect. So, you should consider this remarkable piece having remarkable features if you want something really virtuous at a cheap rate.
Sain Smart x Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer
Sain Smart Ender 3 Pro is an upgraded version of Ender 3. The only difference is the redesigned aluminum extrusion for the Y-axis base in order to obtain a better print quality and stability. This redesigned extrusion is much more sturdy and wide. Sain Smart introduced these modifications to make it more stable and safer for home use.
It comprises more enhanced features at an exceptionally low price. It adopts the Mean Well Power Supply which meets all the needs of fast heating and longtime printing. The flexible and removable printing beds of Sain Smart x Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer permit the easy removal of prints from the build plate.
Many accessories are also included in the package which can save you time as well as money. Like many other quality printers, this printer also includes a resume printing function. The hazard of a clogged nozzle is shrunk by the presence of Mk-10.
All in all, it is a quality printer with amazing features at a relatively low price.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It has a large build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm.
- It provides a layer thickness of 0.1-0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- Sain Smart x Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer offers a superior printing surface.
- It adopts a Mean Well Power Supply.
- Its hot-bed rapidly heats up to its operating temperature in 5 minutes or less.
- It is compatible with TPU, ABS, PLA, and PETG.
Pros
- Highly precise.
- Noiseless.
- No wrapping or clogging.
- Semi-assembled.
- Fast heating.
- Versatile.
Cons
- Manual calibration.
- Wobbly base.
- Lacks wireless connectivity.
Verdict
Sain Smart x Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer is an overall great choice to make. If you are ready to level the bed manually and tighten up the screws, then nothing left to complain about. So, you should consider it as your new printer.
LONGER LK4 3D Printer
Longer 3D is a Chinese manufactured company founded in 2014, in collaboration with MIT scientists. Its amazing production, LONGER LK4 is an economical and popular 3D printer kit. Its compact build design, aluminum frame, self-efficient intelligent operating system, novel appearance, offline printing, and brand new UI are its incredible features.
Its sturdy frame obliges several purposes such as it reduces vibrations and results in less Z-wobbling and smooth prints. It is a Bowden type 3D printer and its extruder motor is mounted on the printer frame. Color touch screens are common nowadays, but in low budget 3D printers, they are still rare. It includes a 2.8-inch full-color touch screen.
Resume printing function and filament run-out sensor are also available and made long printing possible. All the amazing features and cheap cost made LONGER LK4 3D Printer a highly recommended printer.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It provides a generous build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm.
- Its frame is made up of aluminum.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- It comprises a single nozzle printing head.
- Its printing bed is made up of PEI covered glass.
- SD card and USB are the available connectivity options.
- Cura and Repetier host are the recommended slicers.
- It is compatible with Windows and Mac OSX operating systems.
- It comprises a fast heating hotbed which heats up to 100C in 4 minutes. It also provides strong adhesion and less wrapping.
Pros
- High-quality prints.
- Affordable.
- Solid and sturdy.
- Safe construction.
- Competitive precision.
Cons
- Lots of adjustments are required.
- Very little community support.
Verdict
LONGER LK4 is a strong and reliable printer strongly recommended to all who are on the fence about buying it and feeling confused. It needs some struggle in the beginning but it is a serviceable 3D printer. You must consider this cheap and good quality piece before making a decision.
QIDI Technology X-One 3D Printer
QIDI Technology X-One is an open-source hardware design 3D printer built on the basis of Makerbot’s previous generation. The aim of QIDI, a Chinese company, was to introduce an easy to use and middle-of-the-road 3D printer in the form of X-One.
It is a very well-crafted, easy to use and plug n play type printer. Moreover, it is a marvelous addition to the list of budget-friendly printers. Its double-layered all-metal frame is one of the sturdiest builds. Its color touch screen is very easy to operate and provides a user-friendly interface.
QIDI Technology X-One 3D Printer comes in a completely assembled form and is considered a true example of plug n play. Its fully enclosed print area offers benefit to those working with ABS or some other high-temperature filaments. 6 months warranty is also available. The company happily provides spare parts and free repair to its consumers. It is an incredible printer to consider.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It bids a reasonable build volume of 140 x 140 x 140 mm.
- It is made up of a double-layer all-metal frame.
- It comprises a 3.5-inch color touch screen.
- It provides a layer resolution of 100-500 microns.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- It includes a single extruder.
- It is compatible with numerous filaments such as ABS, PLA, TPU, and PVA.
- It also offers a self-developed professional 3D slicing software that is capable of performing various functions.
Pros
- It can work with both PLA and ABS filaments.
- Fully assembled.
- Easy operations.
- Durable and stable structure.
- User-friendly interface.
- Non-distorting platform.
Cons
- Lacks user manual.
- Enormous weight.
- Noisy
- Small build-area.
Verdict
Overall, QIDI Technology X-One is a remarkable 3D printer. It is the best choice for beginners as well as for experienced workers. It delivers incredible print quality and enormous other features. You will surely not regret buying it.
Flash Forge Finder 3D Printer
Flash Forge Finder 3D Printer is a beginner-friendly and affordable 3D printer. It was launched half a decade ago but due to its high quality, usability, and accessibility, it is still an ultimate choice by the users.
It is more expensive than Creality Ender 3 but it offers many fancy perks such as WIFI connectivity and a color touch screen. As an introductory printer, it covers all the bases. It comes in a fully assembled form and ready to print. It does not make much noise, just some peeping sounds when turned on or some notable proceedings happen.
The only drawback of Flash Forge Finder 3D Printer is the limited size of its print bed. But it can provide you with great ease when you get used to it. Filament detection mechanism and auto bed leveling feature are also absent which is necessary. But at this price, the quality of prints and other features are incredible.
Features
- It is based on FFF printing technology.
- It provides a build volume of 140 x 140 x 140 mm.
- Its layer resolution is 100-500 microns.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- It is compatible with PLA and PETG for producing small prints.
- Its frame is made up of plastic.
- Its precision along the XY-axis is 11 microns while along the Z-axis is 2.5 microns.
- It includes a 3.5-inch touch screen.
- WIFI connectivity option is available.
- Manual bed leveling.
Pros
- Easy to operate.
- Reliable
- Removable build plate.
- Quiet
- Clear touch screen.
Cons
- Small build area.
- Lacks automatic bed leveling.
- The filament cartridge is very small.
Verdict
Flash Forge Finder 3D printer is an ideal choice if you are a beginner and looking for something easy to start your journey. Its sleek design can produce solid prints and is also safer to use. Its cool features are designed keeping in view the requirements of the beginners. So, you will not regret buying it.
Monoprice-113860 Maker
Monoprice-113860 Maker is a super entry-level 3D printer. It is a great value for money. If you are new to printing and ready to take your designs and ideas from CAD file or paper to the next level then, this printer will be a perfect choice for you. It includes remarkable features at a very low price.
It comes in a wholly assembled form so, no expertise and time are required to set it up. It comes with all the necessary components required to start printing for example a micro SD card containing sample 3D model files and sample PLA filament.
Monoprice-113860 Maker has the ability to work with both open source and commercial software like Cura, Simplify 3D, and Repetier. It is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. it offers a generous build volume to handle large and complex prints.
Features
- It provides a large build volume of 200 x 200 x 180 mm.
- Its layer resolution is 100-400 microns.
- It offers a printing speed of up to 70 mm/sec.
- It features a heated bed plate which permits printing with slower cooling materials.
- Mini USB and Micro SD cards are the available connectivity options.
- Cura is its Supported Slicing Software.
- It can print with any type of 3D filament such as ABS, PLA, PET, TPC, PVA, FPE, Jelly, Fletty, and Foam, etc.
Pros
- Large build volume.
- Open-source software
- Affordable rate.
- Sturdy metal body.
- Includes a heated bed.
Cons
- Its speed is slow relative to other printers.
- Initial prints are tricky and require effort.
- Slow customer support service.
Verdict
If you are looking for a start-up printer with amazing features but cheap cost at the same time, then Monoprice-113860 Maker is definitely for you. It is very easy to assemble and use and can provide you with an amazing working experience.
Anycubic Mega S 3D Printer
Anycubic Mega S is an upgraded version of the i3 Mega Printer and remained dominant in the market of 3D printers due to its new features and cheap price. It provides steady and high-quality printers with easy setup.
This upgraded version includes a mechanical filament sensor that can automatically detect the low quantity of filament. The Titan extruder is specially designed to handle flexible filaments and precise extrusion. It decreases the risk of clogging and enhances the accuracy of the print.
Sensor detection and resume printing function add to the worth of Anycubic Mega S 3D Printer. These exceptional features save you time and money. Printing platform surface is coated with a microporous coating which provides outstanding adhesion. In addition to all these amazing features, a multi-language, user friendly, and the full-color TFT touch screen is also present.
This amazing printer also has some downsides such as the metal exterior often rattles loudly due to the lack of insulation and loose screws and bolts. Some quality issues are also recorded. But, its surprisingly low price covers all the other demerits.
Features
- It is an open-source printer based on FDM printing technology.
- It offers a decent build volume of 210 x 210 x 205 mm.
- Its frame is composed of aluminum.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The weight of the Anycubic Mega S 3D Printer is 16.5 kg.
- It offers a layer resolution of 400 microns.
- It features an auto-resume printing function and high-quality titan extrusion.
- Monoprice-113860 Maker comes in a semi-assembled form which is beneficial for beginners.
- It provides a printing accuracy of 50 microns.
Pros
- It is very quick and easy to assemble.
- Provides consistent print quality
- Well-built structure and durable aluminum frame.
- The full-color touch screen is easy to navigate.
- The new extruder heats up swiftly.
- Convenient manual handling and leveling.
Cons
- The metal exterior rattles loudly.
- Possibility of wire coming loose from the bed.
- Print beds can get enfolded by time.
Verdict
Anycubic Mega S 3D Printer meets all the claims it offers with due honesty. It is an ideal printer for beginners who are looking for a convenient and durable printer as their first-ever printer. It is awfully pocket-friendly and provides you with some incredible working experience.
Dremel Digilab 3D20 3D Printer
Dermal Digilab 3D20 3D printer is an incredibly reliable printer designed especially for beginners, learning institutions, and casual users. It is a tempting choice due to good online support and miniature build.
It comes in an almost assembled form. You just have to feed the filament and level the bed. Bed leveling is manual as the auto-calibration option is absent. This printer supports only PLA filaments. It can work with different brands of PLA filament but cannot work with other types of filaments.
This 3D printer includes many exciting features that attract many users. Dremel Digilab 3D20 3D Printer is self-contained and provides reliable quality control. Its closed architecture limits the modification options. But, the prints will be consistent. Its colored touch screen is very easy to operate. Some network errors might bother you.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It provides a build volume of 230 x 150 x 140 mm.
- Its layer resolution is 100 microns.
- It weighs 8.85 kg.
- The diameter of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- It includes a single type of extruder.
- It features an enclosed printing chamber.
- Bed-leveling is manual.
- It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Ubuntu operating systems.
- Dermal software and Simplify 3D are the recommended slicers.
- It lacks a heated bed so only works with PLA filament.
Pros
- Compact design.
- Highly affordable
- Easy to use.
- Fully assembled.
- High-quality prints.
- Convenient bed-leveling.
Cons
- Limited to dermal PLA filament only.
- Lacks WIFI connectivity.
Verdict
If you are a beginner and looking to step into the field of 3D printing then Dremel Digilab 3D20 3D Printer is a perfect choice for you. It is very easy to use and produces high-quality printing results. Its remarkable features are able to impress more experienced 3D printer users.
BIBO 3D Printer
BIBO 3D Printer has gathered apparent popularity and numerous positive reviews. It is one of the most featured printers which includes a WIFI module in it. BIBO is a dual-extruder 3D printer and in spite of all its flaws, it is an ideal choice for consumers.
Its incredible printing quality made it stand high among its competitors. It comes with extensive and well-written instructions so that its assembly is no more trouble. Configuration settings are also provided by the company.
BIBO 3D Printer is very easy to print support structures using this printer as it can print with different filament types and colors and makes them easily removable. Its dual extruders can print two different objects at the same time and reduce the printing time to half.
Its aluminum frame provides more reliability and sturdiness than plastic frames. Its enclosed structure using an acrylic hood and door provides a consistent temperature. Like many other printers, filaments run-out detection and resume printing functions are also present.
Features
- It is based on FDM printing technology.
- It provides a decent build volume of 214 x 186 x 160 mm.
- It features a dual nozzle print head.
- The size of its nozzle is 0.4 mm.
- The diameter of its filament is 1.75 mm.
- Its frame is made up of aluminum.
- Bed-leveling is manual.
- The weight of BIBO 3D Printer is 16 kg.
- Its printing bed is made up of glass.
- Cura, Repetier-Host, and Simplify 3D are the recommended slicing software.
- It is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac OSX operating systems.
- It includes a full-color touch screen with no threshold.
Pros
- It owns a dual-extruder.
- Reliable metal frame.
- Multi-color printing.
- Support numerous filaments.
- Removable glass bed.
Cons
- Build space is not very large.
- Lacks automatic bed leveling feature.
Verdict
BIBO 3D Printer has proved its worth and shows us that we can expect wonders from a small machine. This highly reliable, strong, precise, and stable machine is more than just a 3D printer. Its exceptional and unlimited features are difficult to chase at such a cost.
What to Look for When Choosing a Cheap 3D Printer
After bounding to a specific price range there isn’t much room left for pickiness. But, there are several factors to consider even if you are buying a low-cost printer. As we know, quality matters the most in the end. Don’t make yourself fool by picking a glossy looking printer having cool features. What if all those features are not for your needs.
So, keep in the following important aspects before investing your money.
Build Volume
Build volume of 3D printers matters the most according to your requirements. There are a lot of variations in build volumes even in low budget printers. So choose one suitable for you. If you are going to print small objects such as jewelry, small printers are good and good. But, if you want to handle large and complex prints tan you should get a printer with a large build volume.
Material Compatibility
There is a wide range of cheap 3D printers but when it comes to material support, many fancy printers disappoint the users. And, it is not a minor issue. Most of the cheap printers can work well with PLA and ABS filaments but trouble begins when you have to deal with more exotic filaments such as Carbon fiber or other composite materials.
To print with these exotic filaments, the print bed and build plate require some specific temperature range and can also require a special nozzle or extruder. So, keep in view the material requirements of your models before choosing a 3D printer for you.
Resolution and Printing Speed
Printing speed is not about finding the fastest 3D printer rather, it is related to a perfect setting. Printing speed matters if you just want to print quickly and can compromise on the details and accuracy of the print. Resolution is also important because it is the layer thickness of the print provided by the printer. You should keep in mind both the printing speed and resolution of the printer while selecting one.
Extra Features
After considering all the essential factors some extra features present in different printers can make your life a heaven. These features also act as worth deciding factors. Resume printing functions, filament run-out detection features are some examples. Keep in view the value of these features.
It is better to choose such a printer that can be upgraded. So, always pay close attention to the structure and frame of the printer, because in this price range most of the printers are not upgradable.
Community Support
Community support always plays a great role so it should not be neglected. No matter if you are buying a low-cost printer or a highly-priced professional 3D printer, community support should always be considered because it can provide you with a lot of edges.
Many manufacturer companies don’t even have an official website so try your best to avoid such printers and go for one having strong Community support because it can help you a lot.
Recommendation
Best Overall
JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer is our overall winner. It is extremely cheap and offers unlimited features to its users. It provides a high print quality, sturdy structure, and improved extrusion design make it worth buying.
Runner Up
Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer is the runner up of our cheap 3D printers list. No doubt it is the best printer both due to its quality and features. It stands second in the list just because of the slightly higher price than JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer. Otherwise, its name and quality are beyond any explanation.
Best Value for Money
Sain Smart x Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer stands as the best value for money. It is both cheap and valuable. Ender 3 is known and loved by the majority of 3D printer consumers. Its quality and features are ideal. But just think about the stability of that Ender 3 printer in which the SainSmart has added its stability features. So, it is a perfect choice to make.
Final Words
The time in which 3D printers were limited to industries and factories has been over. Now, these printers are a basic need. Everyone who has a passion for 3D printing cannot afford a high priced printer so cheap printers are in demand.
The vast range of cheap 3D printers puts the buyers in trouble of choosing one according to the demands and requirements. So we are always here to help you with your difficulties. We have prepared a list of cheap 3D printers and reviewed all of them in detail. It will surely help you in making a sensible choice.
No doubt, all of the above-mentioned printers are the best but our choice is JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer. As you want a cheap printer, it is the cheapest of all. In addition to low cost, it also includes remarkable features. But, if your budget is slightly high then you can go for Creality Ender 3. It is another ideal choice. All in all, all the described printers are perfect in their own place. You should keep in view your own budget and requirements while making a choice. Happy buying!
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