Table of Contents
Introduction
For anyone, striving to create some phenomenal three-dimensional (3D) art from the comfort of their space is a dream. Artists desire to have a good 3D printer to hone their skills. However, 3D printers are not known to be merciful on the pocket yet with ever-evolving technology. There are many models that are still reasonable and work reliably.
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When it comes to affordable 3D printers, there are a plethora of good choices, but it can be difficult to navigate. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the ten best 3D printers under $1000 that are sure to pique your fancy. Read on as we detail everything you need to know about 3D printers and a guide to help you make the right choice.
What is a 3D Printer?
3D printers execute three-dimensional printing: a process of creating three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The formation of a 3D printed object happens through additive methods. This additive process forms an object by laying down consecutive layers of material until the object is fully constructed. It is almost a magical spectacle as the print heads work fast to transform the digital file into an actual object right before your eyes.
You can see each of the layers as a finely sliced cross-section of the object. 3D printers produce complex shapes by using fewer materials than traditional manufacturing procedures.
What Should I Expect for a 3D Printer Below $1000?
With the manufacturers striving for less price with better quality, you can expect a 3D printer of this price range to give you various features. Generally, a printer of this price tag will excel in its design, quality, and durability. It will give you ample options to ensure you get the most out of your purchase and create your precise object anytime you want.
Features like touchscreen, color detection, heat beds, and closed frames were considered rare and limited to high-end printers. However, they are now widespread in printers under $1000.
The Best 3D Printer Under $1000
Qidi Tech X-Plus
Retailing at an affordable price, this 3D printer is the perfect pick for engineering, design, and educational purposes. QIDI X-PRO is a new dual-extruder that comes with various cutting-edge technology features. Its preassembled reliable features have a removable plate, which makes it easier to remove, take out, and bend the finished models.
Equipped with a 4.3-inch touch screen, it allows an easy user access to operate the printer. QIDI X-PRO works with ABS filament as well as PLA filament for building platforms. When printing with PLA filament, this 3D printer offers an improved cooling effect due to its four sides blowing turbofan.
If you have ever come across a printer promising hyper-speed yet failing to deliver, you can understand how devastating it can be. The printing speed ends up being so fast that it destroys the intricate parts of the digital file. However, with this 3D printer offering the perfect speed, it will result in more intricate and detailed results. For a 3D printer at such an affordable rate, it offers the best features often found in high-end 3D printers.
While the printing process is limited to only two filament types, the PLA and ABS, and there is no automatic bed leveling, there is still much to be admired. The printer offers sturdy and durable construction, decent printing speeds, and does not cause any odor in the place while working. It is a very decent deal if you ask anyone.
Key Features
- 225 x 145 x 150 build volume (mm)
- 1.75 mm filament size (mm)
- 100~500 microns layer resolution
- 4.3″ touch screen controls
- Slicing software
- WiFi support
- Power Breaking Point Function
- Single Z-axis platform support
- Dual printing extruder
- 60mm-150mm print speed
Pros
- Removable aluminum build platform
- Enclosed design
- Accelerated print speed
- Little to no smell
Cons
- No automatic bed leveling
- Printing limited to only PLA and ABS filaments
Verdict
This 3D printer is the way to go when it comes to value for money. The QIDI X-PRO is a user-friendly 3D printer that works wonders for both professional and basic use. It gets the job done with excellent results and fast speed and will live up to your expectations.
WEEDO Creality Industrial Pro 3D
Manufactured by WEEDO, this 3D printer has been an unmatched product that delivers the best print quality with professional results and brisk speed. It comes stocked with advanced features that many 3D printers don’t offer. It features a TMC2208 chip, with a four-door open and fully enclosed design, making the machine more silent and stable in the closed printing.
WEEDO Creality Industrial Pro 3D printer has the latest slicing software that supports various types of consumable printing modes such as PLA, ABS, Nylon, and PC. Moreover, this 3D printer is equipped with a nozzle module with a built-in inductive sensor for automatic leveling. With added features like WIFI control, filament detection, and continued printing even after the power is out. This 3D printer is a reliable machine that justifies its price tag.
The WiFi control is not unlimited, and the construction is not that extensive, but are these deal-breakers? Of course not! The model delivers exceptionally on all essential fronts, especially by offering support for multiple filament types. Moreover, auto-leveling and resume function after an accidental power break make this model a highly reliable option.
Key Features
- Automatic bed leveling
- Upgraded build plate
- WiFi connectivity
- Filament detection
- Multiple printing modes
- 0.08mm air filter module
- 4.3-inch full-color touch screen
- 100 – 400 Microns layer resolution
- USB and MicroSD card connectivity
- Detachable nozzle
Pros
- Different filament support
- Built-in sensor for auto-leveling
- Continued printing after a power break
- Silent Operation
Cons
- Small build area
- Limited WiFi control
Verdict
WEEDO makes sure that you get a 3D printer that can deliver what it promises. This printer is a dream come true for anyone seeking a 3D printer to accomplish commercial applications for under $1000. WEEDO Creality Industrial Pro 3D printer is easily among the most sought after 3D printers, and it certainly lives up to its reputation.
Dremel DigiLab 3D20
Suitable for any laboratory or household needs, Dremel DigiLab 3D20 comes preassembled for user-friendly access. This 3D printer has a fully enclosed body that reduces noise and provides the element of safety if the device is within the children’s reach.
Available at a reasonable price, it comes equipped with an interactive and easy to follow full-color LCD touch screen display. It allows the user to modify settings, explore the files stored in the SD card effectively, and continue to print by itself. Its closed compartment and amazing accuracy help achieve incredible print results of great quality.
The model does not offer any WiFi connectivity, and while that can be a drag for some people, but if you want to use it locally, it’s not a problem. Moreover, it only works with the Dremel PLA filament, but to make up for these losses, the model offers some unique features. It is a highly compact printer, and you can use it with ease. To top it all up, it is very affordable too.
Key Features
- 230 x 150 x 140 mm build volume
- Extrusion technology
- Fully enclosed
- The acrylic build plate material
- 4″ full-color touch screen.
- 100-micron high resolution
- SD card support
- Free cloud-based slicing software
- PLA filament
- Manual build plate leveling
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Fully assembled
- Very affordable
Cons
- Runs only with Dremel PLA filament
- Doesn’t have WiFi connectivity
Verdict
The Dremel DigiLab 3D20 printer is a precise, efficient, and user-friendly option. It is the perfect 3D printer for educational purposes and is very capable when it comes to achieving great quality prints. It is ideal for novices at 3D printing and wants to try their hand at it. Offering practicality and an affordable price point, this 3D printer is one of the must-haves.
FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro
Came into the design in 2014, this 3D printer has been among the top choice of many, and it is for good reasons. Equipped with a dual extruder, this machine provides flexibility to print in different colors and with different materials at the same time. It also excels in consuming less time and does a wonderful job of decreasing the overall print time to a notable amount.
Furthermore, this compact 3D printer supports ABS, PLA, Flex, HIPS, T-glass and is compatible with composites as CopperFill, Woodfill, and BrassFill. It also features an enclosed chamber that provides safety and, at the same time, regulates the temperature for achieving the best print quality.
With the removable cover as a bonus, this printer also includes a heated bed. It also offers a choice for an open-source machine that allows you to choose your software and hardware without fretting about compatibility. With this 3D printer, you get the unmatchable features worth every penny you will invest in it.
It lacks auto-calibration, and the model is a bit noisy, so this may be a problem for some users. However, it offers great convenience as it comes completely preassembled, saving you a ton of labor. Moreover, this 3D printer is compatible with several filament types and features a heated bed and dual extender, all of which are excellent specifications.
Key Features
- 8.9 X 5.8 X 5.9 inches build volume
- 6.3mm thick aluminum plate
- 1.75 mm in diameter
- Integrated LCD screen
- LED light illumination
- Dual Extruder
- Convenient SD card slot
- 00~500 microns layer resolution
- FFF printing technology
- Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux compatible
Pros
- Preassembled
- Heated bed
- Dual extruder
- Various filament compatible
Cons
- Bit noisy
- No auto-calibration
Verdict
The FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro is, without a doubt, one of the better machines out there when it comes to phenomenal quality and incredibly detailed prints. It is very fast, reliable, and efficient, which is more than what most printers offer in this price range. With its unique traits, it certainly delivers what the users want the most.
Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D Printer
On the lookout for a 3D printer that offers three interchangeable functional modules, 3D printing, CNC carving, and laser engraving? This one by Snapmaker may just be the one for you. With high precision and a metal build, this printer has an open build that works very well with its compact structure. Snapmaker has an interchangeable module that can be swapped and worked with as need requires.
Having a 3.5 inches color LCD touchscreen with very interactive controls, this 3D printer has a very easy installation process. It also offers multiple filament support such as PLA, ABS, and many more options. It is also equipped with a very workable heated bed that can support temperature up to 80 Celsius. Its unmatchable feature being laser engraving. Users can engrave various materials of choice such as leather, non-transparent acrylic, plastic, bamboo fabric, etc.
The build space is not expansive enough for some, and the model can be noisy while operating intensely. However, it works well overall. Most of all, it is very affordable, gives excellent laser potential and perfect print quality. All of these factors, when listed, the model is overall a great option.
Key Features
- 3-in-1 module
- Laser engraving
- 125 x 125mm (4.9″ x 4.9″) workspace
- 3.175mm diameter
- Open frame
- 3.5 inches color LCD touchscreen
- All-metal body
- Multiple Filament support
- Third-Party Filament Support
- CNC Carving
- 50 – 300 microns layer resolution
Pros
- Affordable
- Expandable laser power
- Heated bed
- Good print quality
Cons
- A little noise output
- Limited build space
Verdict
The Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D Printer is truly one of a kind in terms of its design, quality, and range of its advanced features. With such an affordable retailing price, you get a 3D printer that not only produces amazing prints of unmatchable quality but an efficient and sturdy machine that looks incredibly unique sitting in your workplace. This is a machine that does not leave its users disappointed.
UP MINI 2 ES TIERTIME
Released in 2018, Tiertime is a much-awaited update of UP Mini 2. Bearing a “start and stop” system. This 3D printer allows complete control of the printing process to the user in the case of a power cut, with a heated bed that enables the user to print complex materials such as ABS, PLA, etc. This printer is very famous for its automatic calibration that does the user’s work and requires no manual calibration.
Tiertime comes with a built-in sensor that detects errors and fixes them during 3D printing. It has a closed-frame enclosure that offers the feature of security and makes it user-friendly. It is available in the color white with the next Gen Linux embedded system that works for LAN, WIFI, USB printing. This 3D printer is also equipped with a built-in air filtration unit with an activated carbon filter. It is available in the market for a surprisingly reasonable price tag with a very aesthetically pleasing design.
The operation can be loud at times, and the printer is not compatible with flexible filaments. However, it offers a simple and easy setup process, features a removable build plate, and minimal warping. Overall, you can’t go wrong with this model. It does offer appreciable features to help you complete your objectives with ease, even though it lags in some areas.
Key Features
- 4.7″ x 4.7″ x 4.7″ build volume
- 150 microns layer resolution
- Auto nozzle height
- 0.4 mm in diameter
- Smooth rod motion system
- Untethered printing
- Blackout Recovery
- Air Filtration
- USB and WiFi compatible
- One-touch auto-update
Pros
- Easy setup
- Removable build plate
- Minimal warping
- Removable raft
Cons
- Incompatible with flexible filament
- Small print volume
- Loud operation
Verdict
Tiertime is greatly known for its production of great quality prints and advanced features. Its traits live up to its price points, and it is certainly one of the cheaper ones out there. With a limited budget, the UP MINI 2 ES TIERTIME falls under the one you should pick. Overall, this great 3D printer looks as good as its prints.
Prusa I3 MK3S
Whenever there is talk of the best 3D printers in the market, you will always hear the name of Prusa I3. This 3D printer has been rated the best on various blogs and articles. Various users from all around the globe have given this one their badge of the winner. This is a highly flexible and versatile dual extrusion budget 3D printer that proves its worth of every cent it costs.
With the proven results of 40% faster printing due to its integrated E3D v6 HotEnd, it shows real speed in printing. However, its speed does not come close to affecting its quality. It excels in high precision and producing extremely detailed prints. This is an open-source machine, so it is possible to both hack and upgrade in various ways.
It also has an updated filament sensor and a refined extruder arm. It is both durable and reliable. With a sturdy build, it is easy to see the way it has such a positive reputation.
Key Features
- 25 x 21 x 21cm build volume
- 0.05mm (50 Micron) layer height
- Integrated LCD as well as SD card reader
- Extensive material support
- 1kg filament included
- Automatic leveling bed
- Heated bed
- Software: PEO print platform
- 0.4mm nozzle size
- Automatic Skew axes compensation
Pros
- Crash detection
- Auto-calibration capability
- Sturdy design
- Slic3r PE slicing software
Cons
- Slight noise output
- Long-distance prints
Verdict
Overall, Prusa has proven to be an extremely capable 3D printer in terms of its state-of-the-art features, its build, and its value for the price. The Prusa I3 MK3S is a durable, efficient, and easy-to-use machine and is intended for all levels of use. This is easily a 3D printer that gives solid results with fast speed.
BIBO Dual Extruder 3D Printer
Twin extruders are what often most people look for in a 3D printer. But if you search for a 3D printer with twin extruders and a great price point, BIBO will be the first one to pop up. As mentioned, its most prominent feature is its twin extruders that allow the user to print in 2 colors simultaneously. It can print twice as fast as your average 3D printers and twice as reliably.
This machine is equipped with smart AI for the detection of filament spool and warns the user when it is close to running out. This 3D printer also comes with a smartphone application that offers the user the option to keep track and check on their prints even if they are in a different city. This machine is not only convenient but also budget-friendly.
Key Features
- 214 x 186 x 160 mm build volume
- 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm print resolution range
- 270 degrees Celsius nozzle temperature
- SD card slot, WI-FI, and USB slot capability
- 350 mm/s maximum print speed
- Dual extruders
- 1.75mm filament diameter
- Removable heated bed
- Full-color touch screen
- Dual color printing
Pros
- Easy to use touch screen interface
- WiFi connectivity
- Automatic detection of filament spool quantity
- Versatile
- Fast prints
Cons
- Slightly challenging to use
- Manual initial assembly
Verdict
Versatility is often associated with the BIBO Dual Extruder 3D Printer. It uses plenty of commonly available materials for creating phenomenal 3D art. Its value-added features are what make it a great budget 3D printer. It is user-friendly, and its integrated color touch screen makes the process easier and the machine responsive to the slightest touch and command. This 3D printer offers decent features for a good price.
Monoprice Maker Select Ultimate
Over four years, Monoprice has become the 3D printer most people ask for. Due to its user-friendly operation, many novices are recommended this 3D printer. The features are worth their price. These include auto bed leveling, heated and removable glass build plate, filament detector, fully enclosed build, and internal lighting, making it a recommendable and usable product.
Among many good printers in its competition, most people lean more towards this one as the features this entails are not often found in the 3D printer retailed at the same price point. Its 0.4mm nozzle allows the prints to have a structured and defined build, which results in the most intricate and beautiful 3D objects.
Key Features
- FFF print technology
- 0.4mm nozzle diameter
- 200 x 200 x 175 mm build volume
- 1.75mm filament diameter
- Heated and removable glass plate
- Filament detector
- Internal lightening system
- 100 – 400 Microns layer resolution
- USB and MicroSD Card connectivity
- Auto bed leveling
Pros
- Supports large printing materials
- Big space for printing
- Sturdy build
- Well-priced
Cons
- Slow speed
- Incompatible with large ABS material
Verdict
The Monoprice Maker Select Ultimate is certainly a budget-conscious 3D printer that can help the user try and ease into learning about the process of 3D printing. It is easy to use and offers a large build area for various types of projects. The full enclosure helps regulate the internal temperature, ensure the safety of drafts, and make sure that the environmental factors do not affect the print.
Creality CR-10 V2
This 3D printer had been the talk of the town before it even launched because, like its previous models, Creality CR-10 V2 also has a really large build plate. It has particularly great print quality compared to other 3D printers in its completion. With its silent integrated motherboard, it is highly upgradable as well.
The main focus of this 3D printer is to give the prints a sturdier build, free of any vibrations and wobbles. It ultimately ensures that the print will be uniformly smooth, precise, and detailed. Creality CR-10 V2 takes long pains to ensure the prints’ fast speed with no filament blockage in the nozzle. This 3D printer is held in high regard in the market due to its print’s undeniable quality.
Key Features
- FDM technology
- 300 x 300 x 400 mm build volume
- 0.4 mm nozzle size
- Metal frame
- SD Card connectivity
- Preassembled
- Automatic bed leveling
- Two-way cooling nozzle
- Carborundum Glass Platform
- Cura slicing software
Pros
- Preassembled
- Automatic bed leveling
- No noise
- Separate power supply
- Highly upgradable
Cons
- Slow heat up
- Awkwardly large power supply
Verdict
In terms of print quality and build size, the Creality CR-10 V2 printer is one of a kind. With an easy manual, it offers the choice of an upgrade as well. Its two ways of cooling the nozzle make certain that the print is made with high precision and stability. Its high printing speed is something that is also very notable about this 3D printer. All in all, it is hard to be unsatisfied with this machine and its print results.
What to Look for When Choosing 3D Printers Under $1000?
You must consider some determining features because you decide to buy a good 3D printer for under $1000. It is very easy to spend your hard-earned money on a 3D printer that looks very professional and tech-savvy, but in the end, it ends up being something flashy. While there may be an abundance of choices available, the probability of getting a bad and low-quality machine is still high.
We have compiled some factors that can help you get some valuable knowledge you might need. It will prove to be extremely important and beneficial in your selection for the perfect machine. To gain the printer most worthy of your hard-earned money, you need some foreground perspective.
Printing Speed and Quality
The printing speed of a printer and its quality are the most prominent factors determining a good 3D printer. The $1000 budget range allows enough room for a 3d printer to offer a high vertical and horizontal build and print speed, all the while allowing the rapid production of the model in a short period.
The resolution of the printer determines the print quality and the result you will get. It also determines how precisely the printer catches on to all the details from the digital file. Printers with high resolution are the most desired since they can print even the minuscule objects with the utmost precision, clarity and render a smooth finish. A printer that falls under the price of $1000 should be able to print detailed and structured prints with minimum print time easily.
However, you must keep in mind that fast printing speed can often result in bulky and irregular prints. The print heads tend to forego the small details and give distorted results. The detail and the print finish are both ruined by if the printing speed is too slow or too fast. Therefore an appropriate balance is necessary.
Size
3D printers can be rather hefty, and that is no strange fact. Therefore, it is an important factor to consider when you are buying a 3D printer. It is best to know your prints’ ideal size and if they would be able to match the print bed. It is advisable to understand the objects or structures you want to print, as some prints require a smaller build volume. Printing them in a large space may reduce print quality.
The most desired printer will have a compact style, meaning it will not consume a lot of space in your work area while processing good quality prints. Compact printers are what most people look for since they are quick to set up, easy to use, and do not project bulkiness or cause a mess of wires on the work area.
Material
Understanding the printing material is also something that requires thorough research before buying a 3D printer—determining what kind of materials you can afford is also a huge factor that plays a part in selecting a 3D printer. While most of the 3D printers found in the market usually work with two types of filament material like Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), some models offer complete support for wood, nylon, ceramic, and more.
If PLA filament is not your choice, then you will need a heated print bed. Extensive filaments often require a closed enclosure; therefore, it would be ideal to buy a 3D printer with a closed frame for these materials. That way, you can protect your prints from room drafts and other environmental factors.
Abrasive materials like Carbon fiber-filled nylon can be hard to work with, but if you want to work with them, you need to make sure that you have a reinforced nozzle. A nozzle made from brass can break and be very easily damaged.
Price
Undeniably, price is what most of us look for when we splurge on something. Admittedly, the price of the 3D printer is what finalizes the decision to buy one. A printer’s cost mainly depends upon the output, quality, and types of materials it can print. Printers that usually support filament often tend to be cheaper and easy to buy. But if you want to wet your toes in the more advanced features with astounding quality and hyper printing speed, you may want to look for prices that go above $300 to $800.
Safety
When it comes to 3D printing and high-tech machinery, safety is a feature that must not be taken lightly. Although it is not a feature common in 3D printers, it is still very important. All 3D printers work under extremely high-pressure and extensive heat temperatures, so the buyer must ensure that the chosen printer has all precautions necessary to keep the working environment safe.
If you have children around and intend to buy a 3D printer, it is crucial to make sure that the desired 3D printer has a close enclosure build with a sturdy frame. That way, the safety of the materials, the process of printing, and the people around it will be certain of their safety.
Assembly
Some printers come preassembled, making it easier for the user to plug them up and use it right away. However, some 3D printers require manual assemblage that is semi-setup, which means the complicated parts are already in place, and you just have to put the frame together. However, that part is usually quite simple and easy to do since it comes with a manual guide. This also gives the user perspective of the printer and helps them gain experience in the process of 3D printing.
Some other notable features are the dual extruder; that allows you to print in dual colors at the same time, the removable build plates; that makes it easier for you to extract your prints once they are done printing, and the filament sensor; that warns you when the filament spool is close to running out or when it is about to spoil the printing process.
Recommendation
The following list comprises of the best picks we recommend for you. All these products excel in quality, reliability and will live up to your expectations. To make things easier for you, we have created some of our recommendations based on traits like the best overall performance, second best, and the best value for the price. Nonetheless, if our picks are not agreeable to you, we commend researching further to help you gather insight into your right choice.
Best Overall
WEEDO Creality Industrial Pro 3D takes the cake when we talk about the best overall option. Not only is it jam-packed with various advanced features that most 3D printers of the same retailing price lack, and while it falls under $1000, it has all the capabilities and abilities of a 3D printer that would cost far more.
It produces the most highly detailed and professional-looking prints that are precise, sturdy, and amazing. The machine’s four-door enclosed design works excellently well in making the whole printing process silent and stable, making it eco-friendly. Its fast printing speed and built-in leveling sensor are just one of the many features that make this 3D printer so famous and reputable in the market.
Runner Up
Prusa I3 MK3S is an excellent choice as one of the best 3D printers. Besides its countless praises seen all around the blogs, this printer is the one that delivers well. The selling point for most buyers has been its advanced unbeatable features and its print quality. It also budget-friendly, along with its proven result of hyper printing speed. It is most known for its amazing precision and detailed prints. It is recommended if you want a 3D printer that has features to justify its price.
Best Value for Money
The printer that offers value for its price is most definitely the UP MINI 2 ES TIERTIME. No matter if it is the Auto-calibration, the built-in sensor, its amazing structure, or its air filtration system, this model has features that are worthy of your money.
If you choose to get your hands on this model, you will be paying for a 3D printer that delivers in terms of precision and well-structured prints, fast printing speed, and a machine that makes your desk look professional and cool. Several buyers have voted this printer as the best option for a printer that is worth more than its retail price. We highly recommend this one as it will surely excel in your expectations for all its other users.
Final Words
3D printers have taken the world by storm; however, these complicated machines have a lot going. Therefore, some necessary knowledge is key. Choosing to spend under $1000 on a printer can be a difficult decision to make; however, we hope that our top 10 list will help you to determine the best option for you. Researching and understanding what factors to consider before buying will give you a better chance of making the right decision. It all adds up to having a clear foreground of the features that will work best for your specific needs, your budget, and what characteristics will be most suitable for you.
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