Design your way

3D printing at home has become easier than ever before, and that’s because of the vast array of affordable 3D printers on the market.

You can now complete your projects without spending a fortune on special parts and costly prototypes – simply download a public 3D domain file for free, and apply an inexpensive filament, and the work will be done.

According to some statistics, cheap 3D printers are easier to use, and are thereof recommended to first-time users looking to enhance their startup project, or to teach some engineering fundamentals to younger audiences.

3D printer prices vary depending on the brand, but unlike the time it took $100,000 to purchase them, the cheapest 3D printer nowadays costs somewhere between $400 and $500. Looking for well-preserved 3D printers for sale may turn out to be an even more economical solution.

Fairly enough, you can’t expect a 3D printer for sale to have the bells and whistles of a professional one, so be ready to embrace the limitations imposed by lower 3D printer prices.

Your off-the-shelf printer may decrease build volume as it does not offer a heated print bed, neither will it guarantee the same quality as market’s frontrunners. The best cheap 3D printer, however, offers functionality that should not be neglected.

Plus, much of your work will depend on how creative you are, so if you work on projects with tinkering and patience, the 3D printer cost will not matter. In certain cases, you will even be able to create breathtaking projects at half of the price you paid for your new smartphone. Doesn’t that sound awesome?

But how much does a 3D printer cost? More importantly, which are the best 3D printers for sale that won’t break the bank? In order to answer these questions, you must define your needs and expectations, and compare several solutions to discover the right product for your projects.

I know you are looking for the best 3d printer under $500 or the best 3d printer under $1000. There’s a bit of something for everyone in this article that shows the best and most affordable 3D printers in 2017.

Dremel 3D40-01 Idea Builder

The Dremel 3D40 Idea Builder is the next generation Idea Builder that continues the Dremel heritage of reliability and ease-of-use while bringing the convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile interaction to the world of 3D building. Easy-to-use right out of the box, the 3D40 Idea Builder features built-in printable files so you can start building immediately, without the need of a computer.

An advanced extruder design features an active filament monitoring system to ensure successful builds and the exclusive, Quick Level guided levelling system makes set-up a snap. With a build capacity larger than the Dremel 3D20, you can build bigger projects inside the fully enclosed, illuminated workspace with a cooling system that prevents object warping and keeps your builds precise.

Design and edit your models with the included Print Studio software by Autodesk, and control the building process using a full-color touch-screen.

ROBO 3D R1 Plus

The improved R1 +Plus includes all new linear motion and lead screws for better quality, performance, and consistency. Also includes a better filament feeding system for ease of use and a “quick release” for fast change out of the extruder. Additional components for leveling, guidance, and performance of the R1 +Plus make it the best option for desktop 3D Printing today.

XYZprinting da Vinci Jr. 1.0 3D Printer

Don’t let its slimmer and lighter look fool you, the da Vinci Jr. has a robust build size of 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches and a resolution of 100 to 400 microns.

Its design allows for the inclusion of an auto-feeding filament system, which takes the PLA filament to the extruder, and ensures that the filament is loaded properly and is ready to print. The Jr. 1.0 only prints in DEHP-free and Heavy metal-free PLA filament.

New Matter – MOD-t 3D Printer

Create exciting inventions right from home with this 3D printer, which features a fire-retardant PC/ABS build platform that holds builds up to 150mm x 100mm x 125mm. Wi-Fi and USB 2.0 interfaces ensure easy connectivity as you unlock your creativity.

From young upstarts New Matter, the MOD-t is an attractive cheap 3D printer with smooth lines and a clean design.

As well as competitive pricing, features include wireless network connectivity, so you can select, customize, and print wirelessly from your computer, tablet or smartphone, and a clear cover that projects the 150 x 100 x 125 mm build space and reduces noise.

With hardware and software designed for simplicity, reliability, and intuitive operation, the MOD-t brings the creative excitement of 3D printing to everyone.

The MOD-t is ultra low maintenance, highly consistent and Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to print directly from any device.

FlashForge Creator Pro

The FlashForge Creator Pro is a reasonably priced Chinese 3D printer, which bears close resemblance to the Makerbot Replicator 2X. It is a step up from the original entry level FlashForge Creator, but comes with a metal frame and enclosed chassis. Other new features include the upgraded platform leveling system and metal build plate and guide rod to help with stabilization and durability. It has dual extruders and printing materials include ABS, PLA and PVA.

Wanhao 3D Printer

It comes in a black steel exoframe, which makes it very stable and vibration safe. The 4s features a heated build plate and fully enclosed build area to ensure accurate prints and a stable temperature which helps prevent shrinking and warping of plastics. The Duplicator 4s is equipped with the new MK10 Dual-Extruder set for dual printing. Use two different colors or use one of the extruders with HIPS or PVA as support material. Other features include upgraded electronics and 1/16 micro-stepping motor control.

Polar 3D

The award-winning, revolutionary design of the polar 3D desktop printer typically produces 4 times the build volume at 25 percent cost of competitors. Sleek, quiet, Wi-Fi enabled, and with an open-view that allows you to Watch your 3D print objects being created.

It’s not only a radical improvement in 3D desktop printing, but also fun! in addition, the time-lapse camera will leave you mesmerized as you Watch your 3D creation come to life via the polar cloud. The free polar cloud allows any polar 3D owner to load files, print, and view the process from anywhere in the world with a web browser.

And, If you really want to take it on the go, it’s so lightweight and durable you could take it to a friends house or to work. Its reliability and ease-of-use are perfect for the classroom or makerspace lab.

QIDI TECH I

The Qidi Tech I is a reasonably priced Chinese 3D printer, which bears close resemblance to the Makerbot Replicator 2X.

It comes with a metal frame, enclosed chassis and an aluminum heated build plate. The Tech I has dual extruders and printing materials include ABS, PLA and PVA.

UP mini 2

UP mini 2 is not only affordable, reliable and easy-to-use like the first generation UP mini, it also comes with many new features related to usability, portability and connectivity.

The UP mini 2 is for people who want to start 3D printing in no time. A new sleek design packed with killer features, a versatile machine suitable for anyone, anywhere. Continue to be UP’s best value offer for desktop 3D printing, the UP mini 2 inherited all the good stuff of UP mini 1, including a low price point, easy to use and exceptional reliability. The print quality of UP mini 2 is a big leap, thanks to the new mechanical design and the capability to print in 0.15mm layers.

Printrbot Simple

The Printrbot Simple (Model 1403) fully assembled 3D fused-filament-fabrication printer has a black powder-coated all-metal construction with open platform for fabricating parts up to 6 x 6 x 6 inches (H x W x D) using 1.75-mm PLA thermoplastic filament (sold separately). The frame is made from steel and aluminum for durability, and it has a black powder-coated finish to protect against wear.

The printer head moves on the Y (backward and forward) and Z (up and down) axes, while the print bed moves on the x (left to right) axis. The steel and aluminum print bed is warp resistant and includes an auto-leveling probe that works with the user-chosen computer software to provide a level print surface. The hot end has a maximum resolution of 100 microns and includes a fan to help solidify the molten filament as it is extruded onto the print bed.

The printer uses open source software and connects to the computer using the included mini-USB cable. Using an SD card (sold separately), the printer can be disconnected from the computer after initialization for untethered printing during long print jobs.

The guide rails have a 12-mm diameter for stability and have linear bearings for smooth vertical movement of the print head. The GT2 belt and aluminum pulley system facilitates precise movement of the print head. The NEMA 17 stepper motor meets the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standard ICS 16-2001. The printer includes a sample spool of PLA (polylactic acid) filament.

FlashForge Finder

Meet the new kid on the block… The user-friendly, home-friendly, and wallet-friendly 3D Printer from FlashForge is ready to play. Loaded with easy-to-use features, and designed to be at home in kids rooms and classrooms, the new FlashForge Finder is the first choice for 3D printing novices and educators.

Beginners benefit from the slide-in build plate, assisted bed-leveling, and intuitive color touchscreen. And parents and teachers appreciate its quiet and safe operation. The Finder uses only non-toxic PLA, and the heated components are safely encased. The creative world of 3D printing awaits, and the FlashForge Finder is here to show you the way.

LulzBot Mini Desktop 3D Printer

The LulzBot Mini is a high performance desktop 3D printer engineered to be easy to use. Even better, the LulzBot Mini is Open Source Hardware, certified by the Free Software Foundation for respecting your freedom. Computer World exclaimed, “Any serious maker should consider this machine because of its flexibility, accuracy and speed”.

All LulzBot products use Free Software and are Open Source Hardware. This means your LulzBot Mini uses proven technology developed collaboratively. It also means you are free to adopt the latest and greatest technology being developed across the 3D printing industry, from new software packages to experimental materials.The Mini ships fully assembled and calibrated so you will be printing within minutes of opening the box.

XYZprinting da Vinci 2.0 Duo

The main advantage to using the XYZ Printing da Vinci over competitive versions is the ease of use. Regardless of experience level in operating or working with a 3D printer, this version quickly and without difficulty allows anyone to convert two-dimensional drawings into three-dimensional objects within a short period of time.

Designed to be a plug-and-play device, putting the printer into action merely requires connecting the printer to a computer, opening the software, opening or importing the desired files, customizing the settings if desired and printing the sketch.

Printrbot Play

The Printrbot Play (Model 1505) fully assembled 3D fused-filament-fabrication printer with metal frame has an open platform for fabricating parts up to 4 x 4 x 5 inches (W x D x H) using 1.75-mm PLA filament (sold separately). The print head moves on the X (left to right) axis and Z (up and down) axes, while the bed moves on the Y (backward and forward). The print bed is a metal plate and includes an auto-leveling probe that works with the user-chosen computer software to provide a level print surface.

The printer uses open source software and connects to the computer using the included micro-USB cable. Using a micro-SD card (sold separately), the printer can be disconnected from the computer after initialization for untethered printing. Maximum resolution of 100 microns. The printer includes a sample of filament.

M3D Micro

The Micro is the world’s first truly consumer 3D printer and is powered by “Micro Motion Technology,” a series of next generation innovations, creating precision at a fraction of the cost of other 3D Printers.

Sporting a compact design, cool color choices, user-friendly software, and replaceable print beds and nozzles, it’s the perfect 3D printer for beginners and experts alike.

The Micro comes with M3D Software for Windows operating systems. Our software has an easy-to-use interface, and is fully touch screen capable. The M3D Software allows you to organize the 3D models you’ve downloaded into an easy to view library.

Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer

Engineered to perform, the Ultimaker 2+ is reliable, efficient, and user-friendly. Thanks to its support of a wide range of materials, it’s suitable for a huge variety of applications, from prototypes to customized tools. It’s a great all-around 3D printer that delivers consistent results.

Maker Select

If you’re ready to take your ideas and designs from paper or CAD file to the next level, the Monoprice MAKER SELECT 3D Printer is the perfect starter solution for your needs! Unlike kit-based printers, which require a certain level of knowledge, experience, and time to assemble, the MAKER SELECT 3D Printer is assembled using only 6 screws and includes everything you need to begin printing right out of the box.

With the ability to print any type of 3D filament and a price point lower than most DIY kits, this entry-level 3D printer is the easiest and least expensive way to join the 3D printing revolution!

Includes 2GB micro SD card preloaded with printable 3D models out of the box Includes sample PLA filament so you can print right out of the box Heated build plate allows for high-reliability printing of slow cooling materials, such as ABS Can use compatible software, such as Cure, Repeater, or Simplify 3D Expanded user’s manual with detailed, easy-to-follow assembly and usage instructions Tighten just 6 screws and be printing in 10 minutes Choose to give the innovative and creative gift of learning.

MP Select Mini

Top of the cheap 3D printer list is the Monoprice MP Select Mini, an impressive machine with a smart and compact design. It’s got a quick release steel gear filament feeder, a nozzle cooling fan, a color LCD, a heated build plate, and microSD and USB connectivity.

The heated build plate and wide extruder temperature range are incredibly good value here, because it means this cheap 3D printer can work with most types of filament; from basic filaments like ABS and PLA, to more exotic or dissolvable materials like conductive PLA, wood and metal composites, and PVA.

MakerBot Replicator Mini Compact 3D Printer

Save time and accelerate iteration by pairing the Replicator Mini+ with MakerBot Print software and MakerBot Mobile. The Replicator Mini+ is Cloud-enabled so you can control it remotely with MakerBot Print or the MakerBot Mobile app. With MakerBot Print, you can import Native CAD files, auto-arrange them during print preparation, and then print them on one or more printers. To get started printing quickly and easily, MakerBot Mobile offers an all-new guided wireless setup.

What should you be looking for?

Trying to answer the ‘how much is a 3D printer’ question, many of us give up on essential functionality in advance. We know that professional machines do way more than basic printers, but luckily for us, that doesn’t only mean sacrificing essential features.

There are a number of best-budget 3D solutions that do the same job of their costly versions, and will respond to all your filament requests, printing desires, and compatibility issues. Make sure all capacity is there, and that there is no cheaper printer that can do the same work.

Performance: The issue of speed and resolution

When developing 3D products, experts must consider many factors, the most important of which is definitely accurate calibration and resolution options.

There are printers that level print beds automatically, or allow you to adjust their Z height manually (Z height is in fact the space between the print bed and the extruder). If the print plate is leveled in the right way, all of the models you’ve printed will be accurate.

The operating mechanism doesn’t go too far from the one of inkjet printers, but emphasizes way more on resolution and speed. Draft prints, however, will go out faster, while higher resolution ones will require time and few professional touches.

Size is also very important, as with printers that can’t pull off pieces larger than 5 inches; you will be forced to assemble models piece by piece. Those of you looking to prepare diverse XY and Z objects should give a look to 8 inches printers instead.

Design: The better the design is, the better the prints will turn out

Foremost, you should be looking for a sturdier foundation to build projects successfully. A plastic and light printer may be easy to move around, but won’t handle swaying and replacing as well as a metal-frame, heavy one would. If interested to print using ABS filament and wish to avoid warping, you should also look for a device that has a heated print plate.

Filament & Cartridge: Plan your expenses in advance

Budget-friendly printers help you save few bucks on the initial investment, but some of them can dry the pocket once you actually start working with them. The most you’d spend with an on-budget 3D printer would be on filament cartridge ($20-$50 per kilogram spool for retail filament or proprietary manufacturer cartridge).

We recommend proprietary filament, as it is not that likely to clog the extruder (as long as you’ve picked the right type for your printer). If using universal one, shop around to pick the best offered colors and quality.

Connectivity: Check whether it is usable with your software, and whether it supports wireless printing

Most affordable 3D printers come with free, open-source software you can use to design your projects, or at least recommend a good program for the purpose.

What can really make a difference here is whether you can actually understand how the software works, as it varies from extremely simple (and limited) to ultra advanced Cura-type systems that edit files, change temperature, and allow the customization of virtually every specific task.

A recent, major and convenient discovery is the wireless printing option, thanks to which you don’t even have to connect the printer to your device.

At the moment, there are only few Wi-Fi 3D printers on the market (and the price is not exactly friendly!), but a handy alternative is to get one that works with SD cards to make printing easier. Partial tethering is also an option, where you need to plug a USB cable to the printer, and disconnect it once the first model layers are extruded.

Consider the materials you will work with

Most of cheaper 3D printers work applying the FFF technique, which means that they use spools of plastic filament which is melted, and then solidified to form and extrude an object. In the most common scenario, the filament is either polyactic acid (PLA) or acrylontrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

They have very different properties: PLA, for instance, is the more flexible and smoother option, but users often dislike it because of emitting melting fumes that should be prevented with a heated print bed. ABS, on the other hand, melts depending on its own temperature.

FFA printing is also possible with wood, cooper and bronze compositions, high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), polycarbonate, nylon, UV-luminescent filaments, conductive ABS and PLA, PC-ABS, plasticized copolyamide thermoplastic elastomer (PCTPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PETT), Tritan polyester, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and many more.

The melting point is different for each material, which is why you should closely follow the manual of your printer, and limit the choice of an exotic filament to one whose temperature your device can actually control.

Consider the size of the objects you are about to print

When looking and printers, pinpoint such that have a build area large enough to accommodate and pull through the objects you want to print. Consider all three dimensions, or ask the vendor about the largest object the printer can offer (don’t look for exact levels, though).

Most of the 3D printers you will see will have a build area 6 x 9 inches square, or perhaps few inches up/in depth, or few feet extra on the side. Surprisingly, most 3D printers are not squared.

Consider the surface you would like to build on

The printing surface is also very important, but novice designers tend to neglect it. When the platform is good, the object won’t have any problem adhering to it, and be removed easily once printing is completed.

In most cases, the configuration consists of a blue painter tape wrapped around a heated glass platform, where objects would stick and then fall off easily. Good and solid platforms will prevent the corners of your objects from curling upwards. On ABS printers, this is a common problem.

Some of the building platforms will require you to add glue to the surface for objects to stick on, but you have to consider soaking the platform in warmer water in order for the object to come loose and be removed with ease.

Some of the 3D printers come with perforated boards with several holes that are filled with hot plastic during printing. The problematic part is that the object is held so solidly on the platform that it takes a while to remove it. In such case, you should take an awl or a thumb tack and slowly push the plastic plugs off the perforation to let the object go. While cleaning the board, make sure it is not damaged.

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