Top 10 Budget-Friendly 3D Printers To Buy
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 3D printer for creatives, entrepreneurs, or hobbyists, then this article is for you.
3D printers are in demand nowadays since they are used to fabricate models.
It can be a great source of income for those creatives that are in the business industry.
What is the best 3D budget printer for creatives?
3D printers were enormous, expensive equipment reserved for factories and deep-pocketed enterprises only a decade ago.
But now, owing to the RepRap open-source 3D printing movement, these incredible machines have become inexpensive, practical tools for designers, engineers, hobbyists, schools, and even regular consumers.
Today’s 3D printers are available in a range of designs, each suited for a certain use or type of printing.
The use of this machine is not limited only to professionals and business owners; people who love creating prototypes can also purchase 3D printers to satisfy their needs.
If you’re looking for one, it’s essential to understand how they differ so you can pick the ideal one for your purposes, whether they’re for a source of income or just for fun.
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10 Best 3D Printers:
- Creality Ender 3 — Most Affordable
- 3D Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ — Most user-friendly
- MakerBot Replicator+ — Most popular
- Creality Ender 3 V2 — Best Creality printer
- Ultimaker S5 — Most versatile
- Anycubic Photon Mono — Best resin printer
- Dremel DigiLab 3D45 — Most featured
- FlashForge Finder — Best for beginners
- Anycubic Mega-S — Best Anycubic printer
- Elegoo Mars 2 Pro — Best SLA
How to choose a 3D budget printer
Each printer brand on the market has its own set of features that are useful for creatives like you.
There are certain technical considerations to keep in mind before acquiring a 3D printer:
- Print Bed
- Resolution
- Printer Type
- Safety Features
- Materials Supported
Here’s a quick rundown of what to look for when selecting a 3D printer that’s right for artists.
Print Bed
A print bed is the surface of a 3D printer where the print is made.
In a 3D printer, the printing bed can either be heated or not.
But generally, it is suggested that creatives use heated beds to make a high-quality work of art.
By keeping the extruded plastic warm and minimizing warping, heat beds greatly enhance print quality and produce the best models that you need.
It is essential to consider the print bed when purchasing a 3D printer to be assured that your needs as a creative, business owner, or hobbyist will be satisfied.
Resolution
Microns are used to measure the resolution of a 3D printer, which ranges from 25 microns for FDM machines to 100 microns for resin-based printers.
The more detailed your 3D-printed products will be, the lower the resolution is.
To get the best results in producing prototypes, look for a printer that has a larger number of microns specified in the specifications, such as 50 or 70 microns.
Since the resolution is a sign or indication of how accurately a 3D printer can print, we want to choose a printer that has the best resolution for professionals and entrepreneurs like you.
You must also keep in mind that the smaller the movement of the laser, the better the details of the 3D model, for the best production of your models.
Printer Type
If you’re a beginner, there are three main types of 3D printers to choose from.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers are utilized by many hobbyists because they are simple to operate.
It is the most economical form of 3D printer since it uses heated and extruded material to make 3D prints.
For professionals that want to create hardened sculptures, I suggest you find a printer that uses ultraviolet light and photosensitive liquid.
There are also printers that use lasers to melt the powder and create 3D objects, which are ideal for artists looking to create novelty items.
Safety Measures
Safety measures are essential for 3D printing since the heated plastic it uses can be deadly if handled incorrectly.
As an example, an FDM printer may cool the blade and heat the bed when printing is completed.
Additionally, some printers may rotate their nozzle away from the object to prevent harm from heat and extra filament.
It is necessary to consider the safety measures of a 3D printer since we don’t want you to be harmed while creating your models and sculptures for your specific needs.
Materials Supported
Polylactic acid (PLA), or polylactic acid, is one of the most extensively used thermoplastics for 3D printing.
When your printer runs out of filament, you can simply buy a new spool, which will be very convenient for you.
TPU, Nylon, glass fiber infused, carbon fiber infused, metal fill, and even wood fill are all supported by higher-end versions.
I suggest that you choose higher-end versions of 3D printers for you to be able to produce various items like sculptures, prototypes, models, furniture, etc.
1. Creality 3D Ender 3
The Creality 3D Ender 3 3D printer is a true trailblazer in the field of 3D printing.
The best and most affordable 3D printer.
A low-cost 3D printer has received much attention for being recognized because of its special features.
The Ender 3 has a large build volume of up to 220 x 220 x 250 mm and an innovative extruder technology that decreases the risk of plugging and poor extrusion.
In the event of a power loss or other interruption, you can use the “resume printing function” to continue printing.
The prototypes and displays created by the Ender 3 are exceptional — You may regularly upgrade the device’s software to increase its performance and efficiency because it comes with open-source software.
All things considered, the Ender 3 is one of the greatest 3D printers for professionals and creatives on the market today.
So, if you want the best value and the most user-friendly 3D printer, Creality 3D Ender 3 is the right one for you.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
Resolution: 0.1–0.4 mm
Technology: FDM
Pros
- Great design
- Easy to assemble
- Decent print volume
- Excellent print quality
Cons
- Poor bed leveling
- Requires manual calibration
Buy Creality Ender 3 on Amazon
2. 3D Original Prusa i3 MK3S+
The Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the most recent version of our award-winning 3D printers, featuring an 8GB SD card and a US power supply.
The most user-friendly 3D printer.
This printer is straightforward to operate and consistently generated good-quality prints
The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the best 3D printer according to to MAKE: Magazine’s Ultimate Guide to Digital Fabrication and our printers have also garnered multiple editor’s selections and awards.
It was a silent, dependable, and powerful 3D printing workhorse for both enthusiasts and pros.
The printer can print high-quality objects up to 210 mm in height when used with our internally built extruder with Bondtech gears and the E3D V6 hot end.
No other 3D printer can match the Original Prusa i3 MK3S’s combination of features, quality, and pricing.
If you are looking for the best 3D printer for business and commercial use in general, I suggest using the 3D Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ would be a great decision.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 19.6 x 21.6 x 15.7 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 25 x 21 x 21cm
Resolution: 0.4–0.5 mm
Pros
- Silent
- Reliable
- Quality print
- Powerful 3D printing
Cons
- Open print type
- Single filament
Buy PRUSA Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ Kit on Amazon
3. MakerBot Replicator+3D Printer
One of the most popular brands of 3D printers today is MakerBot Replicator+, which has been in the 3D printing industry for almost a decade.
The most popular 3D printer.
This printer, which is a winner of the “red dot design award”, has all the networking features you’ll need as a professional artist.
The Replicator+ is monitored by an inbuilt camera as well as an LCD display that may be controlled via a control dial.
Remote operation of the Replicator+ is possible via the MakerBot smartphone app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices.
With this feature, you can easily connect your device to the printer and create your creative prototypes hassle-free!
Since it uses the MakerBot Replicator 3D Printing Platform, it provides excellent print quality that will surely turn your creative design ideas into physical models.
It can be used in a variety of settings, from a home office to a manufacturing facility.
If you are a professional looking for a feature-packed 3D printer, MakerBot Replicator+3D Printer would be a great choice.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 20.79 x 16.14 x 17.36 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 7.6” W x 11.6” L x 6.5” H
Resolution: 100 Microns
Technology: FDM
Pros
- Quality print
- Prints accurately
- Remote controlled
- Lots of connectivity options
Cons
- Low resolution
- Limited warranty
- Limited materials supported
Buy MakerBot Replicator+ on Amazon
4. Creality Ender 3 V2
The Creality Ender 3 V2 is a significant upgrade to the extremely popular Creality Ender 3 printer, which is an old favorite of many creatives.
The best Creality 3D printer.
An enhanced 32-bit mainboard and silent stepper motor drivers are a few of its new features that will give you an improved 3D printing experience.
This easy-to-use Ender 3 V2 offers high-precision prints at a competitive price.
It is also easy to use and produces high-quality prints, models, and prototypes at a reasonable price.
Unlike other printers in the same price range that are loud, the updated motherboard with TMC2208 ultra-silent drivers allows for quiet printing and low-decibel operation.
A self-developed silent motherboard with better anti-interference, faster and more stable motion performance, and better anti-interference are built into the Ender 3 V2’s motherboard.
If you’re a creative or hobbyist and a fan of Creality, Creality Ender 3 V2 3D Printer will be the best printer for you.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 18.5 x 18.7 x 24.41 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 220x220x250 mm
Resolution: 0.1 mm
Technology: FDM
Pros
- Easy to use
- Silent printing
- High precision
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Only 1 Z-axis motor
Buy Creality Ender 3 V2 on Amazon
5. Ultimaker S5
The Ultimaker S5 is capable of producing prints that are considerably smoother and of higher quality than typical FDM printers.
The easiest to use 3d printer for beginners and pros.
The printing process speed is slower, but it is more detailed.
The Ultimaker S5 can print on a variety of materials because of its heated print bed and interchangeable printheads.
This printer is very simple to use, allowing you to load, scale, and move models about in the print area.
The Ultimaker S5 has a wired and wireless Ethernet interface, allowing it to be connected to and operated from a home or workplace network.
You can keep track of your prints using Cura or the Ultimaker app, which is available for iOS(opens in a new tab) and Android.
If you are just starting or a seasoned pro, Ultimaker S5 3D Printer is a perfect pair for your creative works.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 23.62 x 25.59 x 30.71 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 33 x 24 x 30cm
Resolution: 0.25mm to 0.8mm
Pros
- Good output quality
- Easy to operate
- Not noisy
- Dual extrusion capability
Cons
- Expensive
- Slow at default
6. Anycubic Photon Mono
Artists with a high level of detail and precision will benefit most from this Anycubic Photon Mono printer that uses resin as a material.
The best resin printer for creating prototypes.
Resin printing has always been expensive, but LCD-based SLA printers like the Photon Mono have made it more affordable for professionals and hobbyists that love to produce sculptures.
Using a monochrome LCD for hardening the resin, the Photon Mono produces fast, accurate, and extremely detailed creative models.
Although resin doesn’t smell pleasant, the Photon Mono is a solid choice for a low-cost 3D printer that doesn’t compromise on features.
The Photon Mono’s printing speed is 2.5X faster than the regular 3d printers — rapid prototyping greatly improved printing efficiency and saved more time.
As an added convenience, the Photon Mono has a one-piece transparent cover that can be removed and replaced with a new one at any time, making it easy to operate and monitor the printing process.
If you are an artist or an entrepreneur with a lot of production to do on a day-to-day basis, Photon Mono x Wash & Cure Machine+ will be the best 3d printer for you.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 8.74 x 8.94 x 15.08 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 130 x 80 x 165 mm
Resolution: 0.01 ~ 0.15mm
Technology: LCD-based SLA
Pros
- Quality print
- Great stability
- Excellent precision
- Faster than other 3D printers
Cons
- Poor software
- Limited build volume
Buy Anycubic Photon Mono on Amazon
7. Dremel DigiLab 3D45
With no budget constraints, the DigiLab 3D45 is an excellent choice if you are wanting to buy a professional 3D printer.
The most featured 3D printer for creatives.
The all-metal hot-end extruder, heated glass bed, 254x152x170mm build capacity, 50–300 microns resolution, and HD camera built-in are ideal features for creating complex models.
With Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, the Digilab 3D45 is a complete 3D printing equipment that can be used in any professional setting.
This printer has been primarily intended for product developers, engineers, creatives, and other experts in their respective fields.
But, this is also a good choice for anyone seeking a simple but complete 3D environment, whether they’re beginners or professionals in the field of design.
The Digilab 3D45 is made to introduce the world of digital fabrication, allowing creative beginners to visualize designs and realize their own potential to create.
It also aims to teach beginner artists to solve open-ended problems by creating their own models and prototypes in Nylon, ECO ABS, PETG, PLA, and more at up to 50-micron resolution.
If you are a developer, engineer, or creative looking for a great 3D printer, Dremel 3D DigiLab 3D45 is a must-try printer for you.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 24 x 23.75 x 19.5 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 254x152x170 mm
Resolution: 50–300 Microns
Technology: FDM
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quality print
- Lots of connectivity options
Cons
- Logy touchscreen
- Limited filament colors
Buy Dremel DigiLab 3D45 on Amazon
8. FlashForge Finder
The FlashForge Finder is the most beginner-friendly 3D printer on the market, specifically intended for use in creating models for home display.
The best 3D printer for beginners.
It is safe to use since it has a non-heated build plate that protects against burns and harmful gases, and uses non-toxic PLA on the non-heated build plate.
Many advanced functions are included even though the FlashForge Finder has an average-sized printing area of up to 140x140x140 mm.
These features include an auto-leveler, a detachable plate, a filament sensor, and an HD touch screen that are mostly needed to fabricate furniture and designs.
Additionally, it is also convenient to use for beginner artists because the releasable nozzle makes it easy to clean and unclog the device.
This 3D printer is sturdy, and plastic alloy construction ensures stable prints of models and prototypes.
If you’re an artist or a beginner who wants to experiment with 3D printing b, the FlashForge Finder 3D Printer is a great option.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 16.54 x 16.54 x 16.54 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 140 x 140 x140 mm
Resolution: 100–500 microns
Technology: FFF
Pros
- Easy to use
- Great display
- Removable build
Cons
- Small build area
- No auto bed leveling
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9. Anycubic Mega-S
With the Anycubic Mega-S printer, you can expect consistent high-quality prints with excellent accuracy.
The best Anycubic 3D printer for creatives.
One good feature of it is it runs low on filament, a mechanical sensor will automatically notify you.
The Mega-S is an updated version of the i3 Mega Printer that includes new features and capabilities that enhance the printer’s functionality for manufacturing models.
The new extruder is now compatible with a wider range of filaments, minimizing the danger of clogging and improving precision for producing creative prints.
Compared to its more expensive competitors, it offers a wide range of cutting-edge features at an affordable price.
Mega-S is also an excellent choice for newbies in creating models because of its simple operation and excellent results even without prior experience.
If you’re looking for an FDM printer that’s both affordable and reliable, the Anycubic Mega-S is a great option.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 6.14 x 15.95 x 17.83 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 210 x 210 x 205 mm
Resolution: 100–400 Microns
Technology: FDM
Pros
- Easy to navigate
- Easy to assemble
- Lots of handy accessories
Cons
- Faster heating bed
- Noisy when printing
10. Elegoo Mars 2 Pro
SLA printers like the Mars 2 Pro are quite popular in the 3D printing community.
The best SLA printer for creative professionals.
High-accuracy 3D prints made with SLA resin 3D printers have become quite popular because of their detailed features and smooth surfaces.
An air filter is built into the Mars 2 Pro, which has a six-inch screen that can build a layer in only two seconds, and adequate printing space for small and medium-sized items.
This 3D printer can produce extremely detailed items in such a short period of time, which is very ideal for professionals that need to create a lot of models in a specific time frame.
If you’re looking for a powerful and dependable SLA printer to quickly manufacture prototypes, the Mars 2 Pro is the best option for you.
Because of the printer’s ability to handle 12 different languages, artists from all over the world will now be able to use this 3D printer with ease.
If you are a professional or hobbyist that is on a tighter budget, you will find the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro to be an excellent option.
Specifications
Product Dimensions: 22.1 x 11.4 x 11.1 inches
Maximum Build Volume: 5.08in(L)*3.15in(W)*6.30in(H)
Resolution: 0.01–0.2mm
Technology: SLA
Pros
- Aluminum body
- Fast layer curing
- Integrated air filter
- Sandblasted build plate
Cons
- Limited build area
- Small build volume
- Expensive accessories
Buy Elegoo Mars 2 Pro on Amazon
Conclusions
Now that I’m done reviewing my suggested 3D printers — Which of them would you choose as a creative professional?
Which of these 3D printers is the best for you?
For budget-conscious artists, you must consider choosing Creality Ender 3, which is the most affordable and have the best value on the list.
If you’re an artist that prefers to use resin in 3D printing, Anycubic Photon Mono is definitely the best for you since it is the best resin printer for prototypes and model making.
I would highly recommend the FlashForge Finder if you’re a beginner or hobbyist that wants to explore and try to enter the world of 3D printing since it is the easiest-to-learn printer on the list.
If features are your top priority as a professional artist, then you must go for the Dremel DigiLab 3D45, which is the best-featured printer that is suitable for your prototype-making needs.
Keep in mind that the MakerBot Replicator+ remains the best overall 3D printer in 2021.
Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or professional in the field of creating prototypes, models, sculptures, garments, and accessories, it is the best choice for you.
As a professional, designer, entrepreneur, or hobbyist, which of those 3D budget printers will you choose? — Leave a comment below.
