In recent years, 3D printing has become increasingly popular, and the field of consumer 3D printers is also rapidly progressing and changing. For enthusiasts, the power to turn imaginations and interests into reality no longer comes at a cost. This is thanks to the improved accessibility and affordability of desktop-grade 3D printers, which has also led to an increasing number of audiences participating in 3D printing. However, how to buy a best budget 3D printer is a choice that many people are facing. In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the most popular low-budget 3D printers, exploring their balance of key features, performance, and 3D printing experience. Helping you choose the best budget 3D printer in 2024.
| Brand | 3D Printer | Print Volume | Price |
| Anycubic | Kobra 2 Neo | 250*220*220mm | $199 |
| Creality | Ender-3 V3 SE | 220*220*250mm | $219 |
| Voxelab | Aquila X3 | 220*220*250mm | $239 |
| Elegoo | Neptune 4 | 225*225*265mm | $280 |
| Anycubic | Kobra 2 Pro | 250*220*220mm | $341 |
| Bambu Lab | A1 mini (with AMS lite) | 180*180*180mm | $299($459) |
| Flashforge | Finder 3 | 190*195*200mm | $499 |
How to Choose the Best Budget 3D Printer in 2024
Whether you are a 3D printing beginner or an experienced enthusiast, it's important to choose a budget-friendly and reliable 3D printer. What are the key factors to consider when exploring the best budget 3D printer? In addition to the price factor, it is also necessary to know the type of 3D printer, resolution, build volume, print speed, whether it is suitable for beginners, etc. This will make it easier for us to choose the 3D printer that best suits us, and finally buy the best 3D printer that meets our printing needs as much as possible. In order to make it easier for users to understand and choose the best budget 3D printer, we have listed 7 popular affordable FDM 3D printers on the market and analyzed their performance and highlights one by one.
- The 7 Best Budget 3D Printers: Key Features and Performance
- Factors to Consider in Best Budget 3D Printers
Top 7 Best Budget 3D Printers in 2024
Listed below are 7 of the best recommended budget 3D printers. They stand out from some of the affordable options and are very popular among users. These FDM 3D printers have medium or small size build volumes, can meet the needs of general 3D printing projects, and have their own advantages. The recommendations also include fast 3D printers, multi-color 3D printers and enclosed 3D printers to meet some special printing needs. Read on as we introduce their parameters and compare their feature highlights.
Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo
Anycubic Kobra 2 is a high-speed series of FDM 3D printers, and Kobra 2 Neo is the entry-level version. It can print at a maximum speed of 250mm/s and finish 3D Benchy in less than 30 minutes. This 3D printer applies Marlin firmware, with linear propulsion and input shaping functions to improve print quality and stability. If you are considering a full-featured entry-level FDM 3D printer, the Kobra 2 Neo will be one of the good choices.
Voxelab Aquila X3
The Aquila X3 is a mid-sized FDM 3D printer that offers decent printing capabilities at an affordable price. It supports a 25-point automatic leveling system, is equipped with the PEI spring steel magnetic platform, and also includes four diameter nozzle options, making it very easy to use. It is worth mentioning that the Aquila X3 3D printer provides users with a high-speed and silent printing experience. Its maximum print speed reaches 200mm/s, and the new N32 silent motherboard can minimize the noise generated during the printing process (≤45 decibels).
Creality Ender-3 V3 SE
Ender-3 V3 SE is an upgraded version of the most classic Ender 3. It is equipped with a powerful "Sprite" direct extruder and stable dual Z-axis, which not only makes it compatible with a wide range of filaments such as PLA, PETG, TPU, etc., but also ensures the stability of printing. For experienced 3D printing enthusiasts, the Ender 3 series of printers are no stranger. They have good construction design, support modification and upgrade, and are tools to unleash the potential of 3D printing.
Elegoo Neptune 4
The printing size of Neptune 4 is 225 x 225 x 265 mm, and the maximum printing speed can reach 500mm/s, which further enhances printing efficiency. Its highlight is the pre-installed Klipper firmware, which is very popular among 3D printing enthusiasts. Klipper firmware, as well as the ARM 64-bit 1.5G clocked quad-core processor equipped with the machine, can support high-speed and high-efficiency printing. In addition, functions such as input shaping are supported, which can reduce ringing, ripping, ghosting, etc. on the surface of 3D prints.
Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro
Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro is an affordable and very user-friendly FDM printer that provides an intelligent and fast 3D printing experience. With a maximum print speed of 500mm/s, it can finish 3D Benchy printing in less than 15 minutes. It supports vibration compensation and flow control to ensure print quality, accuracy and stability. Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro also supports APP. Users can use Anycubic APP to print online, perform firmware upgrades, remote control and management, etc. Click to view, the discounted price on the official website is as low as $279. Within the $300 budget, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro is a cost-effective option.
Bambu Lab A1 Mini
A1 mini is a small entry-level 3D printer with a build volume of 180*180*180 mm, but it is known for its excellent features and high quality. It has fully automatic calibration and is equipped with all-metal linear guides and bearings, providing a reliable 3D printing experience and ensuring quality. The A1 mini is delivered pre-assembled for easy setup and is plug-and-play ready. What makes it stand out is also the support for multi-color printing. Choose the A1 mini Combo (with AMS lite), which will be a popular choice in 2024 for users who want to initially try multi-color 3D printing on a budget.
Flashforge Finder 3
Finder 3 is different from other FDM printers in that it is enclosed. Enclosed FDM printers can provide a controlled and stable printing environment, improving consistency during the printing process. It supports a variety of filaments and provides a choice of two printing platforms: glass printing plate or PEI magnet. The Finder 3 has a small print size but is fully functional. The current official discounted price is only $289, making it a budget-friendly option for users who need an enclosed FDM 3D printer.
What 3D Printer Should I Buy to Start?
For beginners, there are a few key factors that can usually be taken into account when picking the best budget 3D printer. They will further help you evaluate 3D printer options to match your 3D printing project needs and help you achieve a satisfying 3D printing experience.
Build volume: The size of the printing platform and the maximum build volume will determine the maximum size of your 3D prints.Depending on your 3D printing needs, choose a large and simple 3D printer or a small but powerful entry-level option.
Printing speed: There are entry-level 3D printers that support fast printing, suitable for users who want to improve 3D printing efficiency. If you value quality and a stable printing environment more, you can consider a highly stable or enclosed 3D printer.
Assembly and use: Complex machine assembly can be a challenge for beginners. User-friendly modular design assembled 3D printers, plug-and-play 3D printers, are options that can be considered. It will help you reduce the difficulty of assembling and the time spent on debugging the machine.
Compatible materials: PLA can be used on most FDM 3D printers. Some special materials (ABS, ASA, PETG) have higher requirements on the performance and support of 3D printers.
In Conclusion: Choose Best Budget 3D Printers in 2024
Recommendations for the best budget 3D printers in 2024 include popular brands and 3D printer models worth considering, which often balance affordability and printing performance, and have their own advantages. Evaluating key factors such as print size and machine performance will help you evaluate your needs among the many options. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, choosing an affordable and stable 3D printer is the first step to unlocking the potential of 3D printing.
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