You are probably someone venturing out in the incredible world of 3D printing, which is why you are here gathering information on relatively inexpensive 3D printers to start your journey. If that’s so, we would like to welcome you and wish you all the best for your endeavors in this 3D printing journey.

Even if you’re an older user of 3D printers and just looking for a great deal for your pocket, you have all come to the right place.

We have carefully curated a list that we believe are the best 3D printers affordable. In fact, the following printers have been given high ratings from their current users on their overall performance.

And one of the exciting things about this list is that though these printers have top-notch performance and are embedded with multiple features, they differ from one another, allowing them to target a consumer’s specific needs.

So don’t worry. In this list, everyone can find a printer that fits for their particular needs.

1. Creality Ender 3 V2

A Definite Steal: Creality’s Ender-3 V2 (Amazon) is one of the loved and cherished 3D printers out there amongst the users irrespective of their skill level. It’s definitely an excellent printer someone who is starting as a 3D printing artist. This printer provides an ideal work station for smooth operations.

Not going into much technical stuff, all you need to know is that this improved 3D printer offers a decent print volume, is easy to assemble and use, and produces premium quality models at such an affordable price point.

However, the following are some of the characteristics that makes this printer stand out amongst the lot:

User Interface

The new and improved user interface of Ender 3 V2 makes life so much convenient. The 4.3-inch color screen is not only touch-sensitive but has all the functions easily accessible and correctly categorized.

It’s quick and straightforward to operate and can easily be removed, replaced, and repaired if needed, which saves a lot of time, effort, and energy.

Quieter Operations

This printer has an incredibly quiet motor, as it is embedded with a self-developed silent motherboard that ensures smooth movement under 50 decibels—making this printer an ideal for working with anywhere at any time of the day.

Smart Add-ons

With a handy toolbox kit integrated into the machine body, it is more convenient and quicker for organization and storage tools.

Features of the Ender 3 V2

• V-guide Rail with High Standard Stable to Print
• Effortless Filament Feed-in
• New Injection Tensioner
• Resume Printing Function
• UL Certified MeanWell Power Supply
• Carborundum Glass Platform

Specifications of the Ender 3 V2

• Machine Size: 475 x 470 x 620mm
• Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
• Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
• Product Weight: 7.8 KG
• Layer Thickness: 0.1 – 0.4mm
• Filament: PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Maximum Heated Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 250°C
• Maximum Print Speed: 180 mm/s

Pros

• Ultra-silent printing
• Several upgrades from the Ender 3 which make things easier to operate
• Easy to use for beginners, giving out high performance and much enjoyment
• Design and structure look very aesthetically pleasing
• High precision printing
• 5 minutes to heat up
• All-metal body gives stability and durability
• Easy to assemble and maintain
• Power supply is integrated underneath the build-plate unlike the Ender 3
• Tight filament path makes printing flexible filaments possible

Cons

• Doesn’t have automatic bed-leveling, but manual isn’t too difficult
• Filament can be hard to remove after printing
• Only 1 motor on the Z-axis
• No touchscreen interface like some other modern printers
• BL-Touch is not included
• The fans have been reported to be loud on some machines, maybe due to faults.
• Print resume function has failed in some cases, where it can even start from the beginning

The growing popularity and quick come up of the long-awaited Ender 3 V2 is testament to the fact that this machine is one of the best 3D printers you can get for under $500, so get yourself the Ender 3 V2 from Amazon today!

2. Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4

The Artillery Sidewinder X1 (Amazon) is one of the promising budget-friendly 3D printers available as of now.

This printer has fantastic potential, it not only has a large printing volume but it comes with a direct extruder (making the printing process more precise), resume printing option, and its silent motherboard makes the printing process for convenient.

Embedded with irresistible features, this is an ideal 3D print machine for any user irrespective of their knowledge. If you’re in search of a carefree printing experience, this one might be one for you.

The following are some features that make this printer irresistible for the user:

Sleek Design

This 3D printer is a serious competition to other high-end and midrange printers, and one of the crowning features of it is its stunning, sleek minimal design.

Despite being embedded with numerous features and hardware, everything is tucked in neatly, giving it the professional appearance on a budget.

Premium Quality Print Results

Without a doubt, this printer provides models that are cohesive and consistent. The premium quality prints result from the direct driver and low heightened microns that this printer is embedded with.

Moreover, despite having a wide range of filament compatibility, the printer enhances the quality of the prints and ensures consistency throughout the models.

Outstanding Performance

The interactive touchscreen makes its usability so much easier.

Other than that, the printer has a decent; print volume-wise, with its quick heating print beds and premium quality nozzles, it’s one of the leading 3D printers out there for beginners (mostly).

Features

• Direct Drive Extruder with Volcano Nozzle
• Accurate Fault Detection
• AC Headed Bed
• Clean Cabling System
• Synchronized Dual Z System
• Filament Run-out Detection
• Pre-Assembled machine
• Inductive End stop
• Quieter printing
• Patented Couplers

Specifications

• Frame: Aluminum Extrusion
• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm (11.81 x 11.81 x 15,75 in)
• Extruder Type: Titan Extruder (Direct Drive)
• Maximum Build Plate Temperature: 130°C
• XYZ Positioning Accuracy: 0.05mm, 0.05mm, 0.1mm
• Power Requirement: 110V – 240V 600W max (with heated bed turned on)
• Connectivity: USB, TF Card, USB Stick
• Machine Weight: 14kg
• Maximum Print Speed: 150mm/s
• Maximum Travel Speed: 250mm/s
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Printing Filament: PLA, ABS, TPU, Flexibles etc.

Pros

• Pre-assembled and easy to use
• Direct extruder
• User-friendly interface
• Fast heating print bed
• Interchangeable filaments
• Premium quality prints
• Decent print volume
• Quieter performance
• Z nut coupler gives smoother Z movements

Cons

• Warping risk
• Interchanging filament is challenging

A competitively priced direct extruder 3D printer is always loved in the 3D printing field, and the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 is exactly that.

If you want to get in on the ultra-quiet, fast-heating, high-quality producing 3D printer that is the Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4, you can get it yourself from Amazon today.

3. Flashforge Adventurer 3

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 (Amazon) was primarily designed to facilitate beginners, but this affordable 3D printer is no lesser of a machine because of it.. Embedded with a fully functioning wide range of features, this makes our top list of 3D printers under $500.

The usability and functionality are top-notch, especially with features like an automatic filament feeding system, a built-in camera, and a removable/adjustable printing bed.

With these and more features, this 3D printer is an ideal choice for someone looking for outstanding performance, well-rounded specs, and an affordable price point.

The following are some impressive features that make the printer stand out:

Usability

This printer’s unique selling point would be, by far, it’s easy to use interface. Adventurer 3 commands are pretty easy to operate. It also allows interchanging its nozzles and other parts that to with ease.

Not only that, with its built-in camera and LEDs allows the user to monitor the printing process in real-time, but it also makes it easy to supervise and correct (if needed).

Printing Performance

A good 3D printer is known for its quick heating ability, and this printer does it exceptionally well. Moreover, it is relatively quiet when it comes to printing.

Sliding out the build plate and popping off the completed object is very convenient, and it’s built-in fans make cooling way faster. Without a doubt coming to its smooth sailing printing, it is one of the leading competitors out there.

Enclosed Chamber

ABS can be a hazardous materials to use; therefore, having an enclosed printing chamber makes the printing process safer and more precise and smooth.

As it avoids fumes to come out and dust particles to go in and get stuck model while printing and wet.

Features

• 2.8-Inch TouchScreen
• 45 DB Noise Level
• Cloud Printing
• Auto Filament Loading System – (Filament Run-Out Detection)
• Built-in Camera
• Resume Printing Feature
• Quick Heat Up – Detachable Nozzle
• Removable Flexible Heated Build Plate

Specification

• Build Volume: 150 x 150 x 150mm
• Maximum Temperature: 100°C
• Filament Compatibility: PLA, ABS, Polycarbonate, Woodfill PLA and many more.
• Maximum Printing Speed: 100mm/s
• Extruder: Single
• Connectivity: USB, WiFi, Ethernet, Cloud Printing
• Multi-Language Interface
• Compatible with Windows, Vista, Mac and other operating systems

Pros

• Compatible with third-party filaments
• User friendly interface
• Resume printing feature
• Multiple connectivity options
• Flexible, removable, adjustable, and heated built plate
• Quiet printing process
• Impressive printing precision
• Premium quality prints

Cons

• Adjusting large rolls of filament in the compartment is troublesome
• Low compatible printing materials
• No sensor to notify when the bed is leveled, but manual technique should be fine

The Flashforge Adventurer is described by many as the best budget 3D printer which is plug-and-play so it’s very easy to get the hang of.

The combination of the in-built camera, fully-enclosed machine and high quality output, I’d definitely getting yourself the Flashforge Adventurer 3 from Amazon.

4. Creality CR-10S

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082C8FLQC

Creality’s CR-10 line has a wide range of 3D printers, some hits, and some misses, but CR-10S is one of the great ones under $500.

It is labeled as a stepping stone for newcomers as the printer is embedded with standard features, exceptional performance, and a user-friendly interface, all that at an affordable price.

Check these features, the highlight of this machine:

Automatic Bed-Leveling

A must-have feature needs to be in almost every 3D printer to make it more effective. Fortunately, this printer has it. Automatic bed leveling makes using a 3D printer very convenient and avoids many inaccuracies.

The BL-Touch sensor makes the bed find its place automatically, resulting in a smoother printing process.

Upgraded Dual Z Axis

You can get much better quality with the upgraded dual Z axis as it results in higher positioning accuracy, as well as smoother movements and faster printing. This is especially beneficial with larger 3D printers, because there is more weight involved.

Before you start those longer 3D printers, you can have more confidence that you are going to get some successful prints.

Built-in Slicer

Exclusive to this printer only, the built-in slicer makes the working process more convenient and time-effective. The best thing about Creality Slicer is that it accommodates everyone irrespective of their skill.

It provides Full, Expert, and Quick-print settings and asks the precision the user wants.

Features

• High Precision Motherboard
• Resume Print Function
• Filament Run-Out Sensor
• High Definition Touch Screen
• Wide Filament Compatibility
• 480W Power Supply
• Dual-Gear Extrusion
• Improved User Interface

 Specifications

• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400mm
• Material: Aluminum
• Extrusion System: Bowden feeder system
• Nozzle: Single 0.4mm
• Maximum Bed Temperature: 110°C
• Print Bed: Tempered glass platform
• Input: SD card and USB Connectivity
• File Types: STL/OBJ/G-Code/JPG
• Supports: Windows/Linux/Mac/XP
• Layer Resolution: 100 microns or 0.1mm
• Positioning Precision: Z axis 0.0025mm, XY axis 0.015mm
• Printing Speed: 200mm/s
• Product Weight: 14KG
• Power RequirementInput: AC110V~240V
• Output: DC12V, 10A 100~120W, (Support storage battery)

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Very reliable machine
• Quick 10-20 minute assembly
• Sleek design
• Built-in slicer
• Easy filament insert
• Detailed printing quality
• Assisted bed leveling system makes it a little easier
• Upgraded driver for smoother printing
• No wiring hassle

 Cons

• The control knob is pretty sensitive
• The filament detection part is not held in place too well so it can slip easily
• Older version of Cura slicer

If you are after a larger-style 3D printer that is under $500, the Creality CR-10S is a great choice that you can get for yourself on Amazon.

5. Anycubic Photon S

The Photon S is amongst Anycubic’s loved 3D printers. The printer has a user-friendly interface that makes usage way more accessible than other printers in its range, especially in a resin 3D printer.

Despite having a compact working area, producing detailed models showcases its ability to have a high performing printer.

It’s a substantial investment for those who want a reliable machine with new mechanical and electronic upgrades and can print exceptionally well. The following are its crowning features:

Upgraded UV Module

The new and improved UV is more potent than ever. This new feature has reduced the printing time, enhanced the performance, and it can also be upgraded per need with ease.

Z-axis Dual Linear Rail Design

The dual z-axis liner design creates a smoother surface of the models and can print intricate designs. Surprisingly this 3D printer can print thin layers, even more, delicate than 10 microns.

This printer ensures high quality, precise printing process on a budget.

Air Filtration System

This 3D printer is rightfully built with dual fans, mainly since a resin used printer, and resin produces strong odors. The air filtration system has excellent ventilation and uses activated carbon air filtration to reduce the smell even more.

Features

• Resin Printer
• Off-line Printing
• Excellent visual quality
• New UI interface
• Quick Slicing
• Incredibly quiet printing
• Compact Design

Specification

• Printing Technology: LCD-based Masked Stereolithography (MSLA)
• Machine Size: 230 x 200 x 400mm
• Build Volume: 115 x 65 x 165mm
• Z-Layer Resolution: 10 microns
• XY Resolution: 47 microns
• Display: 2.8-inch color touchscreen
• Input: USB connectivity
• Leveling: Manual bed leveling
• Materials: Photopolymer resin

Pros

• Offline printing option
• High quality, consistent prints
• Easy to use, setup and level
• Lightweight model and has a small footprint
• Sturdy metal build
• Quiet printing process

Cons

• Small printing area
• Resin 3D printing can get quite messy, especially for beginners
• Fumes can be released which are pretty smelly
• Models stick quite strongly to the build plate

The great thing about resin 3D printing is just how high the output quality is compared to FDM 3D printing. You can really tell the difference between the printing technologies. Resin 3D printers used to be expensive, but now they are affordable.

Get yourself the Anycubic Photon S from Amazon today.

6. Anycubic Mega X

If you’re searching to invest in a printer with a sturdy frame, produces high-quality prints, and allows you to experiment with a wide range of materials at an affordable price point, then look no further than the Anycubic Mega X (Amazon).

This printer is one of the best 3D printers, especially for beginners. Embedded with industry-standard features and smart add on, it’s a solid choice for a 3D printer under $500.

The following are the features that make users gravitate towards this printer even more:

Anycubic Ultra Base

The printer comes with a unique ultra-base that provides the first layer of the print to adhere to the print bed so that the whole model stays intact throughout the printing process.

The best part is it’s easily detachable once the cooling is done and the model is dried. For a seamless bottom finish, this is your perfect printing solution.

Wide Range of Filament Compatibility

Having a wide range in any aspect is a plus point. This printer allows using TPU, PETG, ABS, and PLA without a challenge. Not only is that interchanging between the filaments so much easier.

So if you are looking to experiment with different filaments and create a unique model, this printer is for you.

Sturdy Build

The Anycubic Mega X has metal hardware that automatically adds value to the machine and seamlessness to the prints. Because of the metal build, the device is very stable and doesn’t move around with massive printing, ensuring consistent prints.

Features

• Fast Assembly
• Filament Run-Out Sensor
• Resume Printing Option
• TFT HD Touch Screen
• High Quality Extruder
• Suspended Filament Rack
• Large Volume Built

Specifications of the Anycubic Mega-X

• Printing Technology：FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
• Print Accuracy: 0.05-0.3mm
• Positioning Accuracy: X/Y 0.0125mm，Z 0.002mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Print Speed: 20~100mm/s
• Travel Speed: 100mm/s
• Supported Materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS,TPU etc.
• Build volume: 300mm x 300mm x 305mm
• Max Extruder Temperature: 275°C
• Certifications: UL, CE, FCC, RoHS ,EN
• Printer Dimensions: 500mm x 500mm x 553mm
• Weight: ~14kg
• Input rating: 110V/220V AC, 50/60Hz
• Slicer Software: Cura
• Software Input Formats: .STL, .OBJ, .DAE, .AMF
• Software Output Formats: GCode
• Connection: SD card/USB cable
• Display: Full-color touchscreen
• Max Extruder Temperature: 275°C

Pros

• High quality prints
• Wide range of filament compatibility including flexibles
• Easy to use with touchscreen and simple operation
• Easy to assemble requiring just plug in 12 screws and 3 cables
• New and improved extruder
• Reliable printing with multi-day prints not being a problem.
• Strong and secure adhesion
• Resume Printing
• Budget friendly
• Pro-active technical support

Cons

• Noisy printing process
• Risk of wrapping

On a beautiful Anycubic Mega X, one user managed to crank out an 80-hour print without issues, which goes to show how solid of a 3D printer this one is. The sturdy, rigid frame and parts make life easier and some users say they never have to level the bed!

For a 3D printer under $500, you can’t go with the Anycubic Mega X from Amazon. Sometimes there are coupons within Amazon where you can save money, so check out whether it is still active.

7. Original Prusa Mini

The Original Prusa Mini is an ideal printer for someone venturing into the world of 3D printing. From a wide range of pre-loved and new improved features to its affordable price point.

It is an excellent deal for high-quality printing models on a budget. The following are the characteristics that make this mini version printer stand out:

Bowden System With 3:1 Gearing

This mini printer has a 3:1 drive gear ratio, which keeps the extruder in check by reducing, wobbles when it comes to printing, ensuring a seamless finish. Although it is different than the Prusa I3 MK3S which is direct drive, you can still 3D print with flexibles nicely.

Magnetic Print Bed

The removable magnetic print bed is an excellent addition to the 3D printing process. It makes removing prints that much easier, where a simple bending of the print bed is usually enough to set free your prints.

It is a spring steel sheet with a PEI surface which works very well for several 3D printing materials. You can pick out of the two variations, the smooth surface or the textured one.

Network Connectivity

The Original Prusa Mini comes with an ethernet RJ45 port, along with the option to upgrade to the ESP Wi-Fi module. You can wirelessly send files to the 3D printer and even download firmware update.

This feature makes your 3D printing a smoother processand even makes managing a future print farm a whole lot easier.

Features

• Compact Build Size
• 3:1 Geared Extruder
• Color LCD Screen
• Network Connectivity
• Removable Magnetic Print Bed
• Fully Functioning One-Click Command
• 32-Bit Controller
• Ready to Print Settings
• Safety Features
• Guaranteed Quality
• Easy 3-Piece Assembly
• Top-Rated 24/7 Support

Specification

• Build Volume: 180 x 180 x 180mm
• Maximum Extruder Temperature: 280°C
• Maximum Print Bed Temperature: 100°C
• Maximum Print Speed: 200+mm/s
• Connectivity: USD, Ethernet & Wi-Fi
• Filament Compatibility: PLA, ABS, ASA, PETG, Flexibles
• Extrusion System: Bowden

Pros

• Easy to setup and use
• Premium quality straight out the box
• Relatively high printing speed
• Compact and easy to make space for in your workspace
• Intuitive color LCD screen with preview features

Cons

• Limited built space

Buying Guide

Finding 3D printers with useful industry-standard features on a budget is challenging, especially for a beginner, but with the right knowledge, it gets a lot easier.

This article have carefully analyzes several 3D printer on the market with an affordable price point and have come up with the above list.

However, before blindly choosing one printer over another, go through the following points to narrow your printer preference based on your needs by prioritizing the features that are fitting for you.

Ease of Use

If you went through the list, you might have seen that some printers have a friendlier interface than others, easy to operate, assemble, adjust, insert, and repair. So as a user, you have to analyze your skillset and figure out how easily you can adapt to a 3D printer’s workings.

Materials

Despite having a budget-friendly range, some printers offer a wide range of printing material compatibility and compatibility with third-party material. So if you’re someone who wants to experiment with different types of filaments and resin, go for printers with a wide range of compatibility.

Print Quality

One of the critical factors that need to be considered is the quality of the prints. Though all the printers have a decent print quality, they do differ. The height of a micron (Z height) needs to be considered for a good quality print.

The lower the micron is, the higher the resolution will be as more layers are printed in making of the model, which means more the cohesive, attractive, and a more robust model.

Extra Things to Consider

• Safety features (Closed chamber for fumes prevention, fault detector, etc.)
• Printing Volume
• Resume Printing and run-out filament detectors
• Good customer support (Anything can go wrong anytime and good customer support means quick and easy fix of your issues.)

Conclusion

3D printers used to be very expensive machines, used by people who had plenty cash lying around, but times have definitely changed to where you can get a solid 3D printer for a lot cheaper.

If you are a beginner and looking to get your first 3D printer, I would recommend getting yourself the Creality Ender 3 V2 3D printer from Amazon.

From the ease of assembly, to ease of use, build volume, many useful features and competitive price, it’s an easy choice to go with for a 3D printer under $500, that will deliver some great printing quality and models you can be proud of.