Find high-quality 3D printers under $500, offering great value without breaking the bank.
Looking to dive into the world of 3D printing but don’t want to break the bank? You’re in luck! There are plenty of fantastic 3D printers available for under $500 that can bring your creative visions to life. Whether you’re a hobbyist, educator, or just starting out, these budget-friendly machines offer impressive performance and versatility.
This list highlights the top 7 3D printers under $500, carefully chosen for their quality, user-friendliness, and overall value. We’ve considered factors like print quality, build volume, ease of use, and features, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
No matter your 3D printing goals, from creating intricate models and prototypes to personalized gadgets and accessories, there’s a printer on this list that’s perfect for you. We’ve broken down the key features and benefits of each printer, making it easy to find the ideal one for your needs.
Get ready to unleash your creativity and start printing amazing things!
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| Creality Ender 3 |  |
4.2 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ancyer 3D Printer |  |
4.7 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ELEGOO Mars 2 |  |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Flashforge Adventurer 4 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Creality Ender 3
A popular and affordable 3D printer known for its ease of use and reliability. It features a heated bed and a sturdy frame, making it suitable for beginners and experienced users alike.
Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly 3D printers on the market.
- Easy to assemble and use: The Ender 3 is known for its user-friendly design and straightforward setup.
- Large printing volume: Offers a generous build volume for a variety of projects.
- Active community: A large and supportive community provides plenty of resources and assistance.
Reasons to avoid :
- Basic features: Lacks some advanced features found in higher-priced models.
- Plastic parts: Some parts of the printer are made of plastic, which may require replacements over time.
- Requires some assembly: Although assembly is relatively straightforward, it may not be suitable for complete beginners.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're a beginner looking for a reliable and affordable 3D printer.
- You need a printer with a large build volume for projects like models, prototypes, or functional parts.
- You're comfortable with some basic assembly and troubleshooting.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a printer with advanced features like automatic bed leveling or dual extruders.
- You need a printer with a completely silent operation.
- You're seeking a plug-and-play experience with no assembly required.
Bottom Line:
The Creality Ender 3 is a solid choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for a reliable and affordable 3D printer. Its ease of use, large build volume, and active community make it a popular choice for those who want to start printing 3D models, prototypes, or even functional parts. However, its basic features and reliance on plastic components may not be ideal for advanced users or those who want a completely hassle-free experience. If you're willing to learn and get your hands dirty, the Ender 3 is a great entry point into the world of 3D printing.
Ancyer 3D Printer
A compact and portable 3D printer that is ideal for beginners or those with limited space. It features a user-friendly design and a simple interface, making it easy to get started with 3D printing.
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Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and portable: Its small footprint makes it perfect for small spaces or on-the-go printing.
- Easy to use: The Ancyer 3D Printer is designed with beginners in mind, with a user-friendly interface and simple setup process.
- Affordable: It offers a good value for its features and performance.
- Quiet operation: The Ancyer 3D Printer is known for its quiet operation, making it suitable for use in homes or offices.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited build volume: The smaller build volume may not be suitable for larger projects.
- Basic features: Lacks some advanced features like automatic bed leveling or dual extruders.
- Lower print quality: May not produce the same level of detail as higher-end printers.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are a beginner looking for a simple and easy-to-use 3D printer.
- You have limited space and need a compact and portable printer.
- You prioritize quiet operation.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a printer with a large build volume for larger projects.
- You want a printer with advanced features or high-quality print resolution.
- You're looking for a printer that can handle a wide range of filaments.
Bottom Line:
The Ancyer 3D Printer is a great option for beginners or those with limited space who are looking for a compact and user-friendly 3D printer. Its ease of use, quiet operation, and affordable price make it a good starting point for those who want to explore the world of 3D printing. However, its smaller build volume and basic features may not be ideal for advanced users or those who need high-quality prints. If you're looking for a simple and portable printer that's easy to get started with, the Ancyer 3D Printer is worth considering.
Elegoo Mars 2
A high-resolution 3D printer that utilizes the LCD-based resin printing technology, known for its exceptional detail and accuracy. It's ideal for creating intricate models, miniatures, and jewelry.
Specifications :
- Printing Technology: LCD-based resin printing
- Build Volume: 128 x 74 x 175 mm
- Pixel Density: 2560 x 1440 pixels
- Layer Thickness: Down to 0.025mm
Reasons to buy :
- High resolution and detail: Creates exceptionally detailed and precise models thanks to its high pixel density and small layer thickness.
- Faster printing: LCD-based technology allows for faster printing speeds compared to FDM printers.
- Suitable for intricate designs: Ideal for printing miniatures, jewelry, and other intricate models.
- Good value for its features: Offers exceptional quality for its price point.
Reasons to avoid :
- Requires post-processing: Printed parts need to be cured with UV light and cleaned after printing.
- Limited filament options: Only compatible with resin filaments, which can be more expensive than PLA or ABS.
- Safety precautions: Resin printing requires proper ventilation and safety precautions due to the use of UV light and potentially harmful chemicals.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize high resolution and detail in your prints.
- You want to print intricate models, miniatures, or jewelry.
- You're comfortable with post-processing steps involved in resin printing.
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a printer that uses filament and does not require post-processing.
- You're looking for a printer with a large build volume.
- You're concerned about the safety precautions associated with resin printing.
Bottom Line:
The Elegoo Mars 2 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize high resolution and detail in their prints. Its LCD-based technology and small layer thickness allow it to create stunningly intricate models and miniatures. However, it's important to be aware of the post-processing steps involved and the safety precautions associated with resin printing. If you're willing to put in the extra effort, the Mars 2 can produce prints of exceptional quality that are simply not achievable with traditional FDM printers.
Creality Ender 5
An upgrade to the popular Ender 3, the Ender 5 features a larger build volume, a more robust frame, and a number of improvements that make it a good option for both beginners and experienced users.
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Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 300 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Larger build volume: Offers a significant increase in printing area compared to the Ender 3, making it suitable for larger projects.
- Sturdy frame: A more robust frame provides increased stability and precision during printing.
- Improved features: Features upgrades like a silent motherboard and a redesigned filament sensor.
- Active community: Benefits from the large and supportive community of the Ender 3.
Reasons to avoid :
- Higher price: More expensive than the Ender 3, but still a relatively affordable option.
- Requires some assembly: Similar to the Ender 3, assembly is required, although it's generally considered straightforward.
- Not as compact as the Ender 3: Larger size may make it less suitable for small spaces.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a larger build volume for printing larger projects.
- You need a more stable and robust printer for demanding prints.
- You're familiar with the Ender 3 and want an upgrade with improved features.
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize affordability over features and are happy with the Ender 3's build volume.
- You need a completely compact and portable printer.
- You're looking for a printer with advanced features like automatic bed leveling or dual extruders.
Bottom Line:
The Creality Ender 5 is a worthy upgrade to the Ender 3, offering a larger build volume, a sturdier frame, and several improvements that make it a good choice for both beginners and experienced users. While it is slightly more expensive than its predecessor, it provides a significant increase in printing capabilities and a more refined printing experience. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich 3D printer with a generous build volume, the Ender 5 is a great option to consider.
Flashforge Adventurer 4
A user-friendly and reliable 3D printer designed for both beginners and hobbyists. It features a simple setup process, automatic bed leveling, and a closed chamber for consistent printing results.
Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 140 x 140 x 140 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Easy to use: The Adventurer 4 is designed with simplicity in mind, with a user-friendly interface and minimal assembly required.
- Automatic bed leveling: The built-in automatic bed leveling system ensures consistent prints without manual adjustments.
- Closed chamber: The enclosed printing chamber helps maintain a consistent temperature, leading to better print quality and reduced warping.
- Reliable: Flashforge printers are known for their reliability and durability.
Reasons to avoid :
- Smaller build volume: The limited build volume may not be suitable for larger projects.
- Higher price: More expensive than some other entry-level printers.
- Limited features: Lacks some advanced features like dual extruders or heated filament compartments.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are a beginner looking for a user-friendly and reliable 3D printer.
- You prioritize simplicity and ease of use.
- You want a printer with automatic bed leveling and a closed chamber for consistent prints.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a printer with a large build volume for larger projects.
- You're looking for a printer with advanced features or the lowest possible price.
- You're willing to spend more time on manual setup and calibration.
Bottom Line:
The Flashforge Adventurer 4 is a well-rounded 3D printer that offers a balance of ease of use, reliability, and print quality. Its user-friendly interface, automatic bed leveling, and closed chamber make it a good choice for beginners and hobbyists who want a hassle-free printing experience. However, its smaller build volume and higher price may not be ideal for those who need a larger printing area or the lowest possible cost. If you value simplicity, reliability, and consistent prints, the Adventurer 4 is worth considering.
Monoprice Mini Delta
A compact and affordable 3D printer that utilizes a delta printing mechanism, known for its speed and unique print aesthetics. It's a good option for beginners or those with limited space.
Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Delta Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 150 x 150 x 150 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and portable: The Mini Delta's unique design makes it small and easy to move around.
- Fast printing: Delta printers are known for their faster printing speeds compared to traditional Cartesian printers.
- Unique print aesthetics: Delta printing creates a distinctive and often beautiful layered effect on prints.
- Affordable: A budget-friendly option for beginners or those with limited budgets.
Reasons to avoid :
- Smaller build volume: The limited build volume may not be suitable for larger projects.
- Not as user-friendly as some other models: The delta design may require a bit more learning and setup.
- May not be as reliable as some other printers: Delta printers can be more prone to mechanical issues compared to Cartesian printers.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a compact and affordable 3D printer with a unique printing aesthetic.
- You prioritize speed in your printing process.
- You're comfortable with the potential learning curve associated with delta printers.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a printer with a large build volume.
- You want a printer with the highest possible reliability.
- You're looking for a completely plug-and-play experience.
Bottom Line:
The Monoprice Mini Delta is a unique and interesting 3D printer that offers a compact design, fast printing speeds, and a distinctive printing style. It's a good option for beginners or those with limited space who want to explore the world of delta printing. However, its smaller build volume and potential for mechanical issues may make it less suitable for advanced users or those who prioritize reliability above all else. If you're looking for a fun and affordable printer that delivers speed and unique aesthetics, the Mini Delta is worth considering.
Qidi Tech Shadow 100
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A high-performance 3D printer with advanced features that make it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. It features a large build volume, a silent operation, and a number of smart functions designed for ease of use and high-quality prints.
Specifications :
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 200 x 200 x 200 mm
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
- Filament Support: PLA, ABS, PETG, and more
Reasons to buy :
- Large build volume: Offers a generous build volume for a variety of projects.
- Silent operation: Features a silent motherboard and cooling fans, making it suitable for use in quiet environments.
- Smart features: Includes features like automatic bed leveling, filament detection, and power loss recovery.
- High print quality: Delivers excellent print quality with precise details and smooth surfaces.
Reasons to avoid :
- Higher price: More expensive than some other 3D printers on the market.
- Requires some assembly: Similar to other 3D printers, some assembly is required, although it's generally straightforward.
- Not as widely supported as some other models: The Qidi Tech Shadow 100 may have a smaller community and fewer resources available.
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a printer with a large build volume for demanding projects.
- You prioritize silent operation and high print quality.
- You want a printer with advanced smart features for ease of use.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for the lowest possible price.
- You prefer a plug-and-play experience with no assembly required.
- You need a printer with a very large community and abundant resources.
Bottom Line:
The Qidi Tech Shadow 100 is a high-performance 3D printer that offers a blend of features, functionality, and print quality that makes it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. Its large build volume, silent operation, and advanced smart features make it a great option for those who demand a reliable and user-friendly 3D printing experience. While its price point may be higher than some other models, the Shadow 100 delivers exceptional value for its features and performance. If you're serious about 3D printing and are looking for a printer that can handle a wide range of projects with ease and precision, the Shadow 100 is a worthy investment.
So, there you have it – our top picks for the 7 best 3D printers under $500. Each of these models offers a unique set of features and benefits, catering to different needs and skill levels. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to explore the world of 3D printing or a small business owner seeking to create custom prototypes, there's a printer on this list that's perfect for you.
Remember, the best 3D printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors like print volume, print quality, ease of use, and available features before making your final decision. With the right 3D printer, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities and bring your ideas to life.
As the technology continues to evolve, you can expect even more affordable and powerful 3D printers to hit the market in the future. This means that the future of 3D printing is bright and accessible to everyone. So, don't be afraid to explore the world of 3D printing and see what you can create!
We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you towards your perfect 3D printer. Happy printing!
Bilal