3D printing is becoming ever more accessible - with a brand new 3D printer now costing as little as $79! We thought that we’d do a quick round up of some of the most affordable 3D printers on the market. We haven’t had the chance to test all of these personally, so if you have any feedback do let us know - but check out a selection of machines under $300 below. And don’t forget to head over to MyMiniFactory to grab free 3D-printable models when you do start printing!
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STARTT
$99.99
The STARTT is a great way to start(t) with 3D printing. It is supplied as a simple kit that can be assembled in around 5 hours, enabling you to understand how a 3D printer works. Despite this model being affordably priced, the printing quality is impressive. The STARTT is compatible with any open source slicer like Cura, and is loaded with pre-sliced 3D printable designs, compliments of MyMiniFactory.
You can purchase this model here.
Check out some of STARTT’s 3D-printable designs here!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 4 kg
Max. build volume: 120 mm x 140 mm x 130 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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101 Hero
$79
101HERO launched on Kickstarter with the objective of being the world’s most affordable 3D printer - the campaign was a great success raising more than $1M. This printer will come in 2 editions the Customer Version will be a kid-friendly edition, which allows users to print designs via an SD card. The Designer & Developer version will be more advanced, with a USB connection and open-source software compatibility.
You can pre-order this printer here.
Try out some support free prints on this one to get started, grab them here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: 90% pre-assembled
Type: FDM
Weight: 1.86 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm diameter x 100 mm height
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Designer & developer version only
Wireless: No
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Tronxy X1
$187
This Chinese aluminium DIY kit is one of the cheapest 3D printers on the market. Suitable for PLA and ABS, it’s a basic model, easy to assemble and it can be recommended to beginners.
You can purchase this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 3.5 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Tronxy P802M
$204
It makes use of Repetier-Host and Cura for slicing. The P802M is great value for its cost and is recommended for home use and to beginners.
You can purchase this model here.
Download free electronics 3D-printable designs here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 8 kg
Max. build volume: 220 mm x 220 mm x 240 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Anet A8
$170
The A8 is the cheapest model from the Chinese brand Anet. Some parts of this DIY kit can be 3D printed and changed if needed. This model is very popular which means there is a great community on the web, and lots of customisation available to kick start your 3D experience. The A8’s affordable price tag makes it a favourite among consumers, but that doesn’t mean that this printer isn’t a 3D printing powerhouse. It boasts a large print area and very capable NEMA17 motors to navigate the print-space. The A8 comes stock with a versatile extruder and heated bed, which makes it capable of printing a diverse selection of filaments.
You can buy this 3D printer here.
And for the DIY lovers, here you can download for free thousands of 3D-printable spare parts!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 8.5 kg
Max. build volume: 220 mm x 220 mm x 240 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Anet A6
$198
The A6 is a bit more expensive than the A2 and A8 but has a bigger build volume.This model is a 3D printer with acrylic frame and single extruder. To maintain the garage-built feel and the handmade charms, Anet A6 3D desktop printer is also a build-it-yourself kit.
You can purchase this model here.
The build volume will enable you to print objects such as these.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 7.6 kg
Max. build volume: 220 mm x 220 mm x 250 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Anet A2
$203
The A2 has a build volume a bit smaller than the A6 and A8, but also a smaller minimum layer height. This 3D printer adopts the high-end configuration with stable performance, and the compact body ensures portability. It is an unassembled DIY kit, which provides you with a step-by-step guide to build the 3D printer from scratch.
You can buy this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 4 kg
Max. build volume: 220 mm x 220 mm x 220 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Super Helper SH105
$149
Launched by the Chinese brand Winbo, the SH105 is one of the cheapest 3D printers on the market. The SH105L is $50 more expensive than the SH105 and includes a laser head. Described as being suitable for a wide variety of applications including education, design, manufacturing, and general home and business use, the Super Helper looks to be easy to use, and its portability is a big plus.
You can purchase this 3D printer here,.
Judging by the photo this one is going to be great for planters - download some here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 3.6 kg
Max. build volume: 105 mm x 105 mm x 155 mm
Min. layer height: 40 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Q3D OneUp 3D
$199
This self-assembled 3D printer is one of the cheapest on the market for the moment, and clearly a good and honest printer for its price. For beginners, buying and building a DIY kit like this one (2-8 hours to build) is recommended to understand the ins and outs and the ups and downs of a 3D printer. With over 7,000 units out in the wild, the OneUp is the standard for entry level 3D printer kits. This model sets itself apart from other 3D printers in its class by using the finest linear motion components, including chromed, induction hardened linear shafts, dual precision ACME screws (for the Z axis) and LM8LUU linear bearings for double the rigidity over the LM8UU bearings used in most printer kits. Each of the linear motion components is tied together with a CNC laser cut melamine frame (made in the USA) which provides not only rigidity but lightweight for high-speed printing. With improved print speeds up to 100mm/s due to the lighter weight extruder and hot end, print time is apparently cut almost in half.
You can purchase this model here.
And here are some free 3D-printable designs great for first-time printers!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 4 kg
Max. build volume: 100 mm x 100 mm x 125 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Optional
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Creality CR-7
$256
The Creality CR-7 is a good machine for 3D DIY enthusiasts, and suitable for a wide range of customers. This desktop 3D printer is easy to assemble, electric-proof, anti-scald and scratch resistant. With its Ilight weight, stability, and low noise, it will provide you with a good experience of 3D printing.
You can purchase this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 3.5 kg
Max. build volume: 130 mm x 150 mm x 100 mm
Min. layer height:100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Q3D TwoUp 3D
$239
The TwoUp has the same specs than the OneUp except that the build volume is bigger: 175 L x 175 W x 125 H.
Buy it here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 4 kg
Max. build volume: 175 mm x 175 mm x 125 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Optional
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Q3D ThreeUp 3D
$279
The ThreeUp has the same specs than the OneUp and the TwoUp except that the building volume is even is bigger: 175 L x 175 W x 210 H.
You can purchase it here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 5.9 kg
Max. build volume: 175 mm x 175 mm x 210 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Optional
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Da Vinci Junior
$189.99
This 3D printer is the cheapest machine from XYZprinting, who also sell the Da Vinci miniMaker and the Da Vinci Mini. 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.
You can purchase this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 15 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm x 150 mm x150 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: Yes
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Da Vinci miniMaker
$249.99
The Da Vinci miniMaker is a desktop 3D printer for beginners and children. Eco-friendly and easy to use, its lightweight and compact design fit easily in tight places. It has an auto-leveling bed and the auto-calibrating extruder module ensures the best possible prints. The miniMaker only prints in DEHP-free and Heavy metal-free PLA filament, ensuring that prints are safe for children and family.
You can purchase this model here.
The Da Vinci miniMaker will enable you to print very cool designs, such as toys and games downloadable here for free.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 11.5 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm x 150 mm x150 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Da Vinci Mini
$288.79
The Da Vinci Mini is a multifunctional 3D printer for beginners. This model is 30 percent smaller than da Vinci Jr. 1.0 and has a 5.9 inch x 5.9 inch x 5.9 inch aluminium print bed for larger and finer prints.
You can buy this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 10 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm x 150 mm x150 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: Yes
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Monoprice Select Mini
$199.99
The US technology company Monoprice imported the Malyan M200 from China, rebadged each unit to carry their logo and offered it for sale at the very affordable price of $199.99. Unlike most other low-cost 3D printers, this printer ships fully assembled and has already been calibrated at the factory. Sample PLA filament and a MicroSD card with preinstalled models are included so you can start printing right out of the box. Whilst there are a few defaults, the Select Mini is a good product for its price, and is a recommendable 3D printer for first-time users.
You can purchase this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 4.5 kg
Max. build volume: 120 mm x 120 mm x120 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: Yes
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TEVO Tarantula i3
$201
The Tarantula i3 is based on the Prusa i3, a proven design with tens of thousands users all around the world. This DIY kit features automatic bed levelling (optional) and bigger bed (optional). The auto-leveling version uses a proximity sensor to detect the aluminium print bed where the normal version of the printer uses a microswitch to detect the end of travel for the Z-Axis movement (vertical limits). It is very good value for the cost and will enable you to understand how 3D printing works.
You can buy this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 7.5 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm (or 200mm x 280mm x 200mm optional)
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Dual
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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HE3D EI3
$210
This DIY 3D printer is the cheapest one from the Chinese brand HE3D. This kit has an upgraded frame using 2020 and 2040 extruded aluminium beams and 7mm reinforced acrylic supports and an upgraded ATmega2560 control board with support for up to two print heads and an intuitive LCD user interface panel. The heated 8x8x8 inch print area, 12 micron X/Y accuracy and 50-micron layer accuracy, and auto z-calibration ensure each print will achieve stunning detail and quality. The extruder’s wide temperature ranges support a variety of printer filament material including most varieties of PLA, ABS, PETG, Wood, and PVA material.
You can purchase this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 8.5 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single or dual/triple optional
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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HE3D K200
$239
This DIY 3D printer, bigger than the HE3D EI3, will enable you to print objects in very good quality. The K200 breaks from the traditional limitations of Cartesian printers and offers precision and speed with a build volume over 1000 inches (11 in. diameter, 11 in. height)! The kit is built with the new enthusiast and experts in mind. With high quality 2020 aluminium extruded beams and acrylic forms the construction is simple, yet very robust. The E3D double extruder opens the possibilities to multiple print colours without having to pause, clean, and reposition. Both extruders support temperature range up to 260C to support almost all filament material including PLA, ABS, TPU, WOOD, PVA, Nylon, PVA, PP and most of their variants. The upgraded LCD interface and ATmega2560 control board with RAMPS PLUS2 and 80 step precision motors give this printer an ultra-high print quality down to 12 micron X, Y and 50-micron layer accuracy.
You can buy this 3D printer here.
Printing tall objects like these won’t be an issue anymore!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 9 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm diameter x 300 mm height
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single or dual optional
Heated bed: Optional
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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FLSUN Prusa i3
$219
This Chinese model is a good and affordable 3D printer for beginners. The metal structure is stable and provides a good printing accuracy. It has a high precision Y-axis position plate and guarantees Y-axis positioning accuracy. The printer controller is integrated motherboard, easy to connect and support DIY spread.
You can purchase this printer here.
If you feel like this will be easy to build, try printing these objects with it!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 10 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm
Min. layer height:100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Heacent i3
$145
This Chinese DIY kit is an affordable 3D printer that will give you a good step-by-step learning experience. Suitable for a wide range of customers, the quality of the product is apparently very good for its price.
Purchase this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 6.6 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 180 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Geeetech Prusa I3 pro B
$248.54
The Prusa I3 pro B is the cheapest 3D printer from Geeetech. It is based on Geeetech I3 pro, except its simple assembly, easy debugging and more stable performance, compared with the I3 pro, I3 pro B features a newly added potential for 3D printing—support 5 types of filament: ABS, PLA, Wood-Polymer, Nylon and flexible PLA., create flexible hinges, joints, shaped parts; enable you to get the most out of your 3D Printer.
You can buy this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 8.5 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 180 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm, 3.0 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Geeetech Prusa I3 pro C
$299
A little bit more expensive, the Prusa I3 pro C has the same specs than the pro B except that it has 2 extruders. You can print a single two-color object, or you can print two objects in one print job, each made from a different colour. You can also print one single-color object, as with other single-extruder 3D printers. Or you can use one extruder for infill or support. The 2 extruder motors push filament through 2 head separately, so mixing colours printing is not applicable for the moment. Geeetech I3 pro C support 5 types of filament: ABS, PLA, Wood-Polymer, Nylon and flexible PLA.
Buy this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 9 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 180 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm, 3.0 mm
Extruder: Dual
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Cetus 3D
$299
After a successful Kickstarter campaign, Cetus 3D launched a very basic and solid printer. Quiet, small and cheap, this model can be recommended for every beginner. At 0.25, the build volume to machine volume ratio is excellent, and the light weight will enable you to take it with you everywhere. The Cetus 3D printer features cloud-based support for remote printing and notifications as well as dedicated 3D printing software.
You can purchase the Cetus 3D here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 3.2 kg
Max. build volume: 180 mm x 180 mm x 180 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: Yes
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M3D Micro
$299
Rated best 3D printer in class by 3D Forged & Tom’s Guide, this model is the cheapest 3D printer from M3D. 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 colour choices, user-friendly software, and replaceable print beds and nozzles, it’s a great 3D printer for beginners and experts alike. The Micro comes with M3D Software for Windows operating systems. The software has an easy-to-use interface and is fully touch screen capable. The M3D Software allows you to organise the 3D models you’ve downloaded into an easy to view library.
You can buy this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 1 kg
Max. build volume: Base:109 mm x 113 mm x 74 mm, and above the 74 mm: 91 mm x 84 mm x 42 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Snapmaker
$299
A Kickstarter campaign has been launched to raise funds for this affordable all-metal and all-in-one 3d printer. It is easy-to-use for beginners, expandable for makers, and will enable you to do 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving. Designed for quick assembly, strong expandability and real affordability. Snapmaker has an innovative modular design, which enables a flat-packed and low-cost shipping, quick assembly and personalised modification. With the intuitive-to-use 3.2-inch colour touchscreen, you can conveniently control all print settings.
You can pre-order the Snapmaker here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 4.5 kg
Max. build volume: 125 mm x 125 mm x 125 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Bonus: other notable entry level 3D printers
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Dagoma DiscoEasy200
$317
The french brand Dagoma improved its model Discovery, who became DiscoEasy. This model is based on an open source design, which makes it easy to modify. Its 3D files are accessible for free online. The Dagoma DiscoEasy200 does not provide natively a printing bed but can get one as an option. Compared to its predecessor, the DiscoEasy200 offers a new electronic card, an additional fan on the extruder and a SD card port instead of a mini SD. This 3D printer is intuitive and recommendable to the beginners.
You can purchase this model here.
And here are some cool objects designed by Dagoma that you can print with the DiscoEasy200!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 5 kg
Max. build volume: 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm
Min. layer height: 100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Kodama Trinus
$379
Kodama launched a Kickstarter campaign to market the new affordable 2-in-1 Trinus 3D printer. Trinus is a professional-grade desktop 3D printer that can easily be converted into a laser engraver. The kit contains only 11 parts and can be assembled easily. You can also equip the Trinus with a heated bed and a safety enclosure. This all-metal 3D printer extrudes PLA, ABS, PC, Flex, wood and most other materials available on the market. This model is very quiet and print objects in good quality.
You can pre-order the Trinus here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 9.8 kg
Max. build volume: 120 mm x 125 mm x 125 mm
Min. layer height:50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Optional
Open source: No
Wireless: No
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Honorable Mentions:
New Matter MOD-t
$399
New Matter launched the MOD-t after realising an Ingiegogo campaign. This model is easy to use and has a good printing quality. The MOD-t’s beautiful clear cover and patented design makes it one of the quietest desktop 3D printers available, so it can easily live in a classroom or living room without causing disruption. The MOD-t is dependable with WiFi connectivity, a simple set-up process, and intuitive controls. If any questions arise, the New Matter Customer Support team is available for users through email, phone, and chat.The Wall Street Journal recommends the MOD-t for anybody’s “first foray into 3-D.”
You can purchase this 3D printer here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 5 kg
Max. build volume: 150 mm x 100 mm x 125 mm
Min. layer height:100 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
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Robo 3D C2
$699.99
The Robo 3D C2 is a small desktop 3D printer launched after a Kickstarter campaign. This model is more expensive but can print with great quality and efficiency. The Robo 3D C2 is a small desktop 3D printer. It has a nice and simple design, with an easy to access build platform. It is compatible with the Robo app and also adds a Wifi connectivity for a smooth user experience. The Robo 3D C2 print bed is not heated so it is not capable of 3D printing ABS.
You can buy this model here.
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: No
Type: FDM
Weight: 9.4 kg
Max. build volume: 127 mm x 127 mm x 152.4 mm
Min. layer height: 20 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: No
Open source: Yes
Wireless: Yes
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Prusa i3 MK2 kit
$786
The very popular Prusa i3 from Josef Prusa is considered as the 3D printer with the best quality for its cost. It comes with a bunch of clever features and is upgradable. With tens of thousands users all around the planet, this popular model has a made a big impression on the 3D printing community since it was launched. All parts of this 3D printer are Open Source and are part of the RepRap project.
You can buy this 3D printer here,
Check out the Prusa MyMiniFactory profile here if you need spare parts!
Key Statistics:
DIY kit: Yes
Type: FDM
Weight: 6.5 kg
Max. build volume: 250 mm x 210 mm x 200 mm
Min. layer height: 50 microns
Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
Extruder: Single
Heated bed: Yes
Open source: Yes
Wireless: No
