The era of the much-celebrated “do it yourself” has finally arrived, that period where 3D printers are a reality within everyone’s reach. In the last few years, the 3D Printing market has had tremendous growth, and always tends to improve.
Want to know which can be the best 3D printer under 500 Dollars for you? Follow the next tips.
Best 3d Printer Under $ 500
Table of Contents
You have been observing them for a long time and imagining everything you can create with a 3D printer, you bet it when the first models on the market cost thousands of euros and you waited and waited until they finally became more accessible but also more precise and diversified. in models and processing possibilities.
Also Read: Best Printers For Heat Transfers
What is the best 3D printer?
From pens to professional machines, the world of 3D printers can be intimidating if we’re just starting out.
Technical terms like “FMD printer” or “SLA” are difficult to understand when you are not yet in the industry, and operations that we thought as easy as choosing the filament suddenly seem insurmountable for fear of ruining our brand new and expensive professional machine.
If you find yourself in the description you can certainly start off with the advice we will provide you in this article but let’s start with something practical and see which are the best 3D printers under $500 according to the public on the web.
Recommended Products
Let’s now move on to the section dedicated to market analysis, with a selection of 3D printers that we recommend you take into consideration. We will group them by price range according to their list price. You will also be able to see the online offers related to the list price, to understand which options the market offers you and what is the actual expense for each product of your interest.
Best 3d Printer Under $ 500 | Comparison Table 2024
| Image | Title | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| ANYCUBIC Chiron 3D Printer, Semi-auto Leveling Large FDM Printer with Ultrabase Heatbed, Suitable for 1.75 mm Filament, TPU, Hips, PLA, ABS etc. / 15.75 x 15.75 x 17.72 inch(400x400x450mm) | ANYCUBIC | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Official Creality Ender 3 V2 Upgraded 3D Printer Integrated Structure Design with Carborundum Glass Platform Silent Motherboard and Branded Power Supply | Comgrow | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| NOVA3D BENE4 Mono MSLA 3D Printer UV Photocuring Fast Printing Free Leveling Resin 3D Printer 130x80x150mm Print Size with 4.3in Touchscreen, Offline/WiFi Printing | NOVA3D | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| FDM 3D Printer Kit Pyramid A1.1 Titan Direct Drive, Silent Mainboard, Resume Printing, 3.5 inch LCD Touch Screen, Upgradable to BL Touch, 12" x 12" x16" for Creative Artist, DIY Designer & School Use | FASTTOBUY | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Voxelab Aquila 3D Printer with Full Alloy Frame, Removable Build Surface Plate, Fully Open Source and Resume Printing Function Build Volume 8.66x8.66x9.84in | Voxelab | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing All Metal Frame FDM DIY Printers with Resume Printing Function 220x220x250mm | Creality 3D | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| ANYCUBIC Mega-S New Upgrade 3D Printer with Extruder and Suspended Filament Rack + Free Test PLA Filament, Works with TPU/PLA/ABS | ANYCUBIC | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| FlashForge Adventurer 3 3D Printer Auto Leveling Quick Removable Nozzle High Precision | FlashForge | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer with Removable Build Surface Plate and UL Certified Meanwell Power Supply Printing Size 8.66x8.66x9.84in / 220x220x250mm | Comgrow | VIEW ON AMAZON |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best 3d Printer Under $ 500 | 2024 Products Overview
1. ANYCUBIC Chiron 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction
Welcome to the world of 3D printing with the ANYCUBIC Chiron. This impressive 3D printer offers a large build volume and a range of features that cater to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. From its semi-auto leveling to its precise printing capabilities, the Chiron promises to elevate your creative projects to new heights.
Design and Build Quality
The ANYCUBIC Chiron boasts a sturdy full-metal body that exudes durability and stability. Its modular design allows for easy assembly in just 5-10 minutes, so you can start printing sooner rather than later. The TFT touch screen with a user-friendly interface offers a convenient way to preview models and control the printing process. With its high-grade extruder and smooth feeding mechanism, this printer ensures a hassle-free printing experience.
Print Quality
Equipped with a high-precision nozzle and advanced leveling features, the Chiron delivers impressive print resolution and clarity. Whether you’re printing intricate models or large-scale prototypes, this printer ensures accuracy and precision. Plus, with its 24V DC high-power heated bed and dual screw rod design, you can expect consistent and reliable results every time.
Features
The ANYCUBIC Chiron offers a range of features to enhance your printing experience. From its semi-auto leveling and resume print function to its Ultrabase Pro coating for warp-free prints, this printer is packed with functionality. Additionally, it supports offline printing and comes with lifetime technical support for added peace of mind.
Ease of Use
With its intuitive user interface and easy assembly process, the Chiron is designed for user convenience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of this printer.
Software and Compatibility
The Chiron is compatible with a variety of slicing software, giving you the flexibility to choose the program that best suits your needs. Plus, its connectivity options, including USB and Wi-Fi, ensure seamless integration with your existing setup.
Reliability and Durability
Backed by high-quality materials and rigorous testing, the ANYCUBIC Chiron is built to last. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a trustworthy companion for all your 3D printing endeavors.
- Large build volume of 15.75 x 15.75 x 17.72 inches.
- Semi-auto leveling module for improved precision.
- Resume printing feature after power outages or unexpected stoppages.
- Easy to assemble and use with a full metal body and modular design.
- Dual Sideway and Z axis dual screw rod design for improved print precision.
- The filament sensor may not work properly for some users.
- Some users may experience issues with the auto-leveling feature.
- Limited filament compatibility.
Also Read:: Best Printer For Printable Vinyl Stickers
2. Comgrow Ender 3 V2 Upgraded 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction
Welcome to our review of the Ender-3 V2, a 3D printer that combines innovation with reliability. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just stepping into the world of 3D printing, the Ender-3 V2 promises to deliver impressive results with its array of features and user-friendly design.
Design and Build Quality
The Ender-3 V2 boasts a sleek and compact design that fits seamlessly into any workspace. Its sturdy frame is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and stability during printing. The user interface and control panel are thoughtfully designed, with a 4.3-inch smart color screen and a rotary knob on the extruder for effortless filament loading.
Print Quality
Expect nothing short of exceptional print quality with the Ender-3 V2. Thanks to its self-developed silent motherboard and UL certified MeanWell power supply, you can enjoy silent printing with low decibel operation. The carborundum glass platform ensures quicker heating and better adhesion for your prints, while the resume printing function saves time and reduces waste by picking up where you left off after a power outage.
Features
This printer is packed with features to enhance your printing experience. Enjoy wireless printing capabilities and connectivity options including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The Ender-3 V2 also offers a range of additional features such as duplex printing and impressive print speeds for various types of documents or images. Plus, with its concealed power supply, safety is paramount.
Ease of Use
One of the standout qualities of the Ender-3 V2 is its ease of use. From the intuitive user interface to the effortless filament feed-in, every aspect of this printer is designed to make your printing experience smooth and hassle-free. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll appreciate the simplicity and convenience of the Ender-3 V2.
Software and Compatibility
Compatible with a range of slicing software and compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, the Ender-3 V2 offers flexibility and versatility. Whether you're using it for personal projects or professional endeavors, you can trust that this printer will meet your needs with ease.
Reliability and Durability
With its robust construction and reliable performance, the Ender-3 V2 is built to last. Whether you're printing prototypes, functional parts, or artistic creations, you can rely on this printer to deliver consistent results time and time again. Invest in the Ender-3 V2 and experience the reliability and durability that only a top-quality 3D printer can provide.
- Self-developed silent motherboard for stronger anti-interference and low-decibel operation.
- UL-certified MeanWell power supply for fast heating and long-time printing.
- Effortless filament feed-in system for easy loading and feeding.
- Resume printing function for saving time and reducing waste.
- Carborundum glass platform for quick heating and better adhesion without warping.
- The build size is 8.66×8.66×9.84 inches which may be limited for some projects.
- The 4.3-inch color screen may not be large enough for some users.
- The Ender-3 V2 does not have Automatic Bed Leveling (ABL) feature which means that the user will have to level the bed manually.
Also Read: Best Portable Printer For iPhone
3. NOVA3D BENE4 Mono MSLA 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction
Experience the next level of 3D printing with the NOVA3D Bene4 mono. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, this resin printer offers unparalleled printing precision and efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Bene4 mono is sure to impress with its fast printing speeds, exceptional print quality, and hassle-free operation.
Design and Build Quality
Crafted with a sleek full-metal body, the Bene4 mono exudes durability and stability. Its compact design and hood open flip feature not only save space but also enhance usability. The integrated FEP film can be easily replaced with just 12 screws, minimizing downtime and maintenance hassles. Plus, the LCD screen's quick-release design simplifies maintenance and ensures seamless operation.
Print Quality
Equipped with a high-resolution 2560*1620 6.08-inch monochrome screen, the Bene4 mono delivers unparalleled print resolution and clarity. Its improved UV light transmittance enhances color accuracy, while the lower LCD temperature extends service life by up to 2.5 times compared to color screen printers. With printing speeds twice as fast as traditional models, you'll spend less time waiting and more time creating.
Features
Experience ultimate flexibility with multiple slicing software support and Wi-Fi printing capabilities. Whether you prefer NOVAMaker or CHITUBOX, you can slice your models professionally and transfer files seamlessly via Wi-Fi. With offline, wireless, and Wi-Fi printing options, you can print anytime, anywhere. Plus, the Bene4 mono operates quietly, allowing you to work undisturbed even at night.
Ease of Use
Say goodbye to tedious leveling processes thanks to the Bene4 mono's leveling-free design. Its intuitive user interface and control panel make operation a breeze, even for beginners. Plus, feet on the vat prevent scratches between the FEP and the table, ensuring hassle-free printing every time.
Software and Compatibility
The Bene4 mono is compatible with a range of slicing software, including NOVAMaker and CHITUBOX, giving you the flexibility to choose the tool that best suits your needs. Its multiple connection options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, ensure seamless integration with your existing setup.
Reliability and Durability
Built to last, the Bene4 mono is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use. Its sturdy construction and advanced features ensure reliable performance, while its extended service life and quick maintenance features minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
- Longer printing life and fast printing.
- Multiple slicing software support and WiFi printing.
- Free leveling and stability
- User-friendly design.
- Multiple connections and quiet working.
- Longer printing life and fast printing.
- Multiple slicing software support and WiFi printing.
- Free leveling and stability
- User-friendly design.
- Multiple connections and quiet working.
Also Read: Best Black and White Laser Printer
4. FFASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction Welcome to our review of the FASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer, a 3D printer designed to meet the needs of creative makers who value both quality and budget-friendliness. With its impressive features and user-friendly design, this printer promises to be a great addition to any enthusiast's workspace.
Design and Build Quality The FASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer boasts a sleek and modern design that will complement any workspace. Its physical dimensions, including a large printing area of 300×300×400mm/12in (L) x 12in(W) x16in (H), make it ideal for printing big models efficiently. The quality of materials used in its construction ensures durability and longevity, while the user interface and control panel are intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing for seamless operation.
Print Quality When it comes to print quality, the FASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer does not disappoint. With its silent printing capabilities, thanks to the new mainboard chipset, you can keep your focus while the printer does its job. The print resolution and clarity are top-notch, delivering precise and accurate prints every time. Whether you're printing documents or images, you can expect vibrant colors and sharp details. Plus, with its fast print speed, you can complete your projects in no time.
Features This printer comes packed with features to enhance your printing experience. From wireless printing capabilities to connectivity options like USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, you have the flexibility to print from anywhere, anytime. The addition of the Titan Direct drive and optional BL touch further improves its printing capabilities, making it suitable for professional enthusiasts. Plus, with its silent operation, you can work without any distractions.
Ease of Use One of the standout features of the FASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer is its ease of use. The kits are ready to be mounted easily and quickly, so you can start printing right away. The intuitive software and compatibility with various operating systems ensure a hassle-free printing experience for users of all skill levels.
Reliability and Durability With a 1-year warranty and lifelong technical support, you can trust that the FASTTOBUY FDM 3D Printer is built to last. Its reliable performance and durable construction make it a valuable investment for any creative workspace.
- Silent printing with new mainboard chipset.
- Large printing area of 300x300x400mm.
- Good for combining quality and budget.
- Upgradable to Titan direct drive and BL touch as optional add-ons.
- Easy to assemble with a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support.
- May not be suitable for advanced users.
- Some additional features may require purchasing additional add-ons.
- Some users may find the standard nozzle diameter of 0.4mm limiting.
Also Read: Best Printer For Cricut
5. Voxelab Aquila Best budget 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction
Welcome to the Aquila 3D Printer, a cutting-edge device that combines fast heating with silent printing, making it an ideal choice for all your 3D printing needs. With its resume printing function and semi-assembled kit, the Aquila offers convenience and ease of use, while its fully open-source nature allows for endless customization possibilities. Backed by a comprehensive warranty and lifetime technical support, the Aquila is a reliable companion for all your creative endeavors.
Design and Build Quality
The Aquila boasts a sleek and sturdy design, featuring a carbon crystal silicon glass plate for enhanced printing stability. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for any workspace, while the quality materials used ensure durability and longevity. The user interface and control panel are intuitive and easy to navigate, making printing tasks a breeze.
Print Quality
Experience unparalleled print resolution and clarity with the Aquila 3D Printer. Whether you're creating intricate designs or functional prototypes, the Aquila delivers exceptional results every time. Plus, its color accuracy ensures that your creations look exactly as you envision them. With impressive print speed and minimal noise output, the Aquila is perfect for a variety of printing tasks.
Features
Enjoy a host of features that enhance your printing experience. From wireless printing capabilities to versatile connectivity options including USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, the Aquila offers unparalleled convenience. Plus, its resume printing function saves time and reduces waste, while its fully open-source nature allows for endless customization possibilities. With quick response times and lifetime technical support, the Aquila is designed to meet all your printing needs.
Ease of Use
Thanks to its semi-assembled kit and user-friendly interface, the Aquila is incredibly easy to set up and use. Whether you're a novice or experienced user, you'll appreciate the hassle-free printing experience that the Aquila provides.
Software and Compatibility
The Aquila is compatible with a range of software options, including VoxelMaker and Cura, allowing you to choose the tools that best suit your needs. Plus, its fully open-source nature enables flexible upgrades and modifications, ensuring compatibility with future advancements in 3D printing technology.
Reliability and Durability
Backed by a comprehensive warranty and lifetime technical support, the Aquila is built to last. With its robust design and high-quality materials, you can rely on the Aquila to deliver consistent performance for years to come.
- Fast heating and silent printing
- The resume printing function saves time and avoids waste
- The semi-assembled kit allows for easy setup and learning about 3D printers
- Fully open-source technology allows for flexible upgrades and modifications
- Lifetime technical support and 12-month warranty with quick response
- Build volume may be too small for some projects
- May require some technical knowledge to assemble and operate
- Only compatible with specific software options.
6. Creality 3D Ender 3 Cheap 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction
Looking to dive into the world of 3D printing? Look no further than the Creality 3D 3 Printer, a culmination of innovation and community collaboration. With its fully open-source design and next-generation technology, it's poised to revolutionize your printing experience.
Design and Build Quality
The Creality 3D Printer boasts a sleek, modern design that's both visually appealing and functional. Partially assembled for convenience, it's the perfect project for students or anyone eager to explore the realms of science and engineering. Crafted with precision using high-quality materials, it exudes durability and reliability. The user interface is intuitive, making navigation a breeze.
Print Quality
Experience unparalleled print quality with the Creality 3D Printer. Thanks to its advanced MK-8 extruders and high-precision ball bearing wheels, you can expect crisp, clear prints every time. Whether you're printing intricate designs or simple prototypes, this printer delivers exceptional resolution and color accuracy. Plus, with its adjustable print speed, you have the flexibility to customize your printing experience to suit your needs.
Features
Equipped with a range of features, the Creality 3D Printer offers more than just basic printing capabilities. Enjoy wireless printing convenience, seamless connectivity options including USB and Wi-Fi, and the assurance of resume printing technology that eliminates the frustration of failed prints. What's more, its super quiet operation ensures minimal disturbance, allowing you to focus on your projects without distractions.
Ease of Use
Simplify your printing experience with the Creality 3D Printer. From its user-friendly interface to its hassle-free setup process, everything is designed with ease of use in mind. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, you'll appreciate the intuitive controls and straightforward operation.
Software and Compatibility
Compatible with a wide range of software and operating systems, the Creality 3D Printer offers unparalleled versatility. Whether you prefer using proprietary software or open-source alternatives, you'll find seamless compatibility with this printer. Plus, with regular updates and ongoing support, you can rest assured that your printer will always be up to date with the latest advancements.
Reliability and Durability
Backed by Creality's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, the Creality 3D Printer is built to last. With its robust construction and reliable performance, it's designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. Plus, with lifetime technical assistance and a 1-year limited warranty, you can purchase with confidence knowing that you're investing in a printer that's built to go the distance.
- A fully open-source product is constantly being improved by its community of users and contributors.
- “Resume Print” technology allows the printer to resume from the last recorded extruder position in case of unexpected power outages.
- Advanced MK-8 extruder that reduces the risk of clogging and uneven extrusion.
- Partially-assembled kit, making it an excellent project for middle school and high school-aged students to learn about science, engineering, machinery, and robotics.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical assistance from the official Creality store.
- As it is a partially-assembled kit, it may take some time to put it together.
- Not suitable for professional use.
- Some users may find the print size of 220x220x250mm too small.
Also Read: Best Sublimation Printer For T-Shirts
7. ANYCUBIC Mega-S New Upgrade Best 3D printer for beginners
Product Overview:
Introduction
Welcome to our review of the ANYCUBIC Mega S 3D Printer, an innovative and user-friendly device designed to meet the needs of both expert users and beginners. With its easy setup process and advanced features, this printer promises to revolutionize your 3D printing experience.
Design and Build Quality
The ANYCUBIC Mega S boasts a sturdy metal frame that minimizes shaking, resulting in improved print quality. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for any workspace, while the quality of materials used ensures durability and reliability. The user interface, featuring a TFT touch screen, provides intuitive control over the printing process, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
Print Quality
Equipped with an upgraded Titan extruder, this printer delivers precise extrusion and solid filament drive, reducing the risk of clogging and enhancing printing accuracy. The patented ANYCUBIC Ultrabase ensures excellent adhesion during printing, while prints effortlessly detach once cooled to room temperature. With a generous printing volume and the ability to resume prints after power outages, the Mega S guarantees consistent and high-quality results.
Features
In addition to its impressive printing capabilities, the Mega S offers a range of features for enhanced functionality. The printer supports wireless connectivity, allowing for convenient printing from any compatible device. Its sensor detection system alerts users when filament is running low, saving both time and cost. Furthermore, the printer operates quietly, minimizing disruption in any environment.
Ease of Use
With its three-step setup process and responsive touch screen interface, the ANYCUBIC Mega S is incredibly user-friendly. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to 3D printing, you'll find this printer easy to operate and navigate. Plus, with lifetime technical support and 24-hour customer service, help is always available when you need it.
Software and Compatibility
The Mega S is compatible with most filaments, giving users the freedom to experiment with different materials and textures. Its compatibility with various slicing software ensures seamless integration into existing workflows, while regular firmware updates guarantee ongoing optimization and performance enhancements.
Reliability and Durability
Backed by ANYCUBIC's reputation for quality and innovation, the Mega S is built to last. Its robust construction and reliable components ensure consistent performance, while regular maintenance and updates prolong its lifespan. Whether you're a hobbyist or professional, you can trust the Mega S to deliver reliable results time and time again.
- Easy to set up, with minimal assembly required.
- Large print volume of 8.27 x 8.27 x 8.07 inches.
- Upgraded extruder design with Titan extruder that reduces clogging and improves accuracy.
- Resume printing feature that allows the printer to continue a print after a power outage.
- Patented Ultrabase surface that allows for easy removal of printed objects.
- Not compatible with all types of filament.
- Some users may find the print volume too small for their needs.
- May require some tweaking to achieve optimal print quality.
Also Read: 3D Printer Under 150 Dollars of 2024
8. FlashForge Adventurer 3 3D Printer
Product Overview:
Introduction:
Welcome to the world of 3D printing with the Flashforge Adventurer 3! Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the realm of 3D printing, this compact yet powerful machine offers an array of features designed to unleash your creativity. From its intuitive user interface to its impressive print quality, the Adventurer 3 is the perfect companion for your next printing adventure.
Design and Build Quality:
The physical appearance of the Flashforge Adventurer 3 is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a compact footprint that won't take up too much space on your desk. The quality of materials used in its construction is top-notch, ensuring durability and reliability for years to come. The user interface and control panel are intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple for even beginners to start printing with confidence.
Print Quality:
When it comes to print quality, the Adventurer 3 doesn't disappoint. With its high print resolution and clarity, you can expect crisp, detailed prints every time. Whether you're printing intricate models or functional prototypes, the results are sure to impress. Plus, with support for various types of filament, including PLA, ABS, and PETG, you have the flexibility to bring your ideas to life in vibrant color and precise detail.
Features:
The Adventurer 3 is packed with features to enhance your printing experience. From its wireless printing capabilities to its filament detection function, which automatically pauses printing when filament is broken or used up, this printer offers convenience and peace of mind. With options for USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily print from your computer or mobile device. Plus, its super quiet operation means you can work or relax nearby without being disturbed by loud noises.
Ease of Use:
One of the standout features of the Adventurer 3 is its ease of use. Whether you're a novice or an experienced user, this printer is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. From its simple setup process to its hassle-free printing experience, you'll spend less time troubleshooting and more time creating.
Software and Compatibility:
The Adventurer 3 is compatible with a wide range of software, making it easy to find the perfect program for your needs. Whether you prefer slicing software like Simplify3D or Cura, or you want to take advantage of Flashforge's own slicing software, FlashPrint, you'll have no trouble finding the right tools for the job.
Reliability and Durability:
With its sturdy construction and reliable performance, the Adventurer 3 is built to last. Backed by a 12-month warranty and lifetime technical assistance, you can trust that this printer will continue to deliver exceptional results long into the future. Plus, with 24 hours professional customer service, help is always just a phone call away.
- Leveling-free build plate for easy model removal.
- Quick detachable nozzle for smoother loading and compatibility with third-party filaments.
- Filament detection function for convenience.
- Super quiet operation.
- Comes with 12 months warranty and lifetime technical assistance.
- May require additional nozzles for high-temperature filaments.
- It’s not clear what the built-in HD camera can be used for.
- It’s not clear if the Wi-Fi cloud printing feature is available in all countries.
Also Read: Best Metal 3d Printer 2024
9. Comgrow 3 Pro 3D Printer best 3D printer for business
Product Overview:
Introduction
The Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D printer is a versatile and user-friendly option for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. With its semi-assembled kit and lifetime technical assistance, it offers not just a printer but also an educational journey into the world of 3D printing. Let's delve deeper into its features and capabilities.
Design and Build Quality
The Ender 3 Pro boasts a sturdy build with a removable build surface plate that ensures consistent temperature throughout the printing process. Its UL Certified power supply guarantees protection against power surges, while the resume print function saves you from the frustration of interrupted prints. The semi-assembled kit provides an engaging learning experience, making it ideal for STEM enthusiasts.
Print Quality
When it comes to print quality, the Ender 3 Pro delivers impressive results. With its ability to heat the hot bed to 110℃ in just 5 minutes, it ensures optimal printing conditions. Whether you're aiming for fine print resolution, color accuracy, or speedy printing, this printer doesn't disappoint. It offers versatility in handling different types of documents or images with ease.
Features
Equipped with advanced features like wireless printing and duplex printing capabilities, the Ender 3 Pro provides seamless connectivity options. Whether you prefer USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, this printer has you covered. Additionally, its speed and noise level are well-balanced, ensuring efficient performance without disturbing your workspace.
Ease of Use
One of the standout features of the Ender 3 Pro is its ease of use. The partially assembled kit simplifies the setup process, while the intuitive user interface and control panel make navigation a breeze. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned user, you'll appreciate the user-friendly design of this printer.
Software and Compatibility
Compatible with a wide range of software and operating systems, the Ender 3 Pro offers flexibility and convenience. Whether you're using Windows, Mac, or Linux, you can easily integrate this printer into your workflow. Its compatibility with popular 3D printing software ensures a seamless printing experience.
Reliability and Durability
Built to last, the Ender 3 Pro is designed with durability in mind. From its high-quality materials to its reliable performance, this printer is a reliable companion for your 3D printing projects. With proper maintenance and care, it will continue to deliver consistent results for years to come.
- Removable build surface plate for easy removal of models.
- Branded power supply for protection against power surges.
- Resume print function for unexpected power outages.
- Semi-assembled kit for educational experience in mechanical engineering and electronics.
- Lifetime technical assistance and 24-hour professional customer service.
- Print size is limited to 8.66×8.66×9.84 inches.
- Assembly is required before use.
- There is no mention of a warranty.
Also Read: Best Cheap 3d Printer Under $100
Things to Consider While Choosing the Best 3D Printer Under 500 Dollars: Selection Guide 2024
To choose the best 3D printer for your needs there are several factors to consider, which we could summarize in this way.
Type of use
Consumer or professional? The first question could also be trivially reduced to “ What do you need it for ”? From the answer to this first question, a watershed is created at the time of purchase. If you are a professional you must definitely invest in a product with important characteristics. If your goal is purely playful, the best 3D printer is simply the cheapest one.
Dimensions and quality of objects
Big size or quality? This second question concerns the "size vs quality" ratio . In fact, objects made with 3D printers usually have a manufacturing quality directly proportional to the size of the printer. Consequently, if the objects you need to make are small in size, you can choose between different 3D printers in the desktop version. If, on the other hand, you need objects of a certain size, and you don't want to give too much quality, the best 3D printer in this case is the industrial one.
Place of use
The third question, trivial in itself, is based on the choice of printing materials. You need to know, in fact, that common 3D printing materials such as Nylon emit toxic vapors, and in that case, it is not healthy to keep the 3D printer on your desk at home.
FFF, FDM, DLP, SLA, and LCD: what do they indicate and which one to prefer?
The fourth question is the most specific one and concerns the technologies used for the realization of 3D prints.
In particular, we have on the one hand FFF (or FDM), which is the technology based on the modeling of plastic material through heat, and on the other hand DLP, SLA, and LCD which are three different technologies that use UV rays to model resins. polymeric, which hardens when treated with these rays of light. The latter is definitely recommended if you have to produce small and highly finished objects.
FFF is the acronym for Fused Filament Fabrication and takes its name from the “cartridges” made up of real filaments of material, which are dissolved on the surface according to the shape to be created. The FFF or FDM method is very popular due to its versatility and low costs.
We could go into more detail about these technologies, but in reality, what interests users most is what can be done, in how much time, and at what cost. The analysis of the products in this is very explanatory.
Key aspects of a 3D printer
Now you know the differences and we have solved the mystery of the different acronyms, but now we are only halfway in choosing your first (or new) 3D printer, we have not talked about the technical aspects and the different features that you will need to consider in order to make the best choice for your needs - and the wallet:
Resin or filament
As we saw earlier, the two main choices regarding the printing material are resin and thermoplastic filaments.
Both choices are excellent and fit the needs of any hobbyist, even many professionals - indeed.
Let's look at them in more detail:
Filament
Filament printers are the most popular. Here the plastic material is in a reel and is melted by a nozzle which then deposits the layer along the perimeter of the project, layering the different levels and also recreating the details, from the base to the top.
Resin
Resin printers, on the other hand, use liquid resin. Here the base is immersed in a tank with the resin and a light source hardens the liquid creating the different layers. Resin printers are much higher quality than FMDs, with sharper and more precise details.
In addition to having a higher cost, however, there is also the cons of working with resin to be evaluated: it requires more ventilation, it takes a lot of attention in using the material, it risks creating disasters (eg overturning the resin), waste must be disposed of as hazardous waste (including gloves, mask, and paper used to collect residues or clean up parts in post-production) and much longer post-production processes.
Noisiness
3D printers can work incessantly for many hours, even all day, the noise factor is an aspect that we will have to consider carefully, especially if we keep it at home.
No machine of this type is 100% silent but some models are more silent than others. We always read the opinion left by other buyers on the matter to understand which one to choose and orient ourselves towards a solution that seems to us in line with our needs.
There are also a couple of tricks we can use to reduce noise.
We can install soundproofing panels in the room, we can place the 3D printer on a foam surface such as a yoga mat or on a carpet, surely we will always have to place it on a solid surface.
Print speed
3D printers have variable printing speeds. Usually, resin ones are slower than FMD ones.
Those who use these machines only as a hobby, for pure fun, after all, may not care much about the print speed aspect but for professionals, it can be a determining point.
To print small objects, a fast machine does not usually penalize the quality of the result but for larger objects than fast machines they can create vertical alignment problems and penalize the sharpness of details.
Self-leveling floor
A self-leveling floor (or “bed”) is one of those technical specifications that we would like to find in our perfect printer. Manual leveling can be exhausting, long, and tedious but on the other hand, a plane that is not perfectly aligned results in bad prints.
Fortunately, the self-leveling surfaces have a sensor that tests the different points of the bed to calculate the distance between the surface and the nozzle, then adjusts it so that the final print is flawless.
It is certainly one of the fundamental and indispensable features for beginners.
Connection options
Before printing your first piece you will need to send the print file to the 3D printer and this step you can do in several ways.
The majority of modern machine connects with a USB cable and are equipped with SD card slot or USB port to connect a pen drive.
Overall size and print size
Another aspect that we cannot overlook when choosing our 3D printer is how big it is. Obviously, if we have a dedicated laboratory, we can also go towards large machines but if we know that it will be placed on a table or a corner of the room, we should know in advance how much space is available.
But be careful, because one aspect that is closely related to the size of the machine is the maximum size of the object to be printed.
It should also be mentioned that resin printers tend to be a bit more compact than filament machines. For the average user, however, a small to the medium-sized 3D printer is generally sufficient.
Print quality, accuracy, and precision
An "accurate" machine is not necessarily a "precise" machine.
By “accuracy” we mean the ability to reproduce certain parameters while by printing “precision” we mean the ability to perform perfectly identical repeated movements.
So a 3D printer could be very accurate because it deposits the material in the exact point indicated by the project but not very precise because its movements are not perfectly identical and therefore it will not be able to be constant in the distribution of the layers.
Conclusions
The world of 3D printing is no longer a novelty but continues to evolve every year allowing us to make these products available to more and more people and for more and more uses. With this article, we have tried to guide you by combining the precision in dealing with the topic with the simplicity of scientific disclosure designed for everyone.
In this way, we hope to have guided you in this world of high technological value and to have helped you to choose with more serenity the best 3D printer under 500 USD for the use you intend to make of it. The products are now many and for all budgets so there will surely be a model suitable for you!
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