Toy soldiers, flowers, buildings, and so on and so forth! There are no limits with 3d printers except your own imagination.
This very particular type of printer is the evolution of traditional printers. Through three-dimensional modeling programs, they are able to reproduce any object using various materials.
The materials used for three-dimensional printing are numerous, ceramics can be used but also sugar and chocolate
Unconventional materials for a printer, don’t you think?
The pastry sector, in fact, was among the first to use this new technology.
We have collected a selection of the best 3d printers under 300 dollars on the market, we have highlighted all the specific features but … before starting, as usual, I leave you to the purchase guide, to shed some light on these innovative systems of Press.
Also Read: Best Printers For Heat Transfers
Best 3D Printers Under 300 USD
Table of Contents
3D printers allow access to impressive technology so that you can produce almost any component yourself. There are already millions of free 3D printing models on the internet. In addition, good to very good quality 3D printers are becoming more and more affordable and have already come in the price range of up to 300 dollars.
Also Read:: Best Printer For Printable Vinyl Stickers
Best 3D Printers Under $ 300 | Comparison 2023
Image | Title | Buy | |
---|---|---|---|
ANYCUBIC Mega-S New Upgrade 3D Printer with Extruder and Suspended Filament Rack + Free Test PLA Filament, Works with TPU/PLA/ABS | ANYCUBIC | Check Price | |
da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer-6"x6"x6" Volume (Includes: 300g Filament, PLA/Tough PLA/PETG) - Upgradable to print Metallic/Carbon PLA | XYZprinting | Check Price | |
Voxelab Aquila 3D Printer, DIY FDM All Metal 3D Printers Kit with Removable Carborundum Glass Platform, Resume Printing Function, Print Size 220x220x250mm (Black) | Voxelab | Check Price | |
Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing Function DIY 3D Printers Printing Size 220x220x250mm | Comgrow | Check Price | |
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 | Check Price | |
LGT Longer LK1 3D Printer, 300x300x400mm Large Build Size Printer, Metal Frame with Resume Printing - Black | Longer | Check Price | |
Anet ET5X DIY 3D Printer, Auto Leveling with Resume Printing Function, 3.5 Inch LCD Color Touch Screen, Upgraded Over-Current Protection Mainboard, Large Size 11.8x11.8x15.7Inch | Anet | Check Price | |
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 | Check Price | |
Monoprice MP10 3D Printer - Black with (300 x 300 mm) Magnetic Heated Build Plate, Resume Printing Function, Assisted Leveling, and Touch Screen | Monoprice | Check Price |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best 3D Printers Under $ 300 | 2023 Products Overview
1. ANYCUBIC Mega-S
- WORKS OUT OF THE BOX: 3 steps to set up ANYCUBIC Mega S 3D printer with 8 screws and 3 cables for minutes, not only meets fast assembly needs for expert users but also friendly use to beginners. The rigid metal frame can minimize the shaking to improve the print quality.
- UPGRADED EXTRUDER DESIGN: Titan extruder provides precise extrusion for your 3D printing with solid filament drive and overall mechanical design compatible with most filaments, greatly reducing the clogging risk and improving printing accuracy.
- RESUME PRINT & SENSOR DETECTION: Mega S 3D Printer can resume printing after a power outage or any other unexpected stoppage.One-click to resume from the last recorded position when suffering power outages. And the sensor pauses prints and sets off an alarm when you run out of filament which greatly saves time and cost, printing volume reaches 8.27 x 8.27 x 8.07 inches.
- ANYCUBIC ULTRABASE: Patented 3D printer printing platform surface coated with a patented microporous coating, with excellent adhesion when printing and then effortlessly falls off the bed when it cools to room temp at the end of the print.
- MORE FUNCTION: 1)TFT Touch Screen-As responsive as operating on the phone. 2)All ANYCUBIC 3D printers backed with lifetime technical support and 24 hours professional customer service.
Product Overview:
The ANYCUBIC Mega S is a 3D printer that is designed to be easy to set up and use. It comes with 8 screws and 3 cables that can be assembled in minutes, making it suitable for both expert users and beginners. The printer has a large printing volume of 8.27 x 8.27 x 8.07 inches, allowing you to create large and detailed models.
One of the key features of the ANYCUBIC Mega S is its upgraded extruder design. The Titan extruder provides precise extrusion for your 3D printing with a solid filament drive and overall mechanical design compatible with most filaments, greatly reducing the clogging risk and improving printing accuracy. It can work with 1.75mm 3D Printer Filament such as TPU, PLA, ABS, HIPS, WOOD, etc.
The ANYCUBIC Mega S also comes with a range of advanced features that make it even more convenient to use. The printer can resume printing after power outages or other unexpected stoppages, and it comes with a sensor that pauses prints and sets off an alarm when you run out of filament, saving you time and money.
- Easy to set up and use, suitable for both expert users and beginners.
- Upgraded extruder design for precise extrusion and reduced clogging risk.
- Resume printing feature after power outages or unexpected stoppages.
- Sensor detection for filament run out, saving time and cost.
- Patented Ultralbase for excellent adhesion during printing and easy removal after cooling.
- Large size may take up more space in a room.
- Only compatible with 1.75mm filaments.
- The sensor detection for filament run out can be triggered easily with transparent filaments.
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Also Read: Best Portable Printer For iPhone
2. XYZprinting Mini Wireless 3D Printer
- Compact and productive: The da Vinci mini is 30% smaller than da Vinci Jr. 1.0 and has a 5.9 X 5.9 X 5.9 Aluminum printer bed for larger and finer prints
- Connect wirelessly to your home network for easy 3D printing
- The Da Vinci mini filaments are made using PLA plastics derived from corn starch, making them environmental and non-toxic
- The Da Vinci mini streamlines its printing function through a single-button printer design as well as providing different colored LEDs to indicate printing Conditions
- Make your dreams into reality with the FREE downloadable version of XYZmaker 3D modeling design software for beginners. Connector type: Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n); USB 2.0
Product Overview:
The XYZPrinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer is a fully open-source 3D printer with a printing size of 6"x6"x 6" that can be upgraded to print metallic and carbon PLA. It offers a fast printing speed while maintaining a consistent 200-micron printing resolution, making it perfect for those who want to print high-quality objects in a short amount of time. The printer only takes about 1 minute to heat up the nozzle and the suggested setting for using PLA, Tough PLA, and PETG filament is 245 degrees.
With a printing dimension of 5.9' x 5.9' x 5.9', the XYZPrinting Da Vinci Mini Wireless 3D Printer can print a wide array of objects at a great size. The printer is designed for ease of use, with a plug-and-play setup and the newest user interface, making it easy to start your first 3D printing project. It comes fully assembled and ready to use, and the company recommends using XYZPrinting 600G NFC filament only.
- The open-source 3D printer that can be upgraded to print metallic and carbon PLA.
- Fast printing speed while maintaining consistent 200-micron printing resolution.
- Quick nozzle heating time of only 1 minute.
- Easy to use plug and play setup with newest user interface.
- Excellent after-sale customer service.
- Only uses XYZPrinting 600G NFC filament.
- Limited print size of 5.9″ x 5.9″ x 5.9″.
- Some users may find the printer is not as high-quality as more expensive models.
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Also Read: Best Black and White Laser Printer
3. Voxelab Aquila 3D Printer
- 【Integrated Structure Design】Easy to assemble and maintain with integrated structure and modular design. All lines are concealed in the machine. It’s more convenient and safer for you to operate.
- 【Resume Printing Function】The machine can automatically resume printing when power comes on. It won’t print from scratch once meeting filament breakage, saving time and avoiding waste.
- 【Semi-Assembled Kit】This easy-to-setup kit comes partially assembled, enabling you to learn about the basic construction of 3D printers as you finish putting it together.
- 【Removable Build Surface Plate】Auqila uses a carborundum glass platform, enables the building platform to heat up in 5 minutes and prints to adhere better without warping. Ultra smoothness even on the first layer.
- 【Warranty and Service】All Voxelab 3d printers are provided lifetime technical assistance and a one-year warranty. If you have any questions regarding product operation or software please feel free to contact us.
Product Overview:
The Voxelab Aquila C2 3D printer is a DIY printer that features an all-metal frame and a removable build surface plate. The printer also includes a 32-bit silent motherboard and has a print size of 220x220x250mm. One of the key features of the Aquila C2 is its integrated structure design, which makes it easy to assemble and maintain. All of the lines are concealed within the machine, providing a more convenient and safer user experience.
Another notable feature of the Aquila C2 is its resume printing function. In the event of a power outage, the printer will automatically resume printing from where it left off, rather than starting the print from the beginning. This can save time and prevent wasted materials. The Aquila C2 comes in the form of a semi-assembled kit, which allows users to learn about the basic construction of 3D printers as they put it together.
The Aquila C2 features a removable build surface plate made of carborundum glass. This platform is able to heat up in just 5 minutes and allows for improved adhesion of the printed material without warping. Additionally, the platform provides an ultra-smooth surface even on the first layer. Voxelab offers lifetime technical assistance and a one-year warranty for the Aquila C2. If you have any questions regarding product operation or software, you can contact Voxelab for support.
- Integrated structure design makes it easy to assemble and maintain.
- The resume printing function saves time and prevents wasted materials.
- The semi-assembled kit allows for learning about basic construction of 3D printers.
- Removable build surface plate made of carborundum glass for improved adhesion and smoothness.
- Lifetime technical assistance and one-year warranty offered by Voxelab.
- Print size is limited to 220x220x250mm
- Print bed is not Auto-leveling
- It’s a DIY kit, so it may take some time to assemble and understand the printer.
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Also Read: Best Printer For Cricut
4. Comgrow Ender 3 3D Printer
- Resume Printing Function: Ender 3 has the ability to resume printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs.
- Easy and Qucik Assembly: It comes with several assembled parts, you only need about 2 hours to assemble 20 nuts well.
- Advanced Extruder Technology: Upgraded extruder greatly reduces plugging risk and bad extrustion; V-shape with POM wheels make it move noiseless, smoothly and durable.
- Safety Protected Power Supply: Only needs 5 minutes for hot bed to reach 110 degree.
- Strict Test: Strict testing for key components before delivery and life-time technical supports available.
Product Overview:
The Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is a fully open source device that is designed for DIY enthusiasts. One of its key features is the ability to resume printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs, making it a reliable and efficient option for those who want to create their own designs. Assembly is easy and quick, with only about 2 hours needed to assemble the 20 nuts.
The advanced extruder technology of the Ender 3 greatly reduces the risk of plugging and bad extrustion, making it a more reliable device for printing. The V-shape with POM wheels also make it move noiselessly, smoothly and durable. In addition, it has a safety protected power supply that only needs 5 minutes for the hot bed to reach 110 degrees.
The Ender 3 3D printer is also subject to strict testing for key components before delivery and comes with life-time technical support. This ensures that users can trust in the quality of the product and feel confident that they can rely on it for their 3D printing needs. With its advanced features and reliable performance, the Ender 3 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into DIY 3D printing.
- The resume printing function allows for reliable and efficient printing
- Easy and quick assembly
- Advanced extruder technology reduces plugging risk and bad extrusion
- Safety-protected power supply for added safety
- Strict testing for key components before delivery
- May take 2 hours to assemble
- Technical support may not be available in all regions
- Some users may find the print size (8.66×8.66×9.84 inches) too small.
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5. Creality 3D Ender 3 3D Printer
- Fully open-source: Creality 3D printers is working with its wonderful community of users and contributors to improve this open-sourced product every day. A design culminating from some of the best and brightest minds in the 3D printing world.
- NEXT GENERATION TECHNOLOGY: Our upgraded control board offers state of the art, Resume Print technology. Should your printer suffer unexpected power outages, it will resume from the last recorded extruder position. Goodbye failed prints! The advanced MK-8 extruders genius design greatly reduces the risk of clogging and uneven extrusion. High precision ball bearing wheels made from Delrin/POM engineering thermoplastic deliver high stiffness, low friction, and excellent dimensional stability.
- PARTIALLY-ASSEMBLED KIT: The lower base and all wiring completed in our factory. This kit style 3D printer comes with all tools included and is an excellent project for middle school and high school-aged students. The perfect gift to spark a lifelong love for science and engineering, and provide a deeper understanding of machinery and robotics!updated USB Port makes it more convenient
- CREALITY Official Store We are the ONLY official Creality 3D store! Because all of our products are shipped to the consumer directly from the manufacturer, we provide a 1-year limited and lifetime technical assistance. Professional customer service has always been a cornerstone of our company philosophy.
- Resume Printing: Creality 3D printer equipped with super quiet printing designing, with smooth adjustable pulley, and if power is accidentally cut off during printing, accurate printing can be continued after power is switched on.
Product Overview:
The Creality Ender 3 3D printer is fully open source and features a resume printing function. The advanced control board offers "Resume Print" technology, which allows the printer to resume from the last recorded extruder position in case of unexpected power outages. The MK-8 extruder design greatly reduces the risk of clogging and uneven extrusion. The printer also features high precision ball bearing wheels made from Delrin/POM engineering thermoplastic, delivering high stiffness, low friction and excellent dimensional stability.
The Ender 3 comes as a partially-assembled kit, making it an excellent project for middle school and high school-aged students. The kit includes all tools necessary for assembly and is a great gift for those interested in science and engineering. The updated USB port makes it more convenient to use.
- Fully open-source, allowing for customization and improvement.
- Resume printing function to prevent failed prints due to power outages.
- Advanced MK-8 extruder design reduces clogging and uneven extrusion.
- High-precision ball bearing wheels provide high stiffness, low friction and excellent dimensional stability.
- A partially-assembled kit is a great project for students interested in science and engineering.
- The printer is a kit that needs assembly, which can be time-consuming and potentially confusing for some users.
- The printer is only shipped from the manufacturer, which may cause delays.
- The company only provides a 1-year limited warranty, not covering all possible issues that may arise.
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6. Longer LK1 3D Printer for small business
- 【EXTRA LARGE BUILD PLATFORM】The Max Build size for this LK1 3D Printer is 300*300*400mm, and can print models that 90% of other printers could not.
- 【RECOVER PRINTING FUNCTION】The LK1 has the ability to resume printing even after a power outage or lapse occurs; And built-in filament sensor, when the filament runs out, it will stop printing, and will continue once there is filament. So you do not need to print from the beginning again, which can help you save a lot of material and time.
- 【EASY TO ASSEMBLE AND OPERATE】LK1 uses a touch color screen for easy and quick operation. It comes with several partially assembled kits, very easy to assemble and allow you to learn about the basic construction of a 3D printer.
- 【PRINTING EFFICIENT AND SAFE】With a tempered glass plate on the heated bed, which makes models are easier to be removed. It also makes the hot bed more flat and provide all-around production. And build-in power management and thermal cooling system, keep the printing safer.
- 【TECHNICAL SUPPORT】: The Longer provide one-year after-sale service for printer and lifetime technical assistance and 24H response. There also has a growing user community to share their successes and trials on Facebook, Reddit, and Youtube, which very helpful to beginners even seasoned users.
Product Overview:
The LGT Longer LK1 3D Printer is a high-performance machine with a large build size of 300x300x400mm, which allows it to print models that other printers cannot. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need to print large or complex models. Additionally, the LK1 features a metal frame for added durability and a resume printing function that allows it to continue printing after a power outage or lapse, saving both time and material.
The LK1 is also designed to be easy to assemble and operate, with a touch color screen for quick and intuitive controls. It comes with several partially assembled kits, which make it easy to learn about the basic construction of 3D printers. The printer also features a built-in filament sensor that stops printing when the filament runs out, and resumes once more filament is added.
The LK1 also has several safety and efficiency features, such as a tempered glass plate on the heated bed which makes it easy to remove models, and a power management and thermal cooling system that keep the printing process safe.
- Extra large build platform with a maximum size of 300x300x400mm.
- Resume printing function that allows it to continue printing after a power outage.
- Easy to assemble and operate with a touch color screen.
- Printing efficient and safe with a tempered glass plate and built-in power management and thermal cooling system.
- Good technical support with one year after-sale service and lifetime technical assistance.
- The price may be considered high for some users.
- The print quality may not be as high as some more expensive models.
- It is not suitable for printing small or very detailed models.
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Also Read: 3D Printer Under 150 Dollars of 2023
7. Anet ET5X DIY Best 3D printers for beginners
- ?【Ultra Large Print&Matrix Automatic Levelling】 300x300x400mm ultra large print volume. Auto measures 25 points across the print platform for heat bed leveling. An induction sensor can probe the bed in a grid and apply mesh-based compensation that ensures you print on a level bed every time, all without the time-consuming and labor-intensive leveling tasks.
- ?【Filament Sensor&Power Outage Recovery】 The filament sensor detects the filament end and sends reminders to the screen to avoid air-printing. Resume printing and recover from exactly where it left off. No worries about unexpected power outages.
- ?【Auto Filament Assignment&Assembled In No Time】 Automatic load and unload the filament with just a click.Pre-assembly and modular design with quick assembles in 10min. Solid Wire Connection, Distributor connector for solid wire connections.
- ?【Dual Z-axis, More Accurate Print&Stable Y-axis Movement】 ET5 applies dual Z-axis rods and motors to make sure the smoothness and accuracy of every slight movement. Dual Y axis guideway for a more stable and level moving stage of the build platform. Intuitive Touchscreen.Colorful LCD touch screen, allowing you to control the movement of X/Y/Z axis, leveling and printing with ease.
- ?【Safe Designed Control Board】 You can connect your ET5 online or offline to any configuration for your convenience. You could print via SD card or USB flash drive. Self-developed industrial-grade 32bit control board with MCU STMF407. Stable operation with high precision. The mother board has thermal runaway protection. If the printer fails to detect the temperature for a certain time, it would automatically power off.
Product Overview:
The Anet ET5X is a DIY 3D printer that features automatic leveling and a resume printing function. It also has a 3.5-inch LCD color touchscreen and an upgraded over-current protection mainboard. With a large build volume of 11.8x11.8x15.7 inches, this printer is suitable for a variety of projects.
Anet Technology is a company that was established in November 2015 and focuses on R&D of 3D printers and peripheral products. The company has over 200 employees and a R&D team of more than 20 specialists. They have been certified as a national new high-tech enterprise by the Chinese government and have acquired more than 20 patents for 3D printer R&D. Anet has also established worldwide warehouse networks and a professional after-sales team to serve customers from all over the world.
The Anet ET5X is manufactured in a controlled production area and assembly line that ensures that each product is of high quality. The production area is capable of handling a large number of orders and has enough inventory to meet customer demand. Anet also organizes various exhibitions at home and abroad to showcase their products and collect customer feedback to continue improving their product line.
- Auto leveling and resume printing function for convenience.
- 3.5 inch LCD color touch screen for easy control.
- Upgraded over-current protection mainboard for added safety.
- Large build volume of 11.8×11.8×15.7 inches.
- Professional after-sales team to serve customers worldwide.
- As it is a DIY printer, the assembly may be required.
- It is a new technology, so there may be some bugs to be fixed.
- As it is produced by a Chinese company, the warranty may be limited in certain countries.
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Also Read: Best Metal 3d Printer 2023
8. FASTTOBUY Best budget 3D printer
- Silent printing with the new mainboard chipset, keep your focused.
- Print big models efficiently at once thanks to large printing area of 300×300×400mm/12in (L) x 12in(W) x16in (H)
- Good start for creative makers who like to combine quality and budget. Upgraded to Titan Direct drive. BL touch available as optional add on. Suitable for professional enthusiasts of 3d printer .
- Kits are ready to be mounted easily and quickly. Same titan drive, silent motherboard, 300*300*400mm big printing size and structure to cr10 v3
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: 1 year warranty and life long techincal supports.
Product Overview:
The FDM 3D Printer Kit Pyramid A1.1 is a high-quality 3D printer that is suitable for both creative artists and DIY designers. One of the standout features of this printer is its silent printing capability thanks to the new mainboard chipset. This allows you to keep your focus while the printer is in operation. Additionally, the large printing area of 300x300x400mm (12" x 12" x 16") allows you to print big models efficiently all at once. This makes it a great option for those looking to combine quality and budget.
This printer is also highly customizable, as it is open source and can be modified. It is compatible with a variety of materials, including PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, and Carbon Fiber. The printing speed is also adjustable, with a maximum speed of 180mm/s, but a normal range of 30-60mm/s. The nozzle diameter is standard at 0.4mm and the hotbed temperature can reach up to 110℃. The printing temperature can range from 190-250℃ and it can be operated online or offline via the SD slot.
- Silent printing with the new mainboard chipset
- Large printing area of 300x300x400mm (12″ x 12″ x 16″)
- Customizable, open-source design
- Compatible with a variety of materials
- Lifetime technical support and 45-day no-questions return policy
- BL touch and direct drive are available as optional add-ons
- Print speed is limited to 180mm/s
- only 3 languages are available for the user manual/installing video/operation guide.
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9. Monoprice MP10 Best 3D printer
- Easily Accessible Magnetic Extruder: The removable magnetic carriage provides an easy launch point for changing to an extruder system of your choice. Working on your machine is more convenient than ever.
- 2 Screw Hotend Removal: Access to your hotend is easy, making quick changes to the tool head possible. Switch from a 0.4mm to a 0.6mm nozzle without the hassle of actually changing the nozzle. Quick, convenient, and easy.
- Heated, Removable, & Flexible Print Bed: Capable of easily hitting 100 degree C, this large 300 x 300 print bed makes removing prints easier than ever. The magnetic platform also makes cleaning and removing the bed itself simple and straightforward.
- Assisted Bed Level Sensor: Leveling is easy with the level sensor. It will detect differences in the bed, which allows you to set an accurate Z offset to make first layers a breeze.Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
- Dual Y Gantry: The dual Y gantry provides a stable base for the printbed, minimizing wobble found in single Y gantry models of 3D printers. This results in cleaner prints and prevents the need to level over and over again.
Product Overview:
The Monoprice MP10 3D Printer is a black device with a magnetic heated build plate measuring 300 x 300 mm. It has a resume printing function and an assisted leveling feature, as well as a touch screen for ease of use. One of its standout features is the easily accessible magnetic extruder, which allows for quick and convenient changes to the extruder system.
The MP10 also has a 2 screw hotend removal system, making it easy to access and change the hotend. This allows for quick adjustments to the tool head, such as switching from a 0.4mm to a 0.6mm nozzle without the need to change the nozzle itself. The print bed is also heated, removable, and flexible, capable of reaching temperatures of up to 100 degrees Celsius for easy removal of prints.
Additionally, the MP10 has an assisted bed level sensor that detects differences in the bed, allowing for the accurate setting of the Z offset for easy first layer creation. It has a filament diameter of 1.75mm and a dual Y gantry for added stability, which minimizes wobble and results in cleaner prints.
- Easily accessible magnetic extruder for quick and convenient changes
- 2 screw hotend removal system for easy access and adjustments
- Heated, removable, and flexible print bed for easy removal of prints
- Assisted bed level sensor for accurate first-layer creation
- Dual Y gantry for added stability and cleaner prints
- Only supports filament diameter of 1.75mm
- Print bed size is only 300 x 300mm
- May be more expensive than some other 3D printers on the market.
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Also Read: Best Cheap 3d Printer Under $100
Unrivaled Guide on Best 3D Printers Under $ 300
How does a 3D printer work?
But the important question you need to ask yourself is: how does a 3D printer work? If on the one hand, the great diffusion on the territory took place thanks to the ease of use, it is even more true that it is necessary to understand well how it works to obtain the best possible result. Before approaching the 3D printer, the design of the object you intend to build is fundamental; through a computer and dedicated software, you will have to shape your creation in the smallest details, from length to depth, without neglecting the materials with which you want to realize your idea.
Also Read: Best 3d Printer Under 500 Dollar
The most common software (you will find several, even free) allows you to save the project created in the Standard Triangulation Language To Layer (STL) format. This has the ability to divide the design into many graphic triangles, making it easier for the 3D printer to read the object. To understand the practical operation of this device it is important to imagine a 2D printer and the traditional printing of office documents and files. In fact, the real difference lies in the main head, the latter is identified with the extruder in a 3D printer, while with the ink in a 2D printer.
The extruder has the function of using the polymers of the materials, which through the filament heated to very high temperatures, allowing the composition and construction on a rigid plate of the project created in the software. As you can deduce, the extruder is the real fulcrum of a 3D printing, this in fact is essential to take care of the three printing phases:
- transport of polymers from the tank to the heating phase;
- state of the filaments up to fusion;
- the filaments come out of the nozzle to compose the object.
The extruder is a mobile component of the 3D printer, consequently, it has degrees of freedom that constrain it both in horizontal and vertical movement. For this reason, it is important that, even for a cheap 3D printer, a product is identified with an excellent extruder.
Materials used in 3D printing
Once you understand how a 3D printer works, it is important to focus on what materials are used for printing. Every year, thanks to scientific and technological evolution, there are always new filaments that can be used for your 3D projects, depending on the needs and the desired final quality.
In all likelihood, however, you will never have heard of materials in powder, pellets, or granules; this is because they are not widely used due to a limited cost and availability. The most used materials for 3D printers are metallic materials and plastic materials.
Metallic materials
In the industrial field, metal prints are used, these use steel as the primary material, which is usually used to create silver-colored chrome plating on jewels. Artists and craftsmen use this 3D printing technique not only with steel but also with titanium, in order to improve the strength of the built objects.
Plastic materials
Metallic materials will have destabilized you a bit, their use is hardly approached to the world of cheap 3D printers but different is instead the discourse for plastic materials, ideal for having fun within the walls of the house. Usually, when you buy a 3D printer, there is a nylon filament spool in the package: here, this is indispensable for the Filament Deposition Manufacturing (FDM) process. With the use of nylon, the extruder has the task of melting the filament of the cartridge and then proceeding towards the construction through a layered composition process of the designed object.
This material is highly appreciated by those who 3D print because it guarantees good flexibility and resistance but above all, given the white color, it can be subsequently colored after printing. Another plastic material used for 3D prints is ABS, this suitable for the production of very resistant and rigid objects; through a heating phase at more than 250 ° C the filament is melted before it can be used.
ABS can be purchased in different colors, considerably speeding up the finishing process of the conceived project. In addition, in addition to the versatility in the choice of color, it also boasts characteristic recyclability: a not negligible element when it comes into contact with plastic materials and their disposal.
What to expect from an affordable 3D printer?
Print quality: although the quality of the new generations of economic 3D printers is always constantly improving, it is undeniable that an economic product must overlook the perfection of details. Some small burrs in the final result can still be improved through the use of small accessories for cleaning excess filaments. The advice is to equip yourself with a small kit for cleaning excess filaments.
Dedicated software: a cheap 3D printer bases much of its longevity and reliability on the software created by the community or by major companies for free. A high-end 3D printer has in 90% of cases a dedicated software on which to import and design your works, while a cheap 3D printer hardly guarantees the presence in the purchase bundle of software optimized for that model. A lighter, less professional approach to printing is to be expected. However, the presence on the market of completely free software capable of guaranteeing excellent results should be emphasized.
Weight: many companies producing 3D printers, in order to put cheap products on the market, invest little in the quality of the component materials of the printer itself. Lightweight structures with a low specific weight are a consequence of practical savings; don't be scared when you pick up the printer and it will feel very light. For some, the lower weight is seen as a strength, capable of guaranteeing portability and manageability, for others, it is synonymous with low quality and little longevity.
How to choose a good 3D printer at a good price
As with all technological devices, 3D printers also have their price ranges. The cheapest range can be limited to a price range that varies from 150 dollars to 400 dollars and differs significantly from one model to another.
So how to choose your 3D printer for under 300 dollars ? To understand this, the first real question you need to ask yourself is: what should I print?
It will seem obvious but it is instead essential in order to buy the ideal product for your needs. For example, if you just want to experience the world of 3D printing, it is advisable to spend as little as possible, so that you can closely verify the mechanics of operation and begin to familiarize yourself with graphics software.
If, on the other hand, you are a lover of action figures and useful objects for DIY, the advice is to choose a product with a very precise extruder and above all with a not too light structure, so as to guarantee greater longevity over time.
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