3D printing has become more accessible and affordable than ever before. Once considered a luxury hobby limited to engineers and tech enthusiasts, it has now evolved into a mainstream pursuit, thanks to the rise of budget-friendly 3D printers. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a student, or a teacher looking for a classroom tool, getting started with 3D printing no longer requires a hefty investment. The good news? You can find quality 3D printers for under $200 that still offer excellent performance and features.
TLDR:
If you’re diving into the world of 3D printing but don’t want to break the bank, there’s a surprising number of great options for under $200. These low-budget printers often come with features found in more expensive models, like sturdy frames, LCD interfaces, and decent print resolution. While you may sacrifice some extras like auto-bed leveling or ultra-high precision, the value these printers offer is outstanding. Read on to discover our top picks and what features to look for.
What to Expect from Budget 3D Printers
At a price point under $200, it’s important to manage your expectations—but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Most entry-level 3D printers in this range are ideal for beginners and hobbyists. While they may have smaller build volumes, limited advanced features, or require a bit more manual calibration, many offer impressive performance and reliability for the price.
When choosing a budget 3D printer, keep an eye on the following:
- Build Volume: This determines the size of objects you can print. Budget machines often have smaller volumes but still provide enough space for useful prints.
- Assembly: Some printers come pre-assembled, while others require partial or full assembly. The latter can be a great learning experience for newcomers.
- Print Quality: Resolution, stability, and motion systems dramatically affect output quality even in lower-priced models.
- Community and Support: Look for printers with active user communities and available support or tutorials. This can make a big difference when troubleshooting or upgrading.
Top Budget 3D Printers Under $200
1. Creality Ender 2 Pro
The Ender series by Creality is known for its reliability, and the Ender 2 Pro is no exception.
- Price: Around $169
- Build Volume: 165 x 165 x 180 mm
- Assembly: Semi-assembled
This model offers excellent print quality for its price and is extremely portable thanks to its compact size and top handle. The magnetic print bed makes removing prints easier, and it features a quiet operation suitable for shared spaces. While it doesn’t have auto bed leveling, manual calibration is simple and forgiving.
2. Anycubic Kobra Go
A recent addition that’s shaking up the budget market, the Kobra Go is feature-rich for its cost.
- Price: Around $189
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
- Assembly: Partially assembled kit
The Kobra Go introduces auto bed leveling in a sub-$200 printer—a rare and welcome inclusion. Its larger build volume allows for more ambitious projects, and the UI is intuitive with a decent-sized LCD screen. Assembly can take around an hour, but it’s well-instructed and relatively easy even for beginners.
3. Voxelab Aquila
A clone of the popular Ender 3, the Aquila is less expensive but still delivers solid performance.
- Price: Around $159
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
- Assembly: Requires assembly
If you’re handy and ready to tinker, the Aquila rewards you with high-quality results. It comes with a glass build plate for better adhesion and smoother bottoms, and while it lacks auto-leveling, the manual knobs work well. Firmware is open-source too, allowing for plenty of upgrades if you’re into modding.
4. Monoprice Select Mini V2
A compact and user-friendly printer that’s ideal for absolute beginners.
- Price: Around $179
- Build Volume: 120 x 120 x 120 mm
- Assembly: Fully assembled
This plug-and-play printer ships ready to use out of the box. It’s great for small-scale projects and tinkering but might feel constrained for users wanting to print larger models. Despite its size, the build quality is robust and the touch-screen control is a welcome feature.
5. Kingroon KP3S
A very compact yet capable printer that doesn’t take up much space but delivers high-quality prints.
- Price: Around $169
- Build Volume: 180 x 180 x 180 mm
- Assembly: Minimal assembly required
The Kingroon KP3S beats expectations with its linear guide rails for smooth motion, which is rare at this price. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for desktops or small workspaces, and it supports a range of filament types. It also comes mostly assembled, so you can start printing quickly.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Cheap 3D Printer
Not all budget 3D printers are created equal. Below are features that can make or break your experience:
- Filament Compatibility: PLA is standard, but some machines can also handle PETG, TPU, or ABS.
- Heated Bed: Essential for more reliable adhesion and reducing warping.
- Build Plate Material: Glass or magnetic beds can improve first-layer success and ease of removal.
- Noise Levels: Some printers operate very quietly, making them ideal for home or office use.
- Firmware Upgradeability: Open-source firmware allows future upgrades and feature extensions.
Pros and Cons of Budget 3D Printers
Pros:
- Affordable entry into 3D printing
- Compact and space-efficient
- Perfect for learning and experimentation
- Good print quality for most everyday needs
- Active support communities and plenty of mods
Cons:
- Limited build volume
- Less advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity or auto-leveling
- May require more manual maintenance
- Some models require assembly
Final Thoughts
Venturing into 3D printing doesn’t have to be expensive. There’s a treasure trove of budget-friendly options that offer great value and guide you through the basics of additive manufacturing. Whether you’re an educator introducing students to STEM, a maker bringing ideas to life, or just someone who’s curious and creative, a starter printer under $200 is a fantastic gateway.
Start with one of the above recommendations, learn the ropes, and discover just how powerful budget 3D printing can be. As your skills grow, you can stick with what you have or eventually invest in something more advanced—either way, you’ll have taken your first steps into a fascinating world of creation and innovation.