Best Budget 3D Printers Under $200 in 2024
Budget 3D printers have become much better in recent years. Today, for $200 or less, you can get a printer that would have cost $500+ just a few years ago. We've tested dozens of models and selected the best options for a limited budget.
What's included in the $200 budget?
Besides the printer, consider additional expenses: filament ($20-30), basic tools ($15-25), possible upgrades ($30-50). The total startup budget will be around $265-305.
Top 3 Budget Printers
Key Features:
- •250mm/s speed
- •Auto-leveling
- •Easy assembly
Advantages:
- ✓Very fast printing
- ✓Automatic bed leveling
- ✓Good quality out of the box
Disadvantages:
- ✗Noisy at high speeds
- ✗Limited build volume
Key Features:
- •Huge community
- •Many modifications
- •Glass bed
Advantages:
- ✓Excellent modifiability
- ✓Large community
- ✓Time-tested design
Disadvantages:
- ✗Requires manual leveling
- ✗Needs tuning out of the box
Key Features:
- •Large build volume
- •Direct drive
- •Touch screen
Advantages:
- ✓Large build volume 300x300x400mm
- ✓Direct extruder
- ✓Good build quality
Disadvantages:
- ✗Large footprint
- ✗High power consumption
What to Look for When Buying
Essential Features:
- • Heated bed (for ABS and PETG)
- • Print recovery after power failure
- • Filament runout detection
- • Quality bearings and rails
Desirable Features:
- • Automatic bed leveling
- • Touch screen
- • Silent stepper drivers
- • Magnetic removable build plate
Hidden Costs
Additional Expenses:
Essential:
- • PLA Filament: $20-25
- • Basic tools: $15-20
- • Spare nozzles: $10-15
Recommended:
- • Upgraded bed springs: $10
- • Glass bed: $15-20
- • Extruder upgrade: $20-30
Conclusion
Budget 3D printers in 2024 offer excellent value for money. The Anycubic Kobra 2 leads due to its speed and auto-leveling, the Creality Ender 3 V2 remains a classic for modification enthusiasts, and the Artillery Sidewinder X2 is perfect for those who need a large build volume.
Our Recommendation
For your first budget printer, choose the Anycubic Kobra 2. It offers modern features at an affordable price and is perfect for learning the basics of 3D printing.