Are you in search of a 3D printer? Perhaps, you are pondering what type of a make or model to go in with. The good news is that purchasing 3D printers is no longer a complicated job.
The prices have dropped immensely over the last few years, and you can get one for less than 500 dollars in America. That is right. You can be a student, a working professional, or a designer whose source depends on the income you generate by designing.
Nowadays, a 3D printer is common to see and view. The cheapest of them are used by those wanting to use them for the first time, like students or new designers. If you belong to that category, then there is no reason why you have to shell out a lot of money.
You can find the best 3D printer under 500 dollars in the market today. Our research displayed several things we were unaware of, and we want to share them with you. The models are no good because they are less than 500 dollars.
We were highly impressed with their performance. Besides, users have written exceptional feedback about them. You could be a small firm or a single entrepreneur who wants to make a living from 3D printing.
The good news is that you can do so with the help of 3D printers. They can do the job for you. The 3D printers come with fully or partially loaded sublime features. Few of them come with different technology infused that offers you room for creativity.
You can now quickly work with these affordable printers and complete your tasks as a user. Besides that, when you get accustomed to working with them, it becomes a lot simpler. It is not surprising to note that 3D printers are in heavy demand in the market.
The benefits they receive are top-notch, and several firms and companies have immensely benefited. Hence, they are famous globally, and technology is being embedded in them vigorously.
Below we have discussed a list of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars, just for you.
What To Consider
The print requirement:-
The print requirement is the first thing you want to concentrate on. Sometimes, you may get overwhelmed by its features and design of it. However, when you are not using all the features, it may not be really required in the first place.
You will be amazed that some printers priced at less than $300 can perform stupendous printing. But if you need a custom case for prototype parts, even your smartphone, to print a simple figure, then any FDM printer can suffice.
So, analyze your firm’s print requirements, company, or personal needs, and then delve.
The build volume:-
In a 3D printer, you must consider the budget and move ahead. The build volume helps you finalize your decision in the case. Most of the segment products can flawlessly print what you want, and they are less than 300 x 300 x 300 mm.
The print speed and resolution:-
The resolution and the print speed are also vital for your decision. The printer offers you eloquent prints when there is a fair resolution that is the layer of thickness. The rate refers to the time required to perform a product.
Some firms or companies which take large orders may require the 3D printer to work efficiently. But some of you will want the quality of the product to come out well. Hence, you may not be too concerned about the speed.
The additional features:-
Additional features are one factor that many users tend to miss out on. They seem so spellbound on the 3D printer that they fail to identify any different qualities in it. They have been around for quite some time, and developers want to make improvements often.
They have ensured that they help users to get the best printout of the box. Though you will select from the best 3D printer, having different qualities is better. They have a memory card slot and manual control.
The compatibility of the material:-
You have several kinds of materials in the 3D printer. However, they come with their flaws. The main problem is that they come with simple materials.
You will want to know that 3D printers come with PLA or ABS but can have exotic composites.
To print carbon fiber, you must ensure that the printers you use are composite materials. Usually, the head of the print and the build plate should be capable of attaining temperatures and need a special nozzle.
The options to upgrade:-
We liked this fact about the 3D printer as it allows you to upgrade. You can make use of genuine kits or even use third-party accessories. You would be astounded at the upgrade you can perform on a cheap desktop 3D printer using a hundred dollars.
Not all 3D printers can be upgraded; that is why you will want to look at the frame, the machine’s built, and if the manufacturer provides you with kits for upgrading. Additionally, you can purchase an enclosure to keep your prints warm.
The level of community support:-
The level of community support is crucial for ensuring that it is worth your time and money. It is surprising to note that even popular manufacturers cannot provide you with proper customer support.
It makes sense to search for the best 3D printer under 500 dollars as it helps you. When there is no customer support, you can always fall on the blogs and forums to do so. This immensely assists you in finding a solution for your technical issues on the printer if you need to.
Best 3D Printers Under 500 $ – Our Top Pick👌
The number of 3D printers is increasing in the market. When you want to get hold of a printer that comes under 500 dollars, you will need to go through some hassle before finalizing the right one.
Besides, you may find making a choice tough with the number of choices present in the market. Our recommendations can immensely help you with making your choice of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars.
Hence, we want to remove the pain from you without going through every 3D printer.
1. Official Creality Ender 5 Plus 3D Printer
Official Creality Ender 5 Plus 3D Printer is the product on our list. Let us read to find out why that is so. From the makers of Comgrow, this is a fabulous product you must consider when looking for a 3D printer that is less than $500.
It comes with a sublime BLTouch auto bed leveling sensor. What this does is that it can easily measure the tilt, which occurs on the hotbed surface. Besides, it is capable of offering Z-axis leveling compensation.
This is a crucial aspect of any 3D printer because it saves your time and unwanted waste. Creality Ender is equipped with 2 lead screws on the Z-axis. The hotbed was flawlessly held stably using the Z-axis frames.
There is no need to be concerned about the chances of the bed wobbling or dropping. Hence, you have fewer opportunities for failure and fewer worries. It also comes with a dual Y-axis motor that enables you to have precise movements.
Any good 3D printer must help you with high-precision printing. Otherwise, what is the point of owning one in the first place? We felt that the 3D printer was simple to operate and set up. There is no need for an experienced hands-on printer.
The unit uses a 4.3″ touch color screen and has a few assembled kits that are partially set. It is simple to assemble and lets you learn the basic construction of a 3D printer. Finally, it comes with a tempered glass plate on the heated bed for simple removal.
Pros:-
- It is simple to set up and work on.
- The unit has a plus-size and top version of Ender-5.
- The printer comes with a BLTouch auto bed leveling sensor.
- There is thermal runaway protection.
- It has a reality V2.2 motherboard.
Cons:-
- Few users complained about the issues with the software.
Official Creality Ender 5 Plus is an excellent printer. This affordable, high-end option is one of the most effortless products to use. You may want to place an order today.
2. QIDI TECH 3D Printer – Best dual extruder 3d printer under $500
Qidi Tech X Pro is the best dual extrusion 3D printer we have seen in a long time. This is a feature-rich unit available in the market. It comes with the latest dual extrusion technology that is infused in it.
The product is widely used in the fields of education, design, engineering, and also for hobbyists. It comes with conditional breakpoint printing that offers you good quality. We liked the 4.3″ touch screen that enables you to operate it smartly.
It also comes with a mute printing feature. The 3D printer is durable. It offers you resistance from high temperatures because of the 6mm aluminum build platform. It can work effortlessly during high temperatures.
The curved metal plate can be removed when you want, making it work flexibly. Users commended the product because of that. It also has a metal platform support rod upgraded to 12mm and a mechanical structure, motor, and mainboard.
It is priced at less than $460 on Amazon and comes with exceptional user feedback.
Pros:-
- The 3D printer has a large 4.3″ color touch screen.
- It has managed to garner exceptional feedback.
- It comes with a heated aluminum build platform for durability.
- QIDI Print slicing software
- The manufacturer offers you timely customer service.
Cons:-
- Sadly, there is no USB connection on it.
Do you want to use the Qidi Tech X Pro? We think you should. It comes with all the features that any entrepreneur in 3D printing would require.
A massive touchscreen has an enclosed build for adequate protection and terrific customer reviews. Hence, it makes the Qidi Tech X Pro one of America’s best 3D printers under 500 dollars.
3. Creality Ender 3 Pro
Creality Ender 3 Pro is third on our list. We will read and find out. We found the Ender 3 Pro outstanding printing quality because of the new control board that helps the capacity to resume printing when you change the filament.
This is a durable 3D printer as it comes made of an all-aluminum frame. We also found that the POM engineering triangle slot wheels offer excellent stability when used. This reduces the need for metal steel rod noise.
The accuracy of the printer is another good point. It is meant to meet the specifications on an industrial basis. You will also find the assembly simple because it comes with instructions suitable for DIY customers.
You know that only genuine products reach you when ordering through Amazon. They ship directly to customers and offer a 1-year limited replacement and lifetime assistance.
One user from the Bay Area has said that it is the best printer he has used in a long time. He has worked on 3D printers worth $5000, but they were not this good. The user recommends this one because of the second-to-none features and, of course, the price.
The Creality Ender 3 Pro comes at less than $250, making it one of the market’s low-quote printers. It is this if you are a beginner looking for a cheap and decent 3D printer.
Pros:-
- It is easy to assemble and begin your work.
- You have extensive community support for the product.
- The product offers you top-notch accuracy.
- There are plenty of available upgrades.
- It comes with sublime parts.
Cons:-
- Its instructions are slightly hard to follow.
Do you want to purchase the Creality Ender 3 Pro? Yes, you must because it is one of the cheapest products in the market with top-notch features.
However, the speed is slightly low, but on the whole, it is the best 3D printer under 500 dollars for amateurs. Additionally, their customer support is one of the best in the market.
4. FlashForge Finder
FlashForge Finder is another excellent 3D printer in the market that is on our list. This is a low-priced product made by FlashForge.
Let us read all about it. Slide-in build plate that helps you draw out of the printer and remove the completed product seamlessly.
The product has a calibration detection system to assist leveling, and you can also tighten to loosen leveling screws. A distinct feature of the printer is that it comes with quiet printing as low as 50 decibels.
We liked the 3D cloud feature on the product, which can be helpful. The touchscreen is a good 3.5″ full color, with intuitive icons for a smooth workflow. The design is robust. We also were delighted to know that the plate is safe to use as it is non-heated.
You can also use a USB, Wi-Fi, and flash drive for sharing data with clients and friends. It is priced at less than $300 on Amazon, making it on par with the previous one. The 3D printer comes with effortless working and operation.
We feel it is suitable for schools and universities where you want to educate kids about the printer. A parent appreciated the company’s customer service when he was stuck up with the product.
Pros:-
- The product has a slide-out build plate.
- Its operation is relatively easy to understand.
- It is cheaply priced for students.
- The design is stable and ideal for learning.
- The unit enables quick data transfer.
Cons:-
- The extra parts must be printed.
FlashForge Finder is on our list and is priced at less than $260. The product requires additional parts to be printed. But it comes with a robust design, slide-out build plate, and a superb value 3D printer.
5. ANYCUBIC Mega X
ANYCUBIC Mega X is one of the best 3D printer under 500 $ because it is simple to use. When you search for a unit that is easy to use, it is the Mega x. The setup is simple, and the operations are a breeze.
You can instantly begin your work without delay. This is an exciting feature in the form of the filament sensor, as you can auto-pause if the filament breaks or runs out. We also liked the touchscreen on the printer as it is user-friendly.
It also has a high-quality extruder where the Titan works sublimely with the help of flexible filaments. The 3D printer has an ANYCUBIC ultra base that has excellent adhesion, is simple to use, and has longevity.
Power outages can sometimes be a problem for printing, especially in the 3D sector. If you have experienced it before, you know the stress that is involved with it. Luckily for you, with this product, none of that is an issue because it resumes its work efficiently.
The printer also comes with excellent customer support and lifetime technical help for consumers, which proves its worth. The number of positive comments about the 3D printer is staggering.
Pros:-
- It has a PLA filament in the package.
- The product requires easy assembly.
- The printing quality is outstanding.
- It comes with an auto-pause.
- The touch screen is simple to operate.
Cons:-
- Few users felt that the interface was a bit poor.
The Anycubic Mega X has a microporous coating on the bed, enabling it to decrease the sticking. It comes with a touchscreen for you to type the data. Ultimately, we can say you may want to purchase it and find out what you have been missing.
6. Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 – Best resin 3d printer under $500
Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 is the second to a none 3D printer in the market today. It has many features that can make your life easier in your work. Firstly, the speed of the printer is rapid.
We found that it can go up to 150 mm/s with the help of the direct drive extruder. The SW-X1 enables high-quality print for a filament that is flexible. As it arrives, you can begin your work on the Sidewinder X1 V4.
It comes with a direct drive extruder and AC heat bed that is fast heating. The unit has built-in thermal runaway protection. When the board malfunctions, the bed does not heat up. You would be happy to know that the bed can be taken up to 80 degrees in a few minutes.
The printer comes with a synchronized dual Z system that enables it to improve stability of the printer. Besides, the power supply provides you with adequate power. The need to be working for a long on it is not required.
Like the previous make we read above, this one, too, works immediately after a shutdown. Sometimes the power shut can cause a lot of hassle as you have to start from scratch.
Lastly, the 300 x 300 x 400 mm build volume provides a quiet working environment.
It overhauls the motion system on the Z that replaces the lead screws with a belt-driven system. This is one of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars for students, working professionals, and firms.
Pros:-
- The 3D printer comes with a filament holder that can be expanded.
- Its glass platform is heated.
- It has a direct drive extruder that comes with a volcano nozzle.
- It offers you a quiet work environment.
- The bed does not heat if the board malfunctions.
Cons:-
- Unfortunately, there are few quality control issues with it.
Artillery Sidewinder X1 V4 is by far one of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars in many ways.
The print quality is matchless; the design quality is outstanding; the filament holder is expanded, and a direct drive extruder is used for accurate results. When you have read all about it, you might as well place an order for it today itself.
7. Monoprice Voxel
Monoprice Voxel is another exceptional 3D printer in 2020. The unit is easy to set up and assemble. You can use simple instructions and begin work. Hence, we feel that it is suitable for students and educational purposes.
We liked the 2.8″ display that is an IPS touchscreen. It provides perfect images, and an assisted leveling system helps decrease calibration with a single tap. It instantly helps print nozzles to be swapped out within seconds.
The unit has 8GB of internal memory, a USB port, a hotspot, and a built-in camera. Besides, a quick-change nozzle helps you replace it in a few minutes. In most other printers, you may need at least 1 hour to change.
Users have complimented the printer for being flexible and easy to work with. The adjustable build plate can be removed with ease. The plate can be heated to temperatures up to 60 degrees Celsius.
It also comes with auto feeding along with a filament sensor. You can flawlessly insert your filament into the printer and tap on the touchscreen. It starts the operation effortlessly without issue.
The customer support is exceptional in this case. For the price, you are getting a good deal.
Pros:-
- The print quality is tremendous.
- We liked the design of it.
- It comes with a barrage of filament types for use.
- The printer can be upgraded as and when required.
- It provides outstanding customer service.
Cons:-
- At times, you may have to perform tinkering on it.
Monoprice Voxel is memorably one of the best 3D printers in the market. There is no doubt about its peerless abilities.
When you want a 3D printer priced under 500 dollars, it is a choice because it comes with a wide option of filament types, the materials are solid, and the print quality is matchless.
8. Creality CR-10 Mini
Creality CR-10 Mini is a superb 3D printer from the makers of Creality. CR-10 Mini has the capability of resuming printing effortlessly.
With the help of the upgraded control, board capacity can continue the work after a power outage.
The all-aluminum frame is durable and sturdy. It provides you with a product that can work for years together. You will also love the POM engineering thermo-plastic wheels that offer dimensional stability to them.
It does not get damaged easily with extended usage. The metal-on-metal steel rods can quickly reduce the noise. Users found it easy to install as the instructions were relatively easy to understand.
You will want to note that the 3D printer does not have a right-side bracket. Its underside z-axis mounting screws offer the required stability and functionality. It is priced at less than $320 on Amazon.
If you are looking for a cheap, durable, and sublime unit, then the Creality CR-10 Mini can help your cause. The 3D printer can seamlessly do print in no time with PLA, carbon fiber, and wood.
Pros:-
- It is one of the most compact printers on the market.
- The printer amicably supports many print materials.
- The unit has a sturdy aluminum base.
- It has a robust build and structure.
- It can resume printing.
Cons:-
- The glass bed is subject to warping.
Creality CR-10 Mini is not your run-of-the-mill product. It does come with one or two flaws. But when you look at the bright side, there are too many specifications that you may not want to ignore for your 3D print requirement.
9. TEVO Tornado
TEVO Tornado is our final 3D printer review. We felt that this printer is overlooked. The setup and installation are quite a breeze. It is relatively easy, and you can do it within 30 minutes. The accuracy of printing is excellent.
It can go down to 50 microns, providing you with exceptional quality. You can also get large prints up to 300 x 300 x 400mm. Users have been impressed with this kind of size and highly recommend it.
It is not often you get to see a compact 3D printer being able to provide you with a large-size printing result. The printer has a fast-heating AC heat bed that offers exceptionally good output.
We can say that it is one of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars in the market. It is priced cheap, offers you a powerful printing speed, has a fast heating AC heat bed, and has high transverse speed.
Pros:-
- The setup is quick.
- The print quality is tremendous.
- It has a compact shape and is built.
- It can offer you a large volume of print.
- The unit provides you with a fast-heating AC heat bed.
Cons:-
- Users can have other choices in the market.
TEVO Tornado is the best 3D printer under 500 dollars and an excellent option for Creality printers. You can expect the unit to print a large volume; the printer does not take up space and has quick assembly.
Yes, the unit has a few software and firmware niggles, but that should not stop you from trying it out.
📗FAQs
Which brand 3D printer is best?
The top 3D printer brands are Creality Ender 3 S1 Pro, Prusa MK3S+ Best High-End 3D Printer, Anycubic Kobra Go., Elegoo Mars 2 Pro., Anycubic Kobra Plus, Creality Ender 2 Pro, Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K, etc.
How much should I spend on my first 3D printer?
Most entry-level 3D printers are priced between $300 and $500. The higher-end printers are usually for seasoned users and can range between $1500 and $20000.
Which is better, ender 3 or ender 5?
Ender 5 wins the battle in printer size, print quality, tested power supply, and better filament pathway. However, Ender 3 has an edge regarding its low price and quality firmware.
Can you 3D print with metal?
Any metal can be used for 3D printing till it is available as a suitable powder. Remember, materials that burn instead of melting at a higher temperature are not processed usually and can be utilized for 3D painting when extruded through a nozzle.
How do 3D printing 2022 make money?
There are several ways to earn money through 3D printing. You can start a local 3D printing business, sell digital 3D models, design and build prototypes, rent your 3D printer, etc.
Is 3D printing profitable?
Yes, it is possible to make money using a 3D printer. There is much you can do, from selling 3D print items to offering 3D printing services in your area.
(Q) Do all the 3D printers that are priced below 500 dollars make use of PLA?
Yes, the 3D printers that are priced below 500 dollars make use of PLA. They are capable of operations using plastic filaments like ABS. The heater beds require to be able to reach a maximum of 100°C for getting excellent adhesion.
Besides, the adhesion comes with ABS, and in some cases, it requires to reach 210°C when operating on TPU material. It would be helpful when the 3D printer has PLA to offer you flawless results on your products.
(Q) Can 3D printers under $500 work with any software, or do I need to program them?
This is probably the main issue with cheap 3D printers. You may need to purchase your software for use. Unlike inexpensive 3D printers, that is not the case because they come with their software.
(Q) Is the best 3D printer under 500 dollars worth my time and money?
The best 3D printer under 500 dollars is worth your money because it has some outstanding features that can help you perform your tasks flawlessly. You want your work to be completed decently.
(Q) What must I look for when purchasing a 3D printer?
As we have already pointed out, you need to make sure that you concentrate on the print requirement, the volume you need, and the printer’s speed and resolution. Besides, you need to see additional features, material compatibility, upgrade choice, and community support.
Conclusion
This is the end of our review of the best 3D printer under 500 dollars. As we read, 3D printers have different shapes and sizes. They come infused with extra features that make them a sublime purchase.
Though some printers are suitable and come with matchless features, they can be quite expensive for you. The need to make costly purchases for the best 3D printer is out of the question. Even models that are under $500 can make your job simpler.
That is why they are known as budget 3D printers and are infused with a friendly interface. Moreover, they give you a certain amount of freedom to experiment with your models, ensuring you can get the best results for your customers.
Our readers may also want to spend some time on their research. You never know what you may have missed out on the list. Do you see a quality 3D printer that should have been on our list?
Please write to us about your experience.
