3D printing has come a long way in the last decade, making it affordable and accessible to individuals like kids, students, and working professionals who want to give shape to creative projects. Previously, it was designed only for industrial purposes and cost thousands of dollars. Now, anyone can purchase a budget-friendly 3D printer without breaking the bank. If you want to start a 3D printing journey on a budget, you can explore our top choices 3D printers under a $500.
Within this budget, you can find 3D printers with multiple features like faster printing speeds, user-friendly procedures, automatic bed leveling, and more. As a newcomer to 3D printing, you might wonder what can be built with a 3D printer. The possibilities are virtually limitless—smaller 3D-printed designs, statues, dice, costume armor, and more can be created from scratch. As you gain techniques and experience, your final output will significantly improve.
How We Selected the Best 3D Printers Under $500?
We’ve focused on a couple of key factors to pick the best 3D printers under $500 based on a beginner-friendly level. It’ll ensure the balance between budget and performance for causal users or learners.
- Ease of Use: Assuming these printers are for beginners, we have ensured valuable features like automatic bed leveling, easy setup instructions, and easy-to-use interfaces in these products. Therefore, you can quickly start using these 3D printers without any prior experience.
- Print Quality: We’ve tried to select specific models that offer good print quality, considering the price range. You should always check for quality extruders and sturdy frames for better results.
- Build Volume: Having a larger print area with a better build is a good option. Such printers can print a variety of projects, from small objects to large figures, allowing you to expand your 3D printing projects.
- Printing Speed and Efficiency: Printing speed is also critical because it can reduce the waiting time without lowering the quality. It includes features like direct drive extruders or pre-installed Klipper firmware.
- Material Compatibility: Here, we’ve mentioned 3D printers that use polyester or rubber kind of filaments like PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS ((Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), etc. One 3D printer in the list also uses Resin to print objects. So, material compatibility also plays a significant role.
- Useful Features: 3D Printers mostly come with multiple printing technologies like FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), MSLA Stereolithography, etc. You can also expect automatic bed leveling, nozzle quality, X-Y axis screws and tensioners for stable printing, power loss recovery, enhanced cooling fans, connectivity options, slicing software, print noise level, and more on 3D printers, depending on each model.
- Value for Money: It’ll be our utmost priority to offer value for money 3D printers for a balance between features and affordability.
- Real-World Reviews and User Feedback: We’ve thoroughly checked the real-world user feedback and reviews on Amazon USA to provide the best products at the mentioned price, including stability, performance, features, and a few potential issues users face.
These criteria will ensure that the 3D printers will be more practical, have actual usage, and are budget-friendly for beginners or learners.
Best Budget 3D Printers Under $500
Now, without further delay, let’s get into the 3D printer list below:
1. Creality Official Ender 3 V3 KE
As the first pick, we’ve listed the Creality Official Ender 3 V3 KE, which is an excellent choice under the $300 price range with improved features. It has an impressive 500mm/s maximum printing speed with the accessibility of a color touchscreen and WiFi connectivity. These features can enhance the 3D printing experience for beginners.
The smaller build volume and issues with rough surfaces of the printed objects or size deviations can be a few drawbacks. However, adjusting calibration and a few settings can help in achieving accurate prints.
Specifications:
| Product | Creality Official Ender 3 V3 KE |
|---|---|
| Price | $299 |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 240 mm |
| Display | 4.3-inch color touchscreen |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, ASA |
| Extruder | ‘Sprite’ Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 500mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Level |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi |
| File Transfer | USB Drive, LAN, Creality Cloud App |
| Slicing Software | Creality Print, Cura, Simplify3D |
| Weight | 7.8 kg |
| Additional Features | Dual x-axis linear rail, easy installation, 4 high flow nozzle, power loss recovery, PEI flexible build plate surface, double fans cooling, 60W ceramic heater, bi-metal heat break |
Pros
- Good affordable option
- Beginner-friendly
- Build quality is excellent
- High-quality components
- Easy-to-use installation
- Better auto bed leveling
- Faster printing speeds
Cons
- Considerably smaller build volume
- The Z-axis doesn’t seem good; it is misaligned
- Printing output can be inconsistent
What Users Say About This Product?
As per Amazon USA customers, they find this 3D printer easy to install and use. It is a tremendous budget-friendly 3D printer for the mentioned price. The filament runout sensor is a useful feature. The overall reviews are mixed for print quality, features, and leveling, and the print speed seems decent.
2. Tina2S 3D Printer
The Entina Tina2S is a quiet 3D printer that’s suitable for beginners and even for kids under the $200 price range. Due to its smaller and compact design, the price-to-performance ratio can be great. There is only one downside, which is the printing size limitation, preventing printing larger objects in various ways.
Specifications:
| Product | Entina TINA2S |
|---|---|
| Price | $199.99 |
| Build Volume | 350.5 x 210.8 x 210.8 mm |
| Display | LED screen (Inbuilt) |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | PLA, PLA+, TPU, WOOD |
| Extruder | Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 200mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Level |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB, SD Card |
| File Transfer | SD card, App, USB |
| Slicing Software | Wiibuilder, Cura, Simplify3d, and Slicr3r |
| Weight | 3 kg |
| Additional Features | Dual Z-axis rail, quiet printing, magnetic sticker, one-click filament loading & unloading, built-in LED light, high precision, spring steel heating platform, upgraded cooling fan, Poloprint Cloud app, upgraded anti-scald protection cover, clear printing |
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Easy to set up and use for beginners
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Compact and little 3D printer
- Fully open-source platform
- Silent motherboard for relatively less noise
- Good customer service support
Cons
- Smaller build volume
- Printing may stop due to clogged filament
- Poor longevity
- Inaccurate printing leaves smudges
What Users Say About This Product?
It seems customers on Amazon USA have found this 3D printer easy to install and use in terms of the price segment. Its print quality, functionality, and good-looking design can be a gateway for newcomers and kids to start their 3D printing journey.
3. ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro
The ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro comes with the 36-point auto bed leveling feature, dual-gear direct extruder, removable touchscreen, and more, making it one of the great choices for a 3D printer under the $250 price range. Filament runout sensor and power-loss recovery are two great features that every user should have.
Specifications:
| Product | ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro |
|---|---|
| Price | $249.99 |
| Build Volume | 225 x 225 x 280 mm |
| Display | 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen (removable) |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS |
| Extruder | Dual-Gear Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 180mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Leveling |
| Connectivity | USB, SD card |
| File Transfer | SD card, USB |
| Slicing Software | Elegoo Cura |
| Weight | 8.1 kg |
| Additional Features | STM 32-bit silent motherboard, POM V-guide roller, knob type XY-axis belt tensioner, Quiet printing, PEI magnetic platform, one-click auto leveling, double-sided cooling fan, LED light strip, smart resume printing |
Pros
- Best budget 3D printer with FDM
- Easy to use
- Good auto bed leveling
- Quiet operation
- Dual gear extruder
- Decent printing speed
Cons
- The assembly process can be difficult
- Printing failure may happen
- A few parts of the printer may fail
What Users Say About This Product?
As per existing customers, this 3D printer is an excellent unit for beginners due to its easy-to-setup nature. It offers a good value for the money with decent printing speeds and less noise operations. There are some mixed feelings about the printing quality and lifespan of the hardware among some users.
4. ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is a powerful yet affordable resin 3D printer that allows you to print high-quality objects, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Unlike FDM printing technology, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra offers SLA (Stereolithography) printing technology under the $350 price bracket.
Meanwhile, the large 7″ LCD, a 4″ touchscreen interface, an AI camera to monitor real-time printing allow users to check live visuals via the connected application, high-quality print, enhanced UV light to cure liquid resin into solid objects, etc., are noticeable features.
Specifications:
| Product | ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|
| Price | $349.99 |
| Build Volume | 153.36 x 77.76 x 165 mm |
| Display | 7-inch Mono 9K LCD (4-inch touchscreen interface) |
| Print Technology | MSLA Stereolithography |
| Printing Material | Resin (water-washable, standard, ABS-like, plant-based, etc) |
| Extruder | No, Resin VAT with UV light |
| Printing Speed | up to 150mm/h |
| Resin Shortage Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Leveling |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB |
| File Transfer | USB, Wi-Fi |
| Slicing Software | Chitubox |
| Weight | 8.8 kg |
| Additional Features | Real-Time Monitoring, Time-Lapse Recording, inbuilt AI Camera, Smart Mechanical Sensor, Tilt Release Innovation, Power-loss resume printing, One-Click Self-Check, advanced high-temperature protection, Replaceable Lock Screws, Dual Pour Spouts Resin Tank, Laser-engraved build plate, 9H tempered glass protector, COB Light Source |
Pros
- Quick-release design, easy to assembly
- Best affordable resin 3D printer for beginners
- Smooth, attention-to-detail print quality
- Great 9K resolution
- Excellent build quality and compact size
- Incredible faster printing speeds
- Clog-free resin flow, spill-proof drip tray
- Easy loading and unloading of resin
- Laser-engraved textured bed
Cons
- Extra adhesive sticks prints, causing print-removal issues
- AI camera feels like a gimmick
- The learning curve can be complex for some
- A few users faced terrible customer support
What Users Say About This Product?
We have found that Amazon USA customers liked this resin 3D printer for the mentioned price tag. It is pretty easy to use out-of-the-box, and the printing quality and detailing are excellent. Suitable for beginners and experienced users with the capability of small prints. Overall, plenty of customers are so happy and satisfied with this product.
5. Creality K1 SE
The Creality K1 SE is another best-in-class 3D printer that you can get for $419, featuring excellent build quality and design. It offers a high-speed and precision printing experience with auto-bed leveling, quick swap tri-metal nozzle, open-source software, and more. You can’t go wrong with this printer for the given price range because both beginners and experienced users can operate it.
Specifications:
| Product | Creality K1 SE |
|---|---|
| Price | $419.00 |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
| Display | 4.3-inch Colour Touchscreen |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | ABS, Hyper PLA, PLA+, PETG, TPU |
| Extruder | Flagship-level Dual-Gear Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 600mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Leveling |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB |
| File Transfer | USB, Wi-Fi |
| Slicing Software | Cura, PrusaSlicer, Creality Print 5.0, Creality Cloud |
| Weight | 14.84 kg |
| Additional Features | Quick-swap Tri-Metal Nozzle, 12x speed with CoreXY, 60W Hotend, Solid Frame with aluminum alloy parts, Auto Calibration with One Tap, Anti-vibration Fan & Algorithm, Open-source Creality OS, input shaping, Z-offset, clog-free extruder kit, Creality Print, Flexible PEI spring steel plate, dynamically balanced fan, Power loss recovery, Sleep Mode |
Pros
- Bang for the buck
- Excellent print quality
- Cost-effective and reliable printer
- Easy maintenance and easy to use
- Crazy fast printing speed
- Solid build quality
- Great extrusion
- Fully open-source, DIY compatible
Cons
- Not suitable for larger prints
- Removing print from the plate may become difficult at times
- Noise levels can be higher than its competitors
- Inconsistent leveling issues may also arise
What Users Say About This Product?
Users mostly appreciate this 3D printer for a reasonable price tag on Amazon USA and the quality of printing. It’s easy to assemble and use, making this suitable for beginners without any previous experience. Due to the DIY compatibility and excellent printing speed, Creality K1 SE can be considered a great option for many. Meanwhile, some users have mixed feelings about auto leveling and functionality.
6. ELEGOO Neptune 4 Plus
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus can be considered an all-rounder 3D printer for both beginners and experienced users. It’s capable of printing large models or objects with its bigger build volume, integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, Klipper firmware, and high-temperature nozzle for rapid printing. If you’re looking for a high-speed 3D printer under the $420 price range with all the required features and larger quality prints, it should be a good choice.
Specifications:
| Product | ELEGOO Neptune 4 Plus |
|---|---|
| Price | $419.99 |
| Build Volume | 320 x 320 x 385 mm |
| Display | 4.3-inch LCD Color Touchscreen |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and high-temp filament nylon |
| Extruder | Dual-Gear Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 500mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | Auto-Leveling |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB, WLAN |
| File Transfer | USB, Wi-Fi |
| Slicing Software | Elegoo Cura, Orca Slicer |
| Weight | 16.7 kg |
| Additional Features | Klipper high-speed motherboard & firmware, huge build volume for larger creations, nozzle PID parameter automatic calibration, 300oC high-temperature nozzle, double-sided cooling fans, Resume Printing, 121-Point Automatic Mesh Leveling, Magnetic Flexible Removable PEI Platform |
Pros
- Great all-rounder 3D FDM printer for the budget
- Capable of printing large objects or models
- Easy to set up and use for beginners
- Excellent printing quality without smudging
- Klipper firmware supported
- Powerful extruder and cooling fans
- Silent stepper motor drivers offer less noise
Cons
- Requires larger space
- Filaments need to be purchased separately
- Complex setup and subpar auto-bed leveling
- Nozzle can get stuck with filaments after some use
What Users Say About This Product?
Customers mostly appreciate this 3D printer for its print quality and larger build volume at this price point. There are mixed feelings about easy assembly, bed leveling, and fan noise among a few users. However, the value for money tag can be justified for its faster printing speeds, solid build, and fewer issues with the nozzle. Overall a good pick from Elegoo and users are quite satisfied.
7. ELEGOO Neptune 3 Max
Last but not least, the ELEGOO Neptune 3 Max is one of the most loved 3D printers, an upgraded version in the ELEGOO Neptune 3 lineup. It’s designed to print larger models with a good printing speed and better printing quality. Under the $500 price range, you can’t find a better deal than what it offers with the overall design, reliability, and useful features.
Specifications:
| Product | ELEGOO Neptune 3 Max |
|---|---|
| Price | $499.99 |
| Build Volume | 420 x 420 x 500 mm |
| Display | Removable 4.3′-inch Touchscreen |
| Print Technology | Fused Deposition Modeling |
| Printing Material | PLA, ABS, ASA, PETG, TPU, and similar filaments |
| Extruder | Dual-Gear Direct Drive |
| Printing Speed | up to 500mm/s |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
| Bed Leveling | One-Click Auto-Leveling |
| Connectivity | microSD card, USB Type A |
| File Transfer | microSD card, USB |
| Slicing Software | Elegoo Cura, PrusaSlicer |
| Weight | 17.7 kg |
| Additional Features | 63-Point Auto Bed Leveling, PEI Magnetic Platform, Quiet Printing with silent steeper motor drive, upgraded hot end kit, Z-axis dual lead screw, Z-axis dual-motor, XY-axis belt tensioner, smart resume printing, double-sided cooling fan, LED light strip, drawer toolbox |
Pros
- Best-in-class 3D printer for larger prints
- Easy to assemble and use for beginners
- Sturdy build quality
- Dual-gear direct-drive extruder is a plus
- Quiet operation of dual fans
- A removable capacitive touchscreen is useful
- Auto bed leveling is good and fast enough
- The printing quality is great
- XY-axis belt tensioner works smooth
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or WLAN support (WiFi module optional)
- Inconsistent auto bed leveling
- Some users faced slower printing speeds
What Users Say About This Product?
Amazon USA customers have found this Elegoo Neptune 3 Max quite useful and capable of printing large-scale 3D objects for such a great price range. It’s suitable for both newbies and experienced users who want to make creative models in small and big sizes. A few users have mixed feelings about the printing speed and lack of Wi-Fi support. Overall, it is an excellent product to pick for learning and professional work.
Wrapping It All
Picking up the best 3D printers under the $500 budget range can be time-consuming and requires enough research, especially for beginners like students or learners. Always go with your specific budget and overall preferences, which can help you narrow down options. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced in 3D printers, you should always consider significant factors such as the price-to-performance ratio and user-friendly operations.
Newcomers should also consider using good slicing software and timely maintenance, like cleaning the nozzle & hot end to improve the print quality. Most OEMs do offer a limited warranty period and customer support with a dedicated user manual to fix common issues like failed prints, clogged nozzles, and bed adhesion to the 3D printers. But, as always, it is better to be safe than sorry!
