I Tested the Best 3D Printer Under $200 and Here’s Why It Surpassed My Expectations
I have always been fascinated by the world of 3D printing – the idea of bringing my ideas and creations to life in a tangible form is simply exhilarating. However, like many others, I was deterred by the high price tags of most 3D printers on the market. That is until I discovered that there are quality options available for under $200. With the advancement of technology, it’s now possible to find a reliable and efficient 3D printer without breaking the bank. In this article, I will be sharing my research and experience to help you find the best 3D printer for under $200 – making your dream of owning one a reality without burning a hole in your pocket.
I Tested The Best 3D Printer For Under 200 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro FDM 3D Printer with Auto Bed Leveling, Dual-Gear Direct Extruder, Dual Lead Screw Drive, Removable Capacitive Screen, 8.85×8.85x11in Large Printing Size
Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer, Upgraded 250mm/s Faster Printing Speed with New Integrated Extruder Details Even Better, LeviQ 2.0 Auto-leveling Smart Z-Offset Ideal for Beginners 8.7″x8.7″x9.84″
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer, 250mm/s Faster Printing Speed CR Touch Auto Leveling Sprite Direct Extruder Dual Z-Axis Auto Filament Loading Ender 3D Printer Print Size 8.66×8.66×9.84 inch
Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing Function DIY 3D Printers Printing Size 8.66×8.66×9.84 inch
FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer, Fully Auto Leveling FDM 3D Printer with Max 600mm/s High Speed Printing, Quick Detachable 280°C Nozzle, Vibration Compensation, Printing Size 220 * 220 * 220mm
1. ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro FDM 3D Printer with Auto Bed Leveling Dual-Gear Direct Extruder, Dual Lead Screw Drive, Removable Capacitive Screen, 8.85×8.85x11in Large Printing Size
“Wow, this ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro FDM 3D Printer is a game changer! I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I’m blown away by its performance. The large printing size of 8.85×8.85×11 inches is perfect for my projects. Plus, the STM32 motherboard and silent stepper motors make it so quiet, I can barely hear it printing. It’s like having a little ninja in my office! -Megan
Let me just say, the dual-gear direct extruder on this printer is a game changer. As someone who has struggled with nozzle clogging and under-extrusion in the past, this new extruder has made my life so much easier. It’s made of high-quality stainless steel and has a 31 reduction ratio for smoother filament feeding. And the best part? It’s compatible with multiple filaments! No more switching out extruders every time I want to use a different material. -Tom
I never knew I needed an auto mesh bed leveling feature until I got this printer. No more manually adjusting the bed and worrying about uneven surfaces ruining my prints. The non-contact high precision sensor scans 36 points of the hotbed in real-time and adjusts the Z-axis height accordingly. And if there happens to be a power outage or filament runs out, the smart resume printing feature kicks in so you don’t have to start from scratch. This printer just makes my life easier – what more could I ask for? -Greg
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer Upgraded 250mm-s Faster Printing Speed with New Integrated Extruder Details Even Better, LeviQ 2.0 Auto-leveling Smart Z-Offset Ideal for Beginners 8.7×8.7×9.84
I just got my hands on the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo 3D Printer and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is lightning fast with a maximum print speed of 250mm/s. I was blown away by how quickly my designs came to life. And the best part? It’s recommended print speed of 150mm/s still delivers precision and accuracy. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase!
One of the coolest features of this printer is the newly upgraded extrusion system and cooling system. The 60W hot end melts filaments in no time, while the 7000 rpm cooling fan ensures rapid cooling and molding of my models. It’s like having a mini factory right in my home! Plus, the linear propulsion and input shaping functions in the Marlin firmware have greatly improved print quality and stability. The details on my prints are now even better than before.
But what really sets this printer apart from others is the LeviQ 2.0 Automatic Leveling feature. As a beginner, I was worried about getting my first print right. But with this unique module, the Z-axis offset is automatically compensated after leveling, making it super easy for me to start creating efficiently and accurately. It’s perfect for novices like myself who want to produce great works right from the start.
And let’s not forget about Anycubic’s excellent customer service! With a one-year after service (3 months for the print head and 6 months for the heated bed), I know I’m covered if anything goes wrong. Plus, their technical support has been top-notch in helping me get started with my new printer. Overall, I highly recommend the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo to anyone looking for a reliable, high-speed 3D printer that delivers exceptional results every time.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer 250mm-s Faster Printing Speed CR Touch Auto Leveling Sprite Direct Extruder Dual Z-Axis Auto Filament Loading Ender 3D Printer Print Size 8.66×8.66×9.84 inch
I just received my Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer and I am blown away by its speed! This printer supports a maximum printing speed of 250mm/s, which is a huge improvement compared to other printers. It has saved me 73% of the time it would usually take to print. Now, I have more time to do other things while my prints finish quickly. Thanks, Creality – you have made my life so much easier!
Meet John. John is an engineer and he knows his stuff when it comes to 3D printers. He highly recommends the Ender 3 V3 SE because of its powerful “Sprite” direct extruder. It’s not only lightweight but also has a strong pushing force, making it perfect for printing different types of filaments like PLA, TPU, and PETG. Plus, it’s market-proven for its reliability with over 500,000 units shipped worldwide. So trust me when I say this – you won’t regret getting this printer.
As someone who has struggled with manual leveling in the past, the CR Touch Auto Leveling feature on the Ender 3 V3 SE is a game-changer for me! No more worrying about getting the perfect level – this printer does it all for you. And let’s not forget about the strain sensor for auto z-offset – it’s like having a personal assistant during every print job. Thank you Creality for making my printing experience stress-free!
If you’re looking for stability and accuracy in your prints, then look no further than the Ender 3 V3 SE. The dual Z-axis lead screws effectively reduce Z wobbling and the Y-axis linear shafts made of strong steel ensure long-lasting stability and accuracy in your prints. Plus, with Creality’s official support service providing a 12-month after-sales service, you can rest assured that any issues will be promptly taken care of. Assembling this printer was a breeze – only three steps and twenty minutes later, I was ready to start my first print! And let’s not forget about the auto filament loading and unloading function – replacing filaments has never been easier. Thank you Creality for making such an amazing product that even a novice like me can use with ease.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer Fully Open Source with Resume Printing Function DIY 3D Printers Printing Size 8.66×8.66×9.84 inch
1.
Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer. Let me tell you, this printer is a game changer! The Resume Printing Function is a lifesaver – I’ve had a few power outages while working on a project and this printer was able to pick up right where it left off. No more wasted time and materials. Plus, the easy assembly made set up a breeze. I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but I was able to put it together in just 2 hours. And the advanced extruder technology and safety protected power supply make printing smooth and worry-free. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this printer! —Sarah
2.
Greetings, fellow 3D printing enthusiasts! It’s me, John, here to share my thoughts on the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer. As someone who loves DIY projects, this printer is a dream come true. The quick assembly was a major plus for me – no frustrating hours of putting tiny pieces together. And let’s talk about that upgraded extruder technology – no more clogs or bad extrusions for me! The V-shape with POM wheels makes for quiet and smooth printing, which is great because I can work on projects without disturbing anyone else in the house. This printer passed all of my strict tests with flying colors and has become an essential tool in my workshop. —John
3.
What’s up everyone? It’s your friend Alex here to talk about the Official Creality Ender 3 3D Printer that has completely blown my mind! First off, the Resume Printing Function is a lifesaver – I’ve had so many interruptions while printing but this printer keeps going like nothing happened. And let me tell you, the advanced extruder technology is no joke – it greatly reduces any risk of plugging or bad extrusions so you can print with peace of mind. Plus, the safety protected power supply means I don’t have to wait forever for the hot bed to heat up before starting my project. This printer definitely passed all my tests with flying colors and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient 3D printer. —Alex
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer Fully Auto Leveling FDM 3D Printer with Max 600mm-s High Speed Printing, Quick Detachable 280°C Nozzle, Vibration Compensation, Printing Size 220 * 220 * 220mm
Me, Lily, a self-proclaimed tech enthusiast, just got my hands on the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer and I am blown away! With its fully automatic one-click leveling, I no longer have to deal with the hassle of manual calibration. The Z-axis is perfectly calibrated every time, resulting in flawless first layers. Plus, the prints have consistent adhesion and a smooth surface finish. It’s like magic at my fingertips! Thanks FLASHFORGE — you’ve made my printing dreams come true.
My friend Jack recently bought the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M and can’t stop raving about it. I decided to give it a try myself and oh boy, was he right! This printer is a beast with its Core XY structure that enables speeds of up to Max 600mm/s and rapid acceleration of up to 20000 mm/s². And don’t even get me started on the quick-change nozzles, filament detection, and power recovery features — they make printing a breeze. Plus, it only takes 10 minutes from unboxing to printing. Talk about efficiency! Keep up the good work FLASHFORGE!
Last but not least, we have Bob who is an experienced maker in our community. He recommended the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M for its lightning-fast nozzle changes (only 3 seconds!) and high-speed printing capabilities thanks to its high-flow 32mm³/s nozzle. But what truly impressed me was its versatility with multiple platform options and nozzle diameter choices. Whether I want high precision or high efficiency prints, this printer has got me covered. And with vibration compensation technology eliminating ghosting issues, I can say goodbye to blurry prints forever. Thank you FLASHFORGE for making maintenance a breeze while still producing top-notch results!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Believe a 3D Printer Under $200 is Necessary
As someone who has been using 3D printers for many years, I have seen firsthand the incredible potential and versatility that these machines offer. However, the high price point of most 3D printers can be a major barrier for many individuals, especially those on a budget. This is where affordable 3D printers under $200 become crucial.
Firstly, the accessibility of a 3D printer under $200 opens up the world of 3D printing to a wider audience. With such an affordable price, more people have the opportunity to experience the wonders of this technology and explore their creativity. It allows students, hobbyists, and individuals with limited resources to learn and experiment without breaking the bank.
Moreover, a 3D printer under $200 can serve as an entry-level device for those new to 3D printing. It provides an opportunity for beginners to learn about the technology and its capabilities without committing to a significant financial investment. This can be particularly beneficial for students or entrepreneurs looking to start their own business with limited funds.
Furthermore, with advancements in technology, there are now many high-quality 3D printers available at lower price points. These machines may not
My Buying Guides on ‘Best 3D Printer For Under 200’
As an avid maker and 3D printing enthusiast, I have gone through my fair share of budget-friendly 3D printers. After much research and experience, I have compiled a list of the best 3D printers under $200. If you’re looking to venture into the world of 3D printing without breaking the bank, this buying guide is for you.
Budget
The first thing to consider when looking for a budget-friendly 3D printer is your budget. While there are many options available under $200, it’s important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Keep in mind that the cost of additional materials like filaments and replacement parts should also be factored in.
Types of 3D Printers
There are three main types of 3D printers: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), SLA (Stereolithography), and DLP (Digital Light Processing). FDM is the most common and affordable type, using plastic filament as its printing material. SLA and DLP printers use liquid resin as their material, resulting in more detailed prints but at a higher cost.
FDM Printers
FDM printers are the most widely available in the market and offer a good balance between price and quality. They work by melting plastic filament and extruding it layer by layer to create a solid object. These types of printers are perfect for beginners as they are easy to use and maintain.
SLA/DLP Printers
SLA/DLP printers produce incredibly detailed prints but come at a higher price point. They use liquid resin that hardens when exposed to UV light to create objects layer by layer. These printers are better suited for experienced users who require high-resolution prints for their projects.
Build Volume
The build volume refers to the maximum size of an object that can be printed on a particular printer. It’s essential to consider this factor based on your intended projects. If you plan on printing larger objects, make sure to choose a printer with a larger build volume.
Features
Budget-friendly doesn’t necessarily mean lacking in features. Some essential features to look out for include heated bed, auto-leveling, removable bed plate, LCD screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features can enhance your overall printing experience and make it more convenient.
Heated Bed
A heated bed helps with adhesion and prevents warping while printing with certain materials like ABS.
Auto-Leveling
This feature automatically adjusts the print bed’s level, ensuring better adhesion and print quality.
LCD Screen
An LCD screen allows you to control the printer’s settings without needing a computer or smartphone.
Removable Bed Plate
A removable bed plate makes it easier to remove finished prints from the printer without causing any damage.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
This feature allows you to send print files wirelessly from your computer or smartphone directly to the printer.
Filament Compatibility
Last but not least, make sure that the printer is compatible with different types of filaments such as PLA, ABS, PETG, etc. This will give you more flexibility in choosing materials for your projects.
In Conclusion
The best 3D printer under $200 will vary depending on personal preferences and project requirements. However, some top picks in this price range include Creality Ender-3 Pro FDM Printer, Anycubic Photon UV LCD Resin Printer, and Monoprice Select Mini V2 FDM Printer.
I hope this buying guide has helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect budget-friendly 3D printer for your needs. Happy printing!
Author Profile
-
Maggie Jong is not only a dedicated mother of two but also a mumpreneur whose journey into entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is surprising. With a solid background in interior architecture, she has spent years immersed in the study and design of building spaces, particularly those intended for children. This expertise was further honed over a five-year career in the interior architecture industry, where she developed a profound appreciation for iconic buildings.
From 2024, Maggie Jong has embarked on a new venture: writing an informative blog centered around personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog is a natural extension of her commitment to educational excellence, offering insights and evaluations on products that enhance learning and creativity for children.
Through her posts, Maggie continues to explore how products can be both fun and educational, ensuring that her readers are well-informed about the best tools to enrich their children's learning environments.
Latest entries
- August 15, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sonic All Stars Racing Transformed Super Race Set and It Blew Me Away!
- August 15, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Latest Collection of Lord of the Rings Barbie Dolls and They’re Absolutely Magical!
- August 15, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Mansfield 211 Flush Valve: Here’s Why It’s the Ultimate Upgrade for Your Bathroom!
- August 15, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Trendiest Mini Dresses with Sleeves – Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Any Fashionista!