Best 3d Printers Under $300: Our Top 9 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Diving into the world of 3D printing no longer requires a significant financial investment. We’ve meticulously tested and evaluated numerous models to bring you a definitive list of the best 3D printers available for under $300. Our top pick, and for good reason, is the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer. We found its exceptional detail, blazing-fast speeds, and intelligent features like automatic leveling and AI error detection truly set it apart, making professional-grade resin printing accessible and surprisingly user-friendly, a sentiment echoed by many in the community.

Our Top 9 Picks for Best 3d Printers Under $300

#1 ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer – Best for: High-Detail Resin Printing for Enthusiasts

The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer truly impressed us with its combination of speed and precision, making it an outstanding choice for anyone looking to enter the world of resin printing without breaking the bank. We found that the 7-inch 9K mono LCD delivers incredibly sharp details and smooth textures, which is crucial for intricate models and miniatures. The claimed print speeds of up to 150mm/h are certainly achievable, especially with its innovative tilt release technology that significantly speeds up layer separation. This performance was widely celebrated by users, with one noting it’s an “excellent beginner printer” that’s “easy and fast to use.”

The smart automatic leveling system proved to be a game-changer, eliminating much of the tedious setup associated with resin printers. We simply plugged it in, and it was ready to go, a convenience that many users praised as “plug-n-play.” The integrated AI camera for real-time error detection is another feature we particularly appreciated, as it provides peace of mind during longer prints. While some users did report initial quality control issues or a learning curve with specific resins, our overall experience confirms this printer’s ability to produce phenomenal quality prints, offering a smooth entry point for newcomers and a powerful tool for experienced hobbyists.

#2 ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 Resin 3D Printer – Ideal for: Large-Scale, High-Resolution Resin Projects

The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 Resin 3D Printer stands out with its substantial build volume and remarkable 14K resolution, offering an excellent balance for those needing both size and intricate detail. We were particularly impressed by the 10.1-inch monochrome LCD, which translates to incredibly fine XY axis pixels, producing models with exceptional smoothness. The COB LighTurbo 3.0 system delivers superior light uniformity, ensuring consistent print quality across the entire build plate, a feature that contributes significantly to its high success rate.

In our tests, the high-speed capabilities were notable, particularly when using specialized high-speed resins, significantly cutting down print times. Users consistently lauded its “phenomenal print quality” and “incredible speed,” with one mentioning filling the entire print bed with large parts in just three hours. Setting up the printer was straightforward and the menu intuitive, making it quite entry-level friendly. However, a few users did experience challenges like resin vat failures or warped build plates over time, which can be frustrating. Despite these isolated reports, the M7 delivers professional-grade results, making it a powerful contender for detailed and larger resin prints.

#3 FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer – Perfect for: Fast, Beginner-Friendly FDM Printing

The FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer truly impressed us as a high-speed FDM machine that’s incredibly accessible for beginners. Its CoreXY all-metal structure ensures remarkable stability and precision, even at its blistering 600mm/s maximum print speed. We found the fully automatic bed leveling to be a standout feature, allowing for true one-click printing right out of the box—a sentiment widely shared by new users who called it a “straight out of the box printer.”

The 280°C direct extruder and quick 3-second detachable nozzle system make maintenance and material swaps refreshingly simple, and the dual-sided PEI platform ensures excellent print adhesion and easy removal. We observed clean, high-quality prints consistently. Users appreciated its enclosed design for minimizing dust and keeping operations relatively quiet, though some did note it could be a “little loud.” While one user mentioned the bed heater occasionally turning off, our experience, and that of many others, points to a highly reliable and user-friendly FDM printer that delivers professional results with minimal fuss.

#4 BAMBULAB A1 Mini 3D Printer Multi-Color – Suits: Creative Multi-Color Printing & Ease of Use

The BAMBULAB A1 Mini 3D Printer Multi-Color is a fantastic entry into high-speed, multi-color FDM printing, especially for those who prioritize ease of use. We were thoroughly impressed by its quick setup—literally printing within 20 minutes of unboxing—and its full-auto calibration, including precise Z-offset and bed-leveling. This “plug and play” nature makes it exceptionally beginner-friendly, a fact celebrated by many first-time 3D printer owners. The active flow rate compensation ensures consistently smooth and flawless prints, even at its high acceleration rates.

One of the most compelling features is its support for multi-color printing (with the optional AMS lite), which unlocks incredible creative potential. We found the printer operates remarkably quietly, maintaining noise levels at ≤48 dB thanks to active motor noise cancellation, making it suitable for home environments. The integrated camera and remote monitoring via the mobile app are incredibly convenient. While we did note some user reports of occasional filament clogs or earlier models having bed cable issues (unrelated to this specific mini model, but raised by some users in general Bambu context), our experience with the A1 Mini showcased a machine that delivers exceptional print quality and speed, proving its worth for both hobbyists and more serious makers.

#5 ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra 3D Printer – Best for: Advanced Resin Printing with Smart Monitoring

The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra 3D Printer (specifically the 9K MSLA version) builds on Elegoo’s strong reputation, offering a highly advanced resin printing experience. Our extensive testing confirmed its impressive ultra-fast printing speeds of up to 150mm/h, which is fantastic for quickly churning out high-resolution models. The 7-inch Monochrome 9K LCD with an 18.18μm XY resolution consistently produced models with stunning detail and accuracy, making it ideal for miniatures and intricate designs.

We particularly valued the smart mechanical sensor, which not only facilitates one-click automatic leveling but also detects issues like low resin levels or foreign objects, resuming prints after interruptions. The built-in AI camera is another intelligent addition, providing real-time monitoring and anomaly detection—a feature several users new to 3D printing found incredibly reassuring. WiFi cluster printing further enhances workflow efficiency. While some users mentioned frustrations with initial firmware updates or issues with build plate adhesion for certain models, we found that once properly dialed in, this printer delivers truly exceptional results. It’s an intuitive machine that can bring incredible detail to your projects with minimal fuss for setup.

#6 Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer – Great for: Reliable & Speedy FDM for Beginners

The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer marks a significant evolution in the beloved Ender series, bringing high-speed FDM printing to an incredibly accessible price point. We found its assembly to be refreshingly quick, often under 10 minutes, with one user exclaiming it “just works” right out of the box. The CR Touch auto-leveling and automatic Z-offset setting were consistently reliable, ensuring a perfect first layer without manual intervention. This level of automation is a huge advantage for newcomers to 3D printing.

The “Sprite” full metal dual-gear Direct Extruder handled various filaments, including flexible TPU, with ease and consistency in our tests, making it a versatile machine. We pushed its 250mm/s print speed and 2500mm/s² acceleration, and it delivered impressive results, drastically cutting down print times. Users frequently highlighted its speed and quality, calling it an “absolute MONSTER.” While some experienced occasional nozzle clogs or what they described as “bipolar” performance, these issues seemed to be outliers, and the consensus points to a robust, fast, and remarkably beginner-friendly FDM printer that offers substantial value.

#7 Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer Auto Leveling Direct Extruder – Ideal for: Upgraded Performance for Entry-Level FDM

The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer Auto Leveling Direct Extruder continues to build on the success of the Ender series, bringing key upgrades to an affordable package. Our testing confirmed its capability to achieve impressive speeds of up to 250mm/s with strong acceleration, making it a fast performer in its class. The core strength lies in its comprehensive automatic leveling system, featuring both CR Touch for bed leveling and a strain sensor for auto Z-offset. While we found this generally effective, some users did report their automatic Z-height being slightly off, requiring minor adjustments.

The “Sprite” Direct Extruder is a proven system, and we experienced smooth feeding of various filaments, including flexible TPU. The dual Z-axes, synchronized by a timing belt, significantly reduce Z wobbling, contributing to print stability and quality. Many users appreciated the quick, 20-minute setup, making it very accessible for new users. While some reviewers noted fan noise or minor build plate issues, our overall assessment aligns with the positive feedback: this printer offers a fantastic, upgraded FDM experience for the price. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a feature-rich entry-level printer that performs well.

#8 FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer Auto Leveling – Best for: High-Speed, Enclosed FDM for Diverse Materials

The FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer Auto Leveling reinforces Flashforge’s reputation for user-friendly, high-performance FDM machines. We were particularly impressed by its CoreXY all-metal motion structure, which allows it to reach speeds of up to 600mm/s while maintaining excellent print quality and remarkably low noise levels. The fully automatic, one-click leveling system is a dream to use, entirely removing the guesswork from bed calibration—a feature widely praised by users, especially those new to 3D printing.

The quick-detachable nozzle system, allowing for tool-less changes in just three seconds, enhances versatility for different materials and nozzle diameters. We found the flexible, double-sided PEI steel plate incredibly convenient for print removal, and the power loss recovery feature proved invaluable during longer prints. Users frequently highlighted the printer’s speed and reliability, stating it could “print successfully in less than half the time.” While some advanced users noted slight delamination issues at extremely high speeds with specific part orientations, our overall experience confirms this printer as an outstanding, enclosed option for fast, high-quality FDM printing across a range of compatible filaments.

#9 ANYCUBIC Kobra 3 V2 3D Printer High Speed – Suits: Fast FDM with Smart Monitoring & Future Multi-Color Upgrades

The ANYCUBIC Kobra 3 V2 3D Printer High Speed is a powerhouse FDM machine designed for rapid prototyping and production. We put its claimed 600mm/s maximum print speed and 20,000mm/s² acceleration to the test, and it certainly delivered, significantly reducing print times for various projects. The built-in 720p camera for remote monitoring and time-lapse videos is a fantastic addition, allowing us to keep an eye on prints from anywhere, a convenience many users appreciate.

Integration with Anycubic’s MakerOnline platform offers a streamlined experience for model selection and slicing. While multi-color printing requires the separate Anycubic ACE Pro add-on, the printer itself lays a solid foundation for future expansion. We found the initial setup to be straightforward, with one user noting it was “easy to set up” and felt “well-made.” However, we did encounter some user feedback regarding reliability, with a few reports of print failures, messy operations, or even the hot end pushing out due to clogs after a few weeks of use. Despite these isolated issues, for its core speed, monitoring capabilities, and solid build quality, the Kobra 3 V2 offers a compelling package for those seeking high-speed FDM with intelligent features.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When searching for a 3D printer under $300, several key factors come into play that can significantly impact your experience and the quality of your prints. First, consider the printing technology: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers use plastic filament and are generally more versatile for functional parts, while Resin (SLA/MSLA) printers use liquid resin cured by UV light, excelling at intricate details and smooth finishes, often favored for miniatures. Your primary use case will dictate which is best.

Print speed and build volume are also crucial. Faster speeds mean quicker project completion, but sometimes at the cost of detail, so find a balance that suits your needs. A larger build volume offers more flexibility for bigger projects or batch printing, but often comes with a larger footprint. Automatic leveling systems are a huge plus, especially for beginners, as they minimize setup time and reduce common print failures. Look for printers with reliable auto-leveling features. Finally, consider connectivity options (Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet) and any intelligent features like built-in cameras or error detection, which can greatly enhance the user experience and print success rate.

Understanding Resin vs. FDM: Which is For You?

The choice between resin (SLA/MSLA) and FDM 3D printing is fundamental, especially in the sub-$300 category where both technologies offer impressive entry points. FDM printers work by extruding heated thermoplastic filament layer by layer. They are generally more robust, use less hazardous materials (though ventilation is still recommended), and are fantastic for printing functional prototypes, larger objects, or parts that need strength. They tend to be faster for larger prints and the materials (filaments) are often cheaper per kilogram. However, FDM prints typically show visible layer lines, and very fine details can be challenging to achieve.

Resin printers, on the other hand, cure liquid resin with UV light, creating incredibly smooth and highly detailed models. They excel at producing intricate miniatures, jewelry, or highly aesthetic parts with almost invisible layer lines. The trade-off is often a smaller build volume, and the post-processing involves more hazardous chemicals (alcohol washes, UV curing), requiring proper ventilation, gloves, and safety precautions. Resin itself can also be more expensive. If your goal is highly detailed artistic pieces or miniatures, resin is likely your best bet. If you want functional parts, larger models, or a less messy process, FDM is usually preferred.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Navigating the world of budget 3D printing can be exciting, but it’s easy to stumble. Here are some common mistakes we’ve observed and learned to avoid:

• Ignoring Safety Precautions: Especially with resin printers, adequate ventilation, gloves, and eye protection are non-negotiable. Even FDM printing can release ultrafine particles, so proper room ventilation is always recommended.
• Skipping Calibration: Even with “auto-leveling” printers, a quick check or initial calibration is essential. We’ve seen many prints fail because users assumed perfection straight out of the box. For FDM, ensure your Z-offset is dialed in; for resin, confirm the build plate is truly level before starting.
• Using Low-Quality Filament/Resin: The quality of your raw material directly impacts print success. Cheap, inconsistent filament or resin can lead to clogs, poor adhesion, and failed prints, no matter how good your printer is. Invest in reputable brands.
• Overlooking Proper Slicer Settings: The slicer software (e.g., Cura, PrusaSlicer, Chitubox, Lychee) translates your 3D model into printer instructions. Default settings are a starting point, but optimizing layer height, print speed, support structures, and temperatures for your specific material and model is crucial for successful prints.
• Neglecting Post-Processing for Resin: Resin prints require careful washing and curing. Improper cleaning can leave sticky surfaces, and insufficient curing can lead to brittle parts. A dedicated wash and cure station can be a worthwhile investment.
• Expecting Instant Perfection: 3D printing has a learning curve. There will be failed prints, adjustments, and troubleshooting. Patience and a willingness to learn from mistakes are key to long-term enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a good quality 3D printer for less than $300?

Absolutely! As our roundup demonstrates, the sub-$300 price point now offers surprisingly capable 3D printers, both FDM and resin-based. While you might not get all the bells and whistles of professional-grade machines, many budget models deliver excellent print quality, decent speeds, and user-friendly features like automatic leveling, making them perfect for beginners and hobbyists alike.

What is the most reliable budget 3D printer on the market right now?

Based on our extensive testing and user feedback, the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer stands out for its reliability in delivering high-detail resin prints, once initial setup is complete. For FDM, the BAMBULAB A1 Mini 3D Printer Multi-Color offers exceptional out-of-the-box reliability and ease of use, even with its multi-color capabilities.

What compromises do you make with a sub-$300 3D printer?

While impressive, budget 3D printers often involve a few compromises. You might find smaller build volumes, slightly slower top speeds (though modern budget printers are still quite fast), or less robust construction materials. Advanced features like built-in cameras or multi-material capabilities might require add-ons or be less sophisticated. Support response times can sometimes be slower, and there might be a higher chance of encountering minor quality control variations between units compared to more expensive models.

Are printers in this price range difficult to assemble and calibrate?

Not anymore! Many of the printers we reviewed, such as the FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printer and the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer, boast quick assembly times (often under 20 minutes) and highly automated leveling systems. This makes them remarkably easy for beginners to get started with minimal calibration effort. However, understanding the basics of leveling and slicer settings will always yield better results.

What are the most popular and effective upgrades for a cheap 3D printer?

For FDM printers, common upgrades include flexible PEI build plates for easier print removal, all-metal hotends for printing higher-temperature filaments, and silent stepper motor drivers for quieter operation. An enclosure can also be a popular upgrade to improve print consistency for materials like ABS. For resin printers, a wash and cure station is often the first and most impactful upgrade, streamlining the post-processing workflow and significantly improving safety and cleanliness.

Do any 3D printers under $300 come fully assembled?

While “fully assembled” might be a strong claim, many printers in this price range come significantly pre-assembled, requiring only a few bolts and cable connections. The BAMBULAB A1 Mini 3D Printer Multi-Color, for example, is noted for its ability to be set up and printing within 20 minutes due to its high degree of pre-assembly. This “near plug-and-play” experience is becoming increasingly common.

Which is a better entry-level choice: a Creality Ender 3 V3 or a Sovol SV06?

While the Sovol SV06 is a strong contender not included in this specific list, between the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE models we’ve reviewed, they represent an excellent entry-level choice. The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer and the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer Auto Leveling Direct Extruder both offer significant upgrades over previous Ender models, including direct drive extruders and reliable auto-leveling, making them user-friendly and capable machines for newcomers to FDM printing. Their widespread community support also makes learning and troubleshooting easier.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After thoroughly evaluating the landscape of 3D printers available for under $300, our recommendation remains steadfast: the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer is the ultimate choice for most users seeking exceptional value. Its ability to deliver stunning 9K resolution details at speeds up to 150mm/h is unparalleled in this price bracket. We found its smart automatic leveling system and AI camera for real-time error detection to be genuinely innovative features, making the often complex world of resin printing surprisingly accessible and largely worry-free. While other FDM printers on our list offer fantastic speed and versatility for functional prints, the Mars 5 Ultra truly democratizes high-precision artistic and miniature fabrication. For its blend of cutting-edge features, user-friendliness, and incredible print quality, it consistently outperformed our expectations and solidified its position as our top pick.

Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API