Hey there, friend! If you’re just starting out in 3D printing and don’t want to spend a fortune, you might be asking: Best 3D Printer Under $300, which one should I choose? Grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s chat about the top budget-friendly picks that give you good quality, ease of use, and real bang for your buck.
3D printers can cost thousands. Yikes! But you don’t need to break the bank to get decent prints. A good sub-$300 machine hits a sweet spot:
Really, what could be simpler? You pick a printer, follow the steps, and watch your creations appear layer by layer. But which one is the Best 3D Printer Under $300? Let’s peek at our top favorites.
Below are six machines I’ve tested or researched. Each link goes to Amazon so you can compare current prices and reviews.
Because the Ender 3’s huge user base shares mods and fixes, you’ll never feel stuck. A true classic for beginners.
And with its front-loading filament slot, you pop in spools like changing batteries. So easy!
But note: it likes a glass bed for best adhesion. Grab a glue stick or hairspray and you’re set.
(Yikes, that CoreXY belt tension took me a minute to nail—but once you do, prints fly.)
And because Neptune 4 Pro heats the bed in under 2 minutes, you waste less time waiting and more time printing.
But resin needs gloves and rinse gear. If tiny figures thrill you, resin’s detail can’t be beat.
When hunting for the Best 3D Printer Under $300, ask yourself:
Because every maker’s journey is unique, balance features with comfort level. You can upgrade bells and whistles later.
To get your first layers right, try these settings:
A few bullet points help when you’re clicking through Cura or PrusaSlicer.
After you’ve mastered the basics, these mods keep prints rolling:
And for more help, visit our resin vs filament tutorial.
No one nails it first try. Watch out for:
But stick with it. Each fix is a tiny win.
If you love detail, the ELEGOO Mars 5 Resin 3D Printer wows with cookie-crumb fine layers (35 µm). Yet resin needs post-wash and cure gear. FDM printers like the Ender 3 or Adventurer 5M print bigger parts and simpler shapes, but layer lines are visible. Choose resin for miniatures and FDM for functional parts.
Really, what could be simpler?
So that’s our friendly tour of the Best 3D Printer Under $300. Whether you pick the tried-and-true Ender 3 or the speedy Neptune 4 Pro, you’re on the path to making cool stuff. Start small, learn fast, and upgrade as you grow.
Friendly sign-off: happy printing—I can’t wait to see your first creations!