Looking for the Best Enclosed 3D Printer Under $500 can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out. Enclosures help trap heat, reduce warping, and keep curious pets (or impatient kids) away from hot parts. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to get these benefits.
Because an enclosed printer keeps that cozy, warm environment around your build, you’ll see fewer cracked corners and better layer adhesion—especially with tricky filaments like ABS or PETG. And, if you pick one of the models below, you’ll enjoy reliable prints without breaking the bank (Yikes, that was awkward when my cat nudged the bed mid-print!).
ABS, PETG, and even some specialty materials really thrive in a controlled chamber. Here’s why an enclosure is a game-changer:
When your printer has an enclosure built in, you avoid aftermarket mods and just plug in and go. That’s ideal if you’d rather spend time printing than tinkering.
Here are four top picks that blend enclosure, performance, and price. Each model comes with its own perks—read on to find your perfect match.
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The QIDI Q1 Pro is one of the few true enclosure printers below $500. Its robust build and thoughtful design make it a beginner favorite.
If you’re printing ABS, the Q1 Pro’s stable chamber and high-temperature hotend will keep warping to a minimum. Because it’s enclosed, you won’t need extra panels or blankets.
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The AD5M Pro balances speed and precision inside its sealed box. It’s a step up for beginners ready to print tougher materials right away.
But what really sets the AD5M Pro apart is its fume filtration. If you plan to print ABS regularly, that HEPA filter helps keep your room smelling fresh and your lungs happy.
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At just $280, the Adventurer 5M offers a taste of enclosure benefits. It ships open, but adding a simple acrylic cover (sold separately) transforms it into a soft-box for your prints.
Because the enclosure is optional, the 5M can double as an open-air machine for PLA and then be enclosed for PETG or ABS. It’s versatile for printers who dabble in many materials.
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The Kobra S1 isn’t enclosed out of the box, but its accessory kit easily adds panels to trap heat. It’s a budget-friendly way to get both enclosure and high speeds.
If you already have a spare box or acrylic sheets, the Kobra S1 can be enclosed in minutes. But even open, it prints PLA beautifully—so you can start simple and upgrade when you’re ready.
Even with the best hardware, dialing in your settings makes a difference. Try these:
Because each enclosure retains heat differently, you might need to tweak these tips. But once dialed in, you’ll spend more time watching your designs grow than chasing failures.
Ready to explore materials and gear? Check out these guides on Intagly:
Stock up on accessories and filaments to fill your new enclosure:
You’re all set to choose the Best Enclosed 3D Printer Under $500 that fits your needs and budget. Happy printing, and enjoy those warp-free, professional prints!