10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr 2024)

Choosing the right 3D printer requires you to concern about all aspects. We have prepared ten of the best products that are ideal for beginners or hobbyists without breaking a bank. Find them out below!

A. Wahyu by A. Wahyu · updated on · price $249.00 - $499.00 · 580 views

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Comparison Table

Let's dive deeper to the specification
Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): The most affordable
QIDI Technology
2
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Small but sturdy
Creality 3D
3
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Designed for kids
Toybox
4
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Precise printing performance
Creality 3D
5
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Filament run-out detection
JG MAKER
6
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): No noise at all
Artillery
7
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): With built-in WiFi HD camera
FlashForge
8
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Creative without a mess
XYZprinting
9
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): More space for creativity
ANYCUBIC
10
10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr  2024): Premium pick
QIDI Technology
Product Name X-one2 Single Extruder 3D Printer CR-10 Mini 3D Aluminum DIY Printer Deluxe Bundle Ender 5 Pro 3D Printer JGAURORA A5S 3D Printer Sidewinder X1 SW-X1 3D Printer Adventurer 3 3D Printer da Vinci Jr Pro 3D Printer MEGA X 3D Printer X-Pro 3D Printer
Features The most affordable Small but sturdy Designed for kids Precise printing performance Filament run-out detection No noise at all With built-in WiFi HD camera Creative without a mess More space for creativity Premium pick
Type (FDM/DLP) FDM n/a n/a FDM FDM n/a n/a n/a FDM FDM
Build Volume 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 in 300 x 220 x 300mm n/a 220 × 220 × 300mm 302 x 302 x 320mm 300 x 300 x 400 mm 150 x 150 x 150mm 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 in 300 x 300 x 305mm 170 x 150 x 160mm
Layer Thickness 0.05mm-0.4mm n/a n/a 0.1-0.4mm 0.1-0.3mm 0.1mm n/a n/a n/a 0.05-0.4mm
Printing Speed n/a n/a n/a ≤180mm/s 10-150mm 150mm/s n/a 160 mm/s 20-100mm/s 60-150mm
Material Used PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Copper, Wood, Carbon Fiber, Gradient Color etc. 1.75 mm PLA 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Wood, Copper Containing, Gradient, etc. 1.75mm PLA, ABS 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Flexible Materials PLA, ABS, Wood, Metal Filled. 1.75mm PLA, PETG PLA, ABS, TPU, HIPS, etc. PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG
price $249.00 $329.99 $349.00 $399.00 $399.00 $439.00 $444.06 $451.16 $479.99 $499.00
Buy at view product on QIDI Technology view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Creality 3D view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Toybox view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Creality 3D view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on JG MAKER view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Artillery view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on FlashForge view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on XYZ printing view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on ANYCUBIC view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on QIDI Technology view product on Amazon view product on eBay

The rise in popularity of 3D printing means 3D printers are now not only used for industry, but for individuals and even have become a hobby. This factor affects the printer design with a slimmer size, easier operation, and a more affordable price. With these considerations in mind, choosing the right 3D printer requires you to concern about all aspects. If you don’t have any idea where to start, calm down, we have prepared ten of the best products that are ideal for beginners or hobbyists without breaking a bank. You can find them below for a quick reference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have you known these?

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a process for converting a CAD model or a digital 3D model into physical three-dimensional objects by adding material a layer at a time. All you need to do is make a design, transfer the file to a 3D printer, then bring your object to life.

How does 3D printing work?

First, create a design in a 3D modeling program. Next, import the design to 3D printing software which will slice it into layers and a G-code file so the 3D printer can read it. After that, save and transfer to your machine. The final step is to press print. The printer melts the material then produces layers one on top of the other until it forms the object we ask for.

What is the difference between FDM and DLP 3D Printing?

According to several sources, FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is the most widely available 3D printing that works by extruding melted filament layer by layer to form complete models. Just imagine a hot glue gun building an object under computer control. Whereas DLP (Digital Light Processing) cures resin using a projector screen to flashlight into the resin vat from below. This causes the resin to harden, hence building the object.

What to consider when purchasing a 3D printer?

There are several points you need to consider in order to get the right 3D printer. First, determine your budget because these points will affect everything. Second, make sure you pick a material that is strong and durable. After that, choose from functional and visual design requirements, such as smooth surface, strength, heat resistance, etc. And the last one is the capabilities of the 3D printing process, such as accuracy, available print volume, layer height, printing speed, etc.

10 Reviews: Best 3D Printers under $500 (Apr 2024)

Let's get started
QIDI Technology X-one2 Single Extruder 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: The most affordable
https://www.amazon.com/

1.
QIDI Technology
X-one2 Single Extruder 3D Printer

The most affordable

price from
$249.00
Our opinion:

Let’s start with the QIDI Technology X-One Single Extruder 3D Printer which comes in fun colors like toys. This printer is the most affordable of all the products on this list. It has a sturdy aluminum frame that’s super easy to assemble and easy to set up. It is perfect for beginners or general home hobbyists.

Promising review:

After reading all the good reviews for this printer, I decided to buy it; and i am not disappointed. This 3D printer is an excellent printer that is very easy to set up and use. It prints with great detail and quality, and I have done a numerous amount of prints without a single issue so far. I highly recommend this printer, as it performs better than expected.

by Matt B.

Type (FDM/DLP) FDM
Build Volume 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 in
Layer Thickness 0.05mm-0.4mm
Printing Speed n/a
Material Used PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG
Creality 3D CR-10 Mini 3D Aluminum DIY Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: Small but sturdy
https://www.amazon.com/

2.
Creality 3D
CR-10 Mini 3D Aluminum DIY Printer

Small but sturdy

price from
$329.99
Our opinion:

Next up, we have the Creality CR-10 mini that is another low-cost 3D printer from Creality. It takes only 10 minutes to install and is ideal for you who are just into this game. Despite the smaller size of its predecessor, this one is sturdier. The build volume provided is also impressive, which is 300 x 220 x 300mm.

Promising review:

My son has 3-D printed baby yoda's. This is the greatest gift ever. Would recommend to get if you are in the market and can't afford the $1000 ones.

by Amy Cook

Type (FDM/DLP) n/a
Build Volume 300 x 220 x 300mm
Layer Thickness n/a
Printing Speed n/a
Material Used 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Copper, Wood, Carbon Fiber, Gradient Color etc.
Toybox Deluxe Bundle - Best 3D Printers under $500: Designed for kids
https://shop.make.toys/

3.
Toybox
Deluxe Bundle

Designed for kids

price from
$349.00
Our opinion:

If you want to give your little one a 3D printer, this one is perfect. The Toybox Deluxe Bundle comes complete with eight preselected Printer Food, an EZ-Peel Bed, 2000+ digital toy catalog, and Creator Space access. That way, your kids can print their own toys without any of the mess.

Promising review:

Since this is a printer made for kids, I was thinking the toys wouldn't be very sturdy. The first thing my daughter printed was the cockroach and I was amazed with how strong the toy was!!! Thin toys are still difficult to break, if anything they just bend and not snap. Very durable and impressive.

by Xavier Gloest

Type (FDM/DLP) n/a
Build Volume n/a
Layer Thickness n/a
Printing Speed n/a
Material Used 1.75 mm PLA
Creality 3D Ender 5 Pro 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: Precise printing performance
https://www.amazon.com/

4.
Creality 3D
Ender 5 Pro 3D Printer

Precise printing performance

price from
$399.00
Our opinion:

Are you working on a big project that takes a long time to print? Now, you don’t have to worry about power outages because your unfinished project will resume automatically. The open metal frame design will allow you to replace or upgrade parts with ease. Moreover, the machine runs quieter with more precise printing performance.

Promising review:

... The 5 Plus is well engineered and robust. My wife works for a engineering firm that utilizes a printer far more expensive then the 5 Plus, they are impressed with MY print quality!! I could not recommend any other machine at this point. The Ender/CR series machines are fantastic for people of all skill sets, from rank amateurs to seasoned owners.

by marvin

Type (FDM/DLP) FDM
Build Volume 220 × 220 × 300mm
Layer Thickness 0.1-0.4mm
Printing Speed ≤180mm/s
Material Used 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Wood, Copper Containing, Gradient, etc.
JG MAKER JGAURORA A5S 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: Filament run-out detection
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
JG MAKER
JGAURORA A5S 3D Printer

Filament run-out detection

price from
$399.00
Our opinion:

There’s a lot to like about the JGAURORA A5S. It comes in a sleek and smart design which takes less than 30 minutes to build the printer. This machine will tell you when filament runs out so you can change it quickly. The size is not too big making it ideal for younger makers.

Promising review:

3d printer is very larger than I expected which is what I am looking for. The machine beeps when filament runs out to remind you to change new filament quickly. I have used it for almost two-three weeks. Running perfect. it has high print accuracy and high speed with quite working.

by JACOB

Type (FDM/DLP) FDM
Build Volume 302 x 302 x 320mm
Layer Thickness 0.1-0.3mm
Printing Speed 10-150mm
Material Used 1.75mm PLA, ABS
Artillery Sidewinder X1 SW-X1 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: No noise at all
https://www.amazon.com/

6.
Artillery
Sidewinder X1 SW-X1 3D Printer

No noise at all

price from
$439.00
Our opinion:

No need to wait long. The Artillery Sidewinder X1 makes your time more efficient as the AC heat bed can reach 80° C in two minutes. The machine is super quiet so you need to make sure if it is working or not. It definitely is. What’s more, the expandable filament holder supports 0.5-3kg filament roll, making your work much more effective.

Promising review:

So I did my research before buying , and I made sure it was all right and ready to print , I have about 86 hours on it so far and works great , I can see electronics wear out over time , like everything else , great buy , just do you home work to dial it in . Ohh and you have to get up and check on it from time to time cause it’s tooo quiet you forget it’s running .

by Random Newfie

Type (FDM/DLP) n/a
Build Volume 300 x 300 x 400 mm
Layer Thickness 0.1mm
Printing Speed 150mm/s
Material Used 1.75mm PLA, ABS, TPU, Flexible Materials
FlashForge Adventurer 3 3D Printer  - Best 3D Printers under $500: With built-in WiFi HD camera
https://www.amazon.com/

7.
FlashForge
Adventurer 3 3D Printer

With built-in WiFi HD camera

price from
$444.06
Our opinion:

If you often have problems with leveling, this printer will be happy to help you. It offers auto-leveling and an auto-feed system for the filament so you don’t have to bother setting it up. This enclosed printer comes fully assembled, you really only need to use it. The coolest feature is its built-in 2 million pixel WiFi HD camera for remote monitoring.

Promising review:

Easy to setup and use. We are mainly using the Polar Cloud service got printing which works well. The build in webcam was a nice surprise and it was useful to check on things when out of the house on a long print. It does a good job printing most objects. We had tried a resin based printer before this one and I really like how much easier the filament printers are to deal with and no mess.

by Peter B.

Type (FDM/DLP) n/a
Build Volume 150 x 150 x 150mm
Layer Thickness n/a
Printing Speed n/a
Material Used PLA, ABS, Wood, Metal Filled.
XYZprinting da Vinci Jr Pro 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: Creative without a mess
https://www.amazon.com/

8.
XYZprinting
da Vinci Jr Pro 3D Printer

Creative without a mess

price from
$451.16
Our opinion:

Da Vinci Jr Pro is best for novice users with its closed frame design. A design like this helps the high temperature to remain stable and prevents you from burns and cuts – a common accident that can be anticipated. The glass window at the front allows you to follow your work in progress without exposing you to any danger. Bring your imagination to life without a single mess.

Promising review:

I love this printer as a starter printer. The open filament allows me to use a variety of filaments. I found that painters tape works as a good substitute if you can’t afford the bed tape. Also a glue stick makes the prints stick really well. Cleaning it is very easy and the program helps remind you to perform maintenance.

by Cottamrj

Type (FDM/DLP) n/a
Build Volume 5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 in
Layer Thickness n/a
Printing Speed 160 mm/s
Material Used 1.75mm PLA, PETG
ANYCUBIC MEGA X 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: More space for creativity
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
ANYCUBIC
MEGA X 3D Printer

More space for creativity

price from
$479.99
Our opinion:

Choosing a printer with a large build volume provides flexibility for printing large objects. ANYCUBIC Mega X comes to accommodate these needs. With a volume of 300 x 300 x 305 mm and a large touchscreen, you have more space for creativity.

Promising review:

Absolutely insane great bang for the buck. Don’t be afraid of this printer or company. I have about 20 3D printers, but wanted an affordable one to toy around with and abuse. This one takes it! For its price range it’s a no complaint out of the box maker.

by Dave Balint

Type (FDM/DLP) FDM
Build Volume 300 x 300 x 305mm
Layer Thickness n/a
Printing Speed 20-100mm/s
Material Used PLA, ABS, TPU, HIPS, etc.
QIDI Technology X-Pro 3D Printer - Best 3D Printers under $500: Premium pick
https://www.amazon.com/

10.
QIDI Technology
X-Pro 3D Printer

Premium pick

price from
$499.00
Our opinion:

If you have no problem with the budget, this one can be the best pick. You can rely on the QIDI Tech 3D Printer X-Pro for durability, printing speed, and large build volume. This heavy-duty printer supports PLA, ABS, and TPU filaments for versatility in your model building. It is equipped with a touchscreen for user-friendly operation.

Promising review:

I liked that once I had spent about 20 mins carefully removing a few clips and putting the spool holders on it. It worked. I like that it’s enclosed and my three year old can’t run in and touch it etc... I’ve had to learn a few things about bed temps and print temperatures etc. So there was a little learning to do. But having a printer bundled with software that works is fantastic.

by Rasmahon

Type (FDM/DLP) FDM
Build Volume 170 x 150 x 160mm
Layer Thickness 0.05-0.4mm
Printing Speed 60-150mm
Material Used PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG

Conclusion

Buying items at affordable prices doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. You can count on the products above to bring your imagination to life. If you are a newcomer, leave it to Da Vinci Jr Pro so you can be creative without burning your house.

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