3D Printers have evolved from mere devices for hobbyists to being considered for industrial level manufacturing. Having said that, there are still enthusiasts and students willing to learn these relatively new machines. So we have listed down 10 best possible 3D printers that are easily affordable. We have tried to remain under 3000$, with one exception. The ranking are based on consumer reviews at Amazon.com,machine capability and overall value for money.
10. UP Mini Fully Assembled 3D Printer(600$)
Pro:
- Fabricates objects from STL files using ABS or PLA thermoplastic filament (sold separately)
- All-metal enclosure helps reduce temperature fluctuation, noise, and odor
Con
- Low Vertical(Z-axis) resolution at 200 to 400 micron
- Very Low build Volume at 120 x 120 x 120 mm
You can get one here
9. CTC Bizer Dual Extruder Desktop 3d Printer(449$)
Pro:
- Very Affordable.
- Small in Size and easily manageable.
- Good build area at 225 x 145 x 150mm
Con:
- Low material Compatibility
You can get one here
8. XYZprinting Da Vinci 2.0(649$)
Pro
- features two extruders allowing you to create multi-color projects.
- Thousands of 3d models available; Share, create and print online with the XYZ World community.
- Low Maintenance – Print-bed detection and automatic nozzle cleaning.
Con
- The machine is heavy at 61 Pounds , compared to others.
- Build volume is small at 198 x 198 x 150mm.
- The company have set this to Brick itself if it detects a refilled or reused cartridge. It will do this without warning and with no say on your behalf.
You can get one here
7. FlashForge 3d Printer Creator Pro(1190$)
Pro
- Good resolution between 100-300 microns.
- New acrylic cover encloses the chamber to insulate and protect ABS prints.
Cons
- In some units, Bed is not leveled.
- High Maintenance.
- Low Tech Support from the seller.
You can get one here
6. The MakerGear M2(1775$)
Pro
- 203 x 254 x 203mm Build volume.
- CNC machined black anodized-aluminum axes mounts.
Con
- Performance not as good on PLA as compared to ABS
- Not great value for money
- Customization is difficult as number of different parts available by the manufacturer are low.
You can get one here
5. FlashForge 3d Printer, Dual Extruder(990$)
Pro
- Works well for both PLA and ABS.
- Good value for money( considering it’s capabilities).
- High precision at 30 microns at Vertical(Z) axis.
Con
- Low product support.
- Plate/nozzel difficult to claibrate. Manufacturer is known to not maintain a standard in quality.
You can get one here
4. Printrbot Simple Maker’s Kit Model (349$)
Pro
- Design is very sturdy.
- High Print quality.
- Very cheap.
Con
- 100 x 100 x 100mm Print envelope is low, although the machine has a decent resolution.
You can get one here
3. MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer, 5th Generation(2900$)
Pro
- Decent resolution at 100 micron
- On board camera can be connected either through Wi-Fi or USB.
- Connectivity and Mobile Control(Smart Phone)
- Build Volume 252 x 199 x 150
Con
- No heated chamber
- Dual Extrusion not possible.
You can get one here
2. Form Labs Form 1+(3500$)
Pro
- Stereolithography (SLA) technology results in high quality
- Print at 25/50 or 100 micron layer thicknesses.
- Light Weight at 28 Pounds
Con
- Messy, though finished product is of high quality,
- Small Build Volume.
- Limited color choices.
1. LulzBot TAZ 5(2200$)
Pro
- Open Source Hardware utilizing Free Software, giving you the freedom to use, adapt, modify, and learn.
- LulzBot Hexagon all metal hot end can heat to 300°C (572°F).
- Boasts a spacious 298mm x 275mm x 250mm (11.7in x 10.8in x 9.8in) print volume.
Con
- High Maintenance .
- A problem of clogging has been reported after a certain time of use.
You can get one here