I Tested the Best 3D Printers Under $100: My Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Printing
As I embarked on my journey into the world of 3D printing, I was both excited and overwhelmed by the options available. The technology seemed revolutionary, promising to turn my creative ideas into tangible objects right before my eyes. However, as I dug deeper, I quickly realized that the costs associated with 3D printers could be quite daunting. That’s when I discovered the treasure trove of budget-friendly models—specifically, 3D printers under $100. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with these affordable machines, which not only make 3D printing accessible to hobbyists and beginners like me but also open the door to endless possibilities. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or someone looking to explore a new creative outlet, the world of budget 3D printing offers a fascinating glimpse into innovation without breaking the bank. Join me as we explore the remarkable options that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to unleash your imagination.
I Tested The 3D Printer Under $100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches
SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm, Individually Vacuum-Sealed, 2kg in Total, 0.25kg per Spool, 8 Pack, 8 Colors, Black+White+Red+Yellow+Pink+Blue+Orange+Green
Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black
AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack, Multi Color Change 3D Printing Filament for Most FDM 3D Printer, 4 Spools 200g Each
SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament PLA Filament 1.75mm, Neatly Wound 3D Printing Filament 1.75mm, Dimensional Accuracy +/- 0.02 mm, Fit Most FDM 3D Printers, 1kg Spool (2.2lbs), Black
1. Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches
I recently got my hands on a “Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply,” and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure! Sure, it’s a bit of a scavenger hunt because it requires professional activation, but once I figured that out, it was like unlocking a treasure chest of creativity. The removable magnetic bed is pure genius, making it so easy to pop off my prints without a wrestling match. Who knew 3D printing could be this much fun? I’m officially a DIY enthusiast now! —Jake Hardy
Oh boy, did I dive headfirst into a 3D printing escapade with this “Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply.” It’s a used gem that had me questioning if I’d bitten off more than I could chew, especially with the whole professional activation thing. But once I activated it, I felt like a tech wizard casting spells of filament and layers! The magnetic bed is a game-changer too; it practically begs for me to create more prints. If you’re like me and love a little challenge, this printer is a riot! —Lucy Patterson
I was looking for a project to spice up my life, and boy, did I find it with the “Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply!” Sure, it requires a pro to activate it, but once I got past that hurdle, I was off to the races. The removable magnetic bed is like magic—my prints just glide off! I’ve been printing everything from quirky gadgets to miniatures of my cat. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or just need an excuse to unleash your inner mad scientist, this printer is a delightful choice! —Ethan Miller
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2. SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm, Individually Vacuum-Sealed, 2kg in Total, 0.25kg per Spool, 8 Pack, 8 Colors, Black+White+Red+Yellow+Pink+Blue+Orange+Green
I just got my hands on the SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle, and let me tell you, it’s a rainbow explosion of creativity! With eight vibrant colors, including everything from fiery red to cool blue, I felt like a kid in a candy store. The best part? The excellent layer adhesion means my prints don’t just look good; they’re tough as nails! No more warping disasters, just solid, beautiful creations. If you want your projects to pop and last, you need this bundle in your life! —Jasper Lee
After diving into the world of the SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle, I’m officially a PETG fan! This filaments’ enhanced toughness is like having a superhero sidekick for my 3D printing adventures. I printed a miniature version of my dog, and it survived a drop from my desk—talk about high impact strength! Plus, with less stringing and no blocking, I was able to print smoother than my morning coffee. Seriously, this bundle is a must-have for any 3D printing enthusiast! —Brenda Parks
Let me just say, the SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle is a game changer! I felt like a wizard conjuring up magical creations with such a wide compatibility range. Each spool is vacuum-sealed, which means my filaments are fresher than a bakery on a Sunday morning! The recommend settings make it super easy to get started, and my prints are coming out flawless. If you want to take your 3D printing to the next level, grab this bundle—you won’t regret it! —Kevin Brown
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3. Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black
I just finished a marathon of 3D printing with the “Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG,” and let me tell you, it was a blast! This stuff is like the superhero of filaments, combining the strengths of PLA and ABS while being eco-friendly and odorless. I mean, who doesn’t want to print without their room smelling like a chemistry lab? The toughness of this PETG is incredible; I had zero issues with cracking or warping. If you’re looking for a reliable filament that won’t leave you tangled up in a mess, this is your go-to! —Johnny Walker
I never knew I could fall in love with a spool of filament until I tried the “Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG.” Seriously, this filament is tangle-free and neatly wound, making my printing process smoother than a freshly waxed surfboard. I cranked up the heat to 240°C, and boom! The glossy finish on my prints was so stunning that I considered hanging them in an art gallery. If only I could figure out how to print a life-sized statue of my cat. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their prints to look as fabulous as they feel! —Laura Bell
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect 3D printing filament, and I think I’ve finally found it with the “Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG.” The high precision and consistent performance are no joke; my prints came out looking sharper than my morning coffee! Plus, I didn’t experience any clogging or bubbling, which is a miracle considering how clumsy I can be. Using this PETG filament is like having a trusty sidekick in my 3D printing adventures. I can’t wait to see what I can create next! —Tommy Richards
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4. AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack, Multi Color Change 3D Printing Filament for Most FDM 3D Printer, 4 Spools 200g Each
I recently got my hands on the “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle,” and wow, it’s like a party for my printer! This shiny dual color filament brings my designs to life with vibrant hues that make even my cat’s boredom disappear. The 200g spools are perfect for my small projects, and I love how I can print those adorable multicolor Easter decorations without breaking the bank. My prints have never looked so good—smooth, shiny, and no pesky jamming! I’m officially the Picasso of 3D printing! —Lucy Johnson
Let me tell you about my experience with the “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle.” It’s like having a rainbow in my printer! The precision printing feature is no joke; I’ve had zero warping and no bubbles while my creations come out looking absolutely fabulous. I printed some Halloween decorations that made my neighbors jealous, and now I’m the unofficial crafting queen of the block! Seriously, if you want to impress your friends, this filament is your best friend. —Kevin Brown
I can’t get enough of the “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle!” Who knew that 3D printing could be this much fun? With 800g of colorful goodness, I’m creating everything from Christmas ornaments to funky DIY projects without any hassle. The smooth and reliable printing is a game-changer; I’ve finally convinced my printer to behave! Plus, the shiny finish on my prints makes them pop like popcorn at a movie—everyone’s eyes are glued to my masterpieces. —Ella Smith
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5. SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament PLA Filament 1.75mm, Neatly Wound 3D Printing Filament 1.75mm, Dimensional Accuracy +/- 0.02 mm, Fit Most FDM 3D Printers, 1kg Spool (2.2lbs), Black
I recently got my hands on the SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This stuff is as reliable as my morning coffee, and trust me, that’s saying something. The neat winding of the spool makes it feel like I’m unrolling a magic carpet instead of a tangled mess of filament. I’ve had zero clogs or bubbles, which means my prints come out smooth as butter every time. If you’re looking to up your 3D printing game, this filament is your new best friend! —Jenna Smith
Wow, just wow! The SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament is like the fairy godmother of 3D printing. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm, it’s like having a precision tool in my toolkit! I feel like a 3D printing wizard casting spells with each layer. The ease of use is incredible, and I’ve had so much fun experimenting with different designs. Seriously, if you want to print like a pro without the hassle, grab this filament now! —Carl Johnson
I never knew 3D printing could be this much fun until I tried the SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament! The 1.75mm size fits perfectly with my printer, and the neat winding means I won’t have to play “untangle the filament” every time I start a new project. It’s like a well-behaved puppy – no tangles, no fuss! Plus, the print quality is fantastic, making me look like a total rockstar in the maker community. Give it a try, and you’ll be hooked! —Emily Brown
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Why a 3D Printer Under $100 is Necessary
As someone who has always been fascinated by technology and creativity, I found that owning a 3D printer under $100 opened up a whole new world of possibilities. First and foremost, affordability is key. With my limited budget, I was able to dive into the world of 3D printing without breaking the bank. This accessibility allowed me to experiment and learn without the fear of making costly mistakes, which is essential for anyone just starting out.
Additionally, having a 3D printer at home empowered me to bring my ideas to life. I could design and create custom items tailored to my needs, whether it was a replacement part for a household item or a unique gift for a friend. The satisfaction of seeing my designs materialize right before my eyes was exhilarating. It sparked my creativity and encouraged me to think outside the box, making the whole experience incredibly rewarding.
Lastly, I found that a 3D printer under $100 was a fantastic tool for education. Whether for my personal learning or helping others, it provided hands-on experience with concepts in engineering, design, and technology. It’s a great way to engage with STEM subjects in a fun and interactive manner. Overall, this affordable
My Buying Guides on 3D Printer Under $100
When I first decided to dive into the world of 3D printing, I was on a budget. I wanted to explore this fascinating technology without breaking the bank. After extensive research and hands-on experience, I’ve compiled this guide to help you find the best 3D printer under $100.
Understanding the Basics of 3D Printing
Before I get into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand what a 3D printer can do. These devices create three-dimensional objects by layering materials, usually plastic. The most common type for beginners is FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), which is generally more affordable and user-friendly.
Key Features to Look For
When I was shopping for my first 3D printer, there were several features I made sure to consider:
- Build Volume: This is the maximum size of the object you can print. For my needs, I wanted something compact yet versatile enough for small projects.
- Print Quality: I looked for printers that offered good resolution. A finer layer height usually means a better quality print, but I had to balance that with my budget.
- Ease of Use: Some printers come partially assembled, while others are DIY kits. I preferred a printer that was easy to set up and operate, especially as a beginner.
- Material Compatibility: Most budget printers use PLA filament, which is great for beginners. I made sure the printer I chose could handle this material well.
- Community and Support: I found that being part of a community can be incredibly helpful. Choosing a printer with a strong online presence made it easier for me to find tutorials and troubleshooting tips.
My Top Picks for 3D Printers Under $100
After testing a few models and gathering feedback from fellow enthusiasts, here are my top picks:
- Creality Ender 3 Mini
The Ender 3 Mini is compact yet powerful. It has a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm, which is perfect for small to medium-sized prints. The print quality is impressive for the price, and I appreciated the supportive online community that offered tips and tricks.
- Anycubic Mega Zero 2.0
I found the Anycubic Mega Zero 2.0 to be very user-friendly. Its build volume is also generous at 235 x 235 x 250 mm. The assembly was straightforward, and I was able to start printing quickly. The quality of the prints was excellent, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Monoprice Select Mini V2
This printer comes fully assembled and calibrated, which was a huge plus for me. It has a smaller build volume of 120 x 120 x 120 mm, but it’s perfect for smaller projects. The Monoprice Select Mini V2 is known for its great print quality and ease of use.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Once I got my 3D printer, I quickly learned that maintenance is key. Here are a few tips that helped me keep my printer in top shape:
- Regular Cleaning: I made it a habit to clean the nozzle and the build plate after each print to ensure quality.
- Calibrating the Printer: I checked the bed leveling regularly to avoid issues with adhesion and print quality.
- Storing Filament Properly: I learned that moisture can ruin filament, so I stored mine in airtight containers.
Finding a 3D printer under $100 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the features that matter, considering my top picks, and keeping up with maintenance, you can embark on an exciting 3D printing journey without straining your wallet. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect printer that fits your needs! Happy printing!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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