Best 3D Printer Under $1000: 10 mid-budget picks for versatile printing

There are numerous 3D printers available today and they perform a vast number of operations, ranging from creating new product prototypes to medical applications. The budget printers are ideal for beginners, students, and simple hobbyists alike.

However, if you are really serious about printing 3D you will definitely need something with a bit more pizzazz than a bare-bones budget package. This is the part where the world of 3D printers under $1000 comes into its own.

These state of the art machines can really hold their own when it comes to high quality and tough applications. They offer multiple styles, quick builds, and attention to detail not otherwise found amongst their less expensive competitors.

After much research, we feel that the best 3D printer under $1000 is the Prusa i3 MK3S. Learn more below.

Best 3D Printer Under $1000: top picks

1. The Prusa i3 MK3S

When it comes to the very best 3D printers under 1000, there is one name that instantly comes to mind. That is Prusa Research.  The brainchild of its Czech founder Joseph Prusa, this company has come a long way since its inception. Prusa Research has managed to bridge the steep gap between commercial enterprises and the Open Source community at large.

The Prusa i3 MK3S has been created after extensive feedback from the 3D printing community and this has resulted in a machine as affordable as it is capable.

Community and Tech Support

In the rare case that you have any difficulties in assembling the unit or any other issue, you can simply get in touch with the good people at Prusa who would be more than willing to help you out. In fact, the company is renowned for its tech support. Apart from that, there is an entire community of passionate fans of the Prusa i3 MK3S who are at hand to offer both extensive help or even advice should you need either of the two.

Best Value for Money

This is an open-source machine so it is possible to both hack and upgrade it in myriad different ways so that it won’t become obsolete easily. Add to that an all-new and refined extruder arm and an updated filament sensor and you can see why this 3D printer offers such excellent value for money.

Technical Specifications

• Build volume: 25 x 21 x 21cm
• Layer height: 0.05mm (50 Micron)
• Memory: Integrated LCD as well as SD card reader
• Nozzle size: 0.4mm nozzle
• Skew: Automatic Skew axes compensation
• Bed: Automatic leveling bed
• Print Surface: Heated bed
• Software: PEO print platform
• Power: PLA 80W / ABS 120W
• Materials: Extensive material support
• Included materials: 1kg filament included

Pros

• Exceptional print quality
• Auto-calibration capability
• Sturdy design
• Highly enthusiastic and very helpful community
• Crash detection
• Beautiful bridging and overhangs
• Print pause and restart feature
• Prusa’s own Slic3r PE slicing software is very user friendly
• Prusa support responds very quickly and they are very knowledgeable

Cons

• Long-distance prints are markedly less reliable that onsite ones
• Not a really major upgrade to its older i3 MK3 version

Verdict

As with all other Prusa products, the Prusa i3 MK3S is a chip off the old block and does not disappoint. It is an extremely capable 3D printer. Its overall print quality is truly exceptional and can be compared favorably to more expensive models.

This is very easy to use machine. One that is both reliable and durable. In a nutshell, the Prusa i3 MKS just works. All in all, a really solid printer that tends to gives good results.

Read the full review here

2. QIDI Tech X-Pro

The defining feature of the QIDI Technology X-PRO3D printer is its solid aluminum construction as well as high-quality components. These attributes help contribute to the amazing stability of the X-PRO platform. Taken together, these features aid in improving print quality quite substantially.

Moreover, the unit’s fully enclosed build space provides excellent temperature control making it one of the best budget 3D printers around,

Technical Specifications

• Technology: FDM
• Extruder Quantity: Dual extruder
• Positioning Accuracy: (X/Y/Z) 0.01/0.01/<0.001 mm
• Build Size: 230 x 150 x 150 mm
• Max. Extruder Temperature: 250°C
• Print chamber: Fully enclosed
• Max. Print Bed Temperature: 120°C
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
• Display: LCD touch screen
• Frame: Aluminum
• Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
• Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG
• Software Input Formats: STL, OBJ, G, 3MF, GCODE, X3D, JPG PNG,
• Connectivity: WIFI, Ethernet, USB
• Net Weight: 61.7 lbs or 27.98 kg

Pros

• Very sturdy aluminum frame
• Top-quality components
• Magnetically sealing doors
• Encased print space
• Removable build platform

Cons

• Very basic filament options
• Extruding temperature restricted to 250 C only
• Manual bed level capability only

Verdict

The QIDI X-PRO is an incredibly sturdy and accurate 3D printer. However, it lacks an automatic bed level feature that is often the mainstay of other 3D printers under 1000

Overall, this particular 3D printer definitely represents a really solid upgrade over many of its competitors.

Check price on Amazon

3. Monoprice Maker Select Mini V2

A couple of years back the Monoprice select took the word by storm. The Monoprice Select MiniV2 is a highly anticipated newer version of the original Monoprice select.

The printer has been well equipped with a metal hot end that aids in improving uniform heating and also helps prevent clogging. The heated and insulated printing bed prevents warping and boosts print adhesion as well

Technical Specifications

• Printing Technology: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
• Maximum  Extruder Temperature: 482°F (250°C)
• Maximum Platform Temperature: 140°F (60°C)
• Build Area 4.7″ x 4.7″ x 4.7″
• Print Speed: 55 mm/s
• Supported Software: Cura Software, Repetier-Host
• Filament Types: ABS, Steel Fill PLA, Wood Fill, Bronze Fill
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi USB, micro SD card
• Extruder Type: Single Extruder

Pros

• Very affordable machine
• Sturdy design
• Reliable results
• Very easy to operate

Cons

• No Wi-Fi connectivity
• Lower quality prints at high speeds
• Hot end temperature is inconsistent

Verdict

The Monoprice Select Mini V2 3D printer is undoubtedly a really impressive machine for its price. It is very simple to operate, comes with a heated print bed, and also creates consistent and reliable prints.

Check price on Amazon

4. Creality CR-10 V2

This is a very popular 3D printer for hobbyists and serious users alike. Like its predecessor models, the Creality CR-10 V2 also has a really large build plate. Additionally, its print quality is very good in comparison to most other models currently available in the market.

It has been equipped with what Creality euphemistically refers to as the “Golden Triangle.” Not to be mistaken with the region bearing the same name in Asia, this one refers to the Z-axis brace that connects the top part of the frame to the unit’s base.

The main aim of this design feature is to give the printer a much sturdier frame that will help get rid of vibrations and any wobble of this crucial axis in the long run, it will ultimately ensure prints that will have a uniformly smooth finish that is characteristic of the CR- 10 V2.

Technical Specifications

• Technology: FDM
• Assembly: Assembled
• Mechanical arrangement: Cartesian-XZ-head
• Build volume: 300 x 300 x 400 mm
• Feeder system: Bowden
• Nozzle size: 0.4 mm
• Max. heated bed temperature: 100 °C
• Max. hot end temperature: 260 °C
• Print head: Single nozzle
• Frame: Metal
• Bed leveling: Both automatic and manual
• Connectivity: SD card
• Filament sensor: Yes

Pros

• The build quality is very good
• Very easy to assemble
• Easy to operate as compared to other 3D printers
• Very quiet operation
• Separate power supply
• Highly upgradable
• Easy availability of replacement parts

Cons

• Very slow heat up
• Overly large size power supply

Verdict

In terms of print quality and build size this 3D printer is second to none. It is actually possible to assemble the Creality CR-10 V2 even without a manual. If you are looking for a really affordable budget 3D printer, rest assured that this one will fit the bill. If you have an eye for one of the best 3D printer around, you should take a look at this model.

You can also check out the Creality CR-10 Max

5. Elegoo Mars SLA printer

If you are in the market for the best 3D printer, you should definitely give the Elegoo Mars a closer look.. As far as high-quality output is concerned, this 3D printer can easily and favorably be compared to printers that cost a whole lot more. However, this rare gem of a printer has often been overlooked because of flashier models with high advertising budgets.

This has a lot to do with the fact that the Elegoo Mars is a comparatively rare bird and it requires a bit of looking before you can find one and discover its great potential for yoursef. Unfortunately, this also translates into the fact that the printer’s overall fan following and community is not as large or as extensive as the more popular models out there.

This budget 3D printer boasts of an impressive build area. However, it is pertinent to note here that the overall build quality is a bit on the rough side.

Technical Specifications

• Technology: SLA
• Assembly: Fully-assembled
• Type: Resin
• Build Volume: 120 x 68 x 155 mm (4.7 x 2.6 x 6.1 inches)
• Layer Height: 10+ microns
• Bed-Leveling: Assisted Manual
• Connectivity: USB

Pros

• Excellent printing quality for its price range
• Very easy and minimalistic setup and design
• Simple but extremely effective print capability

Cons

• Its most important connecting socket (USB) is located in a hard to reach position
• This is a very noisy printer
• Prolonged usage of the unit may cause it to overheat

Verdict

This is a state of the art DLP printer. This means that it works by the simple expedient of curing the resin to make 3D objects. All the work is done with the help of an LED screen.

The machine has been priced amongst budget 3D printers but it is miles better than many other offerings due to its very high resolution prints. In short, we can conclude that the Elegoo Mars is both an affordable and durable choice for both beginners as well as their professional counterparts, alike.

Check price on Amazon

6. BIBO Dual Extruder 3D Printer

It is very simple really. Dual extruders easily add near unimaginable strength to the different printing possibilities of just about any 3D printer. Keeping this in mind, the good people at BIBO have added ‘Dual Extruder’ to the name of the latest 3d printer in their lineup.

Thanks to its twin extruders, you won’t have to face any hassle when it comes to printing in two different colors. Apart from that, you can print twice as fast and twice as reliably as well!

Yes, when it comes to budget 3D printers, this might not be the very first machine to come to mind. This is because the BIBO 3D Dual Extruder Printer would need a certain amount of expertise and experience before you can use it to its optimum capacity.

This machine is loaded with value-added features such as the fact that it has smart AI for filament spool detection as well as Wi-Fi controls. This way, you won’t have to worry about the print getting spoilt. In fact, you can easily check up on your prints even when you are in another city!

The unit’s smartphone application will help ensure that you are on top of things and also keep track of the whole printing process via any smart device.

Technical Specifications

• Build size: 214 x 186 x 160 mm
• Print resolution range: 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm
• Maximum nozzle temperature: 270 degrees Celsius.
• Connectivity: SD card slot, WI-FI and USB slot capability
• Maximum print speed: 350 mm/s

Pros

• The BIBO 3D printer is versatile enough to use everyday materials for your prints
• It will automatically detect whenever its filament spool runs out
• Seamless Wi-Fi connectivity
• Its dual extruders cut down total printing time by half
• It is possible to print multiple copies simultaneously
• Easy to use touch screen interface

Cons

• Not the ideal 3D printer for novices
• Initial assembly can be very hard
• The operating manual leaves a lot to be desired
• Online support is pretty thin

Verdict

This is an extremely versatile printer. One that uses plenty of commonly available materials for creating amazingly lifelike 3D objects. In fact, you can use wood, paper, leather and even plastic with the BIBO Dual Extruder 3D printer.

This printer has many value-added features that combine together, help make it into a great budget 3D printer option for people looking for a machine under 1000.

Finally, it is easy to operate for anyone who has experience in using 3D printers of a similar nature. The full-color touchscreen goes a long way towards making this machine responsive to the slightest touch and command.

Check price on Amazon

Read the full review here

7. FlashForge Creator Pro

There are few people in the industry who have not heard about the FlashForge Company. They are the makers and purveyors of some of the very best budget 3D printers available today.

The FlashForge Creator Pro is a highly flexible and versatile dual extrusion budget 3D printer that won’t break your piggy bank. Its design is loosely based on MakerBot’s open-source Replicator, and it has taken a lot of ideas from that model.

However, it is not a clone of the Replicator by any means. It is in fact, a capable 3D printer in its own right and has its own set of features that set it apart from the many other offerings out there.

As of now, the FlashForge 3D Creator Pro is known amongst the 3D printing fraternity as one of the more affordable as well as highly capable dual extrusion 3D printers around.

The sturdy construction, the fully enclosed build chamber, as well as a heated build plate, allow smooth and seamless operation. It is a great printer for multi-material printing of various types of temperature-sensitive materials, especially the kinds that are prone to warping a lot.

Technical Specifications

• Technology: FFF
• Assembly: Fully assembled
• Mechanical arrangement: Cartesian style
• Build volume: 227 × 148 × 150 mm
• Layer height: 100 microns
• Extruder Type: Dual
• Nozzle size: 0.4 mm
• Bed leveling: Manual
• Maximum extruder temperature: 260°C
• Maximum heated bed temperature: 120°C
• Connectivity: SD card and USB
• Printing Speed: 100 mm/s
• Print chamber: Enclosed
• Filament diameter: 1.75 mm
• Third-party filament compatibility: Yes
• Frame dimensions: 480 x 338 x 385 mm
• Filament materials: ABS, PLA, PETG, PVA
• Operating system: Windows, Mac Linux
• File types: STL, OBJ

Pros

• A highly durable 3D printer
• It prints with precision and accuracy
• A rough and tough workhorse that can keep going when others fail
• Very strong aluminum framework
• Very affordable price

Cons

• This is a very noisy printer
• It is far slower than its competitor printers in the same price bracket.
• It is large and unwieldy
• Set up is tough due to lack of details in the instruction manual

Verdict

This printer has a very active and supportive fan base. The community happily helps out novices new to the game and makes sure that they are able to extract maximum mileage from their machine. Best of all, it is available at a really accessible price point for hobbyists, small to mid-sized businesses and other consumers looking for a good quality 3D printer that can create prototypes as fast as possible.

Check price on Amazon

8. Creality Ender 5 Plus

If you are on the lookout for a printer that gives you absolutely massive volume than the Creality Ender 5 Plus is the ideal 3D printer for you. This holds particularly true due to the many other features that are part and parcel of this great machine. The Ender series has long been immensely popular amongst knowledgeable enthusiasts.

However, Creality needed something fresh to jazz up their lineup. Enter the Creality Ender 5 Plus. This is one of the hottest 3D printers around and the flagship of the company.

The Ender 5 had a build volume of 220 x 220 x 300 mm. While it is certainly enough for most prints, it is nonetheless very convenient to have plenty of extra space for those really big tasks.

This is the part where Ender 5 Plus really comes into its own. Its glass bed boasts of a massive area; 350 x 350 mm to be precise, while the machine’s Z-axis stretches al the way up to 400 mm.

Technical Specifications

• Mechanical arrangement: Cartesian XY-head
• Technology: FFF
• Assembly: Semi-assembled
• Nozzle size: 0.4 mm
• Extruder type: Single nozzle
• Build volume: 350 x 350 x 400 mm
• Max. extruder temperature: 260 °C
• Max. heated bed temperature: 110 °C
• Print chamber: Open
• Bed leveling: Semi-automatic
• Connectivity: SD card, Online web interface,
• 3rd party filaments: Yes
• Compatible materials: PLA, composite filaments. ABS, TPU,

Pros

• Large Z-bed
• Printing consistency is very good
• Very stable structure
• Power failure resume capability

Cons

• Very large and bulky
• The power supply is a bit undersized

Verdict

Overall, the Creality Ender 5 Plus is a really great machine. One that is ideal for anyone looking for a large-format 3D printer. The large size coupled with a sturdy frame makes for very good quality prints.

9. Monoprice Maker Select Ultimate

In the past few years, Monoprice has carved for itself an enviable reputation for making some of the best budget 3D printers around. The company prides itself on creating high-quality equipment at budget prices. The Monoprice Maker Ultimate is yet another feather in their cap and it certainly doesn’t do its ‘cheap but cheerful reputation’ any harm.

Technical Specifications

• Print Technology: FFF
• Build Volume: 200 x 200 x 175 mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• File Types: STL, DAE, OBJ, AMF
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm

Pros

• It is a well-priced budget 3D printer with decent performance
• Support for a large array of printing materials
• Solid and sturdy construction
• Large print area

Cons

• No automatic print-bed leveling
• Very slow print speed
• The unit struggles with ABS material

Verdict

The Maker Ultimate has been designed to target the budget-conscious 3D printer user. With the help of this machine, you can experiment with 3D printing albeit without overextending your budget.

Check price on Amazon

10. Dremel DigiLab 3D40 3DPrinter

The Dremel DigiLab 3D40 is considered to be a rock-solid 3D printer by many industry pundits. It produces very high-quality prints at a decent speed. It is very simple to operate and this feature makes it ideal for both the classroom as well as a more professional setting.

However, it is pertinent to note that this printer uses proprietary PLA filaments. While it is possible to use third party products, the results leave a lot to be desired.

Technical Specifications

• Technology: FDM
• Assembly: Fully-assembled
• Mechanical arrangement: Cartesian style
• Build volume: 255 × 155 × 170 mm
• Frame: Aluminum
• Extruder Type: Single
• Nozzle size: 0.4 mm
• Print chamber: Enclosed
• Bed leveling: Semi-automatic
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
• Filament materials: PLA
• File types: STL, 3mf, OBJ, BMP, GIF, PNG, JGP, x3d

Pros

• Very simple setup
• Flexible build plate
• Object removal is quite easy
• Solid print quality

Cons

• Limited to Proprietary PLA filament only

Verdict

Dremel’s DigiLab 3D40 Flex 3D Printer had great output quality and it is also very user friendly. It also comes with a great mix of connectivity options.

However, its key drawback is that it only uses PLA filaments and third party filaments make it operate like a completely different printer.

Check price on Amazon

Honorable mention

• Anycubic Chiron
• Anycubic Predator
• Tevo Black Widow
• Wanhao Duplicator 7
• Tronxy X5S
• Check out the best 3D Printers Under $2000 if you have a bigger budget

Best 3D Printer Under $1000: Buying Guide

There are plenty of great 3D printers under 1000 and you would be spoilt for choices. In fact, in this price bracket, you can easily acquire a machine that would be good enough for both the classroom as well as a professional lab. And if you are a serious hobbyist you can get one for your workshop too.

Different Types of Printers

• Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is the most popular 3D printing technology and it is commonly available in printers under 1000. FDM printers are some of the best entry levels printers that you would be able to find under $1000.
• Cartesian 3D printing technology is a derivative of the FDM 3D printing system. Such printers are essentially based on the Cartesian coordinate system and use three separate axis: X, Y, and Z so as determine the position of the print head at any given point in time.
• The Delta 3D printing system consists of three mechanical arms on rails. They move vertically to move the print head.
• Selective laser sintering (SLS) utilizes lasers to transform plastic raw material into a 3D object. It is most often used in labs to create cutting edge prototypes of future products.

Build volume

The build volume is used to find out the total size of your printing space. The more the overall volume, the larger the 3D object that your printer will be able to print for you.

Frame Material

There are many different kinds of materials out there but the sturdiest printers are generally made of high tensile aluminum. They can easily handle both vibrations and movement without getting cracked.

There also exist many different kinds of filaments as well. Some printers use proprietary filaments while others are able to use third party products for increased flexibility.

Speed

As a general rule, slower printers are cheaper than high-speed ones. However, faster speeds can also lead to a lack of quality of the print.

Assembly

Some printers require detailed assembly and they are ideal for tinkerers and hobbyists.

However, if you don’t like doing that, you should consider going for a printer that is either fully assembled or semi-assembled so that you can start printing as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The above line up of the best 3D printers under $1000 is all good for hobbyists and professional work alike. Any one of them could easily suit your needs, though as we mentioned above, we feel the Prusa i3 MK3S is a clear winner.