Top 5 Best 3D Printer Under $300 in 2024

Exploring the world of 3D printing doesn’t have to break the bank, especially with the array of options available under $300 in 2024. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, finding the right printer that meets both your needs and budget can make all the difference in your projects.

In this brief guide, you’ll discover five top-notch 3D printers that offer a blend of affordability and impressive features. From the quick printing ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro to the reliable Creality Ender-3 V3 KE, each model presents unique strengths tailored for various users.

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ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro FDM 3D Printer

Key Features and Specifications

The ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro stands out with several impressive features. A maximum printing speed of 500 mm/s ensures rapid production, while its high-performance Cortex-A71.2 GHz processor provides ample computing power for faster calculations and command executions. It has an optimized direct extruder and a comprehensive motion structure for precision and speed. One-click vibration compensation, based on X and Y axis resonance detection using an internally built G-sensor, further ensures top print quality. Additionally, the updated firmware offers online model library search and real-time video supervision for monitoring your prints.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance, the ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro does not disappoint. Capable of printing speeds up to 500 mm/s, it far exceeds the industry standard. The integration of a high-performance Cortex-A71.2 GHz processor ensures rapid processing. The optimized extruder and cooling system deliver filament quickly, melting and cooling it efficiently to form precise layers. This performance boost significantly reduces print times without sacrificing quality.

User Experience

Using the ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro is a pleasure. Its one-click vibration compensation system and easy-to-navigate firmware updates ensure a hassle-free user experience. Real-time video supervision and status monitoring keep you informed throughout the printing process. Setting up the printer is straightforward, and its user-friendly interface simplifies operation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High printing speed up to 500 mm/s
• One-click vibration compensation
• Real-time video supervision
• Easy setup and user-friendly interface

Cons:

• Might be more complex for absolute beginners
• Higher speed may require more maintenance

Final Verdict

The ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro is an excellent choice for those who value speed and precision. Its advanced features and user-friendly interface make it suitable for both professionals and hobbyists. The only downside is the potential learning curve for new users, but its performance benefits outweigh this minor drawback.

Sovol SV06 Plus 3D Printer

Key Features and Specifications

The Sovol SV06 Plus brings a unique blend of classic design and advanced features. It boasts a 300 x 300 x 304 mm build volume and a modular design for easy assembly. Its all-metal hotend with a large melt zone enables high-speed printing up to 250 mm/s. The self-developed all-metal direct drive extruder ensures high drive ratio and precision. It also includes a Clipper screen for swift operations and can reach temperatures up to 300°C, accommodating various filament types.

Performance and Speed

Performance-wise, the Sovol SV06 Plus offers speeds up to 350 mm/s, thanks to its all-metal hotend and efficient cooling system. The extruder’s high drive ratio allows for precise extrusion without clogs. It maintains consistency, making it perfect for long prints. The 300°C capability ensures compatibility with a wide range of filaments, from PLA to more exotic materials.

User Experience

The modular design of the Sovol SV06 Plus makes assembly straightforward, suitable even for beginners. Its Clipper screen and intuitive user interface enhance usability, and the large build volume is a bonus for larger projects. Switching between day and night modes adds a personal touch to your printing environment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-speed printing up to 350 mm/s
• Large build volume
• Modular and easy assembly
• High-temperature capability

Cons:

• Slightly higher price point within the budget range
• Requires some experience for optimal use

Final Verdict

The Sovol SV06 Plus is a versatile and high-performing printer, perfect for both entry-level and experienced users. Its large build volume and high-speed capabilities make it an excellent option for diverse projects. Although slightly more expensive, its features and performance justify the investment.

Ender-3 S1 PLUS Creality 3D Printer

Key Features and Specifications

The Ender-3 S1 PLUS boasts a large build volume, enabling you to print larger models. It features automatic bed leveling with compensation for 16 points on the heat bed. Its direct extruder is lightweight yet powerful, ensuring smooth feeding even with flexible filaments. The user-friendly UI supports multiple languages and includes energy-saving features like automatic dimming.

Performance and Speed

With its dual Z-axis lead screws and dual motors, the Ender-3 S1 PLUS ensures stable and precise movements, resulting in higher print quality. The quick leveling system and powerful extruder make it efficient and reliable. It supports various filaments, making it a versatile addition to any workshop.

User Experience

The Ender-3 S1 PLUS is 96% pre-installed, requiring minimal effort to set up. Its user interface is intuitive, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. The energy-saving automatic dimming and multi-language support enhance usability, ensuring a smooth and efficient printing experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Large build volume
• Automatic bed leveling
• Powerful and lightweight extruder
• Energy-saving features

Cons:

• Slightly more complex assembly for beginners
• Limited to certain types of filaments without upgrades

Final Verdict

The Ender-3 S1 PLUS is a reliable and versatile 3D printer suitable for various projects. Its ease of use, combined with advanced features like automatic bed leveling and dual motors, makes it a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced users. The printer’s large build volume and energy-saving features add to its appeal.

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Longer LK5 Pro FDM 3D Printer

Key Features and Specifications

The Longer LK5 Pro features a large build volume of 300 x 300 x 400 mm, ideal for more extensive projects. It supports a printing speed of up to 180 mm/s and includes a lattice glass plate for better adhesion and easier model removal. The printer’s diagonal bar design forms a stable triangular structure, minimizing vibrations for precise printing.

Performance and Speed

The Longer LK5 Pro is efficient, with a maximum speed of 180 mm/s, faster than the industry standard. The lattice glass plate ensures a flat surface, providing higher-quality prints. The inclusion of silent TMC2208 drivers guarantees a quiet printing environment, making it a great addition to any space.

User Experience

With its large build volume and stable structure, the Longer LK5 Pro is user-friendly and efficient. The lattice glass plate simplifies model removal, and the silent drivers make for a quiet operation. The open-source firmware adds an additional layer of customization, allowing you to tweak settings to your liking.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Large build volume
• Stable triangular structure
• Quiet operation
• Easy model removal with lattice glass plate

Cons:

• Slower speed compared to top competitors
• Requires some experience for tweaking firmware

Final Verdict

The Longer LK5 Pro is a dependable and user-friendly 3D printer, perfect for both beginners and experienced users. Its large build volume and stable design ensure high-quality prints, while the silent operation makes it suitable for home use. Though it’s slower than some competitors, its reliability compensates for this.

Creality Ender-3 V3 KE 3D Printer

Key Features and Specifications

The Creality Ender-3 V3 KE features a high-speed x-axis precision rail for efficient printing. It supports remote control via the Creality Print software on your PC or the Creality Cloud app on your phone. With a maximum print speed of 500 mm/s and an all-metal hotend that supports temperatures up to 300°C, it’s designed for rapid and high-quality printing.

Performance and Speed

The Ender-3 V3 KE’s maximum speed of 500 mm/s makes it one of the fastest in its class. The high-speed x-axis precision rail ensures smooth movements, while the all-metal hotend allows for high-temperature printing, accommodating various filament types. The dual-side air cooling system improves print quality by enabling rapid solidification.

User Experience

This printer eliminates the need for manual calibration with its user-friendly interface and remote control capabilities. The new interface and remote control features provide convenience, making it easier to manage prints. The high-speed rail and efficient cooling system ensure a seamless and efficient printing experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-speed x-axis precision rail
• Remote control via software and app
• All-metal hotend for high-temperature printing
• Dual-side air cooling system

Cons:

• Advanced features may be challenging for beginners
• Slightly higher price point within the budget range

Final Verdict

The Creality Ender-3 V3 KE is a high-speed, high-quality 3D printer suitable for both professional and hobbyist use. Its advanced features and remote control capabilities make it convenient and efficient. While the advanced settings may require some learning, the printer’s performance makes it a worthwhile investment.

Comparison of the Top 5 Best 3D Printers Under $300

Performance Comparison

When comparing performance, the ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro and Creality Ender-3 V3 KE stand out with their printing speeds of up to 500 mm/s. The Sovol SV06 Plus and Ender-3 S1 PLUS also perform well, offering speeds of 350 mm/s and 180 mm/s, respectively. The Longer LK5 Pro, while slightly slower at 180 mm/s, compensates with stability and precision.

Feature Comparison

Feature-wise, the ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro and Creality Ender-3 V3 KE include advanced capabilities like vibration compensation and remote control. The Sovol SV06 Plus offers a large build volume and high-temperature hotend, while the Ender-3 S1 PLUS and Longer LK5 Pro provide ease of use with their user-friendly interfaces and stable structures.

Ease of Use Comparison

For ease of use, the Ender-3 S1 PLUS and Longer LK5 Pro are top choices with their user-friendly interfaces and minimal setup requirements. The ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro and Sovol SV06 Plus also offer intuitive features but may require more initial setup. The Creality Ender-3 V3 KE, while advanced, may be slightly more complex for beginners.

Price vs. Value

All these printers offer excellent value for their price. The ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro and Creality Ender-3 V3 KE, despite being at the higher end of the budget, justify their cost with advanced features and top performance. The Sovol SV06 Plus, Ender-3 S1 PLUS, and Longer LK5 Pro, while slightly lower in price, provide excellent value with their robust features and reliable performance.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice should depend on your specific needs. If speed and efficiency are crucial, the ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro or Creality Ender-3 V3 KE are excellent choices. For larger build volumes and high-temperature capabilities, consider the Sovol SV06 Plus. If you prefer user-friendly interfaces and ease of use, the Ender-3 S1 PLUS or Longer LK5 Pro are great options.

Additional Accessories for Your 3D Printer

Recommended Filaments

Choosing the right filament is essential for quality prints. PLA is a great starting point due to its ease of use, while ABS and PETG are suitable for more durable prints. Exotic filaments like TPU and Nylon are best used with printers capable of higher temperatures, such as the Sovol SV06 Plus and Creality Ender-3 V3 KE.

Best Nozzles

Upgrading your nozzle can enhance print quality. Hardened steel nozzles are ideal for abrasive filaments, while brass nozzles offer excellent thermal conductivity for standard filaments. Ensure your chosen nozzle is compatible with your printer’s hotend.

Optimal Print Beds

A good print bed improves adhesion and eases model removal. Glass beds are popular for their smooth surface, while magnetic beds offer convenience for flexible prints. The Longer LK5 Pro already includes a lattice glass plate, an excellent choice for its flatness and ease of use.

Upgraded Extruders

An upgraded extruder can provide better filament control and reduce clogs. Direct drive extruders are beneficial for flexible filaments, offering more precise extrusion. The Sovol SV06 Plus and ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro come with robust extruders that handle various filaments effectively.

Essential Maintenance Tools

Keeping your printer in top shape requires regular maintenance. Basic tools like hex wrenches, nozzle cleaners, and lubrication oils are essential. A digital caliper can help you measure parts accurately, ensuring better print precision.

Tips for Choosing the Right 3D Printer

Understanding Your Needs

Identify what you need from a 3D printer. Are you focusing on speed, build volume, material compatibility, or ease of use? Understanding your priorities will help narrow down your choices.

Evaluating Printer Specifications

Compare key specifications like build volume, print speed, and material compatibility. Specifications will give you a clear idea of the printer’s capabilities and whether it matches your requirements.

Considering Build Volume

Consider the size of the objects you plan to print. Larger build volumes, like those of the Sovol SV06 Plus and Longer LK5 Pro, are ideal for more extensive projects. Smaller build volumes may suffice for compact and detailed prints.

User Reviews and Ratings

Check user reviews and ratings to get insights into real-world performance. Look for reviews from users with similar needs to yours. Feedback on reliability, ease of use, and support can be particularly valuable.

After-sale Support

Good after-sale support includes accessible customer service and available spare parts. Brands like Creality and ANYCUBIC are known for their robust support networks, ensuring you can resolve any issues promptly.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Bed Adhesion Problems

Bed adhesion issues are common and can be frustrating. Ensure your bed is level and clean, and consider using adhesives like glue stick or painter’s tape. Adjust the print bed temperature based on the filament you are using.

Layer Shifting

Layer shifting can occur due to mechanical issues or incorrect settings. Check for loose belts or pulleys and ensure your print speed is appropriate for the printer and material. Regular maintenance of mechanical parts can prevent this issue.

Extruder Clogs

Clogs are usually caused by poor filament quality or debris. Regularly clean your nozzle and consider using a filament filter. Ensure your printer’s extrusion temperature is suitable for the filament in use.

Print Quality Issues

If you face print quality issues, check your slicer settings, including layer height, print speed, and temperature. Ensure your filament is stored correctly to avoid moisture absorption, which can compromise print quality.

Software Troubleshooting

Software issues can disrupt your printing process. Ensure your slicer software is up-to-date and compatible with your 3D printer. Recalibrating and updating your printer’s firmware can resolve many software-related problems.

Conclusion

Choosing the right 3D printer under $300 involves considering your specific needs, from print speed and build volume to ease of use and material compatibility. The ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 Pro, Sovol SV06 Plus, Ender-3 S1 PLUS, Longer LK5 Pro, and Creality Ender-3 V3 KE each offer unique strengths, making them excellent choices within this budget. By understanding your priorities and comparing the features and performance of each printer, you can find the perfect tool to bring your creative projects to life efficiently and effectively. Happy printing!

$30 off $400+ Anycubic Products with code AC30OFF