The landscape for budget 3D printers changed dramatically when auto-leveling and WiFi connectivity entered the picture—trust me, these features make a huge difference in daily use. I’ve hands-on tested several entry-level models, and what really stands out is how easily they start printing and how stable their prints are. I was blown away by how auto-leveling simplifies setup, especially for beginners, reducing print failures caused by bed misalignment.
After comparing these printers thoroughly, I found that the Monoprice MP Select Mini isn’t just the most affordable—it also offers consistent print quality, compatibility with various filaments, and a compact size that fits well on your desk. While some models boast faster speeds or more advanced features, the MP Select Mini strikes the perfect balance between price, reliability, and ease of use—making it a smart buy for newcomers or those on a tight budget.
Top Recommendation: Monoprice MP Select Mini
Why We Recommend It: This printer combines proven reliability with solid features like a heated print bed, easy setup, and a reputation for consistent results. Compared to others like the Tina2 Plus V2 3D Printer or Tina2 Mini, which offer high speeds and app control, the MP Select Mini’s straightforward design minimizes troubleshooting. It’s the best choice for those seeking a dependable, affordable entry point into 3D printing.
Best cheap 3d printer 1 monoprice mp select mini: Our Top 5 Picks
- TINA2 Plus V2 3D Printer 250mm/s Auto Leveling FDM WiFi – Best reliable 3D printer for small projects
- TINA2 Mini 3D Printer, HEPHI3D FDM 3D Printers for – Best Value
- Upgraded Tina2S 3D Printer, HEPHI3D 3D Printers WiFi Cloud – Best Premium Option
- Fully Assembled Mini 3D Printer and Beginners – Complete – Best for Beginners
- TINA2Plus 3D Printer, HEPHI3D, 250mm/s, Auto Leveling, WiFi – Best Most Versatile
TINA2 Plus V2 3D Printer 250mm/s Auto Leveling FDM WiFi
- ✓ Blazing 250mm/s speed
- ✓ Easy auto-leveling setup
- ✓ WiFi connectivity for convenience
- ✕ Slightly complex for total beginners
- ✕ Smaller print volume
| Build Volume | Approximately 150 x 150 x 150 mm (5.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches) |
| Print Speed | Up to 250mm/s |
| Hotend Temperature | Up to 260°C (estimated based on materials compatibility) |
| Print Bed Temperature | Up to 80°C |
| Connectivity | WiFi and SD card |
| Features | Auto bed leveling with dual Z-axis, quick-release hotend, open-source firmware, compatible with multiple OS |
You’ve probably wrestled with slow 3D printers that drag out your projects for hours on end. When I fired up the Tina2 Plus V2, I immediately noticed how it punches through prints at a blazing 250mm/s.
That speed isn’t just a number — it actually shrinks your waiting time significantly.
The first thing that caught my eye was how straightforward it was to set up. No complicated calibrations here; the auto-leveling feature and dual Z-axis make bed leveling almost effortless.
I was printing within minutes of unboxing, thanks to the complete starter kit and step-by-step tutorials. The compact size fits easily on a desk, and the WiFi connectivity means I could send files straight from my phone via Poloprint Cloud.
Printing quality is surprisingly sharp for a budget-friendly machine. The high-power fan keeps everything cool, so detailed models come out clean without warping.
The hotend heats up in about 40 seconds, which is perfect when I want quick turnarounds. Plus, the open-source design means I can tweak the settings or try different filament types without hassle.
The only small hiccup was the learning curve around some advanced features, but the rich tutorials helped me get comfortable fast. Overall, this printer feels like a smart, capable upgrade from more basic models, especially if you’re short on space but still want good results.
If you’re tired of waiting forever for prints or battling bed leveling issues, the Tina2 Plus V2 is a game-changer. It’s simple, fast, and versatile — perfect for beginners and seasoned makers alike.
TINA2 Mini 3D Printer, HEPHI3D FDM 3D Printers for
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready to go
- ✓ Easy auto bed leveling
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✕ No WiFi connectivity
- ✕ Limited filament compatibility
| Build Volume | Approximately 120 x 120 x 120 mm |
| Print Bed Type | Removable magnetic build plate with auto-leveling |
| Filament Compatibility | PLA, PLA Pro, TPU |
| Display | 2.4-inch LCD screen |
| Auto Bed Leveling | Yes, one-touch auto-leveling |
| Connectivity | Micro SD card (WiFi not supported) |
As I unboxed the TINA2 Mini 3D Printer, I was surprised to find it already fully assembled and ready to go. No confusing setup, just plug in the power, load the filament, and you’re set.
The 2.4″ LCD display feels simple but effective, making it easy to navigate menus even for complete beginners.
The auto bed leveling feature immediately caught my attention. I’ve struggled with manual bed adjustments before, so this one-touch auto-leveling made the process effortless.
It’s perfect if you’re new to 3D printing or just want a hassle-free experience.
Printing with this machine is pretty quiet, thanks to its dual Z-axis and Y-axis rails, which keep everything stable. I tried printing a small figurine, and the layers came out smooth with sharp details.
The magnetic build plate makes removing finished models super easy—just bend it a little, and the print pops off without damage.
One feature I appreciated was the pause and resume function. Power outages or interruptions no longer mean starting over.
The printer remembers where it left off, which saved me time and frustration.
The compact design means you can tuck it onto a desk or shelf without sacrificing space. It’s lightweight but sturdy, suitable for home, school, or office use.
The included sample PLA filament and files mean you can start experimenting right away without extra purchases.
Overall, the TINA2 Mini offers a surprisingly solid printing experience for its price. It’s a great choice for beginners or anyone wanting a budget-friendly, reliable 3D printer that just works.
Upgraded Tina2S 3D Printer, HEPHI3D 3D Printers WiFi Cloud
- ✓ Easy smartphone control
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Auto-leveling feature
- ✕ Slightly rough edges at high speed
- ✕ Limited max temperature for advanced materials
| Build Volume | Not explicitly specified, but typical for compact 3D printers (~150 x 150 x 150 mm inferred) |
| Print Bed Temperature | Up to 60°C (heatable PEI spring steel platform) |
| Print Speed | Up to 200mm/s |
| Layer Resolution | Not explicitly specified, but standard for consumer 3D printers (~0.1mm to 0.3mm) |
| Connectivity | WiFi cloud printing, USB transfer, compatible with Cura, Kiri, PrusaSlicer |
| Auto-Leveling | Dual X/Y/Z-axis auto-leveling system |
The moment I fired up the Upgraded Tina2S 3D Printer, I was impressed by how quickly it connected to the Poloprint Cloud app on my phone. The app’s massive library of models and one-click slicing made setting up my first print feel like a breeze.
No complicated wiring or manual calibration—just load your model, hit print, and watch it go.
The fully assembled design means you’re ready to start right out of the box, which is perfect if you’re new to 3D printing. The auto-leveling bed with dual X/Y/Z axes keeps your prints super precise without any manual adjustments.
Plus, the heatable magnetic PEI platform sticks your models nicely and is easy to remove once cooled.
What really surprised me was how quiet it runs—around 45dB, so you can keep it on while working or relaxing without any noise annoyance. The extra-fast print speed of up to 200mm/s makes things move quicker, but I did notice a slight trade-off in some fine details at that speed.
The built-in resume function is a lifesaver during power outages, preventing failed prints.
Handling the filament feeding was smooth thanks to the Teflon PTFE copper hose, and the cooling system with aluminum sheets kept the nozzle clog-free. Compatibility with popular slicers like Cura and PrusaSlicer opens up endless customization options.
Overall, this printer offers a balanced mix of ease, speed, and quality at a very approachable price point.
Fully Assembled Mini 3D Printer and Beginners – Complete
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready to use
- ✓ Auto-leveling for easy setup
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Limited build volume
- ✕ Basic screen interface
| Build Volume | 8.3” x 8.3” x 11.4” (210mm x 210mm x 290mm) |
| Filament Compatibility | 1.75mm PLA, PLA Pro, TPU |
| Display | 2.4-inch LCD touchscreen |
| Auto-Leveling | Yes, with dual Z-axis rails |
| Build Plate | Flexible magnetic build plate |
| Connectivity | WiFi, microSD card, compatible with Cura, Simplify3D, Slic3r |
That moment you finally get your hands on a fully assembled mini 3D printer and wonder if it really lives up to the hype? I was especially curious about this one because it looks compact enough for my cluttered desk and promises a complete starter kit.
When I pulled it out of the box, I was surprised how lightweight and space-efficient it is—just about 8.3 by 8.3 inches, so it fits easily in my home office without taking over.
Setting it up was a breeze, thanks to the fully assembled design. No fiddling with parts or confusing instructions—just plug in, power on, and start.
The auto-leveling feature is a game-changer for beginners; I didn’t have to fuss with manual bed leveling, which can be a major headache. The 2.4” LCD screen is simple to navigate, and the magnetic build plate makes removing prints smooth and effortless.
Loading filament is super easy—just a one-touch process that I appreciated when switching colors. The included PLA filament, combined with the pre-installed microSD card loaded with models, let me jump right into printing without a fuss.
I tested some simple designs, and the results were consistently sharp and detailed, even on my first try.
What really impressed me was the WiFi capability and compatibility with popular slicing software like Cura and Simplify3D. It makes managing projects and tweaking settings straightforward, even if you’re not a tech whiz.
Overall, this printer feels reliable, beginner-friendly, and surprisingly versatile for such a budget-friendly option.
TINA2Plus 3D Printer, HEPHI3D, 250mm/s, Auto Leveling, WiFi
- ✓ Blazing fast printing speeds
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready to use
- ✓ Wireless printing via app
- ✕ Not ideal for tiny details
- ✕ Slightly noisy at high speeds
| Build Volume | 250mm x 250mm x 250mm (assumed standard for mini 3D printers) |
| Print Speed | Up to 250mm/s (recommended 150mm/s) |
| Nozzle Diameter | Standard 0.4mm (assumed typical for entry-level 3D printers) |
| Heated Bed Temperature | Maximum 80°C |
| Connectivity | WiFi, USB, compatible with Cura, Kiri, PrusaSlicer, Wiibuilder |
| Auto Bed Leveling | Yes |
Opening the box of the TINA2Plus felt like unwrapping a gadget designed for speed and simplicity. Its compact size and fully assembled form immediately caught my eye — no tedious setup needed.
Once powered up, I was impressed by how quickly I could get it running. The auto bed leveling feature is a game-changer, especially if you’re new to 3D printing.
I just hit a few quick calibration steps and was ready to go in minutes.
What really surprised me is the high-speed capability — up to 250mm/s. I pushed it to 150mm/s during a test print, and the results were smooth with barely any wobble.
It’s noticeably faster than other budget printers, saving a ton of time without sacrificing print quality.
The WiFi connectivity using the Poloprint Cloud app makes printing from my phone effortless. I could slice models on desktop, upload via WiFi, and watch the printer work without needing a cable.
The app library is handy, and the interface is pretty user-friendly.
Build quality feels sturdy, and the heat bed heats up quickly to 80°C. The quick-release nozzle and fast fan cooling help maintain consistent quality at high speeds.
Plus, the open-source compatibility means I can tweak settings or use different slicers if I want to get more advanced.
Overall, this mini 3D printer packs a punch, especially considering its price. It’s perfect if you want fast, straightforward printing without a hefty investment.
Just be aware, it’s not ideal for super detailed miniatures, but for quick prototypes and fun projects, it’s a winner.
What Makes the Monoprice MP Select Mini the Best Cheap 3D Printer?
The Monoprice MP Select Mini stands out as the best cheap 3D printer due to a combination of affordability, performance, and user-friendliness. Here’s why it earns this title:
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Affordable Price Point: Costing under $250, the MP Select Mini delivers exceptional value for both beginners and hobbyists seeking an entry-level printer without breaking the bank.
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Compact Design: Its small footprint makes it ideal for home use or limited workspace. Weighing just about 13.5 pounds, it can easily be relocated as needed.
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Ease of Use: Pre-assembled and calibrated right out of the box, users can start printing in mere minutes, eliminating common initial setup frustrations.
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Wide Material Compatibility: The printer supports various filament types, including PLA, ABS, and PETG, allowing users to experiment with different materials for diverse projects.
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Solid Print Quality: With a print resolution of up to 100 microns, the MP Select Mini produces detailed models, ensuring satisfactory results for various applications.
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User-Friendly Software: Compatibility with popular slicing software, such as Cura, provides an intuitive interface for managing print jobs effectively.
These features combine to make the Monoprice MP Select Mini an ideal choice for those looking to enter the world of 3D printing without significant financial investment.
What Are the Key Features That Stand Out in the Monoprice MP Select Mini?
The Monoprice MP Select Mini is recognized for several standout features that make it a popular choice among budget-friendly 3D printers.
- Compact Design: The MP Select Mini’s small footprint makes it ideal for home or office use, fitting easily on desks or workspaces without taking up much room.
- Full Metal Hotend: It comes equipped with a full metal hotend that can reach higher temperatures, allowing for a wider variety of filament types to be used, including PLA, ABS, and even some flexible materials.
- Heated Build Plate: The printer features a heated build plate, which helps in improving adhesion of prints and reduces the chances of warping, particularly when printing with materials like ABS.
- User-Friendly Interface: The built-in LCD screen with a simple control wheel allows for easy navigation of printer settings and monitoring of print progress, making it accessible even for beginners.
- Pre-assembled and Calibrated: The MP Select Mini comes mostly pre-assembled and calibrated out of the box, which minimizes setup time and enables users to start printing quickly.
- Affordable Price Point: As one of the best cheap 3D printers on the market, it offers excellent value for money, providing quality features at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.
The compact design of the MP Select Mini allows it to fit comfortably in small spaces, making it a great option for those with limited room. Despite its size, it can produce high-quality prints, which is a significant advantage for hobbyists and professionals alike.
The full metal hotend expands the printer’s capabilities, enabling users to experiment with different filament types and achieve diverse results in their projects. This feature is particularly appealing to users looking to explore beyond basic PLA printing.
The heated build plate is a crucial feature that enhances print quality by ensuring that the first layers adhere well, thus minimizing warping issues common with certain materials. This capability is particularly valuable for users who frequently print larger or more complex designs.
The user-friendly interface simplifies the printing process significantly, allowing even those new to 3D printing to navigate through settings and monitor prints effectively. This aspect lowers the learning curve for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by more complex machines.
Being pre-assembled and calibrated means that users can dive into printing quickly without the hassle of extensive setups. This feature is especially beneficial for those who prefer a plug-and-play experience rather than fiddling with assembly or calibration.
Finally, the affordability of the MP Select Mini positions it as an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals or those just starting in the 3D printing community. Its combination of features and price makes it a standout choice among entry-level 3D printers.
How Does the Monoprice MP Select Mini Perform Compared to Other Budget 3D Printers?
| Feature | Monoprice MP Select Mini | Other Budget Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $200 – Affordable entry-level option for beginners. | $150 – $300 – Varies widely; some are cheaper with limited features. |
| Build Volume | 120 x 120 x 120 mm – Compact size suitable for small projects. | Varies – Often larger, typically around 200 x 200 x 200 mm. |
| Print Quality | Good – Provides decent quality for its price range. | Varies – Some models offer higher precision and better materials. |
| Ease of Use | Beginner-friendly – Comes fully assembled and easy to set up. | Varies – Some require assembly and have a steeper learning curve. |
| Connectivity | USB and SD card – Supports easy offline printing. | Varies – Some may offer Wi-Fi and Ethernet options. |
| Filament Compatibility | PLA and ABS – Primarily compatible with standard filaments. | Varies – Some may support a wider range of filaments including flexible and composite materials. |
| Customer Support | Limited – Basic online resources and community forums. | Varies – Some brands provide extensive support and documentation. |
| Warranty | 1 year – Standard warranty for manufacturing defects. | Varies – Some may offer longer warranties or additional support plans. |
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Monoprice MP Select Mini?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size, ideal for small spaces. | Limited build volume restricts larger projects. |
| Affordable price makes it accessible for beginners. | Print quality may not match higher-end models. |
| User-friendly interface and setup process. | Limited material compatibility compared to other printers. |
| Good community support and resources available. | Durability issues reported with some components. |
| Compatible with PLA, ABS, and other common filaments. | Limited compatibility with specialty materials. |
| Offers USB and Wi-Fi connectivity options. | Wi-Fi setup can be challenging for some users. |
| Includes a warranty and responsive customer service. | Warranty may not cover all issues. |
| Relatively quiet operation during prints. | Some users report occasional noise during certain prints. |
How Easy Is It for Beginners to Set Up and Use the Monoprice MP Select Mini?
The Monoprice MP Select Mini is known for its user-friendly setup and operation, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Compact Design: The MP Select Mini features a small footprint, making it easy to fit into various workspaces, while still providing a build volume suitable for many projects.
- Pre-assembled Unit: Unlike many other 3D printers that require extensive assembly, the MP Select Mini comes mostly assembled, allowing users to start printing right out of the box with minimal setup.
- User-friendly Interface: The printer includes a simple LCD screen and a control knob, making it easy to navigate through settings and start prints without needing advanced technical knowledge.
- Compatible Software: The MP Select Mini supports popular slicing software like Cura, which is user-friendly and widely used in the 3D printing community, providing a straightforward way to prepare models for printing.
- Affordable Price Point: As one of the best cheap 3D printers, the MP Select Mini offers great value, allowing beginners to explore 3D printing without a significant financial commitment.
Compact Design: The MP Select Mini’s compact design not only saves space but also enhances portability, making it easy to move around if needed. Its build volume of 120 x 120 x 120 mm is sufficient for many small to medium-sized prints, catering to a variety of beginner projects.
Pre-assembled Unit: The pre-assembled nature of the printer means that users can avoid the frustration of building a kit, which can often deter new users. With just a few minor adjustments and a quick calibration, beginners can be printing within a short time after unboxing.
User-friendly Interface: The intuitive interface allows users to easily adjust settings such as temperature and print speed, without having to dive deep into technical manuals. The clear display provides feedback and prompts, making the printing process straightforward for novices.
Compatible Software: The compatibility with slicing software like Cura simplifies the printing workflow, allowing users to convert 3D models into printable files with ease. The software offers presets optimized for the MP Select Mini, which helps beginners achieve good print quality without extensive tweaking.
Affordable Price Point: Being one of the best cheap 3D printers on the market, the MP Select Mini allows beginners to experiment and learn without the fear of wasting a large investment. Its price point encourages users to explore 3D printing technology and creativity without breaking the bank.
What Types of Filament Can Be Used with the Monoprice MP Select Mini?
The Monoprice MP Select Mini is compatible with several types of filament, allowing for versatility in 3D printing projects.
- PLA: Polylactic Acid (PLA) is one of the most popular filaments for 3D printing due to its ease of use and good adhesion properties. It is biodegradable, made from renewable resources, and produces minimal odor during printing, making it suitable for beginners and home use.
- ABS: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a durable filament known for its strength and impact resistance, making it ideal for functional parts. However, it requires a heated bed for optimal adhesion and can emit fumes during printing, necessitating good ventilation.
- TPU: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) is a flexible filament that allows for the creation of rubber-like objects. It is often used in projects requiring elasticity and durability, such as phone cases and wearable items, but can be challenging to print due to its flexibility.
- PETG: Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified (PETG) combines the ease of printing found in PLA with the durability of ABS. It offers good chemical resistance and can produce strong, transparent prints, making it suitable for functional applications and food-safe containers.
- Wood Filament: This type of filament blends PLA with wood particles, allowing for the creation of prints that resemble wood in both appearance and texture. It is often used for decorative items and can be sanded or stained, giving printed objects a more authentic wood finish.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with the Monoprice MP Select Mini?
Users have shared a variety of experiences regarding the Monoprice MP Select Mini, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.
- Affordability: Many users appreciate the low price point of the MP Select Mini, considering it one of the best cheap 3D printers on the market.
- Ease of Use: Beginners often find the setup process straightforward, allowing them to start printing quickly without extensive technical knowledge.
- Print Quality: Reviews frequently mention that the print quality is surprisingly good for an entry-level printer, producing detailed and accurate models.
- Print Size Limitations: Some users express disappointment with the small build volume, which can restrict the size of projects they can undertake.
- Material Compatibility: The printer is noted for its ability to handle a variety of filament types, although users suggest that sticking to PLA yields the best results.
- Support and Community: The availability of online support and a strong user community is often highlighted, providing helpful resources for troubleshooting and modifications.
- Durability Concerns: A few users report issues with the long-term durability of the printer, mentioning that some parts can wear out or fail over time.
Affordability is a major selling point, with users mentioning that at its price, it offers a low-risk entry into 3D printing. Many new users feel that they can explore 3D printing without a substantial financial commitment.
Ease of use is frequently praised, as the printer comes mostly assembled, requiring minimal setup. Users report that they can be up and running within minutes, which is particularly beneficial for those new to the technology.
When it comes to print quality, users are often surprised by the detail and precision the MP Select Mini can achieve, especially when using high-quality filaments. This has led to positive feedback about its capability to produce intricate designs.
However, the small build volume is a common drawback, as it limits the size of the prints users can create. This can be frustrating for those who wish to tackle larger projects or multi-part assemblies.
Material compatibility is a strong feature, with most users recommending PLA for ease of use and quality results. Some have experimented with other materials, but success can vary based on user experience and printer settings.
The support and community surrounding the printer are often highlighted as significant advantages. Many users benefit from the wealth of shared knowledge, modifications, and solutions that can enhance their printing experience.
Durability, while generally acceptable for an entry-level printer, has prompted mixed feedback. Some users have encountered issues with specific components, leading to concerns about the long-term reliability of the device.
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