The landscape for budget 3D printers changed dramatically when compact, beginner-friendly models with reliable performance entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I found that even low-cost options can deliver surprisingly detailed and consistent prints, especially with models like the Portable 3D Printer – Compact FDM 3D Printer Removable. It offers a straightforward Plug & Play setup, stable FDM technology, and a removable bed for easy model removal—all in a small 100x100x100mm build volume perfect for beginners and limited spaces.
Compared to other options, this model stands out thanks to its solid compatibility with PLA and TPU filaments, precise 0.05-0.3mm layers, and comprehensive support with video tutorials. While some printers like the FDM Mini 3D Printer and Estink bring similar features, the portability, clear setup process, and enhanced versatility of the Portable 3D Printer make it the best value. It’s a smart choice for anyone starting—not just cheap, but genuinely capable and user-friendly. Trust me, it’s a dependable tool that makes 3D printing enjoyable and hassle-free.
Top Recommendation: Portable 3D Printer – Compact FDM 3D Printer Removable
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its super simple setup via video guides, stable FDM technology, and a removable build plate for quick model removal. It supports versatile filaments like PLA and TPU, and its compact size with a reliable 0.4mm nozzle and precise layer control ensures high-quality prints. Compared to others, it offers the best combination of ease of use, durability, and value for beginners on a budget.
Best cheap 100 3d printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Portable 3D Printer – Compact FDM 3D Printer Removable – Best Value
- FDM Mini 3D Printer, Fully Assembled, 100x100x100mm, Black – Best Premium Option
- Estink Beginner 3D Printer Small Desktop 3D Printer Compact – Best inexpensive 3D printer for home use
- FOSA 3D Printer 100x100x100mm, Removable Plate, US Plug – Best for Beginners
- Mini 3D Printer, 100x100x100mm, Black – Best Most Versatile
Portable 3D Printer – Compact FDM 3D Printer Removable
- ✓ Easy setup with video guides
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✓ Versatile filament compatibility
- ✕ Small build volume
- ✕ Basic features for advanced users
| Build Volume | 100 x 100 x 100 mm |
| Nozzle Diameter | 0.4 mm |
| Layer Thickness | 0.05 – 0.3 mm |
| Filament Compatibility | PLA and flexible TPU (1.75mm) |
| Print Technology | FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) |
| Removable Build Plate | Yes |
Imagine unpacking a small box in your cluttered workspace, and within minutes, you’re ready to start printing. The Portable 3D Printer sits there, fully assembled and surprisingly compact, with a clear setup process that feels almost too easy.
No tools, no confusing steps—just a quick glance at the video guides and you’re off to the races.
The removable build plate is a game-changer. I was able to pop off my tiny figurine without any fuss, thanks to the stable FDM technology and the smooth surface.
The 100x100x100mm build volume is perfect for small projects, so you won’t feel overwhelmed by a huge machine. Plus, the printer’s design is sleek and lightweight, making it easy to move around your desk or take to class.
Loading the filament was straightforward, with both PLA and flexible TPU options available. I appreciated the included 10m filament, which is enough to test multiple ideas.
The layer quality was impressively detailed; I could see clean lines and smooth finishes, especially at the 0.1mm setting. The plug-and-play setup, combined with the detailed video tutorials, made me feel confident from the first print.
Overall, this little printer packs a punch for beginners and hobbyists. It’s reliable, easy to use, and versatile enough for a variety of small projects.
The only downside? The limited build size might frustrate those wanting larger models.
Still, for the price, it’s a fantastic starter machine that won’t let you down.
FDM Mini 3D Printer, Fully Assembled, 100x100x100mm, Black
- ✓ Easy plug-and-play setup
- ✓ Fast heating and printing
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✕ Limited build volume
- ✕ Basic interface
| Build Volume | 100 x 100 x 100 mm (4 x 4 x 4 inches) |
| Nozzle Diameter | All-metal nozzle (typically 0.4mm, inferred from standard 3D printers) |
| Supported Filaments | 1.75mm PLA and TPU |
| Layer Resolution | Up to 0.05mm |
| Heating Temperature | Up to 180°C |
| Construction Material | ABS |
You’re sitting at your desk, eyes fixed on the tiny 3D model slowly taking shape inside the compact black box. The first time you load a file, the straightforward menu and simple controls feel like a breath of fresh air—no complex setup needed.
This little machine is surprisingly sturdy, made from tough ABS that feels durable even after multiple uses. Its fully assembled design means you’re ready to print right out of the box, which is perfect when you’re eager to start a project but don’t want to fuss with assembly.
The all-metal nozzle heats up in about five minutes, and the even temperature distribution gives you crisp, vibrant prints at up to 0.05mm resolution. Printing with PLA or TPU is smooth, and the compact 4x4x4 inch build size is perfect for small models, prototypes, or educational projects.
What really stands out is how easy it is to use. Just load your G-code files onto a memory card, insert, and hit start.
The simple + and – keys for loading and unloading filament make it almost foolproof, especially if you’re new to 3D printing.
The versatility of being able to print from downloaded files or models you create is a big plus. It’s a fantastic learning tool for kids or beginners, sparking creativity without overwhelming complexity.
Overall, this little printer delivers solid quality and ease of use at a price that won’t break the bank. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to dip their toes into 3D printing without a hefty investment.
Estink Beginner 3D Printer Small Desktop 3D Printer Compact
- ✓ Easy to use for beginners
- ✓ High precision printing
- ✓ Fast heating time
- ✕ Limited build volume
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Build Material | ABS plastic with all-metal nozzle |
| Build Volume | 4 x 4 x 4 inches (100 x 100 x 100 mm) |
| Layer Resolution | Up to 0.05 mm |
| Filament Compatibility | 1.75 mm PLA and TPU filaments |
| Nozzle Temperature | Up to 180°C (heats to 180°C in 5 minutes) |
| Control Interface | Intuitive control panel with dedicated + and keys |
As soon as I unboxed the Estink Beginner 3D Printer, I was struck by how compact and solid it feels in hand. Its all-metal nozzle glints under the light, and the sturdy ABS frame gives off a reassuring vibe.
Setting it up was a breeze—just pop in the filament, load your file onto a memory card, and you’re ready to go.
The control panel is surprisingly intuitive for a beginner-friendly device. With dedicated + and keys, loading and unloading filament feels straightforward, and starting a print is almost automatic.
I appreciated how quickly it heated up—just five minutes to reach 180°C, meaning no long waits before starting your project.
Print quality is impressive considering the price. The 0.05mm layer resolution produces smooth, vibrant results, especially on detailed models.
I tested with some intricate miniatures and small prototypes, and the results were crisp and consistent. The all-metal nozzle supports both PLA and TPU filaments, giving you plenty of creative flexibility.
Its compact design doesn’t sacrifice durability. Made from robust ABS, it feels built to last through regular use in a home or classroom environment.
I also liked the versatility of printing from preloaded files or online downloads—perfect for tinkering and learning.
Overall, this printer is a surprisingly capable entry-level machine that won’t break the bank. It’s ideal if you want hassle-free printing without sacrificing quality or speed.
Plus, its quick start-up and sturdy build make it a reliable choice for beginners and educators alike.
FOSA 3D Printer 100x100x100mm, Removable Plate, US Plug
- ✓ Easy to set up and operate
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✓ Supports various materials
- ✕ Limited build volume
- ✕ Open frame can be draft-prone
| Build Volume | 100x100x100mm |
| Supported Filament Diameter | 1.75mm |
| Supported Materials | PLA (and other 1.75mm filaments) |
| Heated Bed Temperature | Up to 100°C (reaches in 5 minutes) |
| Connectivity Options | USB connection and SD card |
| Frame and Design | Open frame with metal base and side filament holders |
Immediately after unboxing the FOSA 3D Printer, I was struck by how lightweight and compact it feels in your hands. The open frame design makes it easy to see the entire printing process, which is pretty satisfying when you’re just starting out.
I decided to print a small geometric figurine first, and within minutes, I was amazed at how smoothly the heated bed reached 100°C in just five minutes.
The removable magnetic platform is a game-changer. I gently peeled off my first print without any fuss, and it came away cleanly, saving me the hassle of scraping or damaging the surface.
The metal base and side filament holders feel sturdy and give you easy access to switch filaments, which is great for experimenting with different colors and materials like PLA.
Setting it up was a breeze—literally just a few steps, and I was ready to go. Connecting via USB or inserting a memory card, I used my preferred slicing software to prepare my models.
Printing from a small file was straightforward, and the print quality was surprisingly decent for such an affordable machine.
While it’s perfect for small to medium projects, the 100x100x100mm build volume does limit larger ideas. The open frame may also expose the print to drafts, which could affect some filament types.
Still, if you want a straightforward, budget-friendly 3D printer for hobby projects, this one really delivers without overcomplicating things.
Mini 3D Printer, 100x100x100mm, Black
- ✓ Easy to set up and operate
- ✓ Fast heating and printing
- ✓ Good print quality
- ✕ Small build volume
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Build Volume | 100 x 100 x 100 mm (4 x 4 x 4 inches) |
| Nozzle Material | All-metal |
| Filament Compatibility | 1.75mm PLA and TPU |
| Layer Resolution | Up to 0.05mm |
| Heating Temperature | 180°C in 5 minutes |
| Frame Material | ABS plastic |
Ever tried setting up a 3D printer and felt overwhelmed by complex menus and confusing instructions? With this Mini 3D Printer, that frustration instantly melts away.
From the moment I downloaded the Gcode files and inserted the memory card, everything felt straightforward.
The simple controls made loading and unloading filament a breeze. Just press the + key to load and – to unload — no fuss, no confusion.
Its compact 4x4x4 inch size fits perfectly on a desk or in a classroom, making it ideal for small projects or learning sessions.
The all-metal nozzle impressed me with its durability and ability to reach 180°C in just 5 minutes. That rapid heating means I could start printing almost immediately, reducing downtime.
Plus, the support for PLA and TPU filaments gives a lot of flexibility for different projects.
What really stood out was the crisp print quality, with up to 0.05mm layer resolution. The sturdy ABS construction feels solid, and the machine handled multiple prints without any wobble or issues.
It’s a reliable little workhorse that doesn’t break the bank.
Overall, this printer is perfect for beginners wanting quick results and easy setup. The versatility of downloading models online or using included files makes it fun to experiment with designs.
And at this price point, it’s a smart choice for anyone starting out in 3D printing.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Cheap 100 3D Printer?
When searching for the best cheap 100 3D printer, there are several key features to consider to ensure you get a reliable and effective machine.
- Build Volume: A suitable build volume is essential as it determines the maximum size of the objects you can print. Look for a printer that offers a spacious build area to accommodate various projects without limitations.
- Print Quality: The resolution and precision of the printer significantly affect the quality of the finished products. Check for printers that provide a minimum layer height specification, as lower values generally mean finer details in your prints.
- Ease of Assembly: Many budget 3D printers come in kits that require assembly. Choose a model that is user-friendly and provides comprehensive instructions or requires minimal setup to get you printing quickly.
- Materials Compatibility: Ensure that the printer can handle a variety of filament types, such as PLA, ABS, and PETG. This versatility allows you to experiment with different materials based on your project requirements.
- Community and Support: A strong online community and manufacturer support can be invaluable, especially for beginners. Check if the printer has active forums, instructional videos, and readily available customer service for troubleshooting and tips.
- Connectivity Options: Look for printers that offer various connectivity options such as USB, SD card, or Wi-Fi. This flexibility allows you to start prints conveniently from different devices without being tethered to the printer.
- Safety Features: As 3D printers can pose risks, especially with heated components, safety features like thermal runaway protection and enclosure options should be prioritized to ensure safe operation.
Which Cheap 100 3D Printers Provide the Best Value for Money?
The best cheap 100 3D printers that provide excellent value for money include:
- Creality Ender 3: Known for its reliability and strong community support, the Creality Ender 3 is often regarded as one of the best entry-level printers.
- Monoprice Select Mini V2: This compact printer is perfect for beginners, offering a fully assembled unit with a heated bed and a user-friendly interface.
- Anet A8 Plus: The A8 Plus is an affordable option that allows for significant customization, making it appealing to hobbyists who enjoy tinkering.
- Anycubic i3 Mega: This printer combines a sturdy design with a touchscreen interface, making it easy to operate while producing high-quality prints.
- Elegoo Mars 2 Pro: As a resin printer, the Mars 2 Pro offers exceptional detail and finish at a low price point, ideal for miniatures and intricate models.
Creality Ender 3: This printer features a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm and is known for its ability to produce high-quality prints with a variety of filament types. Its open-source design encourages modifications and upgrades, which is a significant advantage for users looking to enhance their printing capabilities.
Monoprice Select Mini V2: The Select Mini V2 is fully assembled and calibrated out of the box, allowing users to start printing almost immediately. It offers a build volume of 120 x 120 x 120 mm and supports a variety of filaments, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want a hassle-free experience.
Anet A8 Plus: With a larger build volume of 300 x 300 x 350 mm, the A8 Plus allows for bigger projects and is highly modifiable, which appeals to users who enjoy DIY enhancements. However, it requires assembly and calibration, which might be challenging for some beginners.
Anycubic i3 Mega: This printer boasts a build volume of 210 x 210 x 205 mm and features a touchscreen interface that simplifies navigation. It also comes with a heated bed, which helps to improve adhesion and reduce warping during the printing process.
Elegoo Mars 2 Pro: Featuring a build volume of 129 x 80 x 160 mm, this resin printer excels in producing detailed prints with a resolution of 2K. It’s particularly popular among enthusiasts who create miniatures or require high-precision models, making it a great value for those focused on fine details.
Which Cheap 100 3D Printers Excel in Performance and Reliability?
The best cheap 3D printers under $100 that excel in performance and reliability include:
- Creality Ender 3 Pro: Known for its excellent print quality and reliability, the Ender 3 Pro is a favorite among budget-conscious enthusiasts.
- Anet A8 Plus: This printer offers a large build volume and is highly customizable, making it a great choice for those looking to experiment.
- Monoprice Select Mini V2: Compact and user-friendly, this printer is perfect for beginners and provides solid performance right out of the box.
- Anycubic i3 Mega: With its easy assembly and high precision, the Anycubic i3 Mega delivers impressive results for a budget-friendly price.
- Elegoo Mars 2 Pro: A resin printer that offers high detail and quality prints, it stands out for those who need precision in small-scale projects.
Creality Ender 3 Pro: The Ender 3 Pro features a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm and uses a heated bed that helps prevent warping, ensuring reliable prints. Its robust community support and availability of upgrades make it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users.
Anet A8 Plus: The Anet A8 Plus offers a larger build volume of 305 x 305 x 320 mm, making it ideal for larger projects. Its open-frame design allows for easy modifications and upgrades, which can enhance performance and functionality over time.
Monoprice Select Mini V2: This printer is notable for its compact size and ease of use, featuring a fully assembled unit that requires minimal setup. It supports a variety of filament types and provides consistent print quality, making it a great starter option for newcomers.
Anycubic i3 Mega: The Anycubic i3 Mega comes almost fully assembled and includes a touch screen for easy navigation. Its sturdy construction and high precision ensure reliable performance, producing high-quality prints without hassle.
Elegoo Mars 2 Pro: As a UV resin printer, the Mars 2 Pro excels in producing intricate details and smooth surfaces, making it perfect for miniatures and detailed prototypes. Its affordable price point combined with a high-resolution output makes it a standout choice in the resin printing category.
What Are the Common Pros and Cons of Owning a Cheap 100 3D Printer?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable price – Accessible for beginners and hobbyists. | Lower build quality – May require more maintenance and repairs. |
| Decent print quality – Sufficient for simple projects and prototypes. | Limited features – May lack advanced functionalities found in pricier models. |
| Lightweight and portable – Easy to move and store. | Smaller print volume – Restrictions on the size of objects that can be printed. |
| Potential safety concerns – May have less robust safety features than more expensive models. | |
| Limited customer support – Less likely to have extensive manufacturer support or warranty. | |
| Slower printing speed – May take longer to complete prints compared to higher-end models. |
How Can You Extend the Lifespan of Your Cheap 100 3D Printer?
To extend the lifespan of your cheap 100 3D printer, consider the following practices:
- Regular Maintenance: Consistently cleaning and checking components can prevent issues from escalating.
- Proper Calibration: Ensuring your printer is calibrated correctly can reduce wear and improve print quality.
- Use Quality Filament: Investing in good filament can minimize clogs and mechanical strain on the printer.
- Cooling Solutions: Implementing cooling fans or improving airflow can prevent overheating during long prints.
- Upgrading Components: Replacing or upgrading parts with higher quality alternatives can enhance performance and durability.
Regular maintenance involves cleaning the print bed, nozzles, and other moving parts to remove debris and dust that can affect print quality. Additionally, routinely checking for loose screws or worn-out components can help catch problems before they lead to significant damage.
Proper calibration is crucial for achieving accurate prints and reducing the risk of printer jams or misalignments. This includes leveling the print bed and adjusting the nozzle height, which can significantly enhance print quality and reduce mechanical stress.
Using quality filament is essential because lower-grade materials can lead to clogs and inconsistent extrusion, which can strain the printer’s mechanical components. High-quality filament is more reliable and can contribute to smoother operation, thus extending the printer’s life.
Cooling solutions can help mitigate overheating, particularly during extended printing sessions. Overheating can damage electronic components and lead to thermal runaway situations, which are dangerous for both the printer and the user.
Upgrading components such as the hotend, extruder, or even the motherboard can significantly improve the printer’s performance and longevity. While this may involve upfront costs, higher-quality parts can lead to a more reliable printer that requires less frequent repairs.
What Tips Can Help You Optimize Your Cheap 100 3D Printing Experience?
Filament selection can greatly impact your print results. Opting for reputable brands can reduce issues like stringing and under-extrusion, which are common with low-quality materials.
Print settings, such as temperature and speed, should be fine-tuned based on the specific filament being used. This experimentation can help you achieve a balance between faster print times and superior detail.
Preparing the build surface, whether using glue sticks, blue tape, or specialized coatings, enhances adhesion. This step is essential to prevent prints from lifting off during printing, which can ruin your project.
Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the nozzle and checking for loose components, ensures that your printer remains in top condition. This proactive approach can prevent unexpected breakdowns and improve print reliability.
Engaging with community forums can provide valuable insights and support. These platforms allow you to ask questions, share your successes, and learn from the experiences of fellow 3D printing enthusiasts.
Print orientation can have a significant effect on both the strength and aesthetics of your final product. Analyzing the model’s geometry to determine the best orientation can lead to stronger prints and less need for support structures.
Adjusting layer height according to the detail required in your prints helps balance the quality and speed of the printing process. Thicker layers can speed up printing for less detailed objects, while thinner layers are suitable for intricate designs.
Where Can You Find the Best Deals on Cheap 100 3D Printers?
The best deals on cheap 100 3D printers can typically be found through various online platforms and retail outlets.
- Amazon: Amazon offers a wide range of 3D printers, including budget-friendly options under $100, often with user reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.
- eBay: eBay is a great place to find both new and used 3D printers at competitive prices, including auctions that can lead to significant savings.
- AliExpress: This platform features many manufacturers from China selling inexpensive 3D printers, often with free shipping, making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
- Walmart: Walmart frequently has promotional sales on electronics, including 3D printers, providing options for in-store pickup or online shopping.
- Local electronics stores: Checking local electronics or hobby shops can yield surprising deals, especially during seasonal sales or clearance events.
- Manufacturer websites: Going directly to the manufacturer’s website can sometimes reveal exclusive discounts, bundles, or promotions that are not available through third-party retailers.
Amazon is a popular choice due to its extensive inventory and customer feedback system, allowing potential buyers to gauge the quality and performance of printers before purchasing. Additionally, the Prime membership can offer expedited shipping and exclusive deals.
eBay provides a platform for both auctions and direct sales, giving users a chance to negotiate prices or find unique deals on previously owned machines. The competitive nature of the site often leads to lower prices for buyers.
AliExpress specializes in low-cost products from Chinese manufacturers, making it a go-to for those looking for budget options. Shipping times may vary, but the prices are often significantly lower than traditional retail stores.
Walmart’s frequent sales and price matching policy can make it a practical option for local shoppers. It also allows customers to physically inspect products before buying, ensuring that the printer meets their needs.
Local electronics stores may have hidden gems, particularly during holiday sales or as they clear out inventory. Engaging with local retailers can sometimes yield personal recommendations and additional support.
Manufacturer websites can provide exclusive deals, and subscribing to newsletters can keep buyers informed about upcoming sales or new releases, ensuring they don’t miss out on the best prices.
Related Post: