🏆 Best 3D Printers Under $300 in 2026
Getting into 3D printing doesn't have to break the bank. In 2026, you can get a high-quality 3D printer for under $300 that delivers impressive results — whether you're a hobbyist, educator, or aspiring maker. We've tested and compared the best options currently available on Amazon.
📋 Table of Contents
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Printer | Type | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bambu Lab A1 | FDM | $299.99 | ⭐ 4.5 | Overall best |
| FLASHFORGE AD5M | FDM | $239.00 | ⭐ 4.3 | Speed printing |
| ELEGOO Mars 5 | Resin | $189.89 | ⭐ 4.3 | Miniatures & detail |
| Creality K2 SE | FDM | $299.00 | ⭐ 4.2 | Multi-color |
| Longer LK5 Pro 3 | FDM | $266.66 | ⭐ 4.3 | Large prints |
| ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro | FDM | $249.98 | ⭐ 4.1 | Beginners |
🥇 Best Overall: Bambu Lab A1
Bambu Lab A1 3D Printer
The Bambu Lab A1 is our top pick for anyone looking to get into 3D printing. It features multi-color support (with the AMS Lite), auto calibration, and whisper-quiet operation under 48 dB. The print quality rivals machines twice its price.
Check Price on Amazon →Why we love it:
- Full auto-calibration — truly plug-and-play
- Active flow rate compensation for consistent prints
- Multi-color printing capability (with optional AMS Lite)
- Ultra-quiet at ≤48 dB — perfect for home use
- Generous 256×256×256mm build volume
Things to consider: The multi-color AMS Lite accessory is sold separately. Without it, you're limited to single-color prints.
⚡ Best High-Speed: FLASHFORGE AD5M
FLASHFORGE AD5M 3D Printer
If speed matters most, the FLASHFORGE AD5M hits up to 600mm/s with its CoreXY structure. Auto calibration and quick-swap nozzle make maintenance a breeze.
Check Price on Amazon →Why we love it:
- Blazing 600mm/s max print speed
- All-metal CoreXY structure for precision at high speeds
- Quick-swap nozzle for easy maintenance
- Great value at $239
🎨 Best Resin Printer: ELEGOO Mars 5
ELEGOO Mars 5 Resin 3D Printer
For tabletop miniatures, jewelry, or anything requiring extreme detail, the ELEGOO Mars 5 delivers stunning 4K resolution prints. The automatic leveling system makes setup effortless.
Check Price on Amazon →Why we love it:
- 4K mono LCD for incredible surface detail
- Intelligent automatic leveling
- COB light source for uniform curing
- Under $190 — excellent value for resin printing
Things to consider: Resin printing requires ventilation and produces more waste than FDM. You'll also need to budget for resin (~$25-40/bottle) and isopropyl alcohol for cleaning.
🌈 Best Multi-Color: Creality K2 SE
Creality K2 SE 3D Printer
The Creality K2 SE supports multi-color printing with the CFS system, combines 500mm/s speed with precision vibration control, and features auto leveling.
Check Price on Amazon →📐 Best Large Format: Longer LK5 Pro 3
Longer LK5 Pro 3
Need to print big? The Longer LK5 Pro 3 offers a massive build volume of nearly 12×12×16 inches — perfect for cosplay props, large models, and functional parts. 95% pre-assembled and fully open source.
Check Price on Amazon →🎓 Best for Beginners: ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro
ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro
The Neptune 3 Pro is perfect for first-time 3D printer owners. Quick assembly, auto leveling, direct drive extruder, PEI flexible plate, and a removable touchscreen make it incredibly user-friendly.
Check Price on Amazon →🤔 How to Choose the Right 3D Printer
When shopping for a budget 3D printer, consider these key factors:
1. FDM vs Resin
- FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) — Melts plastic filament layer by layer. Great for functional parts, prototypes, and larger prints. Lower running costs.
- Resin (MSLA/SLA) — Uses UV light to cure liquid resin. Amazing detail for miniatures and jewelry. Requires ventilation and more post-processing.
2. Build Volume
Think about how large you need to print. A 220×220×220mm build area handles most projects, but if you're printing cosplay helmets or large models, look for 300mm+ machines.
3. Print Speed
Modern printers like the FLASHFORGE AD5M can hit 600mm/s. Higher speeds mean faster prints but may require tuning for the best quality.
4. Auto-Leveling
All printers on this list include automatic bed leveling — a must-have feature that used to be premium-only. This eliminates one of the biggest frustrations for beginners.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is $300 enough for a good 3D printer?
Absolutely. In 2026, $200-300 gets you a printer with features that used to cost $1,000+ just a few years ago — auto leveling, high speed, and excellent print quality.
What's the best 3D printer for a complete beginner?
The ELEGOO Neptune 3 Pro at $249.98 is the most beginner-friendly option with its easy assembly and touchscreen interface. If budget allows, the Bambu Lab A1 at $299.99 offers the best out-of-box experience.
Should I get FDM or Resin?
Start with FDM if you're new to 3D printing — it's simpler, cheaper to run, and more versatile. Choose resin only if you specifically need ultra-fine detail (miniatures, jewelry, dental models).
What else do I need besides the printer?
- Filament (~$15-25 per 1kg spool for PLA)
- A scraper/spatula for print removal
- Isopropyl alcohol (for resin printers)
- A well-ventilated area (especially for resin)
Prices and availability are accurate as of February 2026. We may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon
purchases.
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