Not too long ago, 3D printers were something you’d only find in industrial settings or being used by professionals. They were big, complicated, and way too expensive for most people. But things have changed a lot. These days, 3D printers come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges, making them accessible to just about anyone.

If you’re looking at models under $1,000, you’ll be surprised at how many features are packed into that price range. From auto bed leveling to multi-material printing and even high-resolution results, you can find some impressive options that used to only be found in much pricier machines.

In this article, we explore our pick for the Best 3D Printer Under $1000.  We’re taking a closer look at some of the top choices in the market. There’s one for hobbyists, small businesses, or those just starting to explore 3D printing, these picks offer a great mix of performance and value.

Bambu Lab P1P with AMS

Why it’s the Pick:

• Fast printing speeds with CoreXY motion system
• Optional AMS (Automatic Material System) for easy multi-color and multi-material printing
• Comes pre-assembled for a quick start
• Works with a variety of materials like PLA, ABS, TPU, and PETG
• Features filament runout detection and power-loss recovery
• Strong metal frame with an open design for easy access

The Bambu Lab P1P with AMS has become a favorite in the 3D printing world, and it’s easy to see why. This printer is built for speed, thanks to its CoreXY motion system, which keeps things moving fast without losing accuracy. Whether you’re printing detailed models or big projects, it handles both like a pro. The optional AMS (Automatic Material System) makes things even better by letting you print in multiple colors or materials without the usual hassle. It’s perfect for creative projects where a single filament just doesn’t cut it.

What’s great about the P1P is how easy it is to get started. It comes pre-assembled, so you won’t spend hours setting it up. The open design makes it easy to keep an eye on your prints. The metal frame gives it a sturdy build. It works with popular materials like PLA, ABS, TPU, and PETG, so you have plenty of options for different types of projects. Plus, features like filament runout detection and power-loss recovery mean you won’t have to worry about your prints stopping halfway through. If you’re after a 3D printer that’s fast, reliable, and packed with features, the Bambu Lab P1P with AMS is an awesome choice.

QIDI Plus4

Why it’s the Pick:

• Spacious build volume of 305 x 305 x 280 mm
• Fully automatic calibration for easy setup
• Prints at speeds up to 600 mm/s
• Compatible with QIDI Box for multi-color printing
• Can print PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, PA, PC, and reinforced filaments
• Active heated chamber improves performance with tricky materials

The QIDI Plus4 stands out for offering a large build volume that supports bigger projects or multiple parts at once. Its active heated chamber keeps the internal temperature steady, which is important for achieving better results with materials prone to warping, like ABS or nylon. The fully automatic calibration system makes setup a breeze, taking away the frustration of manual adjustments.

This printer doesn’t just stop at being easy to use—it’s fast, too, reaching speeds of up to 600 mm/s while still delivering accurate results. Its compatibility with QIDI Box allows for multi-color printing, letting you add more variety and creativity to your projects.

The Plus4 supports a wide selection of filaments, from basic options like PLA to advanced reinforced materials. This flexibility makes it a solid pick for anyone looking to take on a range of different projects. With its features, performance, and ease of use, the QIDI Plus4 offers a lot of value in the under $1,000 price range.

Prusa MK4S

Why it’s the Pick:

• Decent build volume of 250 x 210 x 220 mm
• Efficient 360° cooling for better print quality
• High-flow nozzle for faster printing speeds
• Easy-to-use color touchscreen interface
• Works with materials like PLA, PETG, and TPU
• Auto bed leveling for smoother setups

The Prusa MK4S is a reliable choice for anyone diving into 3D printing or upgrading from an older machine. With a build volume of 250 x 210 x 220 mm, it has enough space to handle most hobby and small business projects. Its 360° cooling system helps cool prints evenly, which means fewer issues like warping or uneven layers.

The high-flow nozzle makes it faster than its predecessors, letting you complete prints quicker without losing quality. It’s also easy to navigate, thanks to a color touchscreen that keeps things simple for beginners and experienced users alike. Auto bed leveling takes care of the tricky setup process, making sure your first layer goes down smoothly every time.

The MK4S is compatible with popular materials like PLA, PETG, and TPU, giving you flexibility for different types of projects. If you’re after a machine that balances speed, quality, and ease of use, the Prusa MK4S is a great pick in this price range.

Phrozen Sonic Mighty Revo

Why it’s the Pick:

• Large 223 x 126 x 235 mm print area 
• 14K LCD screen for sharp, high-quality prints
• Auto bed leveling and resin residue detection
• Built-in heater and air purifier to support better print conditions
• Phrozen GO app allows remote monitoring and adjustments
• Great for resin printing without stretching your budget

The Phrozen Sonic Mighty Revo is an excellent choice for resin printing, combining size and sharp resolution. Its 14K LCD screen produces fine results, making it a strong pick for projects like miniatures, jewelry, or other detailed models. The print area of 223 x 126 x 235 mm gives you plenty of room to take on larger prints or batch multiple smaller ones.

This printer is designed to make resin printing easier. Auto bed leveling eliminates the guesswork during setup, and resin residue detection helps keep everything running smoothly. The built-in heater ensures the temperature stays steady, while the air purifier minimizes fumes, which is a nice touch if you’re working in a smaller space.

The Phrozen GO app adds convenience by letting you monitor your prints and make changes remotely. For anyone looking to explore resin printing or upgrade to something more capable, the Sonic Mighty Revo delivers excellent results and features without breaking the $1,000 mark.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right 3D printer under $1,000 can feel like a challenge, but the options in this price range have a lot to work with. Whether you’re interested in fast FDM printers like the Bambu Lab P1P or high-detail resin machines like the Phrozen Sonic Mighty Revo, there’s something for everyone. Each printer on this list brings its own strengths, whether it’s a larger build area, advanced features, or compatibility with different materials.

At this price point, you don’t have to compromise on quality or functionality. These printers are well-suited for different kinds of projects, from personal hobbies to small business applications.