Picking the right 3D printer under $300 doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many options out there, it might seem tricky to figure out which one’s worth it. But the truth is, you can get some pretty solid machines in this price range. If you’re just starting out with 3D printing or you’re looking for a budget-friendly addition to your setup, there’s something out there for just about everyone.

When shopping for a 3D printer, there are a few things to keep in mind. How big are the things you want to print? That’s where build volume comes in. Do you want fast prints, or are you more about getting super detailed results? Features like auto bed leveling and easy-to-use controls can make life a lot easier too, especially if you’re new to all this. And then there’s the type of printer—resin printers are great for small, detailed models, while FDM printers are more versatile for bigger projects.

In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best 3D printers you can snag for under $300. These picks are popular for a reason—they’re affordable, reliable, and packed with features that make 3D printing fun and easy. Whether you’re into printing cool figurines, handy parts, or testing out your creative ideas, there’s a printer here that’s ready to go. Let’s check out the top options and see which one’s the right fit for you.

Bambu Lab A1 Mini

Why It’s the Pick:

• Compact and beginner-friendly
• Automatic bed leveling
• 180 x 180 x 180 mm build volume
• Quiet operation
• User-friendly interface
• Simple setup process
• Great for small projects

The Bambu Lab A1 Mini is a great choice for anyone new to 3D printing or looking for a compact printer that’s easy to use. Its automatic bed leveling makes sure you get smooth prints without having to tweak settings constantly. With a 180 x 180 x 180 mm build volume, it’s ideal for smaller projects like figurines, practical tools, or decorative pieces. Plus, it’s quiet enough to run in shared spaces without being disruptive. The simple setup and intuitive controls make it a great option for kids, students, or anyone who just wants to get printing without a steep learning curve.

If you’re after an affordable, no-hassle 3D printer that delivers consistent results, the Bambu Lab A1 Mini is hard to beat in this price range.

Creality Ender-3 V3 SE

Why It’s the Pick:

• CR Touch automatic bed leveling
• 220 x 220 x 250 mm build volume
• Printing speed up to 250 mm/s
• Full-metal dual-gear extruder
• Modular design for quick assembly
• Magnetic PC spring steel build plate
• Intuitive interface with easy controls

The Creality Ender-3 V3 SE is an upgrade to one of the most popular 3D printers out there, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants a reliable and user-friendly machine. It comes with CR Touch auto bed leveling, so you can skip the tedious adjustments and get straight to printing. The 220 x 220 x 250 mm build area gives you plenty of room for all kinds of projects. It’s also faster than many printers in its class. Its speeds reach up to 250 mm/s, so you can finish your prints quicker without sacrificing quality.

The V3 SE ha a modular design that’s easy to put together. A magnetic PC spring steel plate that makes removing finished prints simple. Add in the full-metal dual-gear extruder for consistent filament feeding, and you’ve got a printer that delivers solid performance at an affordable price.

If you want a dependable printer that balances speed, quality, and ease of use, the Creality Ender-3 V3 SE is a solid pick.

Flashforge Adventurer 5M

Why It’s the Pick:

• Fully enclosed design for safety
• 220 x 220 x 250 mm build volume
• Automatic bed leveling
• Flexible build plate for easy print removal
• Quiet operation
• Pre-assembled for quick setup
• Compatible with multiple filament types

The Flashforge Adventurer 5M is a user-friendly printer that offers a safe and hassle-free experience, making it a great option for families or beginners. Its fully enclosed design keeps hot components out of reach, making it a safer choice if kids are around.

With a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm, it can handle a wide range of projects, from functional tools to decorative items. The automatic bed leveling ensures consistent first layers without manual adjustments, and the flexible build plate makes removing finished prints a breeze.

The Adventurer 5M comes pre-assembled, so there’s no need to spend hours putting it together. It also operates quietly, which is perfect for use in shared spaces. Plus, it’s compatible with various filament types, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different materials.

If you’re looking for a printer that’s safe, easy to use, and versatile, the Flashforge Adventurer 5M is a great pick in this price range.

Final Thoughts

Finding a 3D printer under $300 doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or features. If you’re just starting out or looking to expand your setup, there are plenty of options that deliver great performance at an affordable price. From the compact and beginner-friendly Bambu Lab A1 Mini to the reliable Creality Ender-3 V3 SE, and the precise Elegoo Mars 3 Pro to the versatile Flashforge Adventurer 5M, there’s something here for every type of user.

Each printer on this list brings unique strengths, whether it’s speed, detail, ease of use, or safety features. No matter what kind of projects you have in mind—figurines, tools, or creative designs—these printers make 3D printing accessible and fun without breaking the bank.

Take your time to consider what matters most to you, like build volume, print speed, or the type of material you want to use. With any of these machines, you’re set to dive into the world of 3D printing and bring your ideas to life.