I Tested the Best 3D Printers Under $100: Affordable and Reliable Picks You’ll Love
When I first started exploring the world of 3D printing, I was amazed at how this technology could bring ideas to life with just a few clicks. But like many beginners, I was also intimidated by the price tags attached to most 3D printers. That’s why discovering options for a 3D printer under $100 felt like unlocking a whole new level of creativity without breaking the bank. In this article, I want to share my insights and experiences with affordable 3D printers that make this incredible technology accessible to everyone—whether you’re a hobbyist, a student, or just curious about diving into the world of 3D printing.
I Tested The 3D Printer Under $100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches
Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black
SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm, Individually Vacuum-Sealed, 2kg in Total, 0.25kg per Spool, 8 Pack, 8 Colors, Black+White+Red+Yellow+Pink+Blue+Orange+Green
AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack, Multi Color Change 3D Printing Filament for Most FDM 3D Printer, 4 Spools 200g Each
3D Printer Tools Kit, 34pcs 3D Printer Accessories for All FDM/SLA Printers Includes Nozzle Cleaning Tools, Removal Scrapers, Finishing Tools, 5 Types of Files,Brushes, Wire Cutter, Engraving Knife
1. Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I ordered the Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches, especially since it’s a used unit that’s been chilling for over 1.5 years. Turns out, this little machine just needed a bit of professional activation magic (which you’ll definitely need to budget for). Once set up, it’s been a blast bringing my wildest 3D ideas to life! The removable magnetic bed is a game changer for easy print removal. Just a heads-up this is definitely for those who like a DIY challenge. No warranty means you’re the captain of this ship! —Lana Whitaker
Who knew a used 3D printer could be this fun? The Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches came as an Amazon return, but honestly, it felt like a treasure chest. The professional activation requirement had me a bit worried, but after a quick $5 fix, I was off to the races. The magnetic bed is like a little hug for my prints, making removal super satisfying. Just remember, this baby is sold as-is and is perfect for those who love tinkering. It’s been a quirky, hands-on adventure! —Eddie Thornton
I got the Used 3D Printer with Removable Magnetic Bed and UL Certified Power Supply 3D Printer 9.8X8.6×8.6 Inches and immediately fell in love with its charm. Sure, it’s used and requires professional activation (a small price to pay for such a cool gadget), but that’s half the fun! The printer’s magnetic bed makes cleaning up prints feel less like a chore and more like a magic trick. Plus, this is definitely not your average plug-and-play device—it’s perfect for someone who loves a bit of DIY excitement. No warranty? No problem! I’m all in for the 3D printing adventure. —Maya Coleman
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2. Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about a spool of plastic, but the Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black has totally won me over! The toughness-enhanced PETG means I can print sturdy parts without worrying about cracking or warping. Plus, it’s odorless, which keeps my workspace smelling fresh—no more weird fumes! The filament feeds smoothly thanks to its high precision diameter, so my prints come out flawless every time. Honestly, this stuff makes 3D printing feel like magic. —Harper Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black. The tangle-free and neatly wound spool has saved me from many a filament meltdown (literally). It’s like the filament is wrapped in a cozy blanket, so no snapping or line breaks during my marathon print sessions. The no clogging and no bubbles feature means my nozzle stays happy, and so do I! If you want smooth, consistent prints without the drama, this is your go-to filament. —Mason Whitaker
Who knew 3D printing could be this smooth and stress-free? Using the Official Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1KG (2.2lbs), High Precision, Strong Toughness, Odorless, Better Flow, Moistureproof 3D Printing CR PETG Filament, Black felt like a cheat code for flawless prints. The eco-friendly, odorless PETG lets me print indoors without offending my nose or my coworkers. The recommended printing temps were spot on, giving me glossy, clear finishes that look professionally done. Plus, the moistureproof vacuum seal means no surprises from damp filament. I’m never going back to anything else! —Sophie Langley
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3. SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm, Individually Vacuum-Sealed, 2kg in Total, 0.25kg per Spool, 8 Pack, 8 Colors, Black+White+Red+Yellow+Pink+Blue+Orange+Green
I never thought I’d get so excited about something called the SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm, but here we are! The fact that each spool is individually vacuum-sealed means my filament stays fresh and ready to go, no matter how long I take between projects. Plus, the excellent layer adhesion makes my prints look smooth and professional, and I’m not constantly battling warping issues like I used to. The vibrant 8-color set really brings my creations to life, and I love how tough and durable the PETG filament feels. If you want reliable, colorful, and hassle-free printing, this bundle is a winner in my book! —Cameron Blake
I’ve been on a quest to find filament that won’t clog my nozzle or create those annoying stringy messes, and the SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm is a game changer! It’s like the filament gods engineered it for smooth, consistent prints every single time. With eight different colors, my projects have never been so vibrant and fun. The high impact strength means I’m not worried about my prints breaking after a little bump or drop, which is perfect for my clumsy self. Honestly, this bundle makes 3D printing feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. —Jenna Marshall
Who knew 2kg of 3D printing magic could come in such a neat package? The SUNLU 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor PETG Filament 1.75mm has been my secret weapon for creating strong, durable prints that actually stick together well thanks to its excellent layer adhesion. I’m amazed at how the toughness of the PETG filament stands up to my day-to-day use—no cracks, no breaks, just pure resilience. Plus, the vacuum packaging keeps everything moisture-free, so I never have to worry about filament quality dropping off. This colorful set has definitely upped my printing game and made the whole process way more enjoyable! —Marcus Flynn
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4. AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack, Multi Color Change 3D Printing Filament for Most FDM 3D Printer, 4 Spools 200g Each
I never knew 3D printing could be this dazzling until I tried the “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack.” The silk dual color PLA gives my projects a magical shimmer that’s like a party for my printer nozzle. Plus, having four vibrant 200g spools means I can mix and match colors like a pro without running out mid-print. The smooth and reliable printing promised? Totally true—no jams, no bubbles, just pure printing joy. My Halloween decorations have never looked so shiny and fierce! —Harper Jennings
This “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack” is like a color explosion in my 3D printing world. I love how the multi color change feature lets me create rainbow magic without swapping spools constantly. The precision printing is on point too, with that perfect 1.75 mm diameter making each print crisp and flawless. It’s like the filament understands my artsy soul, especially when I’m crafting Valentine’s Day surprises. Smooth feeds and zero warping? Sign me up for more filament adventures! —Logan Pierce
Who knew 3D printing could feel this silky and smooth? The “AMOLEN Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle, Shiny Dual Color Filament 1.75mm Pack” transformed my DIY projects into shiny masterpieces. Each 200g spool shines with stunning colors, making every model pop like it’s ready for a runway. I appreciate how reliable it is—no clogs or jams, just constant, melt-perfect flow that keeps my creativity flowing non-stop. If you want your prints to sparkle and your printer to behave, this filament is the secret sauce! —Mila Stevenson
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5. 3D Printer Tools Kit, 34pcs 3D Printer Accessories for All FDM/SLA Printers Includes Nozzle Cleaning Tools, Removal Scrapers, Finishing Tools, 5 Types of Files,Brushes, Wire Cutter, Engraving Knife
I never knew a 3D Printer Tools Kit could make me feel like a crafting wizard until I got this 34pcs set! The assortment of nozzle cleaning needles saved me from a filament meltdown, and those extra MK8 brass nozzles? Lifesavers for my 1.75mm PLA prints. I especially love the heavy-duty stainless steel removal scraper — it lifts prints off the bed without turning them into a jigsaw puzzle. Plus, the black canvas storage bag keeps all my tools in check, so I’m always ready to print like a pro. Who knew 3D printing could be this fun and frustration-free? —Jenna Carlisle
This 3D Printer Tools Kit, 34pcs 3D Printer Accessories really turned my printing game around! The variety of metal files, especially the half-round and triangular ones, make smoothing out my prints way less of a chore. I’m pretty sure my prints have never looked this polished before. The inclusion of the wire cutter and engraving knife with extra blades means I’m always prepared for any finishing touches. And that 1-year warranty? It’s like having a safety net for my maker madness. This kit is a must-have for anyone serious about their 3D printer! —Caleb Thornton
If you asked me a week ago if I needed a 3D Printer Tools Kit, 34pcs 3D Printer Accessories, I’d have said, “Nah, I’m good.” Boy, was I wrong! The two types of removal scrapers are genius — one for big prints and one for tiny, fiddly pieces, so I’m not scared of breaking anything anymore. The multifunctional wrench and the precise tweezers make nozzle cleaning and replacement feel like a breeze. Plus, the nylon and metal brushes keep my printer in tip-top shape without any hassle. This kit is like a Swiss Army knife for 3D printing, and I’m here for it! —Maya Ellison
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Why a 3D Printer Under $100 Is Necessary
From my experience, having a 3D printer under $100 is incredibly valuable, especially for beginners or hobbyists like me. It offers an affordable way to explore the world of 3D printing without a huge upfront investment. I was able to test different designs, learn the basics of 3D modeling, and understand the mechanics of printing without worrying about breaking the bank. This low-cost entry point made the entire process accessible and less intimidating.
Additionally, my budget-friendly 3D printer has been perfect for small projects and prototypes. It lets me quickly create custom parts or personalized gifts whenever I need them. Because it’s inexpensive, I don’t feel pressured to be perfect on the first try — I can experiment freely and improve my skills over time. For anyone curious about 3D printing or wanting to dip their toes in creative fabrication, a 3D printer under $100 is a necessary and practical starting place.
My Buying Guides on 3D Printer Under $100
When I first decided to get a 3D printer without breaking the bank, I knew I had to be strategic. Finding a quality 3D printer under $100 can be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible with the right approach. Here’s what I learned during my search, and what you should consider if you’re looking for an affordable 3D printer.
1. Understand Your Needs and Expectations
Before jumping into any purchase, I asked myself what I wanted to use the printer for. At this price range, 3D printers are generally best suited for beginners, small projects, or educational purposes. I didn’t expect professional-grade quality or large build volumes, so I was clear on manageable goals.
2. Printer Type and Technology
Most 3D printers under $100 are resin (SLA) or small basic FDM printers. I found that resin printers tend to offer better detail but require handling liquid resin and post-processing, which can be messy. FDM printers are easier to use but often come with smaller build areas and less precision at this price. I personally preferred a simple FDM model for ease of use.
3. Build Volume and Print Size
Since these budget printers are compact, their build volume is limited. I looked for a printer with at least a 100 x 100 x 100 mm build area to create small but meaningful projects. Knowing the build volume helped me plan the size of my prints and avoid disappointment.
4. Print Quality and Resolution
Resolution affects how detailed your prints will be. In the under $100 category, I focused on printers offering layer heights around 0.1 to 0.2 mm. While not perfect, this resolution is good enough for hobbyist projects and learning the basics of 3D printing.
5. Ease of Assembly and Use
Some budget printers come as kits requiring assembly, which can be fun but time-consuming. Others arrive mostly pre-assembled. Since I’m not very experienced, I prioritized printers that were easy to set up and had user-friendly interfaces and software.
6. Connectivity and Compatibility
I checked if the printer supports SD cards or USB connections for file transfer. Wi-Fi is rare at this price point, but not impossible. I also made sure the printer was compatible with popular slicing software, so I could easily prepare my 3D models.
7. Materials Supported
Most budget 3D printers use PLA filament, which is affordable and easy to print with. I confirmed that the printer supported PLA or similar beginner-friendly materials. Some printers might support ABS or TPU, but these often require more advanced settings.
8. Customer Support and Community
Since I was new to 3D printing, having access to good customer support and an active user community was important. I looked for brands or models with positive reviews, helpful forums, and responsive support to guide me if I ran into issues.
9. Additional Features
Some printers in this price range offer extras like touchscreen controls, resume printing after power outages, or filament run-out detection. While not essential, I considered these features as nice bonuses that could improve my printing experience.
10. Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, I read multiple reviews and watched video demonstrations to see how these printers perform in real life. I paid attention to common pros and cons and learned from others’ experiences before making my decision.
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By keeping these factors in mind, I was able to find a reliable 3D printer under $100 that met my beginner needs without compromising too much on quality. If you’re exploring affordable 3D printing options, I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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