Note
Just because you buy a budget printer doesn't mean you can't upgrade it later to be even better! (Take a look at Common Upgrades)
If you're looking for the most cost effective printer that will still do a great job, this is a great option. The Ender-3 series is an open source classic in the FTC and 3D printing community. It has a huge support network and despite it's low cost, has proven itself to be a very capable printer.
All Ender 3s have:
- A huge support network
- Tons of printable and purchasable upgrades
- Open Source Hardware
- 220mm x 220mm x 250mm Print Volume
The Ender 3 Pro has:
- A more stable Y axis
- A more powerful power supply
- A flexible bed
The Ender 3 v2 has:
- A glass bed
- Built in belt tensioners
- The power supply and Y axis from the Pro
Note
The V2 and Pro can often be found on sale for the same price as the base model, making them very good options.
- Technology is dated due to initial release in 2018 (Lack of Auto Bed Leveling)
- PTFE Lined Hotend
- Bowden Style Extruder
- V-Roller Motion system and singular lead screw setup causes frame flexing.
- Can take a bit of tweaking/upgrading to work consistently.
If you're willing to spend just a little bit more money for more quality of life features out of the box, the Sovol SV06 is a good option. It maintains an Ender-like frame but adds in modern features that the Ender lacks which can save tinkering and maintenance time down the road.
- Auto Bed Leveling
- Flexible Bed
- All-Metal Direct Drive Extruder
- Built in Belt Tensioners
- Dual Z-Axis
- 220mm x 220mm x 250mm Print Volume
- Known Quality Control Issues from factory (X-Axis not flat)
- Not many slicer profiles available (Slowly being solved)
If you're ok with forgoing the huge knowledge base behind the Ender-3 series in exchange for a few more features out of the box, some Ender-3 clones can be a good option. Notable ones include the Elegoo Neptune, Anycubic Vyper, and Voxelab Aquila. It's notable that while these are more or less "Ender 3 Clones", all three companies and printer models listed here are still established companies with community trust and acceptable customer service. These printers can be a great buy and are often cheaper but make sure to do research before purchasing.
Ender 3 Clones typically have at least a couple of the following...
- Auto Bed Leveling
- Upgraded Print Surface
- Built in Belt Tensioners
- Colored Touchscreen
- Less troubleshooting help/knowledge base compared to the Ender 3
- Any drawbacks of the individual printer. Make sure you keep an eye out for things you want in a printer when researching.