CNET reviews: Best budget 3D printers

There’s something truly special about bringing your creative ideas to life with your hands — and a 3D printer can make that magic happen. Whether you’re crafting custom cosplay gear, designing your own figurines, or making thoughtful gifts, a 3D printer opens up endless possibilities. And the best part? High-quality printers are more affordable than ever, letting you dive into this creative world without spending a fortune. These budget 3D printers all cost less than $500 and deliver the goods.

WHAT Anycubic Kobra S1

THE COST $399

AVAILABLE FROM anycubic.com

The Anycubic Kobra S1 has been specifically designed to compete with the Bambu Lab P1S, a midrange powerhouse and one of the best 3D printers of the last few years. It does exceptionally well for its price. The only real issue is the software, as it lacks some of the core features that other slicers have. Thankfully, most 3D printers work with most slicers at this point so that you can choose a third-party option. The print area is a good size at 250 by 250 by 250 millimeter, and the enclosure allows you to print different filaments like ABS and PETG without issue. The door and removable top also help ventilate the S1 when you're printing Polylactic Acid, so you get the best of both worlds.

WHAT Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo

THE COST $239

AVAILABLE FROM bambulab.com

The A1 Mini Combo is well priced, and while the build area is small, the print quality and the fact that you can print in four colors straight out of the box is amazing. If you're looking for your first printer and want to try color printing, this is a no-brainer. The downside is the print bed size. At 180mm x 180mm, it is the smallest on this list, and yet, with the AMS color system attached, it takes up the most space of any 3D printer here. Remember that if you only have a small space to build your 3D printing workshop.

WHAT Elegoo Mars 4

THE COST $159.99

AVAILABLE FROM us.elegoo.com

This small resin machine can print much faster than older printers. The newer Elegoo Mars 5 is the latest and greatest, but at this price, the Mars 4 is the better budget machine. If you are looking to make small batches of Dungeons and Dragons minis or custom jewelry pieces for cosplay, go to Mars.