Best 3D Printers Under $500
You don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get a capable 3D printer. This collection brings together some of the best 3D printers available for under $500 CAD, with options for beginners, makers, students, hobbyists, and anyone looking for an affordable way to get started with 3D printing.
The printers in this price range can offer features that were once limited to much more expensive machines, including automatic bed levelling, direct-drive extruders, high-speed printing, enclosed designs, touchscreen controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and automated filament management.
What Can You Get for Under $500?
Beginner-Friendly 3D Printers:
Modern budget 3D printers can be much easier to set up and use than earlier generations of entry-level machines. Automatic calibration, pre-assembled designs, guided setup, and intuitive software can reduce the amount of manual adjustment required.
High-Speed Printing:
Several printers in this price range offer significantly faster print speeds than traditional entry-level machines, making it possible to produce prototypes, models and functional parts more quickly.
Reliable Everyday Printing:
Affordable doesn't have to mean basic. Depending on the model, features such as automatic bed levelling, direct-drive extrusion, flexible build plates, filament sensors and print recovery can make everyday printing more consistent.
Multicolour Options:
Some printers under $500 can be paired with an optional automated filament management system, while others are available in configurations that support multicolour printing.
Enclosed Printing:
Certain models offer an enclosed build chamber, which can provide a more controlled printing environment and expand the range of materials suitable for the printer.
Who Are These 3D Printers For?
Beginners:
An affordable 3D printer is an accessible way to learn the basics of 3D printing without making a major investment in equipment.
Students and Educators:
Budget-friendly printers can be useful for classrooms, school makerspaces, STEM programs, and educational projects where multiple machines may be required.
Makers and Hobbyists:
Print models, organizers, replacement parts, tools, accessories, props, upgrades, and custom projects without spending a fortune on equipment.
Home and Workshop Use:
Produce practical parts and prototypes on demand instead of purchasing or outsourcing every small component.
Small Businesses:
A sub-$500 3D printer can be a practical starting point for product development, prototyping, custom parts, jigs, fixtures, and other low-volume applications.
Choosing the Best 3D Printer Under $500
The best 3D printer under $500 isn't necessarily the cheapest printer available. Consider what you actually plan to print before choosing a machine.
Build volume determines the maximum size of the parts you can produce. Material compatibility affects what types of functional parts you can make. Features such as automatic levelling, direct-drive extrusion, enclosed printing, high-temperature hotends, multicolour capabilities and automated print monitoring can also make a significant difference depending on your application.
Think about the printer you are likely to need six months from now, not just the printer that fits your budget today. Spending a little more within the $500 limit may provide capabilities that prevent you from needing to replace the machine when your projects become more ambitious.
Affordable 3D Printers from 3D Printing Canada
3D Printing Canada offers a selection of affordable 3D printers under $500 CAD from established manufacturers. These machines provide an accessible entry point to FFF/FDM 3D printing while offering features suitable for everything from first-time users and school projects to functional parts and everyday prototyping.
Our selection changes over time as new models and technologies become available. Browse the current selection to compare build volume, print speed, material compatibility, automation, multicolour capabilities and other features to find the best 3D printer under $500 for your needs.