Creality Ender 3 Review: The Best 3D Printer Under $200
The Ender 3 from Creality 3D has been one of the most anticipated 3D printer releases in recent years. Released in March 2018, the Ender 3 is a great example of everything that a budget 3D printer should be.
Originally released for less than $200, the Ender 3 offers great value, sporting features normally found in high-end printers: a Bowden extruder, heated bed, full extruded aluminum frame, V-slot wheels, and the ability to print ABS.
I was blown away that a budget printer could offer so much so I dove in to see what I could find wrong. As it turns out, I really couldn’t find much at fault. This is an extremely robust printer for the price and could easily demand a higher price tag. In addition, you can perform further Ender 3 upgrades down the road, both easily and inexpensively.
My primary printer is the Anet A8, which until now was seen as the standard for full-size budget 3D printer “kits”.
Will the Ender 3 unseat the A8 and take its rightful throne? In this Creality Ender 3 review, we'll answer that question—and more.
DEAL ALERT:
Apparently right now you can get the Ender 3 for around $200 (shipping is free too).
I'm not sure how long this deal is active but I'll remove this message once it's expired.
Pros
- Quick assembly
- Inexpensive
- Great printing quality
- Large bed/print volume
- Heated bed
- Prints both PLA and ABS
Cons
- Arrived with bed wobble (fixed by tightening the eccentric nuts)
- No glass bed included (this is common)
- No wireless printing (though this can be added with OctoPrint)
- Not a lot of test filament included
- Some control interface gripes
Specs
Attribute | |
---|---|
Build volume | 220 x 220 x 250mm |
Print materials | PLA/ABS |
Filament diameter | 1.75mm |
Nozzle diameter | 0.4mm |
Construction | Extruded aluminum channel |
Extruder type | Bowden |
Heated bed | Yes |
Weight | 17.1 lb |
Dimensions | 22" x 23.6" x 24.4" |
Price | About $200 on Amazon |
Ideal for:
- Beginners
- Intermediate and advanced users
- Teachers
- Students
- Small business prototyping
Creality Ender 3 3D printer | × | 1 | ||
Borosilicate glass bed, 235x235mm | × | 1 |
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