Best Large 3D Printers Under $800: A Technical Guide

How to Choose the Best Large 3D Printer Under $800?

Choosing the right 3D printer involves several technical considerations. Here's what you need to know:

• Build Volume: The maximum size of objects the printer can create. Larger build volumes are essential for bigger projects.
• Print Quality: Defined by layer resolution (measured in microns), which affects the smoothness and detail of printed objects.
• Printing Speed: Higher speeds are desirable but should not compromise print quality.
• Supported Materials: Different printers support various filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, and more. Compatibility with multiple materials is a plus.
• Extruder Type: Single vs. dual extruders, which can affect the ability to print with multiple colors or materials simultaneously.
• Bed Leveling: Automated bed leveling is a valuable feature for ensuring print precision.
• Connectivity Options: USB, SD card, Wi-Fi, and other connectivity options for ease of use.
• Software Compatibility: Compatibility with popular open source slicing software like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or proprietary software.

What Are the Benefits of a Large 3D Printer?

Large 3D printers provide several technical advantages:

• Increased Build Volume: Allows printing larger models in a single run, which is beneficial for prototypes and large parts.
• Versatility: Can handle a wide range of projects, from small intricate designs to large structural components.
• Efficiency: Reduces the need for assembling smaller 3D prints into larger ones, saving time and improving structural integrity.

Why Are Large 3D Printers Often More Expensive?

Technical aspects contributing to higher costs include:

• Robust Construction: Stronger frames and components to support larger structures.
• Advanced Features: Enhanced features like heated beds, multiple extruders, and automated bed leveling.
• Shipping costs: Larger 3D printers are significantly heavier and bulkier than smaller models, resulting in higher shipping costs compared to compact desktop 3D printers.

Top Picks for Best Large 3D Printers Under $500

Here are the top models, with a detailed technical breakdown of each:

Kingroon KP5L 3D

The Kingroon KP5L 3D printer is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a large print size. It boasts a generous build volume and some features typically found on more expensive printers. key specs are below.

Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 330 mm

Print Quality:  0.1 mm layer resolution

Features:

• Titan Direct Drive Extruder: This allows for reliable feeding of filament, especially helpful for flexible materials like TPU.
• Double SGR15 Linear Rails on X/Y/Z Axis: Improves print stability and accuracy.
• Dual Z-axis Motors: Ensures consistent layer alignment.
• Filament Runout Sensor: Pauses the print if filament runs out, preventing wasted material.
• All Metal Frame Design: Provides a sturdy base for better print quality.
• 32-bit Mainboard with TMC2225 Silent Stepper Drivers: Offers quieter operation.

Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, wood filament, and others compatible

Connectivity: USB

Software Compatibility: Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer

Price: $259.00

User Reviews:
Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the large build volume, good value for the price, and features like the Titan extruder. However, some users mention potential challenges with setup and calibration.

Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus

The Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus is a mid-range 3D printer known for its balance of affordability, reliability, and decent printing speeds. Here's a breakdown of its key specs and what users say about it:

Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 400 mm

Print Quality:

• Offers a minimum layer resolution of 0.1 mm, allowing for detailed prints.
• Users report achieving good quality results, especially for the price point.

Features:

• Up to 500 mm/s Printing Speed: This is very fast, but ideal filament and adjustments may be required for best results. Expect to use a default speed around 300mm/s.
• Klipper Firmware: Supports features like pressure advance and input shaping for potentially smoother finishes.
• Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder: Should ensure reliable filament feeding of various materials.
• Metal Linear Rails on X and Y Axis: Improves stability and print quality.
• Automatic Bed Leveling: Simplifies bed leveling for improved first-layer adhesion.
• 300°C High-Temp Nozzle: Allows printing with a wider range of filaments like ABS and Nylon.
• Filament Runout Sensor: Pauses the print if filament runs out, saving time and material.
• Wi-Fi/USB/Type-C Connectivity: Offers multiple options for file transfer.

Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, Nylon

Software Compatibility: Klipper (pre-installed), slicer software like Cura or Simplify3D (Artillery recommends Cura)

Price: The Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus typically costs around $349.00

User Reviews:
Users generally praise the Sidewinder X4 Plus for its affordability, reliability, good print quality, and features like the high-temp nozzle and Klipper firmware.Some users found the assembly process a little challenging.

Elegoo Neptune 4 Max

The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is a large-format FDM 3D printer known for its high printing speeds and potential for high-quality output. Here's a breakdown of its specs and user sentiment:

Build Volume: 420 x 420 x 480 mm (impressive for large prints)

Print Quality:

• Offers a minimum layer resolution of 0.1 mm, enabling detailed prints.
• Klipper firmware supports input shaping and pressure advance for potentially smoother finishes.
• Reviews suggest it can produce high-quality prints with proper calibration and settings.

Features:

• Up to 500mm/s Printing Speed: This is very fast, but ideal filament and adjustments may be required for best results. Default printing speed is 250mm/s.
• Klipper Firmware: Enables the high speeds and advanced features.
• 121-Point Auto Bed Leveling: Simplifies bed leveling for improved first-layer adhesion.
• Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder: Should ensure reliable filament feeding, especially for flexible filaments.
• High-Temp Nozzle (up to 300°C): Allows printing with a wider range of filaments like high-temp PLA, ABS, and Nylon.
• Filament Runout Sensor: Pauses the print if filament runs out, saving time and material.

• Gantry LED Light Strip: Improves visibility of the print area.

Supported Materials: PLA , TPU, PETG, ABS, ASA, Nylon.

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB

Software Compatibility: Klipper (pre-installed), slicer software like Cura or Simplify3D (Elegoo recommends Cura)

Price: The price can vary depending on retailer, but ranges from $430.00 to $665.28.

User Reviews:Reviews are generally positive, with users impressed by the large build volume, fast print speeds, and potential for high-quality prints.Some users encountered initial bugs with the Klipper firmware, but these may have been addressed by Elegoo in later releases.A few users found setup or calibration challenging.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Max

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max is a large-format FDM 3D printer known for its impressive build volume, fast print speeds, and affordability. Here's a breakdown of its specs and what users consider its pros and cons:

Build Volume: 420 x 420 x 500 mm (very large, suitable for big prints)
Print Quality:

• Offers a minimum layer resolution of 0.1 mm, enabling detailed prints.
• Reviews suggest it can produce good quality results, but not necessarily the best compared to higher-end machines.
• Users report achieving better results with proper calibration and settings.

Features:

• Up to 500mm/s Printing Speed (advertised): This is very fast, but ideal filament and adjustments may be required. Most users achieve good results around 150-230mm/s.
• LeviQ 2.0 Automatic Bed Leveling: Simplifies bed leveling for improved first-layer adhesion.
• Dual-Gear Direct Drive Extruder: Should ensure reliable filament feeding of various materials, including flexible filaments.
• Run-out Sensor: Pauses the print if filament runs out, saving time and material.
• Large Touchscreen Interface: User-friendly for controlling the printer.
• Wi-Fi and USB Connectivity: Enables easy transferring of print files.

Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, and likely others compatible with a direct drive extruder (check with Anycubic for specifics).

Software Compatibility: Anycubic slicer (included), slicer software like Cura or Simplify3D (most users recommend Cura).

Price: The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max's price can vary depending on retailer runs around $479.00

User Reviews:
Pros:

• Users love the massive build volume, making it suitable for large prints.
• The price is attractive for its size and features.
• It has a good rating, with users reporting decent print quality after calibration.
• It comes with user-friendly features like auto-leveling and a touchscreen interface.

Cons:

• Some reviewers found the advertised print speeds unrealistic, with optimal speeds being lower.
• A few users reported encountering instability during high-speed printing.
• The large build volume also means a large footprint.

Comgrow T500

The Comgrow T500 is an enthusiast-focused machine that is known for its ease of use, high print quality, and fast printing speeds. It is a great option for those who are looking for a large, reliable and versatile 3D printer that can handle a wide variety of printing tasks.

Here are some of the key specifications of the Comgrow T500:

• Build Volume: 500 x 500 x 500 mm³
• Print Quality: 0.1 mm layer resolution

Features:

• High Print speed: Its print speed is 500mm/s, fast than other large 3D printers.
• Linear rails: All axes are linear rails, make it more stable while printing.
• Auto-level: Easy to use with 49-point automatic bed leveling .
• Quick assembly: It ships 95% pre-assembled, requiring only about 15 minutes of assembly.
• Klipper Firmware: It operates on Klipper with a 7-inch touch screen, which speeds up printing and easy to control in remote.
• All-metal hotend: It also features an all-metal hotend with a hardened nozzle and a hotend temperature of 300 degrees Celsius. The hardened steel nozzle allows for printing abrasive or exotic filaments.The hotend has built-in LED lighting.

Supported Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and Nylon (limited)

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB

Software Compatibility: Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bamboo Studio

Price: The Comgrow T500 costs around $799.0

User Reviews:

Overall, the ComGrow T500 3D printer is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use 3D printer. It is a versatile machine that can handle a wide variety of printing tasks.

How to Maintain Your Large 3D Printer?

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your 3D printer:

• Nozzle Cleaning: Regularly clean the nozzle to prevent clogs and ensure smooth filament flow. Some people clean their nozzle by using a simple brass brush. If the nozzle begins to get worn out it is recommended to get replaced.
• Bed Leveling: Check and adjust the bed level periodically, even if your printer has auto-leveling. 3D printers with a bed leveling sensor do this automatically. Other 3D printers, which do not have this attachment, require you to do it manually with a piece of A4 paper.
• Lubrication: Keep the moving parts lubricated to reduce wear and tear. Using Super Lube 51004 PTFE Grease or a light coating of Super Lube 51010 silicone oil with PTFE.
• Firmware Updates: Update the printer's firmware to improve performance and add new features. There are also open source firmwares that you can manually install on your 3D printer. These firmwares allow different options to be used that were not pre-installed with the default original firmware.
• Open source 3D firmware: options are Marlin, RepRap Firmware, Klipper, SmoothieWare.

FAQs

What is the largest a 3D printer can print?

The largest 3D printer are all house 3D printers. These house 3D printers can print concrete, polymer and wood fiber. The largest built volume can reach 29m long. One of professional concrete 3D printer can print 75' x 75' x 10' space.

What is the Best Large 3D Printer for Beginners Under $500?

For beginners, The Kingroon KP5L 3D Printer is highly recommended due to its user-friendly interface, reliable performance, and excellent customer support.

The second best large 3D printer under 500 I think would be the The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max due to its low price point and ease of assembly. Also it is compatible with many different types of slicer software.

How Does Print Speed Vary in Large 3D Printers?

Speed varies between large 3D printers mainly due to their size and construction. Some of the large-format 3D printers use linear rails, while others use V-roller type rails. In some circumstances, the linear rails move faster. However, the speed of the printer is usually determined by the firmware that is running the machine, such as Klipper. Machines that do not run Klipper tend to run slower.