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this post was submitted on 05 Nov 2023
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3DPrinting
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Whatever you go with, keep in mind that for the most part the difference between a cheap ffm 3d printer and a mid-tier 3d printer isn't print quality, it's reliability. If you are happy spending as much time getting the printer to actually consistently print properly as you do actually printing stuff, then go ahead.
Cheap 3d printers are a hobby, expensive 3d printers are a tool
My third printer, I paid $70 for, used (ender 3 pro return). It was missing several small components, one big part (top aluminum extrusion) that required some machining with a drill press, and had a bad thermistor.
I don't think you can get a beginning printer for $100 unfortunately. Sovol and Anycubic make printers among the cheapest that are more beginner friendly (I think) than Ender, for roughly the same price. I have a friend with a Creality and an Anycubic Vyper, and the Vyper seems to be more beginner-friendly. I have two Crealitys and I love them, but both required a ton of modifications to become reliable.
Can you check your area for a local maker space? My local library has 3D printers for anyone under 18. Universities typically have a few of different technologies (SLS, SLA, FDM)
Just to add an extra data point I was able to get my ender 3 pro for $100 when it was on sale at microcenter. My experience is it works great for awhile and then I have to spend time watching videos and reading comments on how to fix random issues my ender 3 pro has. It has not been the most user friendly but hey, it was a cheap printer. I also have upgraded mine with new silicone spacers or whatever to keep the bed more level in between prints as well as a new hot end, oh yeah also the filament tube. I still love it though!