How to Find the Best 3D Printers to Start a Business with Low Investment

Thinking about starting a business with 3D printing? It’s a creative and exciting field, but choosing your first 3D printing machine can feel like a lot. If you're new to this, going for one of the best 3D printers to start a business can make things easier—from unboxing and setup to making your first sale.

Some printers are super simple—you plug them in and get going. Others take a bit more time to make out. Either way, I’ll walk you through how to pick the right one, whether you’re starting a side hustle or aiming for a full-time business.

Why Start a Business with 3D Printing?

3D printing is a great way for creators and small business owners to get started. You can make custom products, build sample models, or even print tools and spare parts.

The best part? You don’t need a lot of money to begin. Starter printers are now more affordable, easier to use, and work much better than before.

Here’s why many people choose to start small:

• Low upfront cost
• Minimal space required
• Fast turnaround for custom orders
• You can make all kinds of things with a 3D printer.

Whether you want to sell on Etsy, start a local service, or offer prototyping support, the right printer makes all the difference.

Types of 3D Printers for Business

Before buying, it’s helpful to know the two main types of consumer 3D printers:

1. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)

Most people go for FDM printers because they’re simple to use. These printers melt plastic material—like PLA or PETG—and build up your design step by step, layer after layer.If you want to make phone stands, keychains, or product covers, this type is a good pick. A lot of small shop owners on Etsy use FDM printers to make name signs or useful kitchen items. They're also a smart choice if you need quick, low-cost prototypes.

2. Resin (SLA or LCD Printers)

Resin printers work differently. Instead of using plastic, these printers work with liquid resin. A small light hardens the resin as your model slowly takes shape. If you're into making tiny figures or personalized jewelry, this kind of printer can bring out the details. I’ve seen people use them for tabletop game pieces, and the results are super sharp. But heads up, resin printing can be messy. You’ll also need to clean and cure each print after it’s done. So, it takes a bit more effort than regular printers.

Key Features to Look For

Not every printer fits business needs. Here are the must-have features when looking for the best 3D printers to start a business:

🔹 Reliability

If you're planning to run a small business with a 3D printer, don’t go for the cheapest one you can find. I made that mistake once, and the parts wore out within a few weeks. You need something that can keep printing all day without needing constant repairs. It’s worth spending a little more upfront so you don’t waste time fixing issues later.

🔹 Print Quality

The way your prints look? Super important. If your printer keeps messing up the details or leaves rough edges, customers won’t come back. You want something that prints clean, smooth, and consistent — whether you’re making a basic model or turning a photo to 3D print. When your work looks solid, people trust you more.

🔹 Easy Setup

If the setup is complicated, you’ll lose hours just trying to figure things out. That’s time you could’ve spent printing. Look for a machine that has auto bed leveling and a touchscreen. Also, make sure there are YouTube videos or guides to help. Trust me — you’ll thank yourself later.

🔹 Community Support

Try to stick with a brand that lots of people use. Why? Because when something goes wrong (and it will), you’ll find solutions easily. I’ve fixed a dozen small problems just by checking forums or asking in a Facebook group. The community is a real lifesaver for beginners.

🔹 Upgrade Options

Lastly, think ahead. If things go well, you’ll want to upgrade — maybe print bigger items or speed things up. So buy a printer that gives you room to grow. One that supports upgrades will save you money in the long run. You won’t need to buy a whole new machine every time you want better results.

Honestly, a good 3D printer should feel like a partner in your business — not something you're constantly fighting with. Choose wisely, and you’ll have more time to focus on what matters: creating stuff people want.

Recommended Beginner-Friendly 3D Printers

These models are known for ease of use, solid quality, and low cost—perfect for starting a business.

Pros and Cons of Starting with a Budget Printer

Pros

• Low startup cost
• Easy to use for beginners
• Takes up little space
• Great for testing ideas

Cons

• May need upgrades over time
• Limited material compatibility
• Some lack long-term durability
• Slower than pro machines   

Mistakes to Avoid

How to Scale Up Later

When your orders start to grow, you’ll need faster and more reliable printing. To keep up, you can add more printers to increase how much you make. Tweaking your print settings helps speed things up too. Building a small enclosure can help your printer work better with different materials. You might also try resin printers if you want to make detailed items. Little by little, your setup can grow from a single printer into a small workshop right at home.

FAQ

1. What type of 3D printer is best for small business use?

It depends on what you're selling. FDM printers work well for bigger items and useful parts like tools or organizers. If you’re making miniatures, jewelry, or detailed pieces, a resin (SLA/LCD) printer is better. Many small businesses choose an FDM printer because it’s more affordable and simple to use, making it a popular choice for the best 3D printers to start a business.

2. How much should I invest in a 3D printer to start a business?

You can get started with a reliable 3D printer for $300 to $600. Popular beginner-friendly models like the Creality Ender 3 or Anycubic Kobra give good results without breaking the bank. If you’re into resin printing, expect to spend a bit more, including post-processing tools.

3. Can I run a business with just one 3D printer?

 Yes, but your production will be limited. Many successful businesses start with just one printer, test their product ideas, and grow from there. As orders increase, you can add a second or third machine to scale up and meet customer demand.

4. What should I look for in a business-ready 3D printer?

When you choose the best 3D printer for small business, don’t just go for the cheapest 3D printer. Pick one that works well, is easy to set up, and gives clean prints. Things like auto-bed leveling and simple buttons can save you a lot of time.

5. What kind of products can I make and sell with a 3D printer?

There are tons of things you can make with the best 3d printers to start a business—phone stands, keychains, miniatures, décor, even jewelry. If you like designing, you can offer custom items or prototypes. The best part? You can try out different ideas and see what people like. When you find a hit, it can turn into a good side job or even a full business.

Final Thoughts

You really don’t need big money to start a 3D printing business. Just grab a handy, beginner printer and spend a little time learning. Look for that one which is simple, reliable, and fits your budget. Once you get the hang of it, you can swap it out for a fancier model later.