3D printing technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, enabling affordable desktop 3D printers that can produce color models. Consumer-grade color 3D printers are now available at a wide range of price points to suit different budgets and needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at the costs of some popular color 3D printer models for home and office use.
Entry-Level Color 3D Printers Under $500
There are several entry-level color 3D printers priced under $500 that offer basic color printing capabilities. While less expensive, these models typically have smaller build volumes, slower print speeds, and may require more maintenance and tuning to get good results.
| Printer | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| FlashForge Foto 8.9 | $399 | − Compact size − 100 micron resolution − 1.5′′ LCD touchscreen − PLA, ABS, and PETG filament |
| ANYCUBIC Photon Mono SE | $219 | − LCD-based SLA printer − High 25 micron resolution − 2.8” touchscreen − Resin printing |
| Monoprice MP Mini Delta | $159 | − Delta-style design − 50 micron layer height − Compact footprint − PLA, ABS, and PETG |
These lower-cost printers can produce color models sufficient for prototypes and decorative pieces. However, print quality and capabilities will be limited compared to more advanced models.
Mid-Range Color 3D Printers $500-$1,500
In the $500-$1,500 price range, you’ll find color 3D printers that offer faster print speeds, higher resolution, and larger build volumes than entry-level models. Reliability and print quality is generally improved as well at this price point.
| Printer | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| FlashForge Adventurer 4 | $499 | − Enclosed heated chamber − Touchscreen interface − 150 x 150 x 150 mm build volume − 0.1-0.4 mm nozzle |
| BIBO 3D Printer Touch | $799 | − Touchscreen control − WiFi connectivity − 0.05 mm resolution − Filament sensor |
| QIDI TECH I | $1,299 | − Dual extruder for multicolor − 300 x 250 x 300 mm build volume − Resume print after power outage |
These mid-range models can produce more detailed and complex color 3D prints suitable for practical applications like prototypes, models, and figurines. Expect faster, higher-quality results.
Advanced Color 3D Printers $1,500-$5,000
At the high end of desktop color 3D printers, in the $1,500-$5,000 range, you’ll find professional-grade machines with large build volumes, multi-material capabilities, and industrial features.
| Printer | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimaker S5 | $5,995 | − Dual extrusion system − 330 x 240 x 300 mm build volume − Interchangeable nozzles − PLA, ABS, CPE, Nylon, more |
| Formlabs Form 3 | $3,499 | − SLA resin printer − 25 micron layer height − 140 x 82 x 180 mm build area − Post-processing tools |
| Stratasys J826 | $16,900 | − Industrial-grade − Full color CMYK mixing − 196 x 124 x 156 mm build volume − Soluble supports |
These high-end printers offer expansive multi-material capabilities for full-color models and complex assemblies with advanced engineering resins. They excel at detailed prototyping, product design, and manufacturing applications.
Conclusion
Color 3D printer costs range widely from under $500 for basic desktop models up to several thousand dollars for professional-grade machines. Key factors determining price include print quality, build volume, speed, and advanced features like dual extrusion and WiFi connectivity.
For hobbyists and casual users, an entry-level color 3D printer under $500 can provide an affordable introduction to color 3D printing. Mid-range models from $500-$1,500 offer faster speeds and higher quality suited for more practical applications.
For advanced users that require outstanding print quality, large build volumes, and multi-material capabilities, high-end color 3D printers in the $1,500-$5,000+ range deliver exceptional performance comparable to industrial systems. Companies using 3D printing for prototyping, design, and manufacturing will benefit most from these professional-grade color 3D printers.
With a wide selection of models now available at different price points, color 3D printing has become accessible to a broader range of users. Carefully considering your needs and budget will help you select the ideal color 3D printer to take your projects to the next level.
