FDMBambu Lab
Bambu Lab A1 mini
Small open-frame printer that calibrates itself. The easiest way into 3D printing that still prints well.
Best for Beginners, kids' projects, and a second printer for small parts.
$100–500
Elegoo
Elegoo Centauri Carbon 2
Enclosed CoreXY printer at an entry-level price, with auto-calibration and multi-material support.
Strengths
- Enclosed CoreXY for well under $400
- Same 256 mm cube build volume as more expensive machines
- Multi-material support built in
Trade-offs
- Younger slicer and smaller profile library than Bambu or Prusa
- Long-term parts availability is less proven
The original Centauri Carbon proved you could get an enclosed CoreXY printer for under $300. The Carbon 2 keeps the 256 mm cube build volume and adds multi-material support and a smarter chamber vent, at $349 list.
At this price it is the value pick in the category. You get the frame, enclosure and speed of machines costing nearly twice as much. What you give up is ecosystem maturity: fewer community profiles, and less track record on spare parts.
Worth knowing: Elegoo also sells a Centauri 2. Check which model you’re buying, as the names are close.
Also in 3D Printers
FDMBambu Lab
Bambu Lab P2S
Enclosed single-nozzle CoreXY printer with a passive chamber. The sensible default for most home workshops.
Best for A first serious printer for PLA, PETG and occasional ABS, with room to add multi-colour later.
$549list
FDMBambu Lab
Bambu Lab X2D
Enclosed dual-nozzle printer with a heated chamber. Bambu's replacement for the X1 Carbon, at a much lower price.
Best for Makers who print ABS, ASA or nylon regularly, or want dissolvable supports on their own nozzle.
$649list