Recently I encountered a series of TikTok videos in which a guy creates some amazing cosplay stuff — swords, helmets, complete Iron Man costumes — using only a 3D printer. (Check him out on YouTube if you’re interested.) When you see the results, you figure he must be using some high-end industrial model far beyond the reach of ordinary humans.
Actually, he says you can do a lot with just a basic 3D printer — and he highly recommends starting with a Creality. I hadn’t heard of that brand, but after doing a bit of research, it does seem like a great place to start.
The Creality 3D is a popular entry-level 3D printer, and $154 is a pretty amazing price.
Creality
Good news: You can start cheap. For a limited time, and while supplies last, Cheapskate readers can get the Creality Ender 3D printer for $154 with promo code CNETUSA.
That’s the entry-level model in the lineup. If you want something a little better, try this: For a limited time, and while supplies last, Walmart seller Save Money has the Creality 3D Ender-3X for $180, which is just about the lowest price I’ve found.
Curious about the differences between the two? There’s a pretty detailed comparison here, one that includes the Ender 3 Pro in the mix. TL;DR: “In most cases, the original Creality Ender 3 offers the best bang for your buck.”
However, the Ender-3X gets you a tempered glass print bed, which many consider a must-have upgrade.
This kid-friendly 3D printer comes with eight spools of filament.
Toybox
Whichever way you go, these are awfully affordable ways to dip your toe into 3D printing. However, they’re definitely more hobbyist-oriented; if you’re looking for something for kids, here’s another option: For a limited time, and while supplies last, ZDNet Academy has the Toybox 3D Printer Deluxe Bundle for $283.50 with promo code CHEAP10. Regular price: $349.
Originally featured on Shark Tank, the Toybox aims to make 3D printing as easy as tapping a picture in the companion smartphone app. You couldn’t do the aforementioned cosplay stuff here (the print bed is pretty small), but I can see where this would be fun for kids.
Sinocare
Amazon seller: Sinocare Direct
Price: $11.70 with promo code DKZR3YHZ
A white-noise machine can really help you fall (and stay) asleep, but a lot of models aren’t exactly decor-friendly. That’s one reason I like this Sinocare model; it’s flat, black and snazzy. At this price it’s also one of the cheapest ones I’ve ever seen.
It’s also USB-powered (AC adapter not included) and apparently has a rechargeable battery for travel use, though I can’t find any details on that. (See the user reviews.) My only real complaint is with the placement of the volume buttons, mixed in with the other controls. Good luck remembering where they are when you’re fumbling in the dark.
Homgeek
Amazon seller: SmallBDS
Price: $25.49
Smoothie for one, please. Homgeek’s little blender is designed to make a single to-go beverage; just toss everything into the tumbler, blend and go. That tumbler is also your drinking glass, and it comes with a spill-proof lid.
The savings here aren’t huge, but this price does tie the all-time low — for only the second time.
Square Enix
Gone are the goofy games of Tomb Raider past. The excellent reboot, which spawned two equally good sequels, delivered a thrilling action-adventure experience.
Here’s your chance to score all three games for just $20, which is $30 off the regular price. The button below will take you to the Microsoft Store for the Xbox version; it’s available from Sony for PlayStation for the same price.
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