How cheap can a 3D printer be and still function? Although they seemed plucked out of science fiction, there’s not really that much to these machines. A few stepper motors, some switches, a control board, a heating element, and a nozzle are really all you need. It’s the software, and the expiration of a bunch of patents, that kicked the 3D printing revolution into high gear.
Is it possible to assemble the right collection of components to make a functional 3D printer for less than $100? iNSTONE thinks you can, and they are not wrong.
Behold, the iNSTONE Desktop DIY.
![](https://i1.wp.com/www.southernfriedscience.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_20190313_220908431.jpg?fit=1000%2C1000)
This is the best printer you could build for $99. It’s terrible. I love it. You absolutely should not buy it.