TONS of forums out there on 3D printers.
I remember being in the same boat a while back. Had NO CLUE what to get or why. I just kept asking and asking until I “thought” I had enough answers to make a proper decision. Ultimately I got exactly what I needed…at an excellent price.
The only thing I could say is just try to get a printer with a bed that is at least 6 x 9 inches because if it’s much smaller, you’re very limited to what you can make (build)
Also, a printer that uses 1.75 filament is most common and what I have. Try to get one with a heated print bed. I think that is VERY important.
As far as print precision, mine has a precision of 100 microns. That’s fairly common but good if you print in detail (and you’ll want too).
You can get much better precision, but truthfully, it jumps the price up a good bit and you probably won’t need more precision unless you are an engineer working on commercial prototyping.
Don’t forget that anything you print needs a CAD file. You can either make your own if you can do 3D CAD modeling or there are thousands of files available for download free at thingverse.com
As far as printers……
I know this one well and it is VERY good for the money……
MonoPrice 3D printer
Here’s another one, lower priced, that is nearly identical in terms of specifications….
3D Printer for $363.00 US
Ultimately tho, you’ll have to do your own research and get one that seems to suit your needs and tastes best.
All I can say is, when you finally pull the trigger, I’m fairly certain you’ll be glad you did. 3D printers are FAR more useful than I had imagined when I was first looking at them. I’ve been able to make my own replacement parts for many household things that normally would have to be re-purchased. I’ve also made a boatload of gadgets that make everyday life just easier and more convenient. The possibilities are endless.
It’s one of things that once you have and know how to use, you’ll never want to be without one again. A fantastic tool. Not just a “toy”.
To be honest, I’ve actually made and sold enough items with my 3D printers to more than pay for them