If you want to get into 3D printing, I recommend these two excellent beginner machines (and now they're cheaper than ever)

If you've ever been tempted to grab a 3D printer for making all sorts of goodies from replicas to wargaming terrain but didn't know where to start, I've got good news. A couple of the best beginner machines I've ever tested just got a massive price cut, bringing them crashing down to record low prices as a result of this week's Prime Day event.

3D printer deals aren't unusual during sales season, but I'm not used to such massive discounts at Amazon itself; normally, the manufacturers offer superior savings. Not this time, though; this time, Amazon's beating the competition soundly on top-tier machines. First up is the Elegoo Centauri Carbon 2, currently $299.98 at Amazon instead of $260. That's a drop of 17% on what is comfortably my favorite starter printer, and an all-time low. Next is the Anycubic Kobra X, which is an impressive 35% cheaper than normal - it's currently $299.99 at Amazon rather than $460. I'd say this is on par with the Centauri Carbon 2, so that's also a very tempting offer.

Save $160

ANYCUBIC Kobra X Multicolor 3d Printer: was $459.99 now $299.99 at Amazon

I've never seen this printer for less than it is now, and considering how reliable it is as a multi-color, beginner-friendly machine from a top-notch manufacturer, that's mighty tempting. The average cost of this one is around $450, so we're doing really quite well out of Prime Day.

UK: £329 £259 at Amazon

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Save $60.01

ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 3d Printer: was $359.99 now $299.98 at Amazon

We've got another record low here, albeit with less of a step down from the original cost. I'm very fond of this machine and think it's a superb starter printer, so when combined with how well-respected the manufacturer is, it's a standout Prime Day 3D printer deal.

UK: £299 £259 at Elegoo

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Seeing as both machines are basically the same price, which one should you get? While I do have a favorite (we'll get to that in a moment), I think there are advantages to both. Want a smaller, more compact machine? While its footprint is similar, the Anycubic Kobra X doesn't have an enclosure so doesn't feel as bulky. Plus, its filaments are stored above - meaning they don't just out to the side as with the Centauri Carbon 2. However, that enclosure makes the latter quieter... and the addition of rubber shock-absorbing feet mean it shouldn't rattle as much on a surface when in use.

Personally, my favorite's the Centauri Carbon. I think both machines are just as good as each other in terms of actual print-quality, and they both make great use of multi-color printing. But being able to shut it all away, and the addition of noise-reducing elements like the feet, mean it's a more practical choice in a family home or with housemates.

• See all of today's 3D printer deals at Amazon

Want inspiration on what to make with your new printer? Be sure to check out the best tabletop RPGs.