Hello,
I want to see if 3D printers would be a good alternative to model kits. Are there any budget printers I can try?
Try 3D printing pen. They're cheap and will at least let you know how those PLA turns out.
Maybe you should get your self a cheap 3D printer. You can get one as cheap as 50$ now. Don't expect it to work wonders but if you want to just try it out they should be a good investment.