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Depends on how much you need and how often. If you only need a few small parts here and there, it probably won't pay off - these devices quickly cost several hundred euros and material costs add up too. But if you regularly need specific parts that you can't just buy (brackets, adapters, replacement parts), then it can definitely make sense, especially in the long run. A lot of scale modelers do pretty well with it because they don't have to wait for shipping times and can make exactly what they need.
On the practical side: FDM printers (the ones that use plastic filament) are pretty beginner-friendly and affordable. Resin printers give you better detail, but they require more care when handling and post-processing. For model accessories, FDM is usually enough, unless you really want super detailed small parts. Just keep in mind that there's a bit of trial and error at the beginning - not every first print turns out perfect.
Honestly, you should think about this beforehand: Will I really use this several times a month? Or am I more the type who buys things and then doesn't actually use them that much. If you're not sure, a makerspace or friends with a printer could be an option to try it out first before you invest yourself.
Don't just buy the cheapest Chinese printer and hope it works perfectly right out of the box - that's a common trap. Most budget models need a ton of tinkering during setup, and print quality is often frustrating if you don't have experience. Better to first check whether you actually need accessories regularly or if it's just a phase.
If you need specific parts (body details, mounts, small stuff), then a 3D printer can definitely be worth it - especially since specialized model kit stuff is otherwise expensive or takes forever to order. You'll probably save money over time. But you also have to invest time in operating it, learning CAD software, or hunting down suitable designs online. That's not exactly trivial.
My advice: start small. Borrow a printer from someone or book time at a makerspace to see if you actually enjoy working with one. That way you have less risk and you'll quickly figure out whether it's right for you or whether you'd rather stick with buying accessories. When you then really decide "yeah, I'm doing this regularly," that's when you invest in something that's properly built - you might pay 300 - 500 euros or more, but that's just the reality for halfway reliable machines.
I got one a couple years ago and mainly use it for mounts, small spare parts, and decorative stuff - it actually saves me money compared to ordering online when I need something specific. But you really gotta print regularly, otherwise the thing just sits there costing you electricity for maintenance, plus the time to learn how to find or modify decent STL files.
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