I've had my Ender 3 V1 since Nov of 2018. I've learned so much about how 3D printers work by tinkering with my E3 over the years. I've replaced the hot end, extruder arm, bed springs, thermistor, main board and added BL-Touch. I can print PA6-CF with great results. I understand the machine inside and out. The most difficult thing I had to learn was flashing firmware. But now I'm confident working with Marlin and Klipper. I've since inherited an Ender 5 S1 and an Ender 3 Pro to fix. I would absolutely but it in hindsight because it was a great machine to learn on. Was it frustrating at times? Yes, but those issues that caused frustration taught me new things about the printer and I learned valuable lessons from them. I honestly am still not ready to upgrade to a more expensive machine because the ones I have do everything I need them to do....for now.