Yes, there are budget-friendly alternatives, although they may come with limitations. For example, desktop SEMs and AFMs are available at a fraction of the cost of their high-end counterparts, often ranging from $20,000 to $80,000. While these may not offer the same resolution or capabilities, they can still be useful for educational purposes and basic research. Additionally, shared facilities in academic institutions often provide access to high-end equipment, allowing researchers to avoid the upfront costs.
