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MakerBot Replicator+ Desktop 3D Printer Kit with Swappable Smart Extruder+ for Fast PLA Material Printing at Home or School, Factory-Leveled Flex Build Plate, 11.6x7.6x6.5in Print Size (MP07825EU)
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Brand | MakerBot |
Material | PLA; MakerBot Tough PLA |
Color | Black |
Product Dimensions | 23.75"D x 23"W x 20.5"H |
Item Weight | 16 Kilograms |
About this item
- EASY, FAST AND RELIABLE 3D PRINTING: The MakerBot Replicator+ prints high-quality concept models 30% faster with a 25% larger build volume than its predecessor while offering a large factory-leveled build plate and new grip surface for reduced warping and curling
- INCLUDES MAKERBOT SMART EXTRUDER+: The Smart Extruder+ is a culmination of product design, technology and 160,000+ hours of rigorous testing that delivers dependable, consistent performance with superior results using MakerBot PLA (polylactic acid) Material
- STANDARDIZED FEATURES: To ensure easy, accessible 3D printing, the Cloud-enabled MakerBot Replicator+ features a suite of smart technology including an LCD display, on-board camera, as well as USB, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connection
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: (1) MakerBot Replicator+ 3D Printer, (1) Smart Extruder+ for the Replicator+, (1) Spool PLA, (1) Flexible Build Plate, (1) Power & USB Cables
- 3D PRINTERS, MATERIALS AND SOFTWARE: Explore the MakerBot ecosystem for all your 3D printing needs including the METHOD, SKETCH and Replicator Series 3D printers, polymers, composites and metal filament materials and MakerBot CloudPrint
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Product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 20.79 x 16.14 x 17.36 inches; 35.27 Pounds
- Item model number : MP07825EU
- Date First Available : September 20, 2016
- Manufacturer : MakerBot
- ASIN : B01LZSUQKL
- Best Sellers Rank: #239,667 in Industrial & Scientific (See Top 100 in Industrial & Scientific)
- #324 in 3D Printers
- Customer Reviews:
WARNING:
CHOKING HAZARD -- Toy contains a small ball. Not for children under 3 yrs. To be used under the direct supervision of an adult
CHOKING HAZARD -- Children under 8 yrs. can choke or suffocate on uninflated or broken balloons. Adult supervision required. Keep uninflated balloons from children. Discard broken balloons at once.
CHOKING HAZARD -- Toy contains a marble. Not for children under 3 yrs.
Product Description
At MakerBot, we believe there is an innovator in everyone.
The MakerBot Replicator+ 3D Printer is our most popular 3D printer for professionals, educators, and hobbyists with a fast and reliable 3D printing experience, right out of the box. Enhanced 3D printing workflow features including the Smart Extruder+, a full-color LCD display, Wi-Fi connectivity, and MakerBot Print 3D printing software are just a part of what makes the MakerBot Replicator+ 3D printer the preferred 3D printer for both beginners and advanced users alike.
The MakerBot Replicator+ 3D printer produces high-quality prints 30% faster than its predecessor and offers a 25% larger build volume. Improved hardware, like a redesigned gantry and Z-stage offer greater reliability and precision—every time. The included Smart Extruder+ has double the warranty of its predecessor and delivers a dependable, consistent 3D printing performance with superior results using MakerBot PLA filament—no matter the project at hand.
MakerBot. Ideas in the Making.
From the manufacturer
MakerBot Replicator+ 3D Printer
The MakerBot Replicator+ is engineered and tested for reliable, faster printing. The Replicator+ prints high-quality concept models faster, easier, and with a bigger build volume. Combined with MakerBot’s powerful workflow tools, the MakerBot Replicator+ streamlines desktop 3D printing for professionals and educators.
To ensure improved performance, the Replicator+ features a sturdier construction, a 25% bigger build volume, better print adhesion, and more. The Smart Extruder+ and all ease-of-use features from the previous model come standard. The Replicator+ is also compatible with MakerBot’s Slate Gray Tough PLA Filament Bundle, created for engineers and designers.
Features
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MAKERBOT CLOUD INTEGRATEDPrint and monitor your project - from your browser straight to your MakerBot 3D Printer. Add the Print from CAD integration for your favorite CAD program and start a print in just two clicks. |
21st CENTURY AUTOMATIONA suite of smart technology allows you to spend your time focusing on the part design, not the printing process. From WIFI connectivity, an onboard streaming camera, smart sensors in the extruder, and an automated Z-homing build plate, this is how 3D printing is supposed to be. |
EASY TO CHANGE CONSUMABLES WITH ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETYOur 3D printers and materials have been tested by the CDC NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) so you can breathe a little easier in your classroom or office. With the easy to replace Smart Extruder+ and Flex Build Plate maintenance is quick and easy. A front facing filament drawer lets you change out colors or material types without flipping your printer around. |
MakerBot Print
What is MakerBot Print?
MakerBot Print is free software that optimizes and streamlines the 3D printing process for any workflow. It allows you to discover, prepare, manage, and share 3D prints.
Native CAD Support
Save time by importing native CAD files, like parts and assemblies. Reduce the number of files to manage, and eliminate the need to convert files to an STL format which prevents conversion errors.
Optimized Printing
Our new slicer algorithm automatically adjusts slice settings for your specific printer model, software version, and Smart Extruder type. The new print preview helps verify design details before printing, and includes rafts and supports break away more easily for a cleaner print surface.
- Cloud-Enabled Management
- Auto Arrange multiple build plates at once
- Improved Rafts for cleaner prints
- Redesigned Breakaway Supports
MakerBot Smart Extruder+
Ease of Use, Reliability, and Superior Results with MakerBot PLA Filament.
- Tested for 160,000 cumulative hours.
- Automatic jam detection and pause.
- Out of filament notifications.
- Advanced auto-calibration.
MakerBot Tough PLA
As Tough as ABS and as Reliable as PLA
Made with designers and engineers in mind, the MakerBot Slate Gray Tough PLA Filament Bundle allows you to create durable, high-impact strength prototypes and fixtures.
- Similar Tensile, Impact, and Flexural Strength to ABS
- Save time and money creating durable, high-impact prototypes and fixtures just not possible with PLA
- Tested and optimized to print reliably and easily
Replicator+ | Replicator Z18 | |
---|---|---|
Customer Reviews |
3.3 out of 5 stars
118
|
2.7 out of 5 stars
15
|
Product Generation | + Series | 5th Generation |
Build Volume | 11.6 L x 7.6 W x 6.5 H in [29.5 L x 19.5 W x 16.5 H cm]; 573 in3 [9492 cm3] | 11.8 L x 12.0 W x 18.0 H in [30.0 L x 30.5 W x 45.7 H cm] |
Filament Compatibility | MakerBot PLA Filament, MakerBot Tough PLA Filament | MakerBot PLA Filament, MakerBot Tough PLA Filament |
Min Layer Height | 100 micron (0.1 mm) | 100 micron (0.1 mm) |
Build Surface | Grip Surface | PC-ABS |
Remote Monitoring | ✓ | ✓ |
Color LCD Interface | ✓ | ✓ |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-Stick, USB-Cable | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-Stick, USB-Cable |
Extruder | Smart Extruder+, Tough PLA Extruder | Smart Extruder+, Tough PLA Extruder |
What's in the box
Videos
Videos for this product
5:12
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Detailed Review + Demo of Makerbot Replicator+ 3D Printer
DIY Life Tech
Videos for this product
1:51
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Honest review of makerbot extruder
Suzette and Jacob
Videos for this product
1:23
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How to Load Filament on the Makerbot Replicator+
DIY Life Tech
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality of the 3D printer. They say it's a wonderful engineering and produces a nice product. However, some customers have reported compatibility issues with the printer not working as advertised. They also dislike the value, controls, and adhesion. Customers also disagree on print quality, ease of use, and durability.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the 3D printer. They mention it's a great little workhorse, and produces a very nice product. They also praise the wonderful engineering, and the overall construction of the product.
"...So a recap: Greatly improved mechanics, frame, and overall construction. Again, hats off for this upgrade...." Read more
"...For me, that alone is worth the price of admission, but the rest of the thing is great, too, as is Makerbot's customer service...." Read more
"...Cool gray prints parts very well.- Increase layer height from 0.2mm to 0.3mm to reduce time for larger prints...." Read more
"...The overall build quality also seems high...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the print quality of the 3D printer. Some mention that it prints great and awesome prints, while others say that it has poor quality and noise problems. Some customers also say that the build is horrific and the prints are not comparable to other existing and cheaper models.
"...The bad is, the same electronics, no rubber feet, noisy, poor print quality, no heated bed, and while not "restricted" to MakerBot filament,..." Read more
"Its easy to use it prints nice.Only 1 and a 1/2 issues..." Read more
"...Not enough thick filament to hold them down. Also, the raft floor tends to separate from feet layers. Really bad!..." Read more
"This is an excellent printer, the most appealing part of which is its bed: forget about blue tape, kapton or any of that: your prints stick to that..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the 3D printer. Some mention that it's easy for even the novice to use, super easy to set up, and troubleshoot. The new software is simple, and the replacement setup went smoothly. However, others say that Makerbot support and trouble shooting is next to nonexistent, and is pretty much no help. The desktop software is now completely not user friendly, and many support cases are properly too difficult to resolve.
"Its easy to use it prints nice.Only 1 and a 1/2 issues..." Read more
"...Many support cases are properly too difficult to resolve, so don't expect to get more than one response...." Read more
"...The setup was easy. No leveling, no adjustments. The new software is simple, and maybe somebody likes it, but a professional user is likely to be..." Read more
"...They use this model at the vocational school I work at. It has a simple setup and produces a very nice product." Read more
Customers are mixed about the durability of the 3D printer. Some mention that the extruder+ seems solid, the frame is solid, and the build plate is rigid enough. The supplied high-temp filament seems strong, but the extrider seems challenged to maintain the temperature. However, others say that it broke down regularly, twice having to replace the exterder, and both extrusions only lasted under 100 hours of use.
"...plastic frame is made of a different plastic formulation that is much tougher, and the mounting points for all attachments are now molded in..." Read more
"...Just terrible both extruders I have used only lasted under 100 hours of use!..." Read more
"...Overall, I like the rugged construction and not having to DIY build and tune the frame.- Keep the foot print small on your first prints...." Read more
"...It broke down regularly, twice having to replace the extruder...." Read more
Customers have negative opinions about the compatibility of the 3D printer. They mention that it does not work as advertised, printing from iPhone/iPad doesn't work at all, and has major problems on the regular. They also say the support ticket function on the website does not function, and manual jogging doesn''t seem to work.
"...At best, it was 3 stars for an overpriced and under performing 3D printer, now it's 1 star for the worst customer experience on the planet...." Read more
"...these virtues cannot overcome the basic problem: This product does not work.The core failures are build plate adhesion and warping...." Read more
"...a while ago using 123Design CAD, but I have found FreeCAD works good for my simple parts. Need to occasionally restart the software if it hangs...." Read more
"...Also, addressing the auto unload of the filament, it renders the remote printing useless, since you'd have to be there to load the filament before..." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the value of the 3D printer. They mention that it's not worth the ridiculous price, it'd be better off as an expensive paperweight, and the out of the box print quality is horrible for the price.
"...I'm knocking this down to 1 star. At best, it was 3 stars for an overpriced and under performing 3D printer, now it's 1 star for the worst customer..." Read more
"...This is my first 3D printer, but this unit is probably a little over-priced for what you get. The newbee experience is great though...." Read more
"...Way over priced for what you get. I returned this back to Amazon. I reordered the..." Read more
"...had read sounded like a dream come true, but now it's just an expensive paperweight. I've never returned something to Amazon so fast...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the controls of the 3D printer. They mention that it's difficult to change settings, adjust your build, and that there are insufficient controls to solve all the problems they observed. They also mention that the settings are completely locked down and that they cannot set it overnight.
"...to be unhappy with noise, performance, print quality, and lack of settings in the software...." Read more
"...There are insufficient controls to solve all the problems I observed...." Read more
"...is now completely not user friendly, and makes it so much harder to change settings, adjust your build, and they even took away the Thingiverse..." Read more
"...some prints but you have to really baby sit this printer you can not set it overnight...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the adhesion of the 3D printer. They mention that the corners of the build will not stick to the plate, and the core failures are build plate adhesivity and warping. They also say that prints do not stick and get warped.
"...by observing the raft quality with each print, looking for poor adhesion, ripple patterns in the filament or breakage...." Read more
"...The core failures are build plate adhesion and warping. Any print large than a few square inches distorts and curls up at the corners...." Read more
"...I have prints that do not stick to the bed and also get warped. I have also tried different print settings but it does not do much...." Read more
"...My main issue is when it prints things it seems to bond the base to the item and at times it cant be detached without damaging the print...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Only 1 and a 1/2 issues
1 issue is the machine and instructions still want you to download an app that doesn't exist any more
The 1/2 issue is on large prints the base (raft) rends to lift but I read is is an issue with most printers
You just need to use tape to make it stay
I would recommend this printer. I'm looking to get a second in the near future so I can print long time to print on one and fast prints on the other
Ongoing longer term review updated 10/25/2016 dropped a star to 2 stars. Makerbot is unable to tell me when they might have grip surface packs and the removable build plate. This means you as a new user cannot damage your existing build surface because you have no idea for how long you might be down if you damage it. I placed the order with Makerbot the 26th of last month, I have called support numerous times about this order, I've even spoke directly to a manager at least 3-4 times in the last 2 weeks. I waited 2 weeks and again opened yet another ticket on this order for spare grip surfaces and as of this morning, got a response that basically said they don't know.
It's not that Makerbot support is not trying to help, it's that they cannot help. The company is the most disorganized I have ever seen it. Supplies, filament, and parts are a major concern going forward. On top of that, I'm still not getting comparable prints to other existing and cheaper 3D printers I own. The frustration just a month in of ownership is beyond all belief.
Review updated with new pictures 10/14/2016. Note the darker grey PLA is the new Tough PLA while the lighter pictures are the standard PLA. Also note, my machine required a repair to reduce binding in the X axis gantry. This did improve print quality significantly.
Most important, please, if you buy this printer, run the built in example test print Stretchy bracelet as soon as you get the printer. This is a great test to see quality and problems if they exist early on. If your machine does not print that test well, contact MakerBot support right away. See the first photo for what bad layer alignment looks like.
So here is the review by a trusted 3D printer enthusiast with a comparison to the previous Replicator 5th generation machines. First, let's just jump right into the hardware. The mechanics have been completely changed for the better. The Z axis cantilevered shelf is a huge piece of cast aluminum as a single piece making it one of the most stiff and rigid Z axis designs I've seen. It really cost MakerBot a lot of money and investment in this new Z axis and the components pay off. At the same time, the entire XY H-bot style motion system was changed from a single stamped plate in the previous generation, to now a series of custom made aluminum extrusions and cast end brackets for the motors and idlers. The linear bearings are canted 45 degrees to bring even more torsional rigidity to the mechanism (a know weak point of choosing H-bot over Core XY). Another huge upgrade is that the new plastic frame is made of a different plastic formulation that is much tougher, and the mounting points for all attachments are now molded in threaded brass inserts. In addition, a Z upper safety limit switch was added in case during homing, something went wrong to prevent the axis from running into the extruder. It's not used for homing, but is a nice additional safety feature. Finally, the noise reduction statements are from the change of the frame of the machine being stiffer, sound dampening material being attached to the metal panels, and the biggest one of all, rubber dampeners/isolators on the XY stepper motors. Almost forgot, the X gantry has the additional linear bearing and rail such that the moving extruder no longer hangs and can flex under the gantry as before. All of these changes represent significant engineering effort went into a serious overhaul and thus the + label is truly deserved.
All that said, it's not all roses. Due to the electronics remaining exactly the same as before, the stepper drivers are noisy as before. If you hate the "robot" sounds, it might be quieter, but it still there. Note, this sound is louder than almost every other brand I've touched (I own 42 printers of all brands and models for those who know me). I would say it's still uncomfortably loud to have on a desk next to you in a bedroom printing for hours. Also, the print quality is not great. Yes, it has printed something every time so far (I've only had it one day), but vertical layer alignment and errors like ringing (bumps at direction changes caused by flexing of components) are present in the print example files on the printer. In fact, the stretchy bracelet was the worst example where 2 sides of the object had very poor layers. I've also found that the raft was almost impossible to remove from the object. I honestly believe this error now (since the mechanic have been upgraded in the + ) is from the nozzle movement in the smart+ extruder. Basically, for Z homing, the nozzle can move up and down when it touches the bed triggering a sensor to home. That same movement is not precision such that the nozzle returns to the exact XY position every time. The return spring is intentionally weak to make homing accurate, but between required tolerance for thermal expansion and just bad design, the nozzle can wobble well more than a layer width (0.5mm from a 0.4mm nozzle) resulting in the poor vertical layer alignment. Basically, the retraction at movement to the next layer pulls the nozzle up, and allows it to move slighty in XY randomly when it begins extruding the next layer.
Another huge problem, no rubber feet!!! That right, a $2000+ printer that sits on the bottom of the frame with nothing but the plastic edges of the frame. In fact, there are protrusions on the metal plate that could damage your desk/table if not sitting flat.
So a recap: Greatly improved mechanics, frame, and overall construction. Again, hats off for this upgrade.
The bad is, the same electronics, no rubber feet, noisy, poor print quality, no heated bed, and while not "restricted" to MakerBot filament, the warning stickers put some fear into you.
I cannot deny, it printed out of the box. The setup was easy. No leveling, no adjustments. The new software is simple, and maybe somebody likes it, but a professional user is likely to be frustrated.
It a tough call here, so make your own informed decision. On one hand, this is easy for even the novice to use. Likely, you will have fair success in printing an object. If you are a pro user, if you have access to other brands of machines, you are likely to be unhappy with noise, performance, print quality, and lack of settings in the software. The real difference here is the old 5th gen, I honestly could never say it was a good printer, and definitely for the price. This new printer is greatly improved on the hardware level. It really is wonderful engineering. It's crippled by the electronics which are the root cause of the noise, and smart extruder system with the sloppy nozzle that can wiggle left and right in the down position. Fix those 2 things (and might as well say the software too given the latest release) and it might be a good printer for folks starting out.
Also, minor rant about the software. The new version is the worst ever to a pro user and maybe even to amateurs. The symbols representing actions and buttons are cryptic and it just has very, very, very, limited printed settings (raft and support on/off, infill%, and shells, layer height, and extruder type). I highly recommend you download the latest version if considering buying this printer. Don't take my word for it, see for yourself.
Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2016
Ongoing longer term review updated 10/25/2016 dropped a star to 2 stars. Makerbot is unable to tell me when they might have grip surface packs and the removable build plate. This means you as a new user cannot damage your existing build surface because you have no idea for how long you might be down if you damage it. I placed the order with Makerbot the 26th of last month, I have called support numerous times about this order, I've even spoke directly to a manager at least 3-4 times in the last 2 weeks. I waited 2 weeks and again opened yet another ticket on this order for spare grip surfaces and as of this morning, got a response that basically said they don't know.
It's not that Makerbot support is not trying to help, it's that they cannot help. The company is the most disorganized I have ever seen it. Supplies, filament, and parts are a major concern going forward. On top of that, I'm still not getting comparable prints to other existing and cheaper 3D printers I own. The frustration just a month in of ownership is beyond all belief.
Review updated with new pictures 10/14/2016. Note the darker grey PLA is the new Tough PLA while the lighter pictures are the standard PLA. Also note, my machine required a repair to reduce binding in the X axis gantry. This did improve print quality significantly.
Most important, please, if you buy this printer, run the built in example test print Stretchy bracelet as soon as you get the printer. This is a great test to see quality and problems if they exist early on. If your machine does not print that test well, contact MakerBot support right away. See the first photo for what bad layer alignment looks like.
So here is the review by a trusted 3D printer enthusiast with a comparison to the previous Replicator 5th generation machines. First, let's just jump right into the hardware. The mechanics have been completely changed for the better. The Z axis cantilevered shelf is a huge piece of cast aluminum as a single piece making it one of the most stiff and rigid Z axis designs I've seen. It really cost MakerBot a lot of money and investment in this new Z axis and the components pay off. At the same time, the entire XY H-bot style motion system was changed from a single stamped plate in the previous generation, to now a series of custom made aluminum extrusions and cast end brackets for the motors and idlers. The linear bearings are canted 45 degrees to bring even more torsional rigidity to the mechanism (a know weak point of choosing H-bot over Core XY). Another huge upgrade is that the new plastic frame is made of a different plastic formulation that is much tougher, and the mounting points for all attachments are now molded in threaded brass inserts. In addition, a Z upper safety limit switch was added in case during homing, something went wrong to prevent the axis from running into the extruder. It's not used for homing, but is a nice additional safety feature. Finally, the noise reduction statements are from the change of the frame of the machine being stiffer, sound dampening material being attached to the metal panels, and the biggest one of all, rubber dampeners/isolators on the XY stepper motors. Almost forgot, the X gantry has the additional linear bearing and rail such that the moving extruder no longer hangs and can flex under the gantry as before. All of these changes represent significant engineering effort went into a serious overhaul and thus the + label is truly deserved.
All that said, it's not all roses. Due to the electronics remaining exactly the same as before, the stepper drivers are noisy as before. If you hate the "robot" sounds, it might be quieter, but it still there. Note, this sound is louder than almost every other brand I've touched (I own 42 printers of all brands and models for those who know me). I would say it's still uncomfortably loud to have on a desk next to you in a bedroom printing for hours. Also, the print quality is not great. Yes, it has printed something every time so far (I've only had it one day), but vertical layer alignment and errors like ringing (bumps at direction changes caused by flexing of components) are present in the print example files on the printer. In fact, the stretchy bracelet was the worst example where 2 sides of the object had very poor layers. I've also found that the raft was almost impossible to remove from the object. I honestly believe this error now (since the mechanic have been upgraded in the + ) is from the nozzle movement in the smart+ extruder. Basically, for Z homing, the nozzle can move up and down when it touches the bed triggering a sensor to home. That same movement is not precision such that the nozzle returns to the exact XY position every time. The return spring is intentionally weak to make homing accurate, but between required tolerance for thermal expansion and just bad design, the nozzle can wobble well more than a layer width (0.5mm from a 0.4mm nozzle) resulting in the poor vertical layer alignment. Basically, the retraction at movement to the next layer pulls the nozzle up, and allows it to move slighty in XY randomly when it begins extruding the next layer.
Another huge problem, no rubber feet!!! That right, a $2000+ printer that sits on the bottom of the frame with nothing but the plastic edges of the frame. In fact, there are protrusions on the metal plate that could damage your desk/table if not sitting flat.
So a recap: Greatly improved mechanics, frame, and overall construction. Again, hats off for this upgrade.
The bad is, the same electronics, no rubber feet, noisy, poor print quality, no heated bed, and while not "restricted" to MakerBot filament, the warning stickers put some fear into you.
I cannot deny, it printed out of the box. The setup was easy. No leveling, no adjustments. The new software is simple, and maybe somebody likes it, but a professional user is likely to be frustrated.
It a tough call here, so make your own informed decision. On one hand, this is easy for even the novice to use. Likely, you will have fair success in printing an object. If you are a pro user, if you have access to other brands of machines, you are likely to be unhappy with noise, performance, print quality, and lack of settings in the software. The real difference here is the old 5th gen, I honestly could never say it was a good printer, and definitely for the price. This new printer is greatly improved on the hardware level. It really is wonderful engineering. It's crippled by the electronics which are the root cause of the noise, and smart extruder system with the sloppy nozzle that can wiggle left and right in the down position. Fix those 2 things (and might as well say the software too given the latest release) and it might be a good printer for folks starting out.
Also, minor rant about the software. The new version is the worst ever to a pro user and maybe even to amateurs. The symbols representing actions and buttons are cryptic and it just has very, very, very, limited printed settings (raft and support on/off, infill%, and shells, layer height, and extruder type). I highly recommend you download the latest version if considering buying this printer. Don't take my word for it, see for yourself.
- To handle the eventual nozzle clogging (this will happen with any 3d printer), try a 0.4mm long drill bit made for unclogging extruder nozzles. This seems much better than an improvised unfolded paper clip that I had been using. Pushing filament down hard is not going to unclog the nozzle. You need a finer solution. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076DDP6LM/ref=crt_ewc_img_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2W194EW0STVXR
- Makerbot filament is excellent stuff, I do use that at 220C for mechanical parts. If you can make a support for the standard 1kg rolls of Hatchbox or make a filament rewinder from a hand drill, you can burn through cheaper filament for the creative stuff. I'd say it is not worth the time and so pay a little extra for the quality filament. Cool gray prints parts very well.
- Increase layer height from 0.2mm to 0.3mm to reduce time for larger prints.
9/28/19 updated review:
- The Simplify3D Windows software works more reliably than Linux for connecting to the MakerBot over USB. I prefer this over network for monitoring. I only use the MakerBot Print software for parts that I know will print properly. There aren't enough controls in the MakerBot Print software to fix problems.
- I started a while ago using 123Design CAD, but I have found FreeCAD works good for my simple parts. Need to occasionally restart the software if it hangs. Way easier running this free software than AutoCAD! Start with sketches in the "Part Design" and "Part" workbenches and watch the YouTube tutorials.
- You can print without rafts or brims using Simplify3D software by setting first layer thickness to 200% and fan speed to 0% on the first layer. I eventually did fan speed 0% on layers 1-2, 60% on layer 3, 100% on all other layers. Make sure your Z-leveling is close. Also, the pre-print wipe line should show at least a little flatness.
- 215 deg makes the MakerBot filament stick better to the bed on the first layer.
- For making reliable, strong mechanical parts, I do like the MakerBot grey filament.
- Overall, I like the rugged construction and not having to DIY build and tune the frame.
- Keep the foot print small on your first prints. Round corners are much better. It is almost impossible to prevent base layer lifting and upward curl on dimensions larger than 2 inch. Once you gain experience, you'll find ways to make the large objects print.
Original review:
The good:
1) Build plate eliminates glue stick and blue tape, parts snap off.
2) iPhone/iPad to watch progress over the Internet.
3) MakerBot Print is good for newbees.
4) Third-party Simplify3D slicer works well and has enough controls to control machine properly. You can run a decent USB control setup on Linux.
5) Machine works well with ordinary PLA filament (Hatchbox) if using lower temperatures (195-200C).
6) Frame seems pretty solid, the build plate seems rigid enough.
7) The extruder+ seems solid, but doesn't have the occasional connection problem.
The bad:
1) Factory leveling starts out ok, but seems not quite right for anything larger than 20x20mm test print. Even worse, the leveling procedure in the diagnostics doesn't seem to work at all for my unit. The extruder head contact sensor (if there is one) doesn't turn on the light at all. Have to guess at leveling by observing the raft quality with each print, looking for poor adhesion, ripple patterns in the filament or breakage.
2) The MakerBot Print slicer seems to slam the extruder around too hard, making corners or circles in the first layer not adhere properly. There are insufficient controls to solve all the problems I observed. Finally found Simplify3D software which prints much better rafts and doesn't slam the extruder around. MakerBot Print seems to make my machine click quite a bit, even when the homing the extruder when not printing.
3) The rafts printed with MakerBot Print have a tendency to separate from the build plate. Not enough thick filament to hold them down. Also, the raft floor tends to separate from feet layers. Really bad! Fix this with padded base or better yet, switch to Simplify3D.
4) The build plate has some holes that the cover material droops into. You'll get poor adhesion on those areas.
5) Printing from iPhone/iPad doesn't work at all most of the time because, you'll need to scale and adjust objects that you collect on Thingiverse.
6) Manual jogging doesn't seem to work in Simplify3D, but you do get temperature graphing.
7) Many support cases are properly too difficult to resolve, so don't expect to get more than one response.
8) The supplied high-temp filament seems strong, but the extruder seems challenged to maintain the 215C printing temperature. Frequently, my temperature drops below 205C.
This is my first 3D printer, but this unit is probably a little over-priced for what you get. The newbee experience is great though. Less wasted time getting started than with a cheap printer. I'd probably go for a Prusa Mark 3 or Ultimaker 3 next time for more flexibility and better available software.