Choosing a 3D Printer: A Closer Look at 5 Models on the Market

The additive manufacturing industry has experienced rapid and continuous growth in recent years. In fact, according to a report published by Precedence Research, the global 3D printing market is expected to reach a value of $117.78 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19%. In this context, 3D printers have become indispensable in multiple domains. The range of solutions and technologies currently available is truly wide and diverse, everything from desktop models for personal use to industrial machines capable of producing high-precision parts. To provide a better overview of the current landscape, in this article we will present five 3D printers that we have highlighted this month. Each 3D printer uses a different technology and offer solutions for different applications. Check out the selection below to discover the current popular choices!

The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S Resin Printer

The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S from Phrozen Technology is a resin 3D printer that is ideal for producing miniatures and medium-sized models in large quantities. It has a compact design and also features a practical, hinged lid. With dimensions of 47.2 x 38 x 56.6 cm and a weight of 26 kg, the printer, which is designed for mass production, can also be easily integrated into smaller workspaces. It is also equipped with a high-speed motherboard, allowing the resin printer to achieve up to 400 layers per hour, which significantly increases the working speed. High productivity is also made possible by the print volume of 330 x 180 x 300 mm. The printer and its ACF films also offer high-resolution 8K printing with impressive stability. An innovative pumping and filling system automatically monitors the resin level in the tank and even refills it if necessary. After the printing process, excess resin is automatically pumped back into the bottle, simplifying cleaning and saving material. In addition, the printer is equipped with a tilting tray that makes it easier to drain excess resin and makes the entire printing process more convenient and efficient.

The Prusa MK4S

This solution from Prusa is aimed at anyone who wants to get started with 3D printing or those who want to print particularly quickly. Compared to previous generations, the Prusa MK4S has improved print quality and speed. The Prusa MK4S is said to print twice as fast as the Prusa MK4, making it one of the fastest desktop printers on the market today. It has a build area of 250 x 210 x 220 mm and the layer thickness can be set between 0.05 and 0.3 mm. The Prusa MK4S can be used to print a wide range of materials from different manufacturers, making it more accessible. The printer is also easy to maintain and can be operated both online and offline. Prusa offers the KM4S either pre-assembled or as a kit at a lower cost. An enclosure can be purchased as an option.

Photo Credits: Prusa

Markforged PX100

The PX100 binder jetting system from manufacturer Markforged is an industrial machine for making complex, high-volume metal parts. Previously offered as DMP Pro, PX100 represents the culmination of nearly two decades of development by Digital Metal®. PX100 has a print volume of 250 × 217 × 70 mm and is capable of printing up to 1000 cm3 per hour. The print head is equipped with 70,400 nozzles that deliver 2pL droplets at 15.5 kHz. The machine can process a wide range of metals: titanium alloys, different types of steel, copper, and nickel superalloys. Some of these are already available and compatible with the system, while others, the manufacturer’s website says, will soon be integrated. The system is open and the use of powders is optimized with a high rate of recycled material. This 3D printer is thus proposed as a cost-effective alternative to the traditional production of small and complex metal designs in a variety of industries: luxury goods; medical and dental sector; custom electronic devices and more!

Photo Credits: Markforged

The EOS P 770 3D Printer

When it comes to powder laser powder bed fusion, German manufacturer EOS is one of the leaders in the field, whether for metals or polymers. And the largest of its polymer 3D printing solutions is the EOS P770. The SLS solution has a volume of over 150 liters thanks to its generous dimensions of 700 x 380 x 580 mm, making it one of the biggest on the market and allowing it to make series parts up to 1 meter in length. The printer is highly productive with two lasers for a build rate of 5.6 liters per hour and it is compatible with many materials including those that are biocompatible, ductile, flame retardant, flexible and even multipurpose. The company also notes that optimized temperature management, improved recoating speed and of course the high-power lasers help to reduce both build time and cost-per-part.

Photo Credits: EOS

HP’s Metal 3D Printer

Renowned for its Multi Jet Fusion technology, manufacturer HP unveiled its very first metal 3D printer in November 2022. Called HP Metal Jet S100, it uses metal binder jetting and offers a print volume of 430 x 309 x 200 mm. Above all, it is an all-in-one solution, since it includes a heat treatment system, a powder management machine and a depowdering station. The aim is to offer users a complete, easy-to-deploy workflow. The 3D printer is compatible with two stainless steels offered by HP. Finally, the manufacturer offers a printing service with its Metal Jet Fusion technology, should you wish to outsource your production.

Photo Credits: HP

Which 3D printer would you choose? Which 3D printing technology is most relevant to your business? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.