The Top Crowdfunded 3D Printers

Crowdfunding platforms can be real gas pedals for many projects, and 3D printing is no exception. In fact, did you know that some of the most popular 3D printer brands were launched on Kickstarter? American manufacturer Formlabs, for example, launched its famous Form 1 on a crowdfunding platform. Today, we’d like to take a look back at some crowdfunding projects currently underway: we’ve focused exclusively on desktop 3D printers, whether based on a material or resin extrusion process. Some of these machines come with price tags exceeding hundreds of thousands of euros! You’ll find them listed below in no particular order. 

Dazz 3D SLA 3D Printer

The Dazz 3D is the most advanced LCD SLA 3D printer in terms of quality in professional applications. At the time of publication of this article, the printer had already raised €190,000 on a crowdfunding platform. The Dazz 3D enables a build volume of up to 120 x 68 x 150 mm and is characterized in particular by its ease of use, made possible by the automatic resin refill, its wireless connection, and the 7-inch touchscreen control. Additionally, the Dazz 3D features an air purification system, complete with an activated carbon filter and a fan, guaranteeing a healthier printing environment. Noteworthy for its swift operation, the printer boasts an impressive printing speed of up to 36 mm/hour. Leveraging a 2K LCD panel and dual Z-axis slides, this printer excels in producing true-to-scale, detailed, and durable models with exceptional precision. Despite its advanced capabilities, the models produced with the Dazz 3D remain cost-effective, owing to the affordability of the resins used.

(Photo Credits: Indiegogo / Dazz 3D)

Phrozen Arco 3D Printer

Well-established 3D printing companies also use Kickstarter to fund and launch new products. Case in point, Taiwanese Phrozen has turned to the platform for its latest solution, the Phrozen Arco FDM multi-color 3D Printer. With only 24 days to go, the Phrozen Arco has already been funded, with $1,691,995 earned as of writing, more than ten times higher than the original goal of $10,000. In line with other trends we have seen since the rise of Bambu Lab, it seems multi-color printing and speed are the main draws of the Arco with the motto “larger, faster, more colors.” The max speed of the printer is 600 mm/s, while the acceleration is 30,000 mm/s². This speed is also supported by the klipper equipment for more coordinated high-speed XYZ-axis movement. Furthermore, Phrozen highlights its integrated DEP (Direct Extrusion Path) technology and an all-metal nozzle that can reach up to 300°C, allowing for accelerated printing speed for flexible materials like TPU. Last but not least, with the equipment of the Chroma Kit, an even wider range of colors is available. You can back the project starting from the early bird price of $699. 

(Photo Credits: Phrozen)

TinyMaker: The Mini Resin 3D Printer

The TinyMaker machine is, as its name suggests, a small, practical solution that fits in the palm of a hand. Leveraging a resin 3D printing process, TinyMaker swiftly surpassed its crowdfunding target, leaving one to ponder its current standing. As of the latest update, the project has amassed over 368,000 euros in funding. Now, delving into its particulars, the machine measures 100 x 115 x 155 mm and weighs 600 grams, resulting in a naturally limited print volume of 30.6 x 40.8 x 60 mm. It even comes equipped with compact and practical post-processing solutions, handling cleaning and heat treatment efficiently. It’s hard to know precisely what the TinyMaker can be used for since the size of the plate doesn’t allow the creation of standard volumes. But it’s a promising project for taking 3D printing everywhere with you!

(Photo Credits: TinyMaker3D)

FinderOne136

The FinderOne136 is a high-speed, high-precision 7K LCD 3D printer. At the time of writing, it has already raised €159,133 via a crowdfunding platform. The FinderOne136 impresses with a sizable print area of 298 x 165 x 300 mm, facilitated by its 13.6-inch 7K mono screen. Achieving precision down to 46 µm, it operates at a brisk print speed of 203 mm/hour. Moreover, the printer boasts temperature and pressure control mechanisms, ensuring optimal conditions for printing. With an integrated negative ion air purifier, it maintains a clean and safe environment. Plus, its automatic resin refill functionality guarantees uninterrupted printing sessions. The printer also features a resin tank with a capacity of 2000 ml and a closed-loop motor, and supports connection to WIFI, USB and an APP. Overall, this presents a truly compelling project!

(Photo Credits: Coolsiga )

Zoom Maker: An Affordable 2K SLA 3D Printer

The Zoom Maker is an SLA 3D printer that stands out for its affordability and ease of use, which is ideal for any user just starting out in the world of additive manufacturing. Weighing less than 4.5 kg, it has a maximum printing volume of 120 x 68 x 140 mm and compact external dimensions of 208 x 208 x 350 mm. The interesting thing about this crowdfunding campaign is that it is a cost-effective machine whose price does not compromise the final quality of the printed parts. In addition, Zoom Maker comes with easy-to-use software that supports a variety of desktop and cloud integrations, making it easy to share and publish creations with other users. The creators of Zoom Maker explained, “Our goal is to create a 3D printer that is easy to use, affordable, and high quality. We believe that 3D printers should be essential for individuals and everyone can create the model to their liking.” You can find more information about the SLA 3D printer here.

(Photo Credits: Zoom Maker)

PrintHero Industrial Level 4K: The Industrial Resin Printer

This MSLA 3D printer is a desktop solution for large model printing challenges. With a 40 cm Z-axis, a 13.3″ 4K LCD screen, and an extra-large printing volume, it guarantees more efficient results compared to other desktop 3D alternatives. To date, this model of the company, PrintHero, has obtained an investment in crowdfunding platforms that amounts to 94,230 euros. Moving on to the specifications, it boasts a volume of 293*165*400mm, which allows it to complete 34 standard dental models in just two hours, for example. Its 30 mm/h print speed reduces working hours, while its 3 kg resin capacity allows continuous printing. It also offers compatibility with third-party resins and a smart touchscreen interface for easy control. Finally, its 13.3″ LCD screen delivers ultra-slim, high-quality results.

(Photo Credits: Indiegogo)

The UltraPrint Max 12k High-Speed 3D Printer

The UltraPrint 3D printer emphasizes high-quality resolution with large-scale printing, boasting an impressive 12K maximum resolution and a spacious printing volume of 353 x 198 x 380mm. It can print at exceptional speeds, reaching up to 200mm per hour to ensure swift production without compromising detail. Noteworthy features include an intuitive resin auto-fill system that maintains a full tank and a resin auto-pump function that retrieves leftover resin after each print. Additionally, UltraPrint enables precise printing with its precalibrated build plate, ensuring a perfectly level print bed through its advanced auto bed leveling system. It also has a dual resin heating capability for temperature stabilization and improved print quality. Further improving its efficiency, the printer incorporates a built-in post-curing function that begins immediately after printing, allowing for a quicker and more reliable post-curing process. This project has surpassed its $10,000 goal, raising over $300,000 since its debut on Kickstarter in December 2023.

(Photo Credits: UltraPrint)

Paladin: The Affordable LCD Printer

High-quality resin 3D printers are often not cheap; when they are, the quality is usually lacking. Paladin wants to tackle this problem and combine quality and low price in one printer. The team behind the Paladin has produced a demo model and is seeking funding on Indiegogo before moving toward producing more printers. The Paladin printer contains a durable metal housing and a user-friendly touchscreen interface for effortless operation. With a print volume of 130 x 73 x 150 mm and a rapid print speed of 50 mm/h, it delivers efficiency without compromising quality. Highlighting its exceptional resolution and utilizing a 1080p LCD screen as a precise light source for resin curing is crucial. Additionally, the Paladin printer features a built-in air filter for a clean working environment. Notably, it incorporates a sensor that detects the resin tank’s actual state and responds accordingly by automatically adding or removing resin via a pump system, ensuring uninterrupted printing processes.

(Photo Credits: Paladin / Indiegogo)

Rose Go 3D Printer

The Rose Go 3D printer was developed by a Chinese tech start-up. It is intended to be a low-cost alternative to standard entry-level models and is characterized by its low volume and elegance. The Rose Go combines aesthetic design with performance and user-friendliness in one printer. It has a print volume of 125 x 110 x 135 mm and prints at a speed of 300 mm/sec. It is equipped with a touch screen and features auto-leveling. The FDM printer is compatible with PLA, TPU, PETG, wood PLA, and silver and gold PLA. If there is not enough filament in the supply, the printer sends a notification. The Rose Go is also equipped with a 0.9° motor, which should help to improve precision and print more finely. Although initially launched in 2019, the project may seem inactive, but it still offers opportunities for investment through its funding campaign on Indiegogo.

(Photo Credits: Paladin / Indiegogo)

Weistek L6 2K LCD

The Weistek L6 stands out as a resin-based 3D printer featuring advanced 2K LCD technology. Designed for practicality and user-friendliness, it boasts dimensions of 270 x 274 x 404 mm, making it an ideal fit for desktop use. Its sleek design further enhances its suitability for home settings, ensuring it blends seamlessly into any environment. Its technical features include: printing speed of 60 mm/h, print volume of 131*83*150 mm, built-in 6.08-inch monochrome LCD display with 2K resolution that requires only 1 second of exposure per layer to cure the resin; 1.25μm resolution and an XY resolution of 47μm. The Weistek L6 excels in practicality with its easily removable resin tank that automatically fills when the cartridge is inserted. Supporting both Wi-Fi and USB connections, it offers convenient operation. Designed to accommodate users of all skill levels, the Weistek L6 is perfect for those looking to delve into 3D printing and unleash their creativity. Notably, the machine has garnered an impressive €63,178 in funding to date on Indiegogo.

What do you think of these 3D printers financed by crowdfunding campaigns? 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.