The Ultimaker 2 has three speeds, which equate to "high quality print," "normal quality print," or "fast, low quality print." The fastest, up to 300mm/second, is noticeably faster than most desktop 3D printers, and if you're going to be printing multiple copies of small items for your business, like 3D logos, cell phone docks, cord spools, or other small items, this option would be the most accessible. Realistically, that's what's next on the horizon.
Ultimaker is early in the game for the larger desktop 3D printers, and though they didn't do it seamlessly, I applaud them for marketing toward the enterprise. If you're basing everything solely on price, you could of course find a printer for $1,000 or less than this one - just know that it will only print 5-inch-tall items - as opposed to the 9-inch tall things you can print with the Ultimaker 2. If you're going to invest in a 3D printer for your business, you need that large plate. Large build volume - The Ultimaker 2 has a build volume of 9.1 x 8.9 x 8.1 inches. It's very simple to stop a print using the dial - I know because we had to stop three of them. The LCD screen on the front shows your options, and a dial controls the settings. The Ultimaker also uses 2.85mm filaments (silver is included), which makes for a sturdier print, but that size isn't as readily available as 1.75mm filaments. It's supposed to make it easier to remove from the glass after the print, but the melted filament didn't adhere to it, became stuck on the extruder, and created a giant tangled mess of plastic. The glass build plate makes for easier clean-up, but don't use the Staples glue stick included in the box to coat the plate before a print. It's lightweight, well-lit, and quiet compared to the MakerBot Mini. With its large build volume, the company geared the Ultimaker 2 toward business and artist applications - a smart move when most other companies are focused on making the smallest possible printers that can only print tiny objects.ĭesign - The UI for the Ultimaker 2 is extremely simple, and that makes it a great first desktop 3D printer. Ultimaker, which is based in the Netherlands, is a one of the newest players in the desktop 3D printing market.
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And because its software is not as advanced as MakerBot's or 3D Systems' - but still simple to use and experiment with - it's a great option for the rookies out there. It's more suited for individuals or even small businesses who just need one printer, rather than a small fleet of different build sizes. The Ultimaker 2 is for hobbyists, artists, and engineers who want to mess around with a sturdy, compact 3D printer.
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Supports: Windows, Ubuntu Linux, Mac OS X