Battle of the Mini 3D Printers

By on January 18th, 2014 in oc, printer

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Some say the pricing of assembled 3D printers from the major manufacturers has risen, and in some cases they have, but usually accompanied with a series of new useful features. To counteract the “price barrier”, as perceived by new members of the 3D printing community, the majors have developed “mini” 3D printers. 
 
The first was 3D Systems’ Cube, first released some two years ago and now in its third generation. Last week MakerBot joined the party by releasing the tiny MakerBot Replicator Mini. 
 
But which one is the right one for you? There are a number of similarities and differences in the two devices: 
 
Features Replicator Mini Cube 3
VOLUME 1250cc 3851cc
PLASTIC PLA only PLA and ABS
CASE Black Black or White
LAYERS 0.200mm 0.075mm
MATERIAL Generic PLA Cubify only
PRICE USD$1375 USD$999
WARRANTY Optional 90 days
PLATFORM Windows/Mac/Linux Windows/Mac
EXTRUDERS One Two
 
While there are similarities, the key differences seem to be: 
 
  • The Cube has two extruders, has higher resolution, can print ABS as well as PLA and is substantially less expensive
  • The Mini uses inexpensive filament that over the long term may make it less expensive to own
 
The decision is easy only if you absolutely must have a white machine. 

 

By Kerry Stevenson

Kerry Stevenson, aka "General Fabb" has written over 8,000 stories on 3D printing at Fabbaloo since he launched the venture in 2007, with an intention to promote and grow the incredible technology of 3D printing across the world. So far, it seems to be working!

4 comments

  3. I would consider the lack of official Linux support in the Cube 3 a key difference as well.

  4. I would consider the lack of official Linux support in the Cube 3 a key difference as well.

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