While browsing 3D printer online retailers, we ran into one that seemed to offer some very low cost machines.
RepRapMall is a China-based retailer of 3D printers, selling a variety of 3D printer models in several price ranges. But among their portfolio we saw what appears to be bargains.
The He 3D RepRap Prusa i3 DIY Kit, for example, sells for only USD$290. That’s a pretty low price for a fairly capable 3D printer.
Another option presented was the He 3D fully assembled Delta 3D printer, priced at only USD$450. Other Delta models we’ve seen tend to be priced quite a bit higher than this model, which sports a massive 320 x 320 x 600mm cylindrical build volume. However, you’ll have to pay an extra USD$70 for the optional heated plate if you wish to print any material other than PLA.
There’s other bargains at this particular retailer, too, if you check them out. What’s even more interesting is they offer discounts for volume purchases. The delta machine above, for example, is only USD$440 if you buy two. Or even less if you buy more.
Is this the only Asian supplier with inexpensive gear for sale? Certainly not; there are likely several others offering similar models at similar prices, and there are many shown on Alibaba and similar markets. Are these machines reliable, made from good components and properly supported? Maybe or maybe not, but that is the cost you of the lower buying price. There are definite risks by going with these machines from this seller.
More importantly, what we’re seeing here is an example of how prices continue to be driven lower and lower, championed by Asian manufacturers. Our understanding is that there are a great many desktop 3D printer manufacturers in Asia, and the competition is fierce, driving down prices.
We think this is a good thing for buyers, who should, over longer periods, slowly see prices of all equipment drop.
Via RepRapMall
