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Artillery announced their new Sidewinder X2 3D printer, featuring a larger build volume, and several advanced features.
Background on Artillery and the Sidewinder X2
Artillery is not the largest 3D printer manufacturer, but the company has produced multiple good quality and reliable 3D printers over many years. The Sidewinder X2 is the latest addition to their lineup, boasting a larger build volume of 300 x 300 x 400 mm and a host of advanced features designed to enhance the user experience.
Key Features and Details of the Announcement
The Sidewinder X2 comes equipped with an impressive list of features, including:
- ABL Auto-calibration: Matrix automatic bed leveling ensures efficient and intelligent leveling, freeing users from tedious manual calibration
- Ultra-quiet operation: With an exclusive ultra-quiet stepper driver, operating sound levels are lower than 55dB
- Heated bed: Rapid glass print surface heating with over-current, over-voltage, over-temperature, and short-circuit protection
- Filament runout sensor and power loss detection & recovery: The printer resumes printing after filament runout or power interruption
- Inductive end-stop and patented couplers enhance the printer’s stability, reduce vibration and increase print quality
- Color touchscreen control with a 45-degree oblique interface for convenient and comfortable operation
- 32-bit custom controller board able to handle complex print jobs
- Powerful Titan extruder with Volcano nozzle
A very interesting feature is the new dual Z axis synchronization system, which is designed to reduce Z-axis effects that might spoil print quality. The new design should provide higher-quality prints.
The Sidewinder X2’s glass print surface can apparently be heated up to 110C in only two minutes, which is perhaps the fastest we’ve seen on a desktop 3D printer.
The Sidewinder X2 is mostly assembled, and requires only three minutes to set it up before printing.
Analyzing the Announcement
The Sidewinder X2’s extensive list of features positions it as a strong contender in the desktop 3D printing market, and indeed this device was named by the New York Times as one of the best desktop 3D printers of 2023. Its larger build volume caters to those looking for bigger prints, while its advanced features like ABL auto-calibration and ultra-quiet operation make it user-friendly and efficient.
The AC heated bed, filament runout sensor, and power loss detection & recovery features are essential for modern 3D printers, particularly with the large build volume. Long and large prints often require spool swaps and can be affected by power outages.
The Sidewinder X2’s ability to print at a standard speed of 100mm/s (with an upper speed limit of 150mm/s) makes it ideal for those who prioritize fast printing. Its compatibility with a wide range of materials, including PLA, ABS, Flexible PLA, Wood, PVA, and HIPS, further expands its versatility.
Pricing and Availability
The Sidewinder X2 is normally priced at US$469, but currently has a couple of very interesting discounts. First, the “Flash Price” is 26% lower at US$349, but secondly it’s possible to use code “50X2ZB” to get an additional US$50 off the price. This means this huge 3D printer can be yours for only US$299. If that doesn’t convince you, know that it also includes a free 1kg spool of PLA filament.
Via Artillery
