Readers may recall the original Solidoodle 3D printer. Now you can buy the Solidoodle 2, an improved version for sale at a price under USD$500. The new 3D printer’s price is its most amazing feature. At USD$499, that’s pretty much the lowest you can spend to buy a pre-assembled personal 3D printer that really works. While that price is low, we’d opt for the slightly higher priced Pro Model for an additional USD$50, which includes a heated build platform, a spool for plastic filament and lighting for the build chamber. If you happen to have another USD$50 in your wallet or purse, you might consider buying the USD$599 Expert Model, which includes a metal case and clear acrylic door.
The Solidoodle 2 uses 1.75mm ABS filament, but apparently you can also use PLA plastic in its 6x6x6 inch (15x15x15 cm) build envelope. The recommended print resolution is an average 0.3mm, but they say 0.1mm is also possible for high resolution prints.
Regardless of specs, this is indeed a breakthrough. For the first time non-technical folks can buy their own personal 3D printer for less than USD$500. Well done, Solidoodle!
Via Solidoodle
