Simple Metalby Printrbot

TECHWALLA
VERDICT
Recommended, but seriously flawed. There are probably better alternatives.
73 %
TECHWALLA SCORE
based on the following sites
  • 80%
  • 70%
  • 68%

PROS

  • The Printrbot Simple is a low-priced introductory 3D printer.
  • The printer has good documentation and support.
  • It offers relatively good quality for basic 3D print jobs.

CONS

  • The Simple has a small build area, and it runs slowly.
  • It may require tweaking for best results, and software doesn't come with it.
  • The basic model offers the heated bed as an option, requiring you use only PLA filament if you don't upgrade.
Available as a kit or pre-assembled, the Printrbot Simple Metal is a complete update to its earlier incarnation, eliminating the wooden elements and adding auto-leveling on every print job. The basic version comes with an unheated bed limiting you to using only PLA filament; for ABS, add an optional heated bed. You can connect the printer to your computer with the included micro USB cable or use it untethered with a microSD card. Software isn’t included, but it’s a free download--be prepared for some tinkering for best results. If you’re new to 3D printing, expect a learning curve.
Name Simple Metal Mini 3D Printer 2 Go 3D Printer da Vinci Jr. Replicator Mini
Manufacturer Printrbot Lulzbot Ultimaker XYZprinting Makerbot
Techwalla Score
73%
79%
72%
71%
65%
List Price $600 $1350 $1450 $350 $1375
80%

I would recommend this printer but if you know nothing about 3D printing expect there will be a learning curve.

I would recommend this printer but if you know nothing about 3D printing expect there will be a learning curve.

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70%

... the Printrbot Simple achieves its goal of providing respectable performance and an introduction to the world of 3D printing without cost…

... the Printrbot Simple achieves its goal of providing respectable performance and an introduction to the world of 3D printing without costing a fortune

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68%

As the name clearly suggests, the idea behind this Printrbot model, has always been simplicity. To this end, the company has made some great…

As the name clearly suggests, the idea behind this Printrbot model, has always been simplicity. To this end, the company has made some great improvements.

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I’m definitely impressed by this printer and would recommend it to people who want to get into 3D printing or upgrade from an original Simpl…

I’m definitely impressed by this printer and would recommend it to people who want to get into 3D printing or upgrade from an original Simple.

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The Simple Metal is well designed, and like the name suggests it is simple. There are no complex mechanisms or attachments. For the most par…

The Simple Metal is well designed, and like the name suggests it is simple. There are no complex mechanisms or attachments. For the most part, you’re just screwing parts onto the body/frame and then attaching the 3 main body pieces together.

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For the most part, the print quality from the Printrbot Simple Metal is exactly what you would expect. For the first-time buyer of a 3D prin…

For the most part, the print quality from the Printrbot Simple Metal is exactly what you would expect. For the first-time buyer of a 3D printer, it will appear magical...

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Our team was made up of three PhDs and two R&D engineers, and it took us close to eight hours to complete the assembly, which of course incl…

Our team was made up of three PhDs and two R&D engineers, and it took us close to eight hours to complete the assembly, which of course included some philosophical and licensing discussions and a couple of trips to the hardware store.

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