With many machines well over the $2000 mark, 3D printers are still mostly sequestered to use by professionals. Monoprice, the cut-rate technology powerhouse, is slicing more than a few hundreds off the price point with a 3D printer that costs $US1200.
According to TechCrunch, this dual extruder model printer is based on MakerBot’s original Replicator, the current model of which goes for $US2899 right now. It can do multicolour print jobs and runs at a rate of 24cc per hour — and it comes with two spools of PLA filament too, which will help offset the price of materials. It’s definitely a few centimetres smaller than the Replicator though.
Is it the most precise printer out there? It’s hard to say, and we’ll have to wait until actual reviews come in. But a cheaper desktop 3D printer is long overdue — at least for consumers who aren’t interested in building their own. If you’re already convinced, buy it here. [TechCrunch]