First look: Ultimaker S3 Review **In-depth Review**

Overview

The Ultimaker S3 is presented as a highly sophisticated option for those seeking a 3D printing experience that minimizes the complexity and hands-on maintenance traditionally associated with such technology. The printer is targeted towards professionals and educators who require a reliable, high-quality 3D printing workflow without the steep learning curve and frequent troubleshooting.

Design and Usability

Featuring an aesthetically pleasing design, the Ultimaker S3 is mentioned as a device that one would proudly display, rather than relegating it to a workshop or hidden space. Its appearance is complemented by its robust performance, capable of handling long print jobs (including one cited as over 70 hours) without falter. The printer is praised for its ease of use straight out of the box, requiring minimal setup or intervention beyond filament loading and print removal.

Connectivity and Software

Using Ultimaker's Cura software for slicing and machine control, the S3 offers seamless integration into users' workflows. Notably, it eschews the need for physical media like SD cards or USB keys by offering Wi-Fi connectivity and the ability to manage print jobs remotely through the Ultimaker Cloud, further simplifying the 3D printing process.

Print Quality

The Ultimaker S3 excels in its print quality with the reviewer highlighting outcomes that rival those of resin printers. This high-level detail and finish quality significantly reduce the need for post-production work, making it an attractive option for prototyping and producing saleable parts. The basic settings on Cura were sufficient to produce these results, suggesting a user-friendly approach to achieving high-quality prints.

Material Compatibility

One of the S3’s standout features is its open filament system, allowing for a vast range of materials to be used, including specialized options such as carbon fiber and nylon. Ultimaker's partnerships with material manufacturers mean that over 150 materials are verified to work with the printer, offering an impressive array of options for users needing specific properties like temperature resistance or the need to work in water.

Advanced Features

The inclusion of an NFS chip reader for scanning filament spools is a notable advancement. This feature ensures the machine is alerted to the type of material being loaded, and can even warn the user if the selected material does not match the optimized settings for the intended print job, adding a layer of error prevention that can save time and resources.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ultimaker S3 is highly recommended for those seeking a user-friendly, versatile, and high-performing 3D printer. Its combination of design, ease of use, broad material compatibility, and connectivity makes it a compelling choice for professionals and educators alike. The printer's ability to deliver high-quality prints with minimal setup and maintenance positions it as a valuable tool in any creative or productive environment.