Ultimaker & Makerbot’s First 3D Printer - Discover the Full Review of the S7 | 3Dnatives Lab

Overview of the Ultimaker S7

The Ultimaker S7 marks an innovative step forward in the world of FDM 3D printing, being the first product launched since the merger of Ultimaker and MakerBot. This printer, positioned as an evolution within the Ultimaker S series, aims to enhance the accessibility and usability of FDM 3D printing with several notable enhancements over its predecessors, particularly the S5. Despite these advancements, it retains a strong resemblance to the S5 in terms of aesthetics, components, and print volume, indicating a commitment to the established Ultimaker design philosophy while striving for incremental improvements.

Key Features and Enhancements

The Ultimaker S7 introduces several key features designed to address common challenges and improve the overall user experience. Among these is the inclusion of a fully enclosed print chamber with an integrated air manager for better temperature control and air filtration. The switch to a reversible magnetic spring steel sheet coated with PEI for the print surface is a significant change, aimed at reducing first layer adhesion issues. Additionally, the replacement of the glass plate with a steel sheet, coupled with the employment of an inductive sensor for improved bed leveling, emphasizes Ultimaker's focus on reliability and precision.

Technical Specifications and Compatibility

Sharing much of its hardware with the S3 and S5, the S7 maintains the line's tradition of using a dual extruder Bowden setup and interchangeable print cores. It supports a vast range of materials and is compatible with Ultimaker’s ecosystem, including the in-house developed, open-source slicer, Cura. This software ecosystem facilitates seamless wireless management of print jobs and maintenance schedules, which, alongside the new 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, underscores Ultimaker's commitment to integrating advanced technology for an enhanced user experience.

User Experience and Reliability

Our testing of the Ultimaker S7 highlighted its robust capability in handling a variety of materials, including advanced composite materials, showcasing its versatility and the high quality of prints it can produce. Initial setup challenges, such as minor mechanical adjustments, were noted but are expected to be non-issues for regular production units. The printer’s ability to seamlessly integrate with Ultimaker’s digital ecosystem allows for efficient remote monitoring and management of print jobs, further enhancing the user experience.

Conclusion

The Ultimaker S7 stands as a testimony to Ultimaker's philosophy of iterative improvement rather than complete overhaul, building on the proven successes of its predecessors to offer a more refined, reliable, and user-friendly FDM printing solution. While it may come at a premium, the printer's advancements in technology, coupled with Ultimaker's ongoing support and software updates, present a compelling case for both professionals and hobbyists seeking high-quality 3D printing capabilities. The Ultimaker S7 not only continues the legacy of its S series lineage but also sets new standards in what users can expect from high-end FDM printers moving forward.