Ultimaker3 review After 1 year

Overview of the Ultimaker 3

The Ultimaker 3 brings a mixed experience to the table, building upon its predecessor's strong reputation in the 3D printing community. It incorporates several advancements aimed at improving user experience, such as the ability to print with removable supports, the inclusion of all-metal print cores for higher temperature materials like polycarbonate, and automatic bed leveling. These features indicate Ultimaker's aim to cater to a broader audience, particularly business users seeking a more plug-and-play solution.

Enhancements and New Features

Among the most appreciated improvements are the two-material support system and the easier alignment for dual extrusion, promoting convenience in printing complex models with support structures. The introduction of breakaway support material offers a noteworthy enhancement over the initially available PVA, addressing issues of moisture absorption and post-print cleanup. Additionally, the upgraded bed clips present a safer and more user-friendly method for removing and handling the glass build plate. The Ultimaker 3 also maintains its predecessor's flexible material handling capabilities, allowing for the creation of parts with varying degrees of flexibility within a single print job.

Considerations and Limitations

However, the system is not without its limitations. One notable drawback is the inability to easily change nozzles, a feature that was valued by users of earlier models for its versatility in print resolution and speed adjustments. Although third-party solutions exist, they come at a significant additional cost. The integration with Ultimaker's Cura software also moves some material setting customizations away from the printer and into the software, which can introduce complexity in managing custom material profiles. Additionally, some users may encounter occasional software bugs and a primitive job management system that can detract from the overall user experience.

User Experience

Despite these challenges, the Ultimaker 3 manages to retain many users with its high-quality prints and reliable performance. Its support structure and the active user community contribute significantly to its standing in the market as a well-supported printer. While it simplifies 3D printing for standard applications with its automatic features and pre-configured material settings, enthusiasts looking to push the boundaries with experimental materials and custom settings might face some hurdles.

Conclusion

In summary, the Ultimaker 3 is an advanced 3D printing tool that offers significant enhancements in ease of use, material flexibility, and mechanical design compared to its predecessors. It stands out for users requiring high-quality prints with minimal setup, especially in a professional or educational setting. However, its shift towards a more closed system may limit tinkering opportunities for hobbyists and those accustomed to the modularity of earlier Ultimaker models. Despite its few drawbacks, the Ultimaker 3 remains a solid choice for both traditional and innovative 3D printing tasks, supporting creative expression with its dual-extrusion capabilities and extensive material compatibility.