MakerBot Replicator+ Review in 2023
The MakerBot Replicator+ Review in 2023: One of the best 3D printers for businesses and educators. With its excellent print quality and brilliant software, it’s no surprise that this 3D printer still holds up as a fan favorite, years after its release.
In 2016, MakerBot made it known that they would be directing their efforts towards creating products for the business and educational sectors, instead of home consumers. This was a big move, considering that the company had previously catered to home 3D printing and was taking on a whole new target market.
The MakerBot Replicator+ was a big success for the company’s debut into the commercial 3D printer market, as this 3D printer is ideal for an office setting. It is much quieter than previous non-plus models, with the sound-damping drastically reducing printing noise.
In this article, we’ll take a look at all the improved offerings of this printer compared to the previous MakerBot models. How does this printer really stand out, even today?
The Pros and Cons of the MakerBot Replicator+
The MakerBot Replicator+ is a sturdy, efficient and premium-level 3D printer that’s aimed towards commercial and educational use. Released in 2016, this machine is still a popular one on the market for people investing in a quality 3D printer.
The MakerBot Replicator+ is an ideal choice for architects, product designers, engineers, small businesses, and schools. The newer MakerBot models, while having the benefit of a larger built size, are much more expensive and offer the same quality of prints. This makes the Replicator+ a great choice, even years after its release.
The Pros of the MakerBot Replicator+
- Relatively easy to use.
- Excellent print quality.
- A powerful yet user-friendly program.
- Prints via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or USB.
- Safe design for an open-frame printer.
- Fast printing.
- Relatively quiet.
The Cons of the MakerBot Replicator+
- MakerBot Mobile app setup can be challenging.
- Somewhat expensive filament.
- Doesn’t support third-party filaments.
- Some print glitches.
- Rather pricey.
Features of the MakerBot Replicator+
Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Build Volume: 29.5 x 19.5 x 16.5 cm
Product Dimensions: 52.8 x 44.1 x 41.0 cm
Material Compatibility: MakerBot PLA Material – Large Spool, Small Spool
MakerBot Tough Material – Large Spool
Additional materials such as bronzefill, copperfill, and woodfill
A Streamlined 3D Printing Process:
The Replicator+ is optimized to work with MakerBot Print software and the MakerBot Mobile app, allowing you to streamline your 3D printing process. With its Cloud-enabled features, you can control it remotely from either of these applications. Plus, MakerBot Print enables you to import CAD parts or assemblies and auto-arrange them for print preparation on one or more printers – saving time and accelerating iteration. To get up and running quickly and easily, take advantage of the guided wireless setup offered by MakerBot Mobile.
Flex Build Plate with Grip Build Surface
The Grip Surface of the Replicator+ ensures prints stick better, resulting in fewer warps and curls. Plus, with its flexible Build Plate, it’s a cinch to remove your creations. And you don’t even have to worry about leveling – the large plate comes pre-calibrated from the factory so you can get printing straight away!
Built-in Camera
You can keep an eye on your print job from afar with MakerBot Print and MakerBot Mobile. This way, you’ll have a full view of the process, to ensure exceptional output quality.
LCD Display and Dial for Ease of Use
The LCD display, in combination with an easy-to-use dial, lets you configure and manage your 3D printer, take a look at print files before printing them out, and quickly access the model library.
Includes the MakerBot Smart Extruder+
The Smart Extruder+ is the result of careful product design, advanced technology and extensive testing. This ensures reliable performance with outstanding results when using MakerBot PLA (polylactic acid) Material.
Multiple Ways to Connect
Send your print files to your 3D printer through Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet or a USB drive. Additionally, you can manage the settings of your printer with MakerBot Print or remotely using MakerBot Mobile.
Final Thoughts
The MakerBot Replicator+ is one of few 3D printers that holds up years after its release. The outstanding quality of prints and extreme ease of use make it an incredible choice for business owners, engineers and people in the education sector.
MakerBot may have marketed the Replicator range towards educators and professionals, but if you’re looking for a premium-quality home 3D printer, this one will do the job (and more). Don’t let the price tag deter you, every cent spent on the MakerBot Replicator+ is worth the investment.