Best 3D Printers for Professionals and Hobbyists in Singapore

As a country well known for pushing the boundaries of all things science, technology, engineering and mathematics, it is no surprise that Singapore has been breaking new ground in identifying, investing in and applying transformative technologies like additive manufacturing, better known as 3D printing, in new business, manufacturing and R&D models.

Singapore is by no means the first country to embrace 3D printing solutions to various problems. Countries like the US have taken to finding new functions for this technology as well. However, no country seems to be genuinely pushing the feats of 3D printing quite like Singapore. This is especially reflected in the introduction of 3D printing solutions in the fields of medicine and manufacturing alike. The increasing prevalence of 3D printing in Singapore’s society has sparked interest in this versatile technology not only among professionals who employ 3D printing solutions in their daily work, but also among hobbyists.

Professional vs Home Hobby

Obviously, the types of printers and setups you’ll be looking into will vary quite drastically depending on whether you’re an individual hobbyist or a professional with their own workspace. While it’s possible to make incredible things with a simple home setup, you likely won’t be creating massive amounts of factory-grade prints at a regular rate with one.

On that same note, the cost of different printers is also a significant factor to take into consideration. Home setups can cost as little as $100, while industrial-quality 3D printers can easily breach the $10,000 mark.

Different Types of 3D Printers

Regardless of your budget, you’ll likely want to choose from between three categories of 3D printers: plastic, metal and ceramic. These categories refer to the material exuded from the printer. While plastic 3D printers are typically the most common, (as well as the cheapest), the other two have begun to rise in popularity for their ability to create demanding and complex parts.

Plastic 3D printers are commonly used for rapid prototyping and manufacturing, while metal 3D printers are able to create pieces with uses ranging from functional prototyping to production parts. Ceramic 3D printers are one of the most versatile and advanced additive manufacturing systems capable of producing end-use, food-safe and biocompatible products.

Which 3D Printer Is Right for You?

Now for the big question: what 3D printer is the right pick for you and your needs?

If you’re a hobbyist, you’ve got some choices on your hands. A technology that used to cost a small fortune just to dip a toe into can now be found for a price comparable to most high-end standard paper printers. Unlike professional industrial printers that are created with specific properties suited to manufacturing and engineering purposes, hobbyist printers are geared towards creating less complex models with lower performance requirements. These include objects like simple replacement parts for the household, lifestyle items like phone cases, and phone holders, or or simple personalised gifts like keychains, simple toy models and mugs.

Alternatively, if you’re willing to invest more money for a higher quality build, you could consider a MakerBot plastic printer. Some of Makerbot’s models, such as MakerBot Sketch are great for hobbyists who are willing to invest a little bit more money for a higher quality setup.

Professional 3D printers are geared towards companies with requirements to produce industrial parts of prototypes as close as possible to the end parts. Accuracy and consistency, as well as the material performance of the final product is of utmost importance.

MakerBot also offers a higher-end Method X known for its ability to produce industrial concept models and prototypes. Or, you could go all in, with a Stratasys 3D printer. The Stratasys J55 Prime is known particularly for its ability to print full-colour models with tactile and sensory capabilities, making it a favourite among designers and engineers who hope to produce high-fidelity prototypes in the short span of a few hours. In terms of a heavy-duty machine, nothing quite measures up to Stratasys’ industry-renowned industrial-grade models,, such as the Fortus 450mc.

To give you an idea of its prowess, the Fortus model is of the same elite grade professional factories use for machine and vehicle parts. When it comes to 3D printing solutions, there aren’t many that can match that kind of calibre.

Get in contact with Creatz3D at +65 6631 8555 or info@creatz3d.com to find out more about the best 3D printer for your needs and your price range.