This new 3D printer from Lewihe is both extremely customizable and affordable.
As we’ve seen with pretty much all technology, whether that’s PCs, laptops or the conventional printer market, prices tend to drop to a more affordable and reasonable level in time. Think about it, just a couple of years ago, a 3D printer would set you back well over $1,000. Over the past year alone, a number of new machines have entered the market with a price tag of only three figures. Then again, what about two figures?
That may now be a reality thanks to Spanish startup Lewihe, who has unveiled a 3D printer that may be one, if not, the most affordable devices to date. Designed with Makers in mind, the $77 Play is an FDM printer that comes in kit form, allowing users to customize and build their own machine.
In terms of the kit, Play comes without several key parts in order to enable Makers to create their own printer using their preferred components. These include NEMA motors, screws and bearings, hotend, external power supply, as well as controller boards. However, the team does note that a vast majority of their devices are based on the SAV MkI — an AT90USB1286 powered derivative of the Printrboard and Teensylu.
Beyond that, the DIY gadget ships with an iron plate structure, extruder support, print surface and metal shafts, along with files for all of its 3D printable pieces. From there, Makers can mount single or dual extruders, a heated print bed, and pretty much any other one of countless combinations to make the machine their own.
- Printer size: 210mm x 210mm x 250mm
- Build volume: 105mm x 105mm x 130 mm
- Layer resolution: 0.32mm – 0.2mm
- Print speed: Stable at 60mm/seconds (can go higher)
- Filament type: Rigid and elastic materials (1.75mm)
- Software: Cura, Repetier, Pronterface and Octoprint
Interested? Head over to its official page here. Shipment is expected to begin in August 2015.
