Hello all, I'm fairly new to 3D printing and 3D printing hardware; although I do have a completed Prusa i3v built (just haven't finishing the wiring etc).

Since I'm currently inundated with other projects + Life, and I really, really want to start 3d printing ASAP (plus I came into some loan money I can use for hobbies ), I'd like to get a second, low-cost printer that I can start using RIGHT AWAY.

My goals are to print miscellaneous parts under 8" inches for my robotics and other hobbyist projects (think laser stand holders, linkages, gears, wheels, sensor holders, etc).

I would appreciate any help from the Wise Folk here at 3dprintforums on printer selection and purchasing, or alternative suggestions.

My criteria for the 3d printer is as follows:


  • Low-cost (Under $600),
  • Heated bed for ABS/PLA printing,
  • Has (or is easy to build) an enclosure,
  • Wireless printing preferred (or ability to hack in WiFi printing)
  • Medium/Large-ish build space (At LEAST 6" on some WxDxH dimension)
  • Simple to use, pre-built (no kits, please)
  • Possibility to hack more features or upgrade/replace parts (i.e. I REALLY want to add a camera and LED strip lights)



Now with that criteria in mind, here are some choices I found for myself, just need input on these printers:

XYZ Da Vinci 1.0 (or 2.0 Dual Extruder?) ~ $500
http://www.amazon.com/XYZprinting-Vi...dp/B00SO6O6TI/

NewMatter MOD-t 3D Printer ~ $400
http://www.newmatter.com/#!/our-product

eBay CTC 3d Printer (FlashForge clone?) ~ $450
http://www.ebay.com/itm/CTC-3D-Print...-/231533593514

I like the Da Vinci because people have had success in both the default, factory version of printing (more expensive filament tradeoff) and also with hacking it. I'm concerned about the build quality and print quality (repetitiveness of good prints). Also I don't want to be tweaking the auto-leveling bed too much. Just want to PRINT.

I like the MOD-t because it's fancy looking (I can keep it outside of my closet space and show it on my work desk), looks small and very clean. It also seems to have good customer support, but shipping is delayed for months at the moment, plus the small build area is a turn off.

I like the eBay clone because of its modability, although it seems like a crap-shoot on build/print quality and parts. Some reviewers of miscellaneous clones have posted horror stories of broken/missing pieces, or the printer just falling apart, etc. I do like that it's a dual extruder, and comes with filament (Already have one big spool of black PLA).

Any and all help is appreciated, thank you much!