Hello everyone!
I am thinking about getting a 3D printer for my 15yr old son for Xmas. I am very green about 3D printers in general, but understand how they work, I have been in manufacturing for 26yrs doing CNC lathe and CNC milling machine work and a lot of other manual metal working machines and CNC plasma cutting and drawing in my own shop. My son has been helping me in my own shop doing MIG and TIG welding as well as drawing on cnc plasma, currently taking CAD class in high school that has a 3D printer, but has not used it yet. When I buy something for him a make sure that it is very educational to help him later in life or a career.

I would like it to be under $600 I looked at the Printbot simple, I like what I am seeing but unsure of what other brands are out their and what features are a must have or not.

What software to use?

Easy to use and setup?

With sales and support/parts within the US.

I don't want a cheap printer that wont last or break down and use common filament.

Upgradeable if possible for the grandkids.

I know I am missing a lot of info, I think this will be a good start.
Thanks you for your time
Coleman