Snapmaker has introduced the U1, a new 3D printer aimed at hobbyists and professionals seeking multi-material capabilities. The printer, currently available through a crowdfunding campaign, is being offered to early backers for $749, with an additional cashback incentive bringing the effective price down to $679. The suggested retail price is $999.
A key feature of the Snapmaker U1 is its four independent toolheads, allowing for quicker transitions between different filaments or colors. According to Snapmaker, the system is capable of switching toolheads in as little as five seconds, reducing both downtime and material waste.
“Although a single toolhead or nozzle can certainly handle multiple filaments, swapping colours or materials typically requires the active filament to be cut,” the company stated, highlighting how the U1’s design mitigates this common issue.
Despite the mechanical complexity of multiple toolheads, the printer maintains tight tolerances, with vertical shifts kept under 0.04 mm. The U1 also features flow delay compensation and automatic bed leveling to support consistent print quality.
The U1 offers a print volume of 270 x 270 x 270 mm (10.6 inches per side), with the heated bed and nozzle reaching temperatures of up to 100°C and 300°C respectively. While capable of working with high-performance materials such as carbon fiber, the latter requires optional hardware, including a hardened nozzle.
Additional features include Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, a touchscreen interface, and a built-in chamber camera for real-time monitoring.
Snapmaker’s new model enters a competitive 3D printing market with a focus on multi-filament functionality and efficient material handling, targeting users looking for advanced features at a mid-range price point.
Source: Snapmaker
