Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review

Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review

For anyone experiencing disappointment with the performance of inexpensive 3D printers, then the second generation Ultimaker 2 + is the premium device you should consider. The print quality is outstanding while keeping noise levels to a minimum. The build capacity is also ample despite the fact that the printer is compact in overall size. Though priced slightly higher than comparable models, the extra features provided are well worth the money.

Uliimaker 2 + 3D Printer Basics

The plug and play printer measures 19.4 x 13.5 x 23.2 inches and weighs little over 24 pounds. The build area features a heated glass platform that measures 8.8 x 8.8 x 8 inches. The heated bed creates smoother prints while allowing for the use of ABS filaments. Though only equipped with a single extruder, the nozzle is easily interchangeable with sizes ranging from 0.25 and 0.4 to 0.6 or 0.8 millimeters, which increases the detail and the print speed.

The upgraded feeder makes swapping filaments fast and easy and additionally automatically selects the correct feed pressure. Upgraded fancaps ensure that the area below the nozzle receives the right amount of airflow and from two different directions. While the machines accepts ABS, CPE or PLA filaments, the diameter must be 2.85 millimeters, which some may see as a drawback.

The machine is capable of printing in resolutions of 0.1 millimeters and at speeds spanning from 30 to to 300 millimeters per second. The printer functions using Cura software, which is compatible with Linux Ubuntu 12.10 +, Mac OS 10.6 + and Windows XP +systems. The software supports DAE, OBJ and STL file formats. Connectivity is achieved with an SD card. The printer uses USB for firmware updates.

3D Printing with the Ultimaker 2+

Set-up is relatively basic and involves installing the build plate and performing an initial calibration. Unfortunately, the printer does not have automatic build plate leveling. The Ultimaker 2+ is extremely user-friendly, which benefits novice or experienced 3D print users alike. The LCD screen clearly displays the menu that offers ease of function or when desiring to change extrusion, retraction, speed or temperatures. While easy to use and equipped with various features, the Ultimaker 2+ is not without a learning curve. However, the company’s support team is readily on hand to offer assistance, tips and tricks when problems arise, or when users need a little coaching.

The Ultimaker 2+ also comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. Though some would prefer that the price come down somewhere comparable to the Lulzbot Taz 5, consumers must remember that the Lulzbot comes in a kit that requires extensive assembly. Overall, the Ultimaker 2+ proves itself to be a great asset to educators, hobbyists or professionals.

After a thorough review of reviews the Middleton public library selected the Ultimaker 2 for their Media Maker Lab, an innovative 3D printing program.  Have you used the Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer? Please comment and let the community know your thoughts, rating, or review.