Alternatives to the Printrbot Simple - 3D Printing: Build your Own 3D Printer and Print your own 3D Objects - page 182

10. Alternatives to the Printrbot Simple
Throughout most of this topic, I've referenced the Printrbot Simple and provided
photos and screenshots of the various software and objects I've used while tinker-
ing with this inexpensive 3D printer. As of this writing, the Printrbot Simple is the
lowest-priced entry into the 3D printing hobby.
However, new products and technologies appear constantly, and prices rarely sit
still. With that in mind, I want to close out the topic by discussing some 3D printer
options that are currently available and some new technologies that are not far off
for hobbyists.
One of the great things about the 3D printing hobby is how your skills and know-
ledge transfer so easily. Should you choose to upgrade to a new, more powerful
3D printer, you'll probably find, as most of us who have been in the hobby for a
while have learned, that things just get easier. That learning curve doesn't feel so
steep after a while, and you may find yourself looking for new challenges and new
technologies to explore.
Let's take a look at where you might go next. You may have started reading this
book without a 3D printer, with a Printrbot Simple, or have some other brand and
model, so feel free to skip the sections that no longer apply to you. I won't be of-
fended.
Build Your Own 3D Printer
Kits and preassembled 3D printers are great. The out-of-the-box solutions mean
you can focus more on the software side and be ready to print immediately (or
as soon as you have a model downloaded and your computer connected). The kit
solutions save you the time (and the hassle) of having to locate, purchase, ship,
and gather all the parts necessary to put together a 3D printer.
But here's the thing: 3D printing has been described as a never-ending addiction,
and many 3D printer hobbyists say that they can't seem to stop at owning just one.
You may not believe me when I say that, but I have a strong feeling that after
you've gotten comfortable with your current 3D printer and all its moving parts,
you might start wishing for a larger print bed, or a higher resolution hot end, or
maybe even multicolor printing. You'll start developing a mental checklist of all