3D printing is commonly recognized as a great technology, usually coming with a great big cost. Sure, the industry has its share of multi-thousand dollar machines, but there’s also a continual growing market of more affordable printers. This week, Kickstarter introduced a new cute, little printer in the mix, called the Micro 3D. Described as “the first truly consumer 3D printer”, the Micro surpassed $1 million in funding on Kickstarter in just 24 hours. The company, called M3D, has also been showered with love since its campaign began on Monday, with over 5,500 backers. Did I mention The Micro maker’s original fundraising goal was only $50,000? Elated project backers on The Micro’s Kickstarter page have expressed their support and excitement for this inexpensive 3D printer. One backer said, “I always wanted a 3D printer, but at those prices getting one was only a dream…you made my dream true with this $300 dollar printer. I can’t thank you enough”.

 
Yes. Something so grand can cost so little. The low end of the 3D printer market is about $1,000, but seeing something offered for under $500 is a real, rare treat. Even for exclusive early campaign adopters, the M3D is being offered as low as $199, with delivery expected early next year. So what can such a low-cost printer do? The small 7.3 cubed inch, 2.2 lb box has a print layer resolution between 50-350 microns, and a print area of 4.6 x 4.2 x 4.4 inches. Not made to offer refined, sophisticated functionality (which is actually the point of a low-cost printer), it possesses the qualities a maker would need to print some nice looking trinkets. It will also print custom jewelry, toys, and even food. Yes, food! First, the spool of filament is hidden in the base of the little box. Also, leveling and calibration are built into the printer head, leaving just the easy steps for the user. Finally, the software is being developed to be simple, focusing on an easy drag-and-drop interface on a touch screen device.

 
M3D’s success is completely understandable. The Micro distances itself from the world of 3D printing as we know it; expensive, and partially exclusive to various product and industrial designers, and manufacturers. Being able to buy a 3D printer for less than an Xbox is a huge deal for the industry. One day, the 3D printer will be popular and profitable enough to not only drive the cost substantially lower, as the Micro is, but also seen as a regular household item, rather than a rare commodity. With news such as this, a huge 3D printing breakthrough could be expected in the next couple years, as more companies follow in this direction.