Food, resins, and new promises to keep: the latest 3D printing news from CES

For 3D printing companies present at the event, participating is also a status symbol. Exhibiting at such a large and costly trade show signals confidence in the ability to reach hundreds of thousands of potential customers worldwide with their products.

The companies participating—according to reports (as it’s unlikely we’ll make it to Las Vegas at this time of year)—include those with the greatest mass appeal: MakerBot, 3D Systems, Ultimaker, and others, along with rising players like 3Doodler and the Italian company DWS. Let’s not forget the long-standing consumer electronics giants now venturing into 3D printing, such as HP, which announced a partnership with Intel to further advance its platform.

Beyond image-building, for many of these companies, it’s about consolidating the groundwork laid last year. In 2014, MakerBot, 3D Systems, and DWS opened doors to desktop 3D printing by introducing machines designed—both in looks and price—more for living rooms and everyday users than for professional prototypers.

However, the promise has been only partially fulfilled. While media buzz and growth were undeniable, not all the machines made it to market. This year, some companies are finalizing their prototypes, aiming to release products ready for commercial use or introducing innovations to refine still-immature products.

MakerBot’s mixed success

Last year, MakerBot launched three printers: a large Z18, a medium-sized Replicator 5th Gen, and a smaller model. The Z18 was well-received by professionals, the Replicator 5th Gen found success among prosumers (particularly in the U.S.), and is now available in major retail chains. The smaller model, however, remained somewhat unfinished.

Since then, MakerBot has focused on educating the world on how to use its printers, running educational programs and expanding its Thingiverse file-sharing platform with ambitious projects. This year, the standout innovation is composite materials: PLA blended with mineral, wood, or metal powders. The lack of exotic materials—or the reliance on proprietary materials—has been a key limitation of MakerBot’s desktop printers.

Ultimaker’s European leadership

Ultimaker, Europe’s leading producer, follows a similar path. Known for producing what many consider the best desktop 3D printer, its open-source platform avoids material limitations. Last year, Ultimaker focused on the Ultimaker 2, which became a global bestseller. This year, it launched two new models: the portable Ultimaker Go and the larger Ultimaker Extended, an upsized Ultimaker 2. While not groundbreaking, these releases strengthen Ultimaker’s European leadership and pave the way for expansion into new markets.

3Doodler: dominating 3D pen creativity

Although not a traditional 3D printer, the 3Doodler pen—a simple and affordable device requiring no CAD software knowledge—has sold over 100,000 units. To consolidate its dominance, the company unveiled the 3Doodler 2.0, which is 75% smaller, 50% lighter, and features an anodized aluminum body. Its Kickstarter campaign quickly exceeded its $30,000 goal, demonstrating strong consumer enthusiasm.

3D Systems: renewed focus on food

Last year, 3D Systems made a splash at Euromold and CES by announcing 28 new machines, including the Chefjet (for food), Cerajet (for ceramics), and CubeJet (color printing), alongside the Cube 3 and Cube Pro, which targeted the living room with sleek designs. However, the consumer promise was only partly realized. The Cube Pro and Cube 3 launched as beautiful machines but didn’t significantly expand the consumer market, leading to restrained investments in distribution and marketing.

This year, 3D Systems renewed its focus on food, strengthening its partnership with Hershey and unveiling Cocojet, a chocolate-specific 3D printer. Meanwhile, the consumer-grade CubePro C for full-color printing is being explored through the acquisition of botObjects and its ProDesk 3D technology.

DWS and the Xfab’s anticipated arrival

Last year, Italian company DWS generated excitement with its Xfab, promising professional-grade SLA printing at accessible prices. Though delayed, the Xfab is nearing market readiness. Led by Maurizio Costabeber, the company built a new factory and continued refining the machine, which features a large print volume and compatibility with advanced photopolymeric materials, a DWS specialty in professional markets.

Despite the delay, the Xfab remains one of the most coveted machines. However, competition has intensified, with rivals like Formlabs and Old World Labs entering the fray. The latter unveiled its SLA printer with 1-micron resolution, with plans for a 0.1-micron version in mid-2015. Now, we’ll see how many promises will be fulfilled in 2015.