Snapmaker marks ten years with more colors, more hotends and more models

Snapmaker is marking its tenth anniversary in June 2026 with a set of product and software updates centered on multi-color printing, community engagement, and materials expansion—a package the Shenzhen-based company framed under the slogan “Always Making.”

Founded in 2016, Snapmaker built its initial reputation on 3-in-1 desktop fabrication machines before expanding into dedicated 3D printers, most recently the U1 multicolor, multimaterial system.

Full Spectrum slicing goes native

The most technically significant update in the anniversary release was the integration of Full Spectrum technology into Snapmaker Orca V2.3.3 Beta. Full Spectrum, originally developed by community contributor Ratdoux, produces intermediate colors by alternating filament layers and allowing visual blending between them — enabling richer color transitions without requiring complete filament swaps at every color change.

Snapmaker brought Ratdoux on staff last month; V2.3.3 Beta is the first official slicer release to natively include the technology, removing the need for a separate fork. The beta is available for download on Snapmaker’s website.

A model library on the way

On the hardware side, Snapmaker added three Hardened Steel Hotend sizes — 0.2mm, 0.6mm, and 0.8mm — to give U1 users more control over print detail and throughput depending on the application.

Four new filament types round out the materials expansion: TPU 95A HF, a flexible option suited to phone cases, shock absorbers, and functional wearables; PETG HF, a high-flow variant of PETG optimized for faster print speeds while maintaining layer adhesion and chemical resistance; Silk PLA, aimed at decorative and display applications; and Silk Dual-Color PLA, a two-tone variant of the same. All are expected to reach most major markets by early June.

Snapmaker also disclosed that a dedicated model library—optimized for multi-color printing on the U1—is under development, with a public launch planned for later in 2026.

To mark the anniversary, the company opened a User Model Design Contest and a Video Contest, both running through June 16, built around the theme “Make Something Colorful.” Winners are scheduled to be announced June 23, with submissions handled through models.snapmaker.com.