MakerBot unveils 3 new 3-D printers

MakerBot unveils 3 new 3-D printersNew York-based MakerBot on Monday unveiled three new 3-D printers, viz. the MakerBot Replicator Z18, the MakerBot Replicator and the MakerBot Replicator Mini, at the CES 2014 in Las Vegas.

The Replicator Mini is capable of printing objects of up to the size of a cupcake.  This consumer-focused Replicator Mini has been priced at $1,375.

Speaking about the mini 3-D printer, MakerBot founder Bre Pettis said, "This is our consumer 3D printer.  It's one-touch printing.  You connect it to your smartphone or computer, and then there's just one button.  If this were a camera, it'd be the point-and-shoot."

The company's second new printer, the MakerBot Replicator, will target desktop users in the field of in aeronautics, architecture and engineering.  It boasts a larger build volume than the MakerBot 2.  It also has a 3-inch LCD display, a hi-fi-like knob controller, an ethernet connection, an extruder, and an onboard camera.  It can be ordered now for $2,899.

The MakerBot Replicator Z18 is capable of printing objects six times larger than the company's standard Replicator 3-D printer.  More precisely, it can print objects of size up to 12 by 12 by 18 inches.