Low-cost 3D printers driving massive growth
3D printer shipments are forecast to more than double every year between 2016 and 2019, by which time worldwide shipments are expected to reach more than 5.6 million, according to new research from Gartner.
Last year, 106,761 3D printers were sold worldwide. This year, 3D printer shipments are expected to reach 244,533 units; next year, shipments are projected to reach 490,000.
The primary market drivers for "consumer" 3D printers, with prices under $2,500, are acquisitions of low-cost devices by schools and universities.
MakerBot's 3D printers are the classic RepRap style machine, where most of the parts for the printer can be replicated by the printer itself.
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