With the Makerbot Replicator 2, “anyone’s home can become a mini factory.” Already a leader among desktop 3-D printers, the new Replicator “prints bigger, faster, and more precisely than its predecessor,” and given its capabilities, it is “stunningly inexpensive.” The machine’s extrusion-based technology might not remain state-of-the-art for long in this fast-changing industry, but for now this sleek device is hard to beat for performance and ease of use. Just “download or create a design, hit Print,” and watch as the Replicator extrudes ultra-thin layers of plastic until they’ve built your object—“or, if you want, hundreds of copies of it.”
$2,199, makerbot.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The Chelsea Townhouse: London luxury feels right at homeThe Week Recommends This boutique hotel strikes the right note between sophisticated and cosy
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
