Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review Results
3D printers become more powerful, reliable, and accessible every day, finding their way into the homes of tech junkies around the world. If you're searching for your new 3D printer, or for an upgrade to your first-gen printer, our Ultimaker 2+ 3D printer review is sure to spark your interest.
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Printing Speed
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Build Size
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Precision
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Value
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Design
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User Experience
Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review Basics
Improving upon the Ultimaker 2, the Ultimaker 2+ upgraded several specs and gave the printer an attractive makeover. This 3D printer is fairly compact at 19.4 x 13.5 x 23.1 inches, yet has a slightly larger-than-average 8.8 x 8.8 x 8.1 inches printing space.
Moving at a maximum speed of 300mm/s, and with a build speed of up to 24mm^3/s, you’ll watch your projects spring to life before your eyes. The Ultimaker 2+ also gives you the freedom to use ABS, PLA, or CBE filaments, and includes 4 extruder nozzles which allow you to print in thicknesses between 20 and 600 microns.
Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review Pros
Resolution Options
One of the biggest upgrades to the Ultimaker 2+ was the inclusion of 4 extruder nozzle attachments. Nozzle sizes range from .25mm to .8mm, and allow for greater control over print resolution. For projects which require the minute details, the .25mm nozzle will easily print in 20-micron resolution. Meanwhile, the larger nozzles can be used for quick jobs which require less accuracy.
Easy Setup
The Ultimaker 2+ comes as close to plug-and-play as any 3D printer on the market today. Applying and replacing filament spools is as simple as replacing a tape reel, as is securing the heating plate. The included Cura software is intuitive, and the LCD display walks you through every process, including automatic calibration. In all, it takes less than 5 minutes to prepare this machine and start printing.
Size
While writing this Ultimaker 2+ 3D printer review, we were particularly impressed with the design achievements. Smaller than most other 3D printers in its class, the Ultimaker 2+ still retains an impressive 8.8 x 8.8 x 8.1-inch build space, for over 625” total. Perhaps because of its size, this printer also runs at a relatively quiet 50 dBA.
Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review Cons
No Auto Features
Unlike other 3D printers in this price range, like the LulzBot TAZ 6, the Ultimaker 2+ does not have the ability to auto-calibrate or auto-clean. Granted, these are not common functions for most printers, but in this price range, we would have liked to see at least one of these options to keep this printer in line with competitors. As the industry progresses, we expect this will be built in to more printers, and hope to see it in Ultimaker’s future product line.
Connectivity
The Ultimaker 2+ comes with a 4GB SD card, and this is the only way to transfer files to the printer. Inconveniently, this 3D printer is not compatible with USB or WiFi file sharing. The puzzling omission of connectivity options doesn’t impact build quality or speed, but will hopefully be rectified in Ultimaker’s next installment.
Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printer Review Verdict
Ignoring a few picky details, the Ultimaker 2+ is an incredible desktop 3D printer with the potential to recreate even the smallest details. Hobbyists and professionals will appreciate the advanced resolution options and ultra-quick 300mm/s movement speed, as well as the easy-to-use interface.
