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Comment by lvl102 | Hacker News Reader

Not really sure what to think of this merger. They’re both has-beens. FDM printer space has changed quite a bit over the past decade and it’s decidedly DIY with Prusa dominating the space. And the fact that other, far more advanced, printing methods are available for cheap prices means that FDM will mostly remain DIY and niche.

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You’re describing the DIY niche, I’d be very surprised if the DIY niche is greater than 25% of these companies’ business.

I'm pretty sure that the Ender 3 is way more popular than all of Prusa's printers put together. They're definitely both has-beens though.

Also, although fancier methods like SLA and MJF are way cheaper and more accessible than ever they still can't really compete with FDM for large cheap stuff so I think FDM will be around for a while.

> I'm pretty sure that the Ender 3 is way more popular than all of Prusa's printers put together.

It's possible, but:

- The Ender 3 is an "i3 clone", so in some ways still a Prusa - If your assumptions is right, it's probably just because of the price difference - The reliability you get from a Prusa is unbeatable even at much greater price points

Just to be clear, I'm not disagreeing with you, only adding context.

Ender isn’t a has-been… it’s like the Honda Civic of 3d printers. It’s got a huge aftermarket and tons of enthusiasts.

Note: I don’t own an ender. I have some no-name 3d printer. If I did it again I’d have gotten a prusa

More like a Model T Ford. Absolutely definitional for a generation, but kinda crap and you really do have to tinker with it.

I think the target market is more companies/schools/clubs. You pay premium for a machine that is serviced. Which is essential if you want to offer 3d printing to users, because 3d printers need ventilation, maintenance, configuration, installation etcetera. For an organisation it makes sense to pay premium for a printer that might not be as great as other printers, but at least it works and users can print the thing they found online.

what makes you think Ultimaker is aiming at the DIY market? have you seen their website?

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