Hello all, I am considering on getting a 3D printer. I want to print some stuff for a project. I am relatively new to this. I need the slicer software to be compatible (preferably open source) with linux since that’s what I am using. I have only found the stuff from Prusa to be compatible but they are expensive. I have heard of ender 3 but it is the only os printer by creality and saw the repo is 3yo without updates.
Can I get some suggestions?
I have a prusa mk3 that I recently upgraded to mk4. They are expensive, but they are also super-reliable, they have great customer support, and they fully support 3rd party components. Not to mention the upgrades. After 3+ years as a mk3, the upgrade cost me about 700 EUR and it was like getting a new printer with modern specs.
You will save money in the long run, and a ton of nerves. Even if you are just looking to use it for a limited period of time, the resale value will be good.
I’d still totally recommend a used mk3s, they’re solid and simple to service, absolutely the way I went when I was in a place to start 3d printing again, their support is amazing and their knowledge base is a great reference. Stock they’re a proven machine, but they’re also a great platform for modding and there are so many mods out there.
I used mine to do all my voron parts last spring, still gets heavy usage, ended up bear modding, swapping the Rambo for a skr mini and using klipper earlier this year instead of going the 4 or 3.5 route.
I think Prusa has rested on their laurels for a few years too long. There is no way they’re worth $1k for a bed slinger when literally every comparable option is far less than half the price. Now they’re priced equivalent to stuff like the P1S or X1C without AMS even though they’re using the same construction and technology as a $150 Ender printer. CoreXY is such a major improvement that it’s not even funny.
I do appreciate the community they’ve created but the company seems to think it’s still in the 3D printer market of 2018.