Wanhao Duplicator i3 V2.1 - Budget 3D Printer
The Duplicator i3 printer is the latest offering from Wanhao. Designed on and around the new Prusa i3 machines, this printer comes with all the up-to-date features and more. This is an entry level printer which arrives fully assembled straight out of the box and calibrated ready to print. Unlike most other prusa models available it comes with custom electronics housing included as well as the metal stamped filament stand. Whether you are starting out with 3D printing or just want a smaller more compact machine this is the ideal all in one package. The i3 cannot be beaten for features, quality and value.
The Most Popular 3D Printer
Strong WANHAO Community
WANHAO Duplicator i3 V2.1 is one of the most renowned models in the 3D printing industry. Surprisingly, the WANHAO Duplicator has the strongest following at social media and there’s a close-knitted community around the product. That’s wonderful because these people help each other, share creative upgrades and are guide the community with useful tips and tricks.
Economical 3D Printer
Duplicator is often known as a budget 3D printer, not because of it’s 3D printing abilities but for it’s price. There’s a huge reason why the community loves this machine, because it delivers top-notch quality in competition with top-tier costly brands while the prices are dirt-cheap in comparison.
Best for DIYers
There’s a good news for DIYers and beginners, Duplicator is super quick to setup because it comes with pre-assembled parts so would hardly take a few minutes to get going. So keep your creative ideas ready with you before you order the product!
Excellent Design, Strong Build & Open Source Technology
Duplicator seems long-lasting because of its robust and strong build. It has a steel frame design with metal carriage, so you can’t really ask for more. So better build always add to better prints because of it’s sturdiness and stability. It was initially thought of as the second must-have 3D printer because of the price, efficiency, quality and easy setup. But with time, the community around it has invested in Duplicator’s open source design making the modifications much easier and cheaper. So now it has become everyone’s first choice, especially if you are just starting out.
MK10 Extruder
WANHAO i3 has a heated build plate that comes with the machine and also MK10 extruder which helps you to use almost every kind of filament preferred for the job, usually PLA, ABS or PETG is used for most jobs.
The machine has a build volume of 20 x 20 x 40 cm and minimum resolution of 100 microns. All in all, a pretty much plug and play 3D printer for anyone who want to start creating their 3D masterpieces right away!
Previous Model Complains Resolved
In the previous i3 model, there were a few complains regarding the x-axis. With the launch of new v2.1, they have addressed it too by adding 45mm LM8UU bearings. The new features also include thumb turn knobs for bed leveling and slanted LCD screen for a better-view.
Final Thoughts
Use of MK10 extruder gives this machine an edge, plus it’s very affordable even for such an entry level 3D printer. Because if you compare the alternatives, you will know others come at higher prices and those are lesser quality versions and are unassembled too. Probably, that’s the key reason why it’s supporters are so loyal to WANHAO i3.
Additionally, i3’s replacement parts are very easy to find. They are almost available everywhere. Duplicator also offers open filament system and is compatible with different slicers as well.