While a personal 3D printer is certainly an investment, if you regularly engage with an expensive hobby, it might actually save you some cash. 3D printing uses computer-aided design (CAD) models sourced online or created by you to build three-dimensional objects. Entry-level printers like the Creality Ender-3 V3 SE cost from about $170, while more advanced systems reach $700 or more. The most common printers use filament, which costs from around $20 per kilogram. If you make 50 $10 items from a kilo of filament on a $170 machine, you save money. You may not even need to own a printer as some libraries and maker spaces provide access, while online services will print for a price.
Replacement parts for drones — drone enthusiasts can save money printing spare parts like camera mounts, antenna guards and arm protectors. Anyone who has ever crash-landed their drone knows components require regular replacement, so if a part normally costs $10, a 3D printer that can churn it out for less will pay for itself over time.
For gardeners and gearheads, your 3D printer is a reservoir of solutions. From garden signage to plastic clips, planters to soil dibbers, even bird feeders, you can print many useful items. In the garage, print hard-to-find car interior pieces, broken knobs, tool organizers, wrenches and a multi-axis vise.
The capacity to make the right tool for the job also makes 3D printers useful for home automation. You can print cable management systems, shelving for various hubs, wall mounts and small spare parts, plus custom NFC stickers for smart devices.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing