MakerBot introduces two higher-end 3D printers, the Replicator 2 and the Replicator 5th Generation. While both printers offer advanced software and plug-and-play technology, we will be comparing the difference between design, resolution, and ease of use. We will base our recommendation on user skill level as well as the project type.
MakerBot Replicator 2
The Replicator 2,with its compact size and large build area, offers itself as a solid high-end 3D printer. It sports features like a proprietary PLA filament, advanced software, and plug-and-play technology.
Confined to using only PLA, MakerBot designed a proprietary PLA filament that takes the guesswork out of third-party filament use. This PLA offers the precision of high-quality products and no clean-up afterward. The printer sports two extruders that allow for printing in multiple colors. It offers resolutions of low, medium, and high with the ability to fine-tune the resolution to 100 microns.Replicator 2 offers the option to add several models at the same time. This allows users to queue several prints for when they are away.
While the printer is essentially ready to go straight out of the box, users will have to download the software from the MakerBot website. However, the software is print only so users who want to design their own prints will have to use other 3D CAD software. This will up the learning curve, due to the difficulty. Users can import models from an SD card, directly from a computer, or with a USB stick.
The Replicator 2 does not offer automatic bed leveling. Users will have to calibrate after every few prints. The printer is also not maxed out for ABS. A heated print bed is also not an option.
The product warranty lasts six months.Users can subscribe to MakerCare service to get help with their printer via email, phone, and chat. Those who do not subscribe can also get help, but the wait time is up to three days.
MarkerBot Replicator 5th Generation
The Replicator 5th Generation is another high-end 3D printer offering plug-and-play capabilities. Due to the printer being larger, it most likely would not be suitable for being a desktop printer. It has features like mobile monitoring and a smart extruder.
Like the Replicator 2, the 5th Generation is ready to go straight out of the box. Users simply need to plug it in and load the filament. It is also limited to just PLA filaments. Equipped with filament detection sensors, the 5th Generation is also able to determine when there is a problem with a filament before it is too late.
The 5th Generation is different from the Replicator 2 in that it has one extruder. The magnetically attached Smart Extruder is easy to remove for troubleshooting or swapping out. While the Replicator 2 does not offer automated leveling, the 5th Generation does, so users will not have to stop after every few prints to recalibrate. User support offered for the 5th Generation is also not as in-depth as that of the Replicator 2, with users only being able to call the support line during operating hours.
The 5th Generation has a huge design, making it more suited for professional printers. Printing of larger pieces can be accomplished due to the large build area. The printer offers resolutions of 50 – 400 microns. The 5th Generation does not offer a heated print bed. Users will need to come up with other solutions to holding the project to the bed.
Conclusion
While both 3D printers offer a range of excellent and unique features, we want to present the differences before users make a commitment to either printer. The Replicator 2 is a desktop 3D printer that is quiet and offers the precision of high-quality products. Its dual extruders offer the option to print in multiple colors. As a more advanced, higher-end printer, it is suited for intermediate users.
On the other hand, the 5th Generation is a larger printer not suited for a desktop setting. It is on the high-end spectrum. With its single extruder, it is more limited in the scope of projects it can complete, but in exchange it offers very low maintenance. Professional printers will enjoy this printer the most.