Formlabs Form 3 3D Printer Review

The Formlabs Form 3 3D printer is like a finely-tuned instrument, promising precision and reliability in your creative endeavors. You might wonder if its closed ecosystem and exclusive resin requirements are worth the investment, especially when comparing it to faster alternatives. While many users commend its smooth surface finishes and user-friendly design, others voice concerns about operational hiccups and the resin's odor. So, what truly sets the Form 3 apart in the crowded market of 3D printers, and can it meet your professional needs?

Overview and Usability

When it comes to usability, the Formlabs Form 3+ impresses with its thoughtful design and user-friendly features. This resin printer is tailored for corporate users and professionals, making it an excellent choice for serious projects.

You'll appreciate the well-labeled components during unboxing, which simplifies setup. Operating in a controlled environment of 35°C, it optimizes the resin's performance, ensuring you get the best print quality. Workflow automation can also enhance the overall efficiency of your printing tasks by streamlining the management of print jobs. Implementing analytics tools can help track your printing performance over time, allowing for continuous improvements in your workflow.

The resin vat is another highlight, featuring a scraper/stirrer and a mechanical float that helps you monitor resin levels easily. This enhances usability throughout the printing process, allowing you to focus on your designs rather than constant maintenance.

However, be aware that the printer operates within a closed ecosystem, only accepting Formlabs resins, which can be pricey, ranging from 160€ to nearly 300€ per liter.

User feedback has been mixed; while many users enjoy its reliability and ease of use, some report operational issues and the strong odor of resin in the printing area. Additionally, the incorporation of real-time data insights can significantly enhance the overall printing experience by providing valuable information for optimizing print quality.

Printing Technology and Performance

With its innovative Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) technology, the Formlabs Form 3 delivers impressive printing performance while minimizing stress on printed parts during layer peeling. This advanced system enhances the integrity of your prints, allowing for fine details that stand out when printed on the Form. Moreover, the rise of no-code solutions facilitates easier integration of 3D printing technologies in various industries. Additionally, many workflow automation tools can significantly improve the efficiency of design processes in 3D printing.

Unlike traditional SLA printers, the Form 3 uses a laser SLA system that traces contours and infill layers, resulting in smoother surfaces compared to MSLA printers.

Although you might find that the print speeds on the Form 3 are slower than those of MSLA alternatives, it still manages to produce high-quality results. For instance, a print that takes 2 hours on the Form 3 might take just 1 hour on an SL1S at a 50µm layer height.

However, keep in mind that real-world print times often exceed estimates by about 50%, making this printer more suited for lower volume or overnight prints rather than continuous operation.

The Form 3's build volume and 85µm laser spot size allow for good print quality, though it may not match the ultra-fine detail of MSLA printers with smaller pixel sizes. Additionally, investing in high-quality equipment like the Form 3 can significantly enhance your career advancement in the field of 3D printing and design.

Software and User Experience

Maneuvering the Form 3's software experience is made easier with PreForm, the exclusive slicer designed specifically for this printer. This tool offers auto-support generation and orientation checks, which simplify the printing process considerably.

You'll appreciate the one-click print option, allowing for automatic positioning and support addition, enhancing usability, especially in professional applications. Implementing a structured task management system can help streamline the workflow, ensuring that projects stay on track and deadlines are met. Additionally, using real-time collaboration tools can further improve team efficiency during the design process.

However, some users have reported slow processing times and occasional crashes in PreForm, particularly when generating support material for complex models. This can be frustrating if you're in the middle of a project.

Additionally, the absence of a hollowing feature limits your ability to prepare and customize artistic models effectively.

The dashboard in PreForm is a highlight, as it records essential print data like failures, resin usage, and cartridge information. This functionality makes bookkeeping and monitoring printer performance straightforward. Moreover, using tools that enhance task management can significantly improve your workflow and project efficiency.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Formlabs Form 3 3D printer stands out for its reliability, ease of use, and exceptional print quality. Whether you're tackling intricate designs or professional projects, it delivers consistent results with smooth surfaces. While the resin costs and slower speeds might give you pause, the printer's closed ecosystem and advanced technology make it a worthy investment. If you're looking for a dependable partner in your 3D printing endeavors, the Form 3 is definitely worth considering.