Buying a 3D Printer vs Using 3D Printing Services: An Insightful Overview for 2017

The digital age has brought with it a myriad of advanced technologies, fostering innovation and radically redefining the way we create and consume. At the forefront of these technologies is 3D printing, which is making waves from manufacturing industries to home offices. Today, we face the pivotal question: Should we invest in buying a 3D printer or utilize 3D printing services? Let's explore both avenues within the context of 2017.

The Rise of 3D Printing

Firstly, to appreciate the comparison, it is essential to understand the prominence of 3D printing. Once a concept merely confined to sci-fi novels, 3D printing has come a long way since its inception. It works by building an object layer by layer, based on a digital model. From creating bespoke jewelry to developing medical prosthetics, the possibilities for 3D printing are infinite.

Buying a 3D Printer: Advantages and Considerations

Purchasing a 3D printer in 2017 could be a wise investment if you require regular access to this technology. You get the convenience of creating prototypes at any time, without the need for a middleman. This eliminates the wait for shipping or the labor of collecting your goods. Additionally, owning a printer allows you to maintain confidentiality for new designs, a crucial factor for business innovation strategies.

However, buying a 3D printer also comes with a few considerations. For one, the initial expense can be high, particularly for high-quality, professional-grade printers. Regular maintenance and the cost of supplies are additional financial factors that need to be considered. Moreover, the learning curve associated with operating a 3D printer can also be steep, especially for complex models.

Employing 3D Printing Services: The Perks and Drawbacks

On the other side of the coin, employing 3D printing services can provide high-quality outputs without the sizable investment. The benefits of such services range from having access to professional expertise and top-grade printers to enjoying a variety of materials and finishes that might not be readily available with a basic home-use printer.

Moreover, you could save valuable time by outsourcing the printing job, especially for bulk orders. Printing services provider also takes care of the hassles related to maintenance and finding supplies.

Contrarily, while you may save on initial costs, regular use of 3D printing services may become expensive over time. Moreover, you also need to factor in the time spent waiting for the delivery of your printed objects, which could disrupt your workflow, especially if there are delays.

What's The Best Route in 2017?

So, what's the best route for 2017? The decision ultimately depends on individual needs and circumstances. Consider crucial factors such as your budget, frequency of use, time constraints, need for confidentiality, and willingness to learn and maintain a new technology.

If you are a hobbyist or a small business looking to occasionally prototype new ideas, using 3D printing services would suffice. However, for industries with high volume needs or requiring rapid prototyping confidentiality, investing in a 3D printer could offer the most efficient solution.

As we move forward into 2017 and beyond, it is inevitably clear that 3D printing will continue to play an increasingly significant role in various fields. Whether you decide to buy a 3D printer or employ 3D printing services, this powerful technology is certainly worth the investment. And remember, it's not a question of 'if' but 'when' and 'how' 3D printing ventures into our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we create and interact with the world.