To date my only experience in 3D printing has been with the Prusa i3 design. With that in mind I wanted to make my next printer either a Delta or Core-XY.
My interest in 3D printing revolves around multiple materials and I am anxiously waiting for the release of the new MM unit by Prusa, which should be in May. While I wait on my order I decided to research the ‘competition’.
Core-XY or Delta?
Joseph Prusa is a leader in the industry so I am using his newest offering as the standard to compare others against. I think the MK3 is a great printer, but the proof is how it compares to others.
I really like the Cube design of the Core-XY because it looks structurally sound. I also like the idea of both X and Y being handled on the extruder level.
The Delta works works with a different coordinate system, which introduces a learning curve. I haven’t seen any compelling arguments in favor of the Deltas so I cannot justify taking on the challenge at this time.
Instead I found a Core-XY Cube offering that gives me a larger build area, dual extruder (or mixing extruder), and they even threw in a WiFi link. They have already filled the order and I should see the printer on Wednesday, less than a week from when I ordered it from China. It was the frame I wanted, dual extrusion and a mixing head to try out. It will be interesting to see if there is any real difference in the i3 and Core-XY prints.
Someday I may get around to working with a Delta but for now I think I have more than enough research lined up.
Summary
Now that I have hands-on experience with 3D printing on the MK3 I am trying to zero in the the best printer for my needs.
3D printers are inexpensive as equipment goes so I am enjoying the freedom to seriously research the options. Soon I will have a printer with with a dual extruder and that allows me to get an honest side-by-side comparison with the MM kit Prusa is offering. As an added bonus I will be able to work with a mixing head as well. It will be interesting to identify the pros and cons of the different approaches.
