7 innovative 3D printers for the classroom

1. Dimension 1200es (Retail: $34,900)
Footprint: 326 pounds, 33 x 29 x 45 inches

This Stratasys printer’s durability and quick removal make it well suited for a classroom environment. The product’s large size allows it to print larger models.

2. NVPro (Education: $4,999 annually; Retail: $9,999 annually)
Footprint: 70 pounds, 20.8 x 22 x 31 inches

The NVPro is a pioneer of the completely-automated printer. This cloud-based printer from company NVBots can connect to devices via browsers—such as tablets and smartphones. In lieu of the software that typically comes with 3D printers, users can long into a website and print from there. A curriculum library is also available.

3. MarkerBot Replicator Z18 (Retail: $6,499)
Footprint: 90 pounds, 19.4 x 22.2 x 33.9 inches

The company’s fifth generation printer, the Replicator Z18, is cloud-enabled and can connect to devices via Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. This product is designed for creating prototypes for class demonstrations.

4. Leapfrog Creatr (Education: €1,899.00, approximately $2,053.55; Retail starter: €1,999, approximately $2,161.69)
Footprint: 70.55 pounds, 23.6 x 19.7 x 23.6 inches

The company claims quick set-up and printing speeds. The desktop printer features laser-cut, all aluminum parts built to withstand temperature changes.

5. Afinia H480 (Retail: $1,299)
Footprint: About 11 pounds, 9.64 x 10.23 x 13.78 inches

Known for its simple, “just hit print” capabilities, the Afinia H480 is a lightweight desktop printer that supports classroom visualizations and prototypes. Complimentary lifetime tech support is available.

6. AirWolf A3D HDL (Retail: $2,295)
Footprint: 40 pounds, 24 x 18 x 18 inches

As a user’s needs and budget grow, this printer’s modular design allows for upgraded capabilities, such as filaments.

7. Project 260C (Retail: $39,520)
Footprint: 437 pounds, 29 x 31 x 55 inches

This full-color printer from Aniwaa creates high temperature resistance models suited for a constantly changing classroom environment. Users can print multiple models at the same time in just hours.

Rebecca Lundberg is an editorial intern for eSchool Media.