The One Up doesn't skimp on quality to achieve this low price

Oct 28, 2013 13:03 GMT  ·  By

In 3D printing, as with most everything else, you get what you pay for. That's the common wisdom at least, but there are those who believe you don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get started. In fact, it's now possible to get a decent 3D printer for as little as $199 (€144).

QU-BD has come up with the One Up, a cheap, no-frills 3D printer that doesn't skimp on quality. The company is turning to KickStarter, where else, to fund the first batches.

For $199 you'll get the One Up 3D printer kit which includes all the components you need to get you started, even a small amount of filament. You'll have to wait a few months to get it, as the first couple of batches have already sold out, so if you pledge now you'll be getting the device sometime in February next year.

The One Up uses most of the same quality components QU-BD employs on its more expensive models, like Nema 17 motors, ACME rods, LM8LUU precision linear bearings, and so on. It uses an Anubis designed for 1.75mm PLA filaments.

This means that the One Up can achieve a 50-micron layer resolution, quite impressive for such a cheap device, and has a maximum print speed of 100 mm/s. There are faster printers out there, but for considerably more money.

QU-BD was able to reach this low price by relying on parts and components it developed and tested on its more expensive printers and by removing any unnecessary accessories. So you only get a print size of 100x100x125mm and no heated bed, though you can add one later, as the electronics support it.

Speaking of electronics, the printer is powered by an Arduino-based board with four Allegro 4983 stepper drivers. The extruded is powered by two MOSFET transistors which can also supply current to a heated bed if you add one.

You'll need one if you want to print with anything other than PLA. There's also an SD card slot onboard, so you can print without connecting the device to a computer.

If the print size seems too small, you can opt for the Two Up model which offers a volume of 175x175x125mm, for $279 (€202). The Two Up is also shipping in February 2014 at the earliest. So far, the project has 545 backers on KickStarter. It has blown past its initial goal of $9,000 (€6,522) and is now approaching $150,000 (€109,000) in funding.

Photo Gallery (4 Images)

The QU-BD One Up
Objects printed with the One Up and Two UpObjects printed with the One Up and Two Up
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