CES 2024 brought a wave of innovation to the 3D printing world, with major players like Creality, Snapmaker, AtomForm, and Protopasta unveiling new systems and materials aimed at both hobbyists and professionals. From modular machines to high-performance filaments, the show floor was packed with exciting developments.
Creality Showcases Modular and High-Speed 3D Printers
Creality, a household name in desktop 3D printing, made a strong impression at CES 2024 with several new products. Leading the lineup was the Creality K2 Plus, a CoreXY printer with a 350 x 350 x 350 mm build volume. Designed for speed and precision, the K2 Plus features a fully enclosed chamber, active heating, and a multi-material AMS (Automatic Material System) that supports up to four filaments. This system is clearly aimed at competing with Bambu Lab’s popular AMS-equipped printers.
Also on display was the Creality Falcon2 Pro, a laser engraver and cutter with a modular design. It supports interchangeable laser modules (22W and 40W) and features a built-in air assist system, making it suitable for a wide range of materials and applications. The Falcon2 Pro’s modularity and safety features, including a full enclosure and emergency stop, make it a versatile tool for makers and small businesses.
Snapmaker Introduces Ray Laser Cutter and Artisan 3-in-1 System
Snapmaker, known for its multifunctional machines, presented the Snapmaker Ray, a dedicated laser cutter available in 20W and 40W versions. Unlike Snapmaker’s previous all-in-one systems, the Ray is focused solely on laser cutting and engraving, offering a larger work area and improved performance for users who need a dedicated tool.
In addition, Snapmaker highlighted its Artisan 3-in-1 system, which combines 3D printing, CNC carving, and laser engraving in a single machine. The Artisan features a modular toolhead system, a large build volume, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. It’s designed for creators who want flexibility without sacrificing performance.
AtomForm Debuts High-Speed CoreXY Printer
Making its CES debut, AtomForm introduced a new CoreXY 3D printer that emphasizes speed and reliability. The machine features a rigid frame, linear rails, and a direct drive extruder, allowing for high-speed printing without compromising quality. AtomForm is targeting prosumers and small businesses looking for a robust, high-performance printer that can handle demanding workloads.
While AtomForm is a newer name in the industry, its focus on engineering-grade performance and user-friendly design could make it a strong contender in the growing high-speed 3D printer market.
Protopasta Highlights Sustainable and Specialty Filaments
Material innovation was also on display at CES 2024, with Protopasta showcasing its latest line of specialty filaments. Known for its high-quality PLA composites, Protopasta introduced new sustainable materials made from recycled content, as well as filaments with unique finishes like metallic and carbon fiber-infused PLA.
These materials are designed for both aesthetic and functional applications, offering makers more options for creating durable, visually striking prints. Protopasta’s commitment to sustainability and performance continues to set it apart in the filament market.
3D Printing Trends at CES 2024
The 3D printing innovations at CES 2024 reflect several key industry trends: increased modularity, faster print speeds, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Companies are focusing on user-friendly systems that offer professional-grade results, whether through multi-material capabilities, multifunctional machines, or advanced materials.
As 3D printing continues to evolve, the products showcased at CES 2024 demonstrate how the technology is becoming more accessible, versatile, and powerful for a wide range of users—from hobbyists to professionals.
Source: Tom’s Hardware
