Affordable Tool Changer from SnapMaker secures a groundbreaking $7.8 million during its Kickstarter debut, surpassing the previous record held by Bambu.
In a groundbreaking event for the 3D printing industry, the Snapmaker U1 has shattered records on Kickstarter, raising over $11.5 million and surpassing previous records held by Bambu Lab and others.
With over 9304 backers as of this writing, the Snapmaker U1 is a four-color 3D printer that comes equipped with a tool changer. This innovative feature allows for a separate tool head for each spool loaded into the machine, reducing material waste and cross-contamination.
The Snapmaker U1's appeal lies in its accessibility. The company is targeting the average consumer, offering a special early bird price of $679 (effective after a $30 refundable reservation deposit and a $100 cashback). The regular Kickstarter price stands at $749.
The Snapmaker U1's success follows positive reviews and its addition to the Best of 2025 3D Printer List. It has also surpassed Tuesday's launch, which saw Bambu Lab's Kickstarter debut of the X1 and X1-Carbons sell $7,047,538 worth of products to 5575 backers in September 2022.
Interestingly, the Snapmaker U1's success may signal a shift towards tool changers in the 3D printing market. This could be due to the potential for reducing material waste and cross-contamination, issues that have long been a concern in the industry, especially with multicolor 3D printing.
Meanwhile, other companies in the 3D printing sector are making their own moves. AnkerMake, formerly known as EufyMake, is now targeting a slightly different market of crafting enthusiasts. The company abandoned 3D printing in favor of 2.5D UV printing, as evidenced by the success of their high-speed printer, the M5, which raised $8.8 million in 2022.
It remains to be seen whether the Snapmaker U1 will surpass AnkerMake's Kickstarter record. Backers will not be charged until the Kickstarter completes on Sept. 29th, and they do have the option to change their minds.
Regardless of the final outcome, the Snapmaker U1's success is a testament to the growing interest and potential of 3D printing technology in the consumer market.
