Since Ion Core released the Zinter PRO 3D printer, competing in the “prosumer” space against competitors such as MakerBot, 3D Systems’ Cube range and Ultimaker et al, it has garnered quite a fan base — particularly here in the UK, where it has been developed and is being manufactured. The £2300 ($4000) price tag has raised a few eyebrows too, however, and put some people in the market for a 3D printer off.
But following the company’s recent announcement about a full-on TV commercial, due to arrive on our (UK) screens in September — the full Ion Core strategy is gradually being revealed further with the release of a new 3D printer model — the Zinter® Home. Slated as a specific development to “bring 3D printing to the masses” the Zinter Home builds on the success of Ion Core’s professionally manufactured, full-featured Zinter PRO model, by featuring the same large print area (20 x 20 x 20 cm), but, it is housed in a 30% smaller unit and only comes with one extruder. Other than that, the tech specs are the same, with print speeds of 30 – 300 mm/s, print quality up to 10 microns (0.01mm), Z axis resolution of 100 to 300 microns (0.1mm – 0.3mm), a heated bed and an enclosed build chamber.
The Zinter Home is also reported to be more user-friendly and affordable with a price tag of £1499. So, still not the cheapest out there, but with all of the shenanigans going on with many of the sub-£1000 3D printer companies (Kickstarted or otherwise), reliable manufacture, delivery and support are proving to be valuable commodities and certainly worth consideration of paying a premium in terms of the heartache and discontent that can ensue for customers and the company when they are not factored properly into a business model.
It seems that Ion Core is factoring in precisely those qualities, and building a business model that is looking to satisfy their customers — the certified (CE marked) Zinter Home package includes not only the 3D printer itself, but also a full license of the proprietary Ion Core Simplify3D Software, 1 spool of both PLA and ABS filament, and the added bonuses of quick start guide and tools, free lifetime helpdesk support, a 12 month warranty and free shipping within the UK.
The Zinter Home is available to order now directly from Ion Core, but the company says it will also soon be available via its distributor network too.
