geeqeu
August 10, 2017, 9:27pm
1
Hello im new to the 3d printing and was recently offered a makergear m2 for low price under $500. Is it still a good printer to purchase. Im not sure if I should buy it or look for a newer printer.
$500?
That’s a steal. The m2 is a great printer.
The M2 is still definitely worth $1000+. Under $500 is an absolutely amazing deal.
Great deal, assuming it’s in good condition and working.
$500, if you dont buy it I will, lol. Even though the M3 is out and soon to be the M4, 500 is very good for a M2.
What revision is it? if its a rev e its certainly worth it… would say even a rev d… one nice thing about the m2 is that it can be upgraded and all their parts replaced if need be. Any idea how many hours might be on it? ive got one with at least 10k hours on it and several others in the 6k to 8k range.
geeqeu
August 11, 2017, 12:59am
7
Honestly I have no idea. I’m new to all this I just pick up the printer. How can I tell the difference.
geeqeu
August 11, 2017, 1:04am
8
I just picked it up. Thanks everyone for the feedback. I’m really new to this and was unsure.
The Makergear M2 is still ranked the top workhorse 3D printer on 3D Hubs. I love my M2, and that seems like a really good price for it. It’s still retailing for $1800. If it has old parts, you can optionally upgrade via parts on the Makergear website.
geeqeu
August 11, 2017, 1:21am
10
I’m going to get it home and look it over and check what it has and try and get familiar with it, right now I’m a total noob so i’m.going to have to Google most of it.
geeqeu
August 11, 2017, 1:25am
11
This is it. Not sure about what version or if parts have been replaced, I’m going to research into the m2 tonight and try to get familiar with it.
look at the tag on the back if its a rev e it will clearly say so. if its older then that you will more then likely have to email makergear with the serial number… which you should do anyway because the cooling fans on the older ones are a different voltage. need to know if you have your fingers poking around the extruder while its running! another way to tell if its older then a rev d is that the z screw is larger. the rev d and e have a 6.3mm ish dia screw. rev d can be upgraded to the latest rev e with new parts and firmware. first thing i would check is the linear rail carriages. they can rust if just sitting dry or warn from use.
quark
August 11, 2017, 1:59am
13
I think you scored a great deal there. That looks like a pre rev.d model. the M2 Rev.D was and is my only printer I’ve had and I’m super satisfied with it. Easily beats any $300 chinese iPrusa clones. Good luck and have fun. Head over to the Makergear forum and look for the sticky on getting started. The community is very active and really helpful. How-To: Your M2 and you (newbies pls read kthx) - MakerGear Forum
geeqeu
August 11, 2017, 2:26am
14
Thanks!!! That link has so much useful information. I’m exited to start learning.
its older then a rev d. could use some upgrades. i cant see the extruder itself but if its not the v4 extruder and the metal bracket, get it! its one that is totally worth the cost. you could upgrade the bed but it wont be easy and not cheap… works just the same however you must be gentle about pulling prints off the bed (ie take off the glass) because re leveling the three wave springs sucks. its not hard but something youve gotta spend the time to do.
If you upgrade the extruder bracket just know the wiring harness on that machine wont work with the newer “cooler looking” printed wire box you will have to find the box version in the makergear github page. or extend the wires yourself if you can solder
you bet, its easy to fix and upgrade and there is a ton of support on the forums.
I bought a kit for 1400$ a few years back and its already paid itself off using 3dhubs.
500 bucks is a good deal assuming its working fine.
Mahalo, John
Yes it is, it’s performance is great for its price range, it just doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles (like internet connection or an enclosure). $500 is a great price for one.
The Makergear M2 was my 1st 3d printer. It’s a good machine.
Yes, if it is in good working order. I’ve had mine M2 for 2 years and would not sell it for only $500. I would have to see it print a Marvin or a Benchy. There are wear items too, like the print head gears, nozzle and belts. Can it still be accurately leveled? Do the step motors or any of the fans sound funny? If most of these things are OK, you will have a great setup. Enjoy.
Iasonn
August 11, 2017, 3:18pm
20
If it’s not damaged thats ~~ $1600 value. A solid printer for sub $500!!
