Top Shapeways Alternatives for Your 3D Printing Needs

Shapeways is a well-known name in the 3D printing world, offering a comprehensive service for designing, prototyping, and producing custom products. With over 50 materials and various finishes, they've been a go-to for many looking to bring their 3D models to life. However, as with any popular service, users often seek a Shapeways alternative for different reasons – whether it's specialized material needs, varying price points, faster delivery, or unique platform features. This article explores some of the best alternatives to Shapeways, helping you find the perfect match for your next 3D printing project.

Best Shapeways Alternatives

If you're looking to explore other options beyond Shapeways, the market offers a vibrant landscape of 3D printing services. From comprehensive marketplaces to specialized manufacturers, here are some top contenders:

Sculpteo

Sculpteo is a strong Shapeways alternative, providing professional online 3D printing and laser cutting services for on-demand production. As a commercial web platform, it's suitable for both prototypes and individual products, offering a robust service for your fabrication needs.

3D Hubs

3D Hubs stands out as a unique Shapeways alternative by connecting users who want to 3D print with a vast network of 3D printer owners. This commercial web platform acts as the world’s largest network of 3D printers, offering a social network aspect for collaboration and access to a wide array of machines.

3D Vikings

For those looking to integrate 3D printing with e-commerce, 3D Vikings is an excellent Shapeways alternative. This commercial web platform specializes in 3D printing and fulfillment on demand, allowing users to connect their Etsy store and sell 3D printed products online with minimal risk, as each order is processed as it comes in.

i.materialise

i.materialise serves as a comprehensive Shapeways alternative, functioning as an online 3D printing service, community, and marketplace. Users can upload their 3D designs and choose from over 100 different finishes and materials, providing extensive customization options similar to or even exceeding Shapeways.

Stratasys Direct Manufacturing

Stratasys Direct Manufacturing offers a high-end Shapeways alternative with a focus on advanced manufacturing processes. This commercial web platform provides online services for 3D printing, designing, and other specialized services including DMLS, FDM, Multi Jet Fusion, Laser Sintering, and PolyJet, catering to more industrial and complex needs.

trinckle

trinckle is an online 3D printing service provider based in Germany, offering a compelling Shapeways alternative with a unique software platform called paramate. This commercial web platform empowers its partners with software to fully leverage the potential of 3D printing, making it a good choice for businesses and advanced users.

3DEXPERIENCE Make

Created by Dassault Systèmes (the makers of Solidworks and CATIA), 3DEXPERIENCE Make is a robust Shapeways alternative that connects designers with a qualified panel of manufacturers. This free web platform is ideal for those seeking professional manufacturing services and a seamless connection within the design ecosystem.

Prototype Hubs

Prototype Hubs provides a versatile Shapeways alternative by offering professional 3D printing alongside CNC laser, plasma, and waterjet cutting services. This commercial web platform is excellent for on-demand production of prototypes, providing a broader range of fabrication options beyond just 3D printing.

Whether you're prioritizing material variety, specific manufacturing processes, cost-effectiveness, or integration with e-commerce, there's a Shapeways alternative out there for you. Explore these options based on your unique project requirements to find the perfect fit for bringing your designs to life.