I was thinking about this question today as someone used our work printer for some personal stuff.
As for me, I am printing little things that I would say make it worth it. I’ve printed lens adapters for my camera for example. That’s worth a good 14 to 30 bucks per print. My most favorite photo was with an adapted lens that came from a projector. I also printed IEMs and those things are worth it. Listening to music is second to none on those things. Plus I printed the same shell but for ear protection and again the fit is perfect and sure there’s post processing to get smooth surfaces but in the end it looks like a professional made it. So I think 3d printers are worth it.
I think you shouldn’t forget that we’re here at c/3dprinting, where only enthusiasts join together. Of course everyone here is a huge fan of 3D printers, those who got frustrated and sold their device aren’t here anymore.
First of all, I’m very happy about having a printer, but more onto that later.
I had two ones yet, and both sucked.
The first was older, shitty and way too big. I wasted many weekends tinkering with that crap, until I accidentally destroyed it and sold it. My second one is the one I still use. It’s a device from China, and the company doesn’t exist anymore. So, if I want to buy replacement parts, I can just pray generic ones fit. And the customer support has always been shit, and the whole company and products seem very wonky in hindsight.
If I would have to buy another printer, it would definitely be something popular, like a Prusa one. It should be very small, silent and easily repairable. I don’t care anymore about fancy features (maybe except auto leveling), it should just not annoy me.
Having a printer is like having a drill or soldering iron. You don’t need it daily, but you’re glad that you have it when you need it. And my friends are too! I’m printing more for my family, neighbours and friends than for myself.
Having a printer without CAD skills is nonsense. But once you can create your own stuff, you have endless capabilities.
I couldn’t live without one by now.